Coins are made for different purposes. One of the many reasons why coins are made is to commemorate a certain event in the history of the country or state it represents. Canadian coins, for example, have a reputation for representing the many highlights of Canadian history. One of these commemorative coins is the Canadian Maritime Coins.
Canadian Maritime Bronze Coins were made from 1861 to 1947. This was in celebration of Newfoundland’s union to the Canadian Confederation. Newfoundland was the last of the independent provinces to join the confederation.
This series of coins is composed of 4 coins from different provinces that have joined the confederation. Because all the independent provinces have united into one state, which is now Canada, they produced coins to level their monetary system with that of the United States of America. In 1860, New Brunswick dollar was made. The coins were struck at the Royal Mint in London and were dated 1861 to 1864. These dollars were made to be of equal value to the gold dollar of the United States of America.
The obverse side of the New Brunswick cent featured Queen Victoria as was designed and engraved by Leonard C. Wyon of the Royal Mint. It was a similar design to the Canadian cent and Great Britain’s halfpenny. The reverse side of the coin was unique, however. A floral wreath surrounding a crown was featured on this side—which was intricately designed. This reverse side design was from C. Hill, and this design was the basis for the Nova Scotia bronze coins also. The production of New Brunswick coins came to a stop as it joined the Dominion of Canada in 1867.
The next coin in the Canadian Maritime series is the Nova Scotia coins. These coins are highly similar to those of New Brunswick. The notable difference is that these coins were valued for five dollars to the British pound sterling. All Nova Scotia coins also ceased in production when it joined the Dominion of Canada in the same year New Brunswick had.
Also a part of the Canadian Maritime Coin series is the Prince Edward Island coins. These bronze cents were produced at a privately owned mint—which is the Heaton Mint in Birmingham, England. The obverse features a portrait of Queen Victoria, which is identical to the Jamaican halfpenny. The reverse design was based on the provincial seal. It features the mighty English oak protecting three saplings, which represent the three counties of the Island. Unlike the New Brunswick and Nova Scotia coins, the Prince Edward Island coins continued in production even after it joined the dominion in 1867.
Now the last, but certainly not the least, are the Newfoundland coins. From 1865 to 1936, bronze cents that were similar to Canadian cents were struck for Newfoundland. These cents were designed like those of the other provinces; featuring a floral wreath surrounding the crown of St. Edward. The obverse also featured the portrait of Queen Victoria. Most of these bronze cents were struck at the Royal Mint, although some that are dated 1872 and 1876 were found to have been minted by Heaton Mint in Birmingham.
After Newfoundland joined the Canadian Confederation in 1949, the move ended a colorful era in Canadian numismatics.
As a coin collector, you make sure you get an honest and stress-free deal—and this is what Colonial Acres will be happy to give you.
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Coin Profile: The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle Gold Coins
Coin collecting isn’t just a great hobby; for some it is a profitable activity and for others, even a profession. Some prominent figures in history have been avid coin collectors themselves. One of the famous people who loved coins is President Theodore Roosevelt.
In fact, there is one special coin that is tagged along his name. The coin is called the Saint-Gaudens double eagle coin. It is a gold coin worth twenty dollars in monetary value, but because of the ornate features, this coin is a gem to coin collectors to date.
When the United States of America became wealthy because of the California Gold Rush, the government decided to put that huge resource to use by minting gold coins in large denominations. This was also because people then didn't trust the paper money yet. Coins were still preferred over bills, because of the value of the metal used for the coins.
The double eagle coins were then minted in 1850, after the Gold Dollar Bill was passed in February 1849. These coins were twenty dollar coins. There were two different designs for the double eagle coins. First is the Liberty Head design by J. Longacre which were minted from 1850 to 1907, and the next one was the famous Saint-Gaudens design, which was used from 1907 to 1933.
In 1907, Theodore Roosevelt requested sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens to design the double eagle coin because of his fascination over ancient coins. The obverse side featured a Hellenistic Lady Liberty in a flowing gown, holding an olive branch and a torch. The reverse side featured an eagle flying over a sunrise. The Saint-Gaudens coin is known for its ornate value. It was so intricately designed that some numismatists can easily declare it to be the most beautiful American coin to ever be minted.
The following year, 1908, some changes were made to the Saint-Gaudens coin. The "In God We Trust" inscription was added over the rising sun, and the roman numerals representing the year of mintage was changed from roman to arabic. Because of these changes, the original 1907 coins were considered rare and more valuable.
If you have just started with your coin-collecting journey, it is important to know of these different kinds of coins that you may want to include in your collection further along. In the case of some coins, there is more value that what meets the eye so it is important that you do some research. Keen coin collectors are knowledgeable enough to know that they can't successfully complete a collection without the help of other collectors and coin shops.
Colonial Acres Coins is one trusted shop that has rendered service to many coin collectors over the years, both in the business of buying and selling coins, as well as providing resources that could help budding collectors. Colonial Acres Coins have a wide variety of resources and coins to answer the demands of serious collectors.
In fact, there is one special coin that is tagged along his name. The coin is called the Saint-Gaudens double eagle coin. It is a gold coin worth twenty dollars in monetary value, but because of the ornate features, this coin is a gem to coin collectors to date.
When the United States of America became wealthy because of the California Gold Rush, the government decided to put that huge resource to use by minting gold coins in large denominations. This was also because people then didn't trust the paper money yet. Coins were still preferred over bills, because of the value of the metal used for the coins.
The double eagle coins were then minted in 1850, after the Gold Dollar Bill was passed in February 1849. These coins were twenty dollar coins. There were two different designs for the double eagle coins. First is the Liberty Head design by J. Longacre which were minted from 1850 to 1907, and the next one was the famous Saint-Gaudens design, which was used from 1907 to 1933.
In 1907, Theodore Roosevelt requested sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens to design the double eagle coin because of his fascination over ancient coins. The obverse side featured a Hellenistic Lady Liberty in a flowing gown, holding an olive branch and a torch. The reverse side featured an eagle flying over a sunrise. The Saint-Gaudens coin is known for its ornate value. It was so intricately designed that some numismatists can easily declare it to be the most beautiful American coin to ever be minted.
The following year, 1908, some changes were made to the Saint-Gaudens coin. The "In God We Trust" inscription was added over the rising sun, and the roman numerals representing the year of mintage was changed from roman to arabic. Because of these changes, the original 1907 coins were considered rare and more valuable.
If you have just started with your coin-collecting journey, it is important to know of these different kinds of coins that you may want to include in your collection further along. In the case of some coins, there is more value that what meets the eye so it is important that you do some research. Keen coin collectors are knowledgeable enough to know that they can't successfully complete a collection without the help of other collectors and coin shops.
Colonial Acres Coins is one trusted shop that has rendered service to many coin collectors over the years, both in the business of buying and selling coins, as well as providing resources that could help budding collectors. Colonial Acres Coins have a wide variety of resources and coins to answer the demands of serious collectors.
Different Strikes of Coins
Coins are made from different strikes. There are two known varieties of coin strikes. First is the business strike, and the second is the proof strike, Now, as a coin collector, it is handy for you to know what these strikes are.
The business strike coins are made for one purpose: for public circulation. Business strike coins are the coins you trade for everyday transactions. These are the coins you get from the bank. These coins are what you use in your daily exchanges at the mall, the market and whatever place that requires your money.
Business strike coins are made from coin blanks that are stamped from long sheets of metal that come in rolls. These coin blanks are annealed so they are easier to stamp. They are then washed and upset. After that, the coin blanks are ready for the coin die. Both sides of the coin are struck by the die. These coins are then inspected and if they pass the standard, they are prepared for release and circulation. The coins are sent to the Federal Reserve Bank, and from there distributed to banks, credit unions, stores and other outlets.
Proof strike coins on the other hand, are uncirculated coins. Proof strike coins are also made differently from business strike coins. Although it is struck at both sides (the obverse and reverse) like the business strike coins, proof strike coins are struck more than once. This results to sharper features, and clearer inscriptions and details on proof strike coins.
Also, the coin die for proof strike coins are specially polished and treated. This is the reason why proof strike coins have a different appearance. The background of the coin is mirror like and polished, while raised parts of the coin give a more frosty look. This kind of profiling is also known as cameo.
Coin shops such as Colonial Acres Coins have a wide variety of both coins for collectors such as business strike, proof strike or other kinds of coins ranging from different eras of human history. So, if you ever want to start your own collection, or are in search of good coins, Colonial Acres Coins is a shop you should make a stop for.
The business strike coins are made for one purpose: for public circulation. Business strike coins are the coins you trade for everyday transactions. These are the coins you get from the bank. These coins are what you use in your daily exchanges at the mall, the market and whatever place that requires your money.
Business strike coins are made from coin blanks that are stamped from long sheets of metal that come in rolls. These coin blanks are annealed so they are easier to stamp. They are then washed and upset. After that, the coin blanks are ready for the coin die. Both sides of the coin are struck by the die. These coins are then inspected and if they pass the standard, they are prepared for release and circulation. The coins are sent to the Federal Reserve Bank, and from there distributed to banks, credit unions, stores and other outlets.
Proof strike coins on the other hand, are uncirculated coins. Proof strike coins are also made differently from business strike coins. Although it is struck at both sides (the obverse and reverse) like the business strike coins, proof strike coins are struck more than once. This results to sharper features, and clearer inscriptions and details on proof strike coins.
Also, the coin die for proof strike coins are specially polished and treated. This is the reason why proof strike coins have a different appearance. The background of the coin is mirror like and polished, while raised parts of the coin give a more frosty look. This kind of profiling is also known as cameo.
Coin shops such as Colonial Acres Coins have a wide variety of both coins for collectors such as business strike, proof strike or other kinds of coins ranging from different eras of human history. So, if you ever want to start your own collection, or are in search of good coins, Colonial Acres Coins is a shop you should make a stop for.
Famous Collections Around the World
Coin collecting isn’t just a hobby for some people. Serious coin collectors like to think of coin collecting as a profession. This is actually true especially if the collector has gathered rare coins into his collection. Coin values continue to rise the rarer they get, and these values may soar to a =big sum of money in the future.
There are many coin collectors around the world, but there are some whose collections have become the most famous . Among these famous coin collections is the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution. It is located in Washington DC in the Smithsonian Institution's Museum of American History. It is one of the largest numismatic collections in the world and considered the largest in the whole of North America. It holds 1.6 million objects, and there are about 450,000 coins, medals and decorations. It holds coins that were known to be found 2,700 years ago. Among its rarest coins are The Brasher half doubloon, the 1849 double eagle which is the first of the $20 gold coins, and two 1877 fifty dollar patterns.
The Eliasberg Collection is also one of the most famous collections known. It is the first complete collection of circulating United States coins, categorized by date and mint mark. His collection includes an 1804 silver dollar, an 1870-S three dollar gold coin, the unique 1873-CC no-arrows Liberty Seated dime, a 1913 Liberty Head nickel and the very rare 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle gold coin. The only coin missing from his collection was the 1849 Double Eagle, which is considered a pattern coin by numismatists because it was made before the official production of coins. This coin is found in the Smithsonian Museum.
Also among the most famous is The American Numismatic Collection. The main exhibit is the Harry W. Bass Collection. It is a collection that started after Bass decided to aim for a complete collection of United States-issue gold coins minted from 1795 to 1933. The collection also included the only complete collection of three dollar gold pieces including the 1870-S, and a complete collection of all U.S. Gold coin types from 1834 to 1933.
One of the most famous and timeless collections that have been auctioned for the last century is the King Farouk Coin Collection. This collection is owned by King Farouk I of Egypt who has ruled from 1936 to 1952. Farouk was known for his insatiable appetite for coins and travelers from all over the world traded rare coins with him; some even traded him precious collections during the Great Depression because of financial instability. The collection included the only complete set of Saint Gaudens twenty dollar double eagle gold coins. Also, some of the rare coins in this collection was auctioned and made their way to other collections such as the Harry W. Bass Collection, the Norweb Collection and John J. Pittman Collection.
Coin collecting is a good form of investment, aside from the fact that it is also a fun hobby. People will continually seek the rare coins and will pay a lot to get them. Starting your own collection is fairly easy and requires good knowledge. Colonial Acres Coins is open for sharing the knowledge to their young and new collectors-- and also has the vast array of coins that will help you start your own coin collection. Who knows? Maybe someday you will be one of the famous coin collectors the world has ever known.
Colonial Acres Coins is one of the leading numismatic firms in Canada, with more than a decade of helping coin collectors find their rare treasures.
There are many coin collectors around the world, but there are some whose collections have become the most famous . Among these famous coin collections is the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution. It is located in Washington DC in the Smithsonian Institution's Museum of American History. It is one of the largest numismatic collections in the world and considered the largest in the whole of North America. It holds 1.6 million objects, and there are about 450,000 coins, medals and decorations. It holds coins that were known to be found 2,700 years ago. Among its rarest coins are The Brasher half doubloon, the 1849 double eagle which is the first of the $20 gold coins, and two 1877 fifty dollar patterns.
The Eliasberg Collection is also one of the most famous collections known. It is the first complete collection of circulating United States coins, categorized by date and mint mark. His collection includes an 1804 silver dollar, an 1870-S three dollar gold coin, the unique 1873-CC no-arrows Liberty Seated dime, a 1913 Liberty Head nickel and the very rare 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle gold coin. The only coin missing from his collection was the 1849 Double Eagle, which is considered a pattern coin by numismatists because it was made before the official production of coins. This coin is found in the Smithsonian Museum.
Also among the most famous is The American Numismatic Collection. The main exhibit is the Harry W. Bass Collection. It is a collection that started after Bass decided to aim for a complete collection of United States-issue gold coins minted from 1795 to 1933. The collection also included the only complete collection of three dollar gold pieces including the 1870-S, and a complete collection of all U.S. Gold coin types from 1834 to 1933.
One of the most famous and timeless collections that have been auctioned for the last century is the King Farouk Coin Collection. This collection is owned by King Farouk I of Egypt who has ruled from 1936 to 1952. Farouk was known for his insatiable appetite for coins and travelers from all over the world traded rare coins with him; some even traded him precious collections during the Great Depression because of financial instability. The collection included the only complete set of Saint Gaudens twenty dollar double eagle gold coins. Also, some of the rare coins in this collection was auctioned and made their way to other collections such as the Harry W. Bass Collection, the Norweb Collection and John J. Pittman Collection.
Coin collecting is a good form of investment, aside from the fact that it is also a fun hobby. People will continually seek the rare coins and will pay a lot to get them. Starting your own collection is fairly easy and requires good knowledge. Colonial Acres Coins is open for sharing the knowledge to their young and new collectors-- and also has the vast array of coins that will help you start your own coin collection. Who knows? Maybe someday you will be one of the famous coin collectors the world has ever known.
Colonial Acres Coins is one of the leading numismatic firms in Canada, with more than a decade of helping coin collectors find their rare treasures.
Advanced Coin Collecting Supplies You Need to Know About
Advanced coin collectors need better supplies as they increase their collection. As you move forward in your hobby of collecting coins, you will discover that you have several options. There are also supplies that allow you to inspect and authenticate your coins on your own.
These advanced collecting supplies allow you to achieve your goals as an experienced collector.
Digital Scale
This tool lets you determine the weight of a coin. The weight is one of the factors that determine the authenticity of a coin. A digital scale also helps you identify if a coin you bought or planning to buy is an error coin.
A majority of digital scales lets you choose the unit of measure. It is important that the tool you purchase measures in grams with an accuracy of 0.01.
Digital Caliper
This tool is also known as a sizing gauge and is used to measure the diameter of a coin. To use this tool, place a coin between its jaws and slowly close it until it touches the opposite sides of the coin. A coin that was struck broadly or on an incorrect planchet, will not have the correct diameter. You can easily choose the unit of measure using the digital readout. Get a caliper that has an accuracy of 0.01mm.
Stereo Zoom Microscope
This tool enables you to inspect a coin at a high level of magnification. Choose a microscope that comes with dual eyepieces and optics to get you the most accurate image of a coin’s surface. The unit you purchase must also come with a mounted light on its neck to illuminate the coins you inspect properly.
A magnification range between 10X and 45X provides you with the best view of the coins you inspect. You can also use a stereo zoom microscope to authenticate a coin and identify die varieties.
Coin Cataloging Software
This tool enables you to keep track of the coins you have in your collection. Get software that has the following features:
To get the price grade of a coin, it is important to have this tool that provides a broad spectrum of colors and natural white light. A majority of indoor lights make uncirculated copper coins look redder than they actually are. On the other hand, fluorescent lights make silver coins look brighter than they appear to be. This tool enables you to identify if a coin is about uncirculated or uncirculated.
These are some of the advanced coin collecting supplies you must have to help you keep track, authenticate and inspect your collection.
These advanced collecting supplies allow you to achieve your goals as an experienced collector.
Digital Scale
This tool lets you determine the weight of a coin. The weight is one of the factors that determine the authenticity of a coin. A digital scale also helps you identify if a coin you bought or planning to buy is an error coin.
A majority of digital scales lets you choose the unit of measure. It is important that the tool you purchase measures in grams with an accuracy of 0.01.
Digital Caliper
This tool is also known as a sizing gauge and is used to measure the diameter of a coin. To use this tool, place a coin between its jaws and slowly close it until it touches the opposite sides of the coin. A coin that was struck broadly or on an incorrect planchet, will not have the correct diameter. You can easily choose the unit of measure using the digital readout. Get a caliper that has an accuracy of 0.01mm.
Stereo Zoom Microscope
This tool enables you to inspect a coin at a high level of magnification. Choose a microscope that comes with dual eyepieces and optics to get you the most accurate image of a coin’s surface. The unit you purchase must also come with a mounted light on its neck to illuminate the coins you inspect properly.
A magnification range between 10X and 45X provides you with the best view of the coins you inspect. You can also use a stereo zoom microscope to authenticate a coin and identify die varieties.
Coin Cataloging Software
This tool enables you to keep track of the coins you have in your collection. Get software that has the following features:
- Updated coin values and prices
- Database of types of coins
- Coin characteristics
To get the price grade of a coin, it is important to have this tool that provides a broad spectrum of colors and natural white light. A majority of indoor lights make uncirculated copper coins look redder than they actually are. On the other hand, fluorescent lights make silver coins look brighter than they appear to be. This tool enables you to identify if a coin is about uncirculated or uncirculated.
These are some of the advanced coin collecting supplies you must have to help you keep track, authenticate and inspect your collection.
Basic Coin Collecting Supplies You Need to Know About
Coin collectors need specific tools to preserve their coins from the elements, dirt and other factors that may decrease the coin’s value. Basic supplies such as holders, folders, albums and magnifiers are just a handful of things you need to have for your collection.
Holders
The most important supply you need for your collection is a safe place to store your coins in to protect them from damage. A majority of beginners starts using a ‘cigar box’ to keep their coins safe. However, this is an inadequate holder for coins as it does not prevent them from touching and rubbing against each other. This friction causes damage that reduces the value of your collection.
Get a holder specifically customized to store your coins. Most collectors use cardboard 2x2s as coin holders. These are 2” x 4” pieces of cardboard that has a hole in the center on both sides, and has a Mylar plastic inside. An affordable yet popular alternative is coin flips. These use Mylar plastic and measure 2” x 4”.
Albums and Folders
Another way to store your coin collection is by using a folder or album. Using a folder limits you to one side of the coin when you want to view your collection, but are affordable alternatives for beginners.
A coin album is ideal for advanced coin collectors as they are a bit pricier, but enable you to view both sides of your coin. They also provide extra protection because of the plastic inserts, keeping your coin’s surface safe form scratches and the elements.
Lighting and Magnifiers
You need to have proper lighting and a magnifier to view your coins properly. The best type of lighting is incandescent as it reveals any damage on the coins. Fluorescent lights are too mild and may make it difficult for you to spot any imperfections.
A hand lens with a magnification power of 2X to 3X is ideal for general viewing. For in-depth coin analysis it is best to use a lens with magnifying powers between 10X to 15X.
Padding or Soft Cloth
Collectors often overlook the importance of having a soft cloth or padding for viewing and displaying their coins. A coin is often damaged because it fell on a hard surface. Pads or a soft cloth will reduce the possibility of this happening.
These are some of the basic supplies you must have when you begin collecting coins. These make sure that your coin collection stays persevered over a long time.
Colonial Acres offers a variety coin collection supplies for budding and longtime numismatists.
Holders
The most important supply you need for your collection is a safe place to store your coins in to protect them from damage. A majority of beginners starts using a ‘cigar box’ to keep their coins safe. However, this is an inadequate holder for coins as it does not prevent them from touching and rubbing against each other. This friction causes damage that reduces the value of your collection.
Get a holder specifically customized to store your coins. Most collectors use cardboard 2x2s as coin holders. These are 2” x 4” pieces of cardboard that has a hole in the center on both sides, and has a Mylar plastic inside. An affordable yet popular alternative is coin flips. These use Mylar plastic and measure 2” x 4”.
Albums and Folders
Another way to store your coin collection is by using a folder or album. Using a folder limits you to one side of the coin when you want to view your collection, but are affordable alternatives for beginners.
A coin album is ideal for advanced coin collectors as they are a bit pricier, but enable you to view both sides of your coin. They also provide extra protection because of the plastic inserts, keeping your coin’s surface safe form scratches and the elements.
Lighting and Magnifiers
You need to have proper lighting and a magnifier to view your coins properly. The best type of lighting is incandescent as it reveals any damage on the coins. Fluorescent lights are too mild and may make it difficult for you to spot any imperfections.
A hand lens with a magnification power of 2X to 3X is ideal for general viewing. For in-depth coin analysis it is best to use a lens with magnifying powers between 10X to 15X.
Padding or Soft Cloth
Collectors often overlook the importance of having a soft cloth or padding for viewing and displaying their coins. A coin is often damaged because it fell on a hard surface. Pads or a soft cloth will reduce the possibility of this happening.
These are some of the basic supplies you must have when you begin collecting coins. These make sure that your coin collection stays persevered over a long time.
Colonial Acres offers a variety coin collection supplies for budding and longtime numismatists.
Monday, September 14, 2015
Importance of Getting Your Coins Professionally Appraised
As a coin collector, it is important to know the value of the coins you want to purchase. You might get the short end of the stick because you failed to identify a value of the rare coin. You might pay more or get less for a coin inappropriately appraised. In such situations, a professional coin appraiser is a must-hire.
Determining Coin Value
The untrained eye will not be able to determine if a coin is worth its hefty or cheap price tag. Professional appraisers have the training and experience that developed their keen eye for details. They will help you determine the value of the rare coin you want to add to your collection.
Many new numismatists overpay for coins that are below their assigned grades, and only find out after trying to resell them. Avoid overpaying or underselling the coin in your collection with the help of an appraiser.
Identifying Rare from Common Coins
One of the less obvious mistakes of coin collectors is that they purchase unpopular or common coins that they plan on reselling.
There are coins that are too common or unpopular to have much value outside of your collection. A professional appraiser helps you determine which coins will have value, once you try to sell them to other numismatists. Their experience will help you identify which coins have value from the ones that do not have any. Appraisers can also identify which are rare form common coins that are worth an investment.
Facilitate Trades
Appraisers help you facilitate an exchange with a fellow hobbyist. It helps make the trade as even as possible, especially if it involves complete collections of rare coins or bullion. Some of these trades may cost five, six or seven figure coins, which makes a professional important and beneficial for all the parties involved.
Selling Your Collection
There are certain coins that will sell for a good profit at auctions, while others will not do as well. An appraiser will help you determine and suggest which coins you should sell at an auction and which ones to keep. They also re-analyze coins that you can resubmit for grading. There are rare coins that might increase in value after you resubmit them for grading.
These are some of the advantages of hiring an appraiser for your coin collection. A professional’s eye is different from a collector as they provide you with a detached and unbiased view of your collection.
Determining Coin Value
The untrained eye will not be able to determine if a coin is worth its hefty or cheap price tag. Professional appraisers have the training and experience that developed their keen eye for details. They will help you determine the value of the rare coin you want to add to your collection.
Many new numismatists overpay for coins that are below their assigned grades, and only find out after trying to resell them. Avoid overpaying or underselling the coin in your collection with the help of an appraiser.
Identifying Rare from Common Coins
One of the less obvious mistakes of coin collectors is that they purchase unpopular or common coins that they plan on reselling.
There are coins that are too common or unpopular to have much value outside of your collection. A professional appraiser helps you determine which coins will have value, once you try to sell them to other numismatists. Their experience will help you identify which coins have value from the ones that do not have any. Appraisers can also identify which are rare form common coins that are worth an investment.
Facilitate Trades
Appraisers help you facilitate an exchange with a fellow hobbyist. It helps make the trade as even as possible, especially if it involves complete collections of rare coins or bullion. Some of these trades may cost five, six or seven figure coins, which makes a professional important and beneficial for all the parties involved.
Selling Your Collection
There are certain coins that will sell for a good profit at auctions, while others will not do as well. An appraiser will help you determine and suggest which coins you should sell at an auction and which ones to keep. They also re-analyze coins that you can resubmit for grading. There are rare coins that might increase in value after you resubmit them for grading.
These are some of the advantages of hiring an appraiser for your coin collection. A professional’s eye is different from a collector as they provide you with a detached and unbiased view of your collection.
Increasing the Value of Your Rare Coins
Are you planning on selling your collection or purchasing coins for the purpose of reselling them? It is important to know the value of the coins you purchase and the techniques for proper preservation. Doing so helps you get the ideal price for your collection when you decide to sell them.
Increasing the value of your rare coins also gets you a decent profit once you sell them.
How do you increase the value of your collection?
Avoid Cleaning Rare Coins
A rare coin has higher value when you leave it as it is. When you clean it using an abrasive or cleaning detergent, you remove its natural color, reducing its coin value. A rare coin gets hairlines or scratches and will lose its natural luster when you clean it thoroughly. Cleaning it will cost you more than half its uncleaned original value.
Cleaning a coin and selling it to a collector will not get you the value you want. A keen eye will quickly and easily detect the difference between a cleaned and an uncleaned coin.
Cleaned pennies have an unnatural, orange hue and will have blotches or streaks of color. Silver coins have an unusual and uniform grey color when cleaned. Generally, cleaned coins have a uniform reflectivity that they would normally not have.
Store the Coins Properly
Rare coins retain or increase in value when you store them properly. Scratched, marred and blotched coins lower their value that is why it is important to keep them in a holder.
Holders protect your coins from the elements and from falling. There are different kinds of holders such as 2x2 cardboards, plastic and Mylar holders just to name a few. These holders have their pros and cons, and varying price ranges. Look for one that is within your budget and can store your growing collection.
For advanced collectors there are AirTite, binders, tubes and albums. These storage supplies are pricier, but will preserve a larger collection better. AirTite holders are similar to 2x2 plastic holders but are round instead of square.
Get an Appraiser for Your Collection
There are certain coins that do well in auctions while others do not. With the help of an appraiser, you can find the right buyer and auction to get the most of your collection.
They also help you inspect and authenticate rare coins in your collection. You do not want to find yourself in a situation where you try to sell a counterfeit or severely damaged coin to another collector.
These are some of the ways to increase the coin value of your rare collectibles. Collecting coins can be a profitable hobby, only if you know how to store, authenticate and find the right market.
Increasing the value of your rare coins also gets you a decent profit once you sell them.
How do you increase the value of your collection?
Avoid Cleaning Rare Coins
A rare coin has higher value when you leave it as it is. When you clean it using an abrasive or cleaning detergent, you remove its natural color, reducing its coin value. A rare coin gets hairlines or scratches and will lose its natural luster when you clean it thoroughly. Cleaning it will cost you more than half its uncleaned original value.
Cleaning a coin and selling it to a collector will not get you the value you want. A keen eye will quickly and easily detect the difference between a cleaned and an uncleaned coin.
Cleaned pennies have an unnatural, orange hue and will have blotches or streaks of color. Silver coins have an unusual and uniform grey color when cleaned. Generally, cleaned coins have a uniform reflectivity that they would normally not have.
Store the Coins Properly
Rare coins retain or increase in value when you store them properly. Scratched, marred and blotched coins lower their value that is why it is important to keep them in a holder.
Holders protect your coins from the elements and from falling. There are different kinds of holders such as 2x2 cardboards, plastic and Mylar holders just to name a few. These holders have their pros and cons, and varying price ranges. Look for one that is within your budget and can store your growing collection.
For advanced collectors there are AirTite, binders, tubes and albums. These storage supplies are pricier, but will preserve a larger collection better. AirTite holders are similar to 2x2 plastic holders but are round instead of square.
Get an Appraiser for Your Collection
There are certain coins that do well in auctions while others do not. With the help of an appraiser, you can find the right buyer and auction to get the most of your collection.
They also help you inspect and authenticate rare coins in your collection. You do not want to find yourself in a situation where you try to sell a counterfeit or severely damaged coin to another collector.
These are some of the ways to increase the coin value of your rare collectibles. Collecting coins can be a profitable hobby, only if you know how to store, authenticate and find the right market.
Numismatic Books to Get You Started
Coin collecting is a fun hobby, but it can be daunting as the field is vast and plenty of counterfeits that can fool the untrained eye. Getting started is no easy task, but there are books to help you get information about different coins you want to add to your collection.
100 Greatest United States Coins by Jeff Garrett and Ron Guth
This is a popular book for advanced and beginners alike. There are coins that have high values because of the story behind them. This book tells those stories and provides you with the insight and information as to why they are valuable. Most of the coins found in the book are too pricey for a typical collector, but the stories are interesting enough to get a copy for your reference and fun reading.
The Whitman Guide to Coin Collecting by Kenneth Bressett
This book provides you with an updated and all-inclusive guide explaining everything beginners need to know about collecting coins. It also reveals information about how to get started with collecting, varieties of coins, mint marks and factors that determine a coin’s value. It also provides you with information on how to care for your coins, grading where to find rare coins, and hot you can identify authentic, altered and counterfeit coins.
Numismatic Forgery by Charles M. Larson
This book is a fully illustrated and annotated reference for principles and techniques used in the production of rare and valuable coins. Charles M. Larson creates an enticing story through the eyes of a coin forger and provides information on how to identify a counterfeit coin. It also illustrates the methods and tools used to produce a forged coin. The techniques described are legal, but using them in practice is a violation of the law.
World’s Greatest Mint Errors by Mike Byers
This book provides a comprehensive visual illustration of the most intriguing mint errors in the United States and other parts of the world. It includes more than 30 different errors and comes with hundreds of pictures. More than 300 coins are in the book and each coin comes with detailed information. You also get to read coin valuation and pricing guide summaries at the end of each chapter.
These are only some of the numismatic books you can add to your must-have reading list as you start your new hobby. These books provide you with information and interesting stories about the coins you want to add to your collection.
Find out more about collecting coins and paper money from these books and from articles and other resources published by trusted websites such as Colonial Acres.
100 Greatest United States Coins by Jeff Garrett and Ron Guth
This is a popular book for advanced and beginners alike. There are coins that have high values because of the story behind them. This book tells those stories and provides you with the insight and information as to why they are valuable. Most of the coins found in the book are too pricey for a typical collector, but the stories are interesting enough to get a copy for your reference and fun reading.
The Whitman Guide to Coin Collecting by Kenneth Bressett
This book provides you with an updated and all-inclusive guide explaining everything beginners need to know about collecting coins. It also reveals information about how to get started with collecting, varieties of coins, mint marks and factors that determine a coin’s value. It also provides you with information on how to care for your coins, grading where to find rare coins, and hot you can identify authentic, altered and counterfeit coins.
Numismatic Forgery by Charles M. Larson
This book is a fully illustrated and annotated reference for principles and techniques used in the production of rare and valuable coins. Charles M. Larson creates an enticing story through the eyes of a coin forger and provides information on how to identify a counterfeit coin. It also illustrates the methods and tools used to produce a forged coin. The techniques described are legal, but using them in practice is a violation of the law.
World’s Greatest Mint Errors by Mike Byers
This book provides a comprehensive visual illustration of the most intriguing mint errors in the United States and other parts of the world. It includes more than 30 different errors and comes with hundreds of pictures. More than 300 coins are in the book and each coin comes with detailed information. You also get to read coin valuation and pricing guide summaries at the end of each chapter.
These are only some of the numismatic books you can add to your must-have reading list as you start your new hobby. These books provide you with information and interesting stories about the coins you want to add to your collection.
Find out more about collecting coins and paper money from these books and from articles and other resources published by trusted websites such as Colonial Acres.
Coin Profile: 1921 Canadian 50-Cent Piece
Coins have been produced in the past and present for public circulation and to address the economic demands of a country. There are different denominations made to ensure trade and everyday transactions become easy. However, there are times when certain denominations are minted at a low quantity because of the rare need of these coins. One of the examples is the Canadian 50-Cent Piece.
How does one identify this coin?
The Canadian 50-Cent Coin features the Canadian Coat of Arms to commemorate the founding nations of Canada: England, Ireland, Scotland and France. There are inscriptions on the coin, one of which is "A Mari usque ad Mare" meaning "from sea to sea" and the other "Desiderantes meliorem patriam" translating to the texts, "They desire a better country". The design used today is the same design used since 1959, and it was designed by Thomas Shingles. Shingles was a former Royal Canadian Mint engraver.
There were several reverse side designs used for the 50-cent piece since 1858. The crossed maple boughs were the featured design in the 1858 to 1936 50-cent coins. In 1937, the Coat of Arms were in the reverse side design, and it was used until 1958. This Coat of Arms was in simplified form, and was used in an attempt to modernize the circulation coins of Canada. In 1959 to the present year, the modified Coat of Arms was used as the main feature of the reverse side design. It is also worth noting that in the year 1967, the coin was redesigned to commemorate the centennial of the Canadian confederation, but in 1968, it returned to the Coat of Arms design.
Because of low production, these coins easily became rare and were valued at a higher amount than what they were made for. One of the variety of the 50-cent coins that have gone extremely rare are those dated in 1921. This is because there was a move done to melt the stock of 1920 and 1921 coins. This event resulted to the scarcity of the 1921 50-cent coins, and only 75 of them are believed to be kept from the melting. In 2010, a Heritage Auction sold one of these coins for $227,546. This value only proves how rare these coins have become.
Rare coins are like needles in a haystack. This is why coin collectors scour these coins, because not only are they hard to find, their values are overwhelmingly high. Getting a hold of one of the few is a coin collector's achievement.
If you are looking for these coins, check out our collection at Colonial Acres. We have a variety of 50-cent coins ranging from 1870 up to the present. These coins will be a great addition to any collection, so check these little treasures.
How does one identify this coin?
The Canadian 50-Cent Coin features the Canadian Coat of Arms to commemorate the founding nations of Canada: England, Ireland, Scotland and France. There are inscriptions on the coin, one of which is "A Mari usque ad Mare" meaning "from sea to sea" and the other "Desiderantes meliorem patriam" translating to the texts, "They desire a better country". The design used today is the same design used since 1959, and it was designed by Thomas Shingles. Shingles was a former Royal Canadian Mint engraver.
There were several reverse side designs used for the 50-cent piece since 1858. The crossed maple boughs were the featured design in the 1858 to 1936 50-cent coins. In 1937, the Coat of Arms were in the reverse side design, and it was used until 1958. This Coat of Arms was in simplified form, and was used in an attempt to modernize the circulation coins of Canada. In 1959 to the present year, the modified Coat of Arms was used as the main feature of the reverse side design. It is also worth noting that in the year 1967, the coin was redesigned to commemorate the centennial of the Canadian confederation, but in 1968, it returned to the Coat of Arms design.
Because of low production, these coins easily became rare and were valued at a higher amount than what they were made for. One of the variety of the 50-cent coins that have gone extremely rare are those dated in 1921. This is because there was a move done to melt the stock of 1920 and 1921 coins. This event resulted to the scarcity of the 1921 50-cent coins, and only 75 of them are believed to be kept from the melting. In 2010, a Heritage Auction sold one of these coins for $227,546. This value only proves how rare these coins have become.
Rare coins are like needles in a haystack. This is why coin collectors scour these coins, because not only are they hard to find, their values are overwhelmingly high. Getting a hold of one of the few is a coin collector's achievement.
If you are looking for these coins, check out our collection at Colonial Acres. We have a variety of 50-cent coins ranging from 1870 up to the present. These coins will be a great addition to any collection, so check these little treasures.
Coin Profiles: 1911 Canadian Silver Dollar
Coins were made for circulation and at the same time, commemoration. Mints usually change coin dies every time a successor ascends the throne. From then, the coins will be redesigned to feature the new ruler’s profile and to fit the year of mintage.
The Royal Canadian Mint released the first Canadian Silver Dollar in 1935 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of King George V. The design portrays a voyageur and a native paddling a canoe. The Northern Lights were also featured via faint lines in the background. This dollar was the first official Canadian Silver Dollar, until Mint Reports stated that a 1911 Canadian Silver Dollar existed.
1911 Canadian Dollar was not struck, but there were 3 minted to serve as examples that time. Because of this, the 1911 Canadian Dollar was considered the Holy Grail of Canadian Coins. It was also named “The Emperor of Canadian Coins” in 1960, when B.A. Seaby, a London coin dealer announced its acquisition. The second specimen of this coin was later known to be in possession of the Royal Mint Museum in London. It was on permanent loan to the Bank of Canada Museum in Ottawa.
The obverse side was designed by Sir E. Bertram Mackennal. His initials B.M. can be seen on the truncation of the bust. Unlike other coins, the other side of the coin has a different designer W.J. Blakemore. He borrowed from a design earlier made by L.C. Wyon, the British coin designer. It featured a circle maple leaves around the coin edges, and a crown at the top. The maple leaves were bounded by a ribbon at the other end, opposite the crown. The coin’s reverse side featured the inscription ONE DOLLAR CANADA and the year 1911 below it. The 1911 coin side designed by Mackennal was later used in the 1936 Canadian Dollar.
It is one of the greatest rarities in world coinage history, rivaling the American 1804 Silver Dollars and 1913 Liberty Nickel. The 1911 coin was in auction in 2003, and it fetched a value nearly a million dollars’ worth. The coin was listed in The Guinness Book of World Records during 1960s and 1970s for being the world’s rarest coin.
This coin is an inspiration to coin collectors everywhere. Which is why, if you are into collecting, make sure you get the best deal anywhere you go. Colonial Acres has accompanied many coin collectors in their journey for more than a decade of service. If it’s good quality coins you seek, Colonial Acres Coins is the shop you’re looking for.
The Royal Canadian Mint released the first Canadian Silver Dollar in 1935 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of King George V. The design portrays a voyageur and a native paddling a canoe. The Northern Lights were also featured via faint lines in the background. This dollar was the first official Canadian Silver Dollar, until Mint Reports stated that a 1911 Canadian Silver Dollar existed.
1911 Canadian Dollar was not struck, but there were 3 minted to serve as examples that time. Because of this, the 1911 Canadian Dollar was considered the Holy Grail of Canadian Coins. It was also named “The Emperor of Canadian Coins” in 1960, when B.A. Seaby, a London coin dealer announced its acquisition. The second specimen of this coin was later known to be in possession of the Royal Mint Museum in London. It was on permanent loan to the Bank of Canada Museum in Ottawa.
The obverse side was designed by Sir E. Bertram Mackennal. His initials B.M. can be seen on the truncation of the bust. Unlike other coins, the other side of the coin has a different designer W.J. Blakemore. He borrowed from a design earlier made by L.C. Wyon, the British coin designer. It featured a circle maple leaves around the coin edges, and a crown at the top. The maple leaves were bounded by a ribbon at the other end, opposite the crown. The coin’s reverse side featured the inscription ONE DOLLAR CANADA and the year 1911 below it. The 1911 coin side designed by Mackennal was later used in the 1936 Canadian Dollar.
It is one of the greatest rarities in world coinage history, rivaling the American 1804 Silver Dollars and 1913 Liberty Nickel. The 1911 coin was in auction in 2003, and it fetched a value nearly a million dollars’ worth. The coin was listed in The Guinness Book of World Records during 1960s and 1970s for being the world’s rarest coin.
This coin is an inspiration to coin collectors everywhere. Which is why, if you are into collecting, make sure you get the best deal anywhere you go. Colonial Acres has accompanied many coin collectors in their journey for more than a decade of service. If it’s good quality coins you seek, Colonial Acres Coins is the shop you’re looking for.
Coin Profiles: 1936 Canadian “Dot” Penny
In every collecting hobby or profession, one thing holds true: the rarer an item is, the more valuable it becomes. Serious collectors always look for rare collectibles, because scarce items, especially when they are intricately designed or hold a historical value, require serious work and effort to find. Rare items also skyrocket in value once the number reduces to less than a handful. This is also true in coin collecting. Rare coins are hard to find of course, especially since there are fakes circulating around.
If you are a coin collector and are eager to find rare and legit coins, you must be equipped with proper knowledge of the coins you are searching for. This way you can avoid fake coins and rip off deals. If you are in the lookout for rare coins, then the 1936 Canadian “Dot Penny” is one that should be on your list. It’s extremely rare, that only 3 are believed to exist by 2010. The value of this coin has multiplied by 25 million times its face value, and has been in auction for about $400,000 in 2010 in a coin auction.
Only three of these pennies are known to exist. The Dot Penny has a dot below the date to indicate that it was actually made in the year 1937, instead of the minting date 1936 inscription on the coin. This dot was related to King Edward VIII’s abdication in the same year he ascended the throne. Because of his sudden abdication, the Royal Canadian Mint encountered problems regarding coin dies with the new king’s effigy, and thus resorted to produce a small number of coins with a tiny dot below the date to denote that this batch of coins were struck in 1937.
There were only 3 denominations struck with the dot. There were 25-cent, 10-cent and 1-cent pieces, but the rarest is the 1-cent coin. There were only 3 examples known to exist, and because of this, the value of the coin went higher over time. The legendary coin collector, John Jay Pittman, collected the three coins in 1954. After his death in 1996, the coins were auctioned off.
It is hard to distinguish the rare coins because there are only 3 to compare with. Coins shops are always available to help collectors appraise and verify their coins. The 1936 Dot Penny has a very tiny dot below the 1936 inscription, somewhere between the numbers 9 and 3. The dot is almost in line with the start of the number 3 and is found halfway between the date and the coin edge.
Coin shops are open for appraising coins and educating collectors with the characteristics of the coins they seek. Colonial Acres Coins provide free appraisals that can help you determine the value of your coins, whether they be rare collectibles or not.
If you are a coin collector and are eager to find rare and legit coins, you must be equipped with proper knowledge of the coins you are searching for. This way you can avoid fake coins and rip off deals. If you are in the lookout for rare coins, then the 1936 Canadian “Dot Penny” is one that should be on your list. It’s extremely rare, that only 3 are believed to exist by 2010. The value of this coin has multiplied by 25 million times its face value, and has been in auction for about $400,000 in 2010 in a coin auction.
Only three of these pennies are known to exist. The Dot Penny has a dot below the date to indicate that it was actually made in the year 1937, instead of the minting date 1936 inscription on the coin. This dot was related to King Edward VIII’s abdication in the same year he ascended the throne. Because of his sudden abdication, the Royal Canadian Mint encountered problems regarding coin dies with the new king’s effigy, and thus resorted to produce a small number of coins with a tiny dot below the date to denote that this batch of coins were struck in 1937.
There were only 3 denominations struck with the dot. There were 25-cent, 10-cent and 1-cent pieces, but the rarest is the 1-cent coin. There were only 3 examples known to exist, and because of this, the value of the coin went higher over time. The legendary coin collector, John Jay Pittman, collected the three coins in 1954. After his death in 1996, the coins were auctioned off.
It is hard to distinguish the rare coins because there are only 3 to compare with. Coins shops are always available to help collectors appraise and verify their coins. The 1936 Dot Penny has a very tiny dot below the 1936 inscription, somewhere between the numbers 9 and 3. The dot is almost in line with the start of the number 3 and is found halfway between the date and the coin edge.
Coin shops are open for appraising coins and educating collectors with the characteristics of the coins they seek. Colonial Acres Coins provide free appraisals that can help you determine the value of your coins, whether they be rare collectibles or not.
Coin Profiles: 1953 “Shoulder Fold” Penny
Every coin is as diverse and unique as the people who made it. Every coin has its own design, and each design represents a certain era in the history of man. Mints usually switch to newer coin dies that complement the characteristics of the present society. Coins usually feature the prominent people of the time they were minted, like how Queen Elizabeth II’s side profile is featured in the 1953 coins.
With the succession of Elizabeth II, the mint switched to a new coin die to feature the queen and represent a new era of reign. The original Elizabeth II coin dies were a bit of a problem though, because the resulting coins showed a side profile of the queen seemingly wearing a strapless dress. Monarchists then demanded for the issue to be addressed, since the coin made Elizabeth II look undignified. The new-minted coins were then known as the 1953 Shoulder Fold Pennies.
These coins are the scarcer variety of Elizabeth II pennies, since in 1954 the Mint ordered a new die again which produced the No Shoulder Fold (NSF) variety. 1953 Shoulder Fold (SF) variety is distinguished by the less flared I in the DEI inscription on the coin. If the “I” looks more like a stick than a flared one, then the coin is a Shoulder Fold coin. The no flare “I” is also seen in the ELIZABETH inscription.
Another characteristic of the Shoulder Fold Coins are the two maple leaves on the other side. They are usually extremely close to the ends of the coin and the denticles. The 1953 Shoulder Fold coins are also known as “Shoulder Fold, Far Maple Leaf” whereas the No Shoulder Fold variety is known as “No Shoulder Fold, Near Maple Leaf” to collectors for easier distinction.
Since the 1953 Shoulder Fold variety was scarcer than the No Shoulder Fold variety, the value of these coins is relatively higher than the latter especially when in good condition. They are a serious collector’s must have, and coin shops seek these coins to sell to their customers.
If you are new in the coin-collecting hobby, Colonial Acres can give you loads of information about the coins you seek. Colonial Acres Coins is in the business of buying and selling rare coins. With more than a decade in business, Colonial Acres has the reputation in the coin collecting industry and you can rest assured that what you see is what you will get.
With the succession of Elizabeth II, the mint switched to a new coin die to feature the queen and represent a new era of reign. The original Elizabeth II coin dies were a bit of a problem though, because the resulting coins showed a side profile of the queen seemingly wearing a strapless dress. Monarchists then demanded for the issue to be addressed, since the coin made Elizabeth II look undignified. The new-minted coins were then known as the 1953 Shoulder Fold Pennies.
These coins are the scarcer variety of Elizabeth II pennies, since in 1954 the Mint ordered a new die again which produced the No Shoulder Fold (NSF) variety. 1953 Shoulder Fold (SF) variety is distinguished by the less flared I in the DEI inscription on the coin. If the “I” looks more like a stick than a flared one, then the coin is a Shoulder Fold coin. The no flare “I” is also seen in the ELIZABETH inscription.
Another characteristic of the Shoulder Fold Coins are the two maple leaves on the other side. They are usually extremely close to the ends of the coin and the denticles. The 1953 Shoulder Fold coins are also known as “Shoulder Fold, Far Maple Leaf” whereas the No Shoulder Fold variety is known as “No Shoulder Fold, Near Maple Leaf” to collectors for easier distinction.
Since the 1953 Shoulder Fold variety was scarcer than the No Shoulder Fold variety, the value of these coins is relatively higher than the latter especially when in good condition. They are a serious collector’s must have, and coin shops seek these coins to sell to their customers.
If you are new in the coin-collecting hobby, Colonial Acres can give you loads of information about the coins you seek. Colonial Acres Coins is in the business of buying and selling rare coins. With more than a decade in business, Colonial Acres has the reputation in the coin collecting industry and you can rest assured that what you see is what you will get.
Coin Profiles: Canadian Gold Maple Leaf Coins
There is a good number of pure gold coins out there for coin collectors. These gold coins have varying values depending on the rarity, weight and purity of the material. If you are into collecting pure gold coins, then you may already have heard about the Canadian Maple Leaf Gold Bullion Coin. It contains a .9999 millesimal fine gold or 24 karat gold. They hardly contain impurities, so if you’re aiming for gold bullion coins, this coin is one in the list.
But first, what does the coin look like? The front design features a side profile of Queen Elizabeth II as well as the inscription ELIZABETH II, the coin’s value and year of minting. The backside features the Maple Leaf—which is Canada’s official national symbol—and the inscriptions CANADA, the coin’s purity and denomination. This coin design is a creation of Walter Ott.
The Canadian Maple Leaf Gold Bullion Coin is produced annually since 1979 by the Royal Canadian Mint. These coins were produced to deliver to the high demand of gold bullion coins at that time, since before the Canadian Maple Leaf Coin was produced, the only pure gold bullion coin was the South African Kruggerand. The Canadian Maple Leaf Coin is produced from gold mined only within Canada. The Currency Act has also provided these gold coins legal tender status in Canada. It has a face value of 50 CAD. In other markets, the coin may even cost higher because of rarity, weight and other factors. Canadian Gold Maple Leaf coins now have a gold purity of .9999, whereas those minted from 1979 to 1982 have a gold purity of .999.
Because of counterfeiting issues, an additional security feature was added to these coins. They now have radial lines from the center to the ends of the coins. Collectors and investors alike seek these pure gold coin bullions to preserve their value.
As a coin collector or an interested buyer, you want to make sure that what you get is pure and legit. There are many coin shops out there that can give you access to Canadian Maple leaf Gold Bullion Coins. Trusted for its service, Colonial Acres has provided good and honest service and has gained a reputation of its own. As an aspiring collector, a beginner or even a professional, you can trust that the coins in Colonial Acres will be a great addition to you collection.
But first, what does the coin look like? The front design features a side profile of Queen Elizabeth II as well as the inscription ELIZABETH II, the coin’s value and year of minting. The backside features the Maple Leaf—which is Canada’s official national symbol—and the inscriptions CANADA, the coin’s purity and denomination. This coin design is a creation of Walter Ott.
The Canadian Maple Leaf Gold Bullion Coin is produced annually since 1979 by the Royal Canadian Mint. These coins were produced to deliver to the high demand of gold bullion coins at that time, since before the Canadian Maple Leaf Coin was produced, the only pure gold bullion coin was the South African Kruggerand. The Canadian Maple Leaf Coin is produced from gold mined only within Canada. The Currency Act has also provided these gold coins legal tender status in Canada. It has a face value of 50 CAD. In other markets, the coin may even cost higher because of rarity, weight and other factors. Canadian Gold Maple Leaf coins now have a gold purity of .9999, whereas those minted from 1979 to 1982 have a gold purity of .999.
Because of counterfeiting issues, an additional security feature was added to these coins. They now have radial lines from the center to the ends of the coins. Collectors and investors alike seek these pure gold coin bullions to preserve their value.
As a coin collector or an interested buyer, you want to make sure that what you get is pure and legit. There are many coin shops out there that can give you access to Canadian Maple leaf Gold Bullion Coins. Trusted for its service, Colonial Acres has provided good and honest service and has gained a reputation of its own. As an aspiring collector, a beginner or even a professional, you can trust that the coins in Colonial Acres will be a great addition to you collection.
Coin Profile: 1936 Canadian Dot Dime
Coins hold much more than their monetary value. For a long time, coins have been a part of every civilization. The creation of each coin design in influenced by the era it represents, or the year of its mintage. In Canada’s history, coins were designed after the monarchial rule.
In 1936, King George V’s throne was ascended by his son, Edward VIII. During this year, the Royal Canadian Mint continued to produce coins with the effigy of the deceased monarch. In the late months of that year, the new coin dies bearing the effigy of King Edward were developed and were at an advanced stage. However, because King Edward VIII abdicated the throne on December 1936, the Mint encountered problems regarding their coin dies. The coin die bearing King Edward III’s effigy was negated and was later not used. This resulted to a shortage of coins the following year, 1937.
To resolve this coin crisis, the Royal Canadian Mint decided to continue producing 1936 dated coins, which still featured the side profile of George V. In order to determine these 1937-minted coins from their 1936 coins, a tiny dot was placed on each of the reverse dies. In the ten-cent pieces, the dot was placed under the bow on the wreath. Later on, only the 25-cent pieces were put into circulation. This resulted to higher rarity value to the one- and ten-cent pieces.
One of these 10-cent pennies was acquired by the famous coin collector, John Jay Pittman. The first owner was Ottawa coin collector Tom Roberts, but after his death in 1951, his wife sold his coin collection to Pittman for $2,000.
Now, after Pittman’s death in 1996, the coins were auctioned off. Because of its extreme rarity, it was sold at a 2010 coin auction for over $184, 000.
Coin collection is not just a hobby. It may also be considered a profession. The 1936 Canadian Dot Dime is only one of the examples of how coin collecting can be a good source of profit if done right. Rare coins are appreciated highly for their rarity, and for serious coin collectors—it’s a real job to hunt for these precious coins.
One of the contributing factors of successful coin collectors is trusting a partner numismatic shop. Colonial Acres Coins have been partners with many coin collectors since they have opened the business for more than a decade now and are reputed for trustworthy service. So, if you want to enter the world of coin collection, let Colonial Acres Coins accompany you every step of the way.
In 1936, King George V’s throne was ascended by his son, Edward VIII. During this year, the Royal Canadian Mint continued to produce coins with the effigy of the deceased monarch. In the late months of that year, the new coin dies bearing the effigy of King Edward were developed and were at an advanced stage. However, because King Edward VIII abdicated the throne on December 1936, the Mint encountered problems regarding their coin dies. The coin die bearing King Edward III’s effigy was negated and was later not used. This resulted to a shortage of coins the following year, 1937.
To resolve this coin crisis, the Royal Canadian Mint decided to continue producing 1936 dated coins, which still featured the side profile of George V. In order to determine these 1937-minted coins from their 1936 coins, a tiny dot was placed on each of the reverse dies. In the ten-cent pieces, the dot was placed under the bow on the wreath. Later on, only the 25-cent pieces were put into circulation. This resulted to higher rarity value to the one- and ten-cent pieces.
One of these 10-cent pennies was acquired by the famous coin collector, John Jay Pittman. The first owner was Ottawa coin collector Tom Roberts, but after his death in 1951, his wife sold his coin collection to Pittman for $2,000.
Now, after Pittman’s death in 1996, the coins were auctioned off. Because of its extreme rarity, it was sold at a 2010 coin auction for over $184, 000.
Coin collection is not just a hobby. It may also be considered a profession. The 1936 Canadian Dot Dime is only one of the examples of how coin collecting can be a good source of profit if done right. Rare coins are appreciated highly for their rarity, and for serious coin collectors—it’s a real job to hunt for these precious coins.
One of the contributing factors of successful coin collectors is trusting a partner numismatic shop. Colonial Acres Coins have been partners with many coin collectors since they have opened the business for more than a decade now and are reputed for trustworthy service. So, if you want to enter the world of coin collection, let Colonial Acres Coins accompany you every step of the way.
The Lincoln Cent: The Longest Running Coin Series
Coin collection is a wonderful hobby that preserves remnants of history in a form of a coin. There is, of course, a wide variety of coins that may have not existed long enough to gain historical value but in the future, may have their timely values.
Coins have existed for a long, long time, and since the start of coin collection, coin series of different categories began to develop. The longest running coin series in the history of The United States is the Lincoln Cent Series, and also among the longest running coin types in the world coinage history.
The U.S. Lincoln Cent has been designed by Victor David Brenner. His initials are associated with the coin design he created. His initials, VDB, are found in the Lincoln Cent first releases at the time of President Theodore Roosevelt, although they were later removed because of some issues. These coins first came into circulation in the year or 1909.
There were six types of Lincoln Cents issued in 1909 which are the Indian Head Cent 1909, Indian Head Cent 1909-S, Lincoln Wheat Cent 1909 VDB, Lincoln Wheat Cent 1909_S VDB, Lincoln Wheat Cent 1909 and the Lincoln Wheat Cent 1909-S. In 1918, the VDB was restored to the coins and it remains on the coins to this day. These letters are found at the base of Lincoln’s bust.
In 1942 and 1943, there was a change of coin metals made, including the Lincoln Cent Series. Because of WWII and the needs for copper and tin skyrocketed for military use, the U.S. Mint left only a small trace of tin in the cent alloy and changed the metal from bronze to brass. 1942 Lincoln Cents are then made from both of these alloys.
In 1943, the Mint decided to remove all traces of copper and resorted to cheaper alternatives in making the cents. 1943 Lincoln Cents were made from alloy composed of steel coated with a thin zinc layer. This resulted to a poor coin condition. It shone like a dime when new, but corroded after the zinc layer wore off. These were the coins nobody wanted, since they did not work on vending machines. In 1944, the Mint was forced to resume making brass-alloy coins, and in 1947, the Lincoln Cent returned to the bronze alloy it used before WWII.
There was also this Doubled Die Lincoln Cents Saga in 1955. This was because of a minting error resulting in a coin die getting two impressions hubbed into it. An estimated number of 20,000 to 24,000 coins were doubled die coins, but they were let out to the public nevertheless.
The Lincoln Cents have gone through a lot in the last hundred years since it first came out. Because of this, this coin series is a must-have for professional coin collectors out there.
Whether you are a beginner or have already been in the coin-collecting hobby for some time, Colonial Acres Coins will be able to help you in every step of the way. With more than a decade in the business, it is our aim to help numismatists grow their collection and eventually, spread the love for coin collecting.
Coins have existed for a long, long time, and since the start of coin collection, coin series of different categories began to develop. The longest running coin series in the history of The United States is the Lincoln Cent Series, and also among the longest running coin types in the world coinage history.
The U.S. Lincoln Cent has been designed by Victor David Brenner. His initials are associated with the coin design he created. His initials, VDB, are found in the Lincoln Cent first releases at the time of President Theodore Roosevelt, although they were later removed because of some issues. These coins first came into circulation in the year or 1909.
There were six types of Lincoln Cents issued in 1909 which are the Indian Head Cent 1909, Indian Head Cent 1909-S, Lincoln Wheat Cent 1909 VDB, Lincoln Wheat Cent 1909_S VDB, Lincoln Wheat Cent 1909 and the Lincoln Wheat Cent 1909-S. In 1918, the VDB was restored to the coins and it remains on the coins to this day. These letters are found at the base of Lincoln’s bust.
In 1942 and 1943, there was a change of coin metals made, including the Lincoln Cent Series. Because of WWII and the needs for copper and tin skyrocketed for military use, the U.S. Mint left only a small trace of tin in the cent alloy and changed the metal from bronze to brass. 1942 Lincoln Cents are then made from both of these alloys.
In 1943, the Mint decided to remove all traces of copper and resorted to cheaper alternatives in making the cents. 1943 Lincoln Cents were made from alloy composed of steel coated with a thin zinc layer. This resulted to a poor coin condition. It shone like a dime when new, but corroded after the zinc layer wore off. These were the coins nobody wanted, since they did not work on vending machines. In 1944, the Mint was forced to resume making brass-alloy coins, and in 1947, the Lincoln Cent returned to the bronze alloy it used before WWII.
There was also this Doubled Die Lincoln Cents Saga in 1955. This was because of a minting error resulting in a coin die getting two impressions hubbed into it. An estimated number of 20,000 to 24,000 coins were doubled die coins, but they were let out to the public nevertheless.
The Lincoln Cents have gone through a lot in the last hundred years since it first came out. Because of this, this coin series is a must-have for professional coin collectors out there.
Whether you are a beginner or have already been in the coin-collecting hobby for some time, Colonial Acres Coins will be able to help you in every step of the way. With more than a decade in the business, it is our aim to help numismatists grow their collection and eventually, spread the love for coin collecting.
Sunday, September 13, 2015
Cleaning Coins: Should I or Shouldn't I Do It?
People who join the ranks of numismatists often ask the question, ‘how do I clean my coins?’ It is normal to think that a shiny and clean coin will be appealing to coin collectors and appraisers, thinking that cleaning it will increase its value. The truth is, coin collectors would rather get a coin displaying its natural and original color.
If a coin manages to stay bright and shiny because of preservation methods or just released from the mint, collectors would gladly purchase it. A coin cleaned with baking soda, vinegar or abrasives would give them several reasons to hold off on the purchase.
Experts Know When a Coin Has Been Cleaned
Collectors prefer a deep, brown coloured coin that is more than five decades old than a similar coin cleaned to look brand new. Here are signs that indicate a coin has been cleaned:
You will not be unable to fool a true collector, if they detect any of these signs on the coins you plan on giving or selling to them.
Determining Value: Cleaned Vs. Un-cleaned Coins
There is not much science involved in determining the value of a cleaned coin. Many factors of value follow an ‘eye appeal’ and how ‘good’ it looks. But a coin loses some of its value after you clean it.
Are there safe ways to clean a coin?
There are a few instances where cleaning a coin is recommendable. One such case is when it is encrusted in dirt, the best way to clean this is by using clean water. Pat the coin until it dries instead of rubbing it.
Problems about cleaning a coin arise when a person attempts to, whether deliberately or not, remove the natural patina or colour that a coin has taken on over time. Rubbing a coin leaves scratches and lines on its surface, reducing the coin value.
If a coin manages to stay bright and shiny because of preservation methods or just released from the mint, collectors would gladly purchase it. A coin cleaned with baking soda, vinegar or abrasives would give them several reasons to hold off on the purchase.
Experts Know When a Coin Has Been Cleaned
Collectors prefer a deep, brown coloured coin that is more than five decades old than a similar coin cleaned to look brand new. Here are signs that indicate a coin has been cleaned:
- It has an unnatural colour
- Streaks or blotches of colour
- An unnatural uniform colour
- An unnatural and uniform reflectivity
You will not be unable to fool a true collector, if they detect any of these signs on the coins you plan on giving or selling to them.
Determining Value: Cleaned Vs. Un-cleaned Coins
There is not much science involved in determining the value of a cleaned coin. Many factors of value follow an ‘eye appeal’ and how ‘good’ it looks. But a coin loses some of its value after you clean it.
- A coin that has underwent abrasive cleaning that it now has hairlines, scratches and has lost its former lustre is no longer worth anything more than half its un-cleaned value.
- A lightly cleaned coin and does not have scratches or shows little to no signs of loss of lustre, may drop in value by as little as 10% or as high as 30%.
Are there safe ways to clean a coin?
There are a few instances where cleaning a coin is recommendable. One such case is when it is encrusted in dirt, the best way to clean this is by using clean water. Pat the coin until it dries instead of rubbing it.
Problems about cleaning a coin arise when a person attempts to, whether deliberately or not, remove the natural patina or colour that a coin has taken on over time. Rubbing a coin leaves scratches and lines on its surface, reducing the coin value.
Coins to Collect Under $100
There are different kinds of coins from special events, limited edition or coins minted decades ago. As a numismatist, you can collect a few coins without spending more than a $100.
2015 $20 Canada's First Submarines During the First World War
The summer of 1914 was an eventful year for the Royal Canadian Navy as it was still in its infancy years when the threat of war hung over it. Two new submarines added to the navy’s fleet to guard the west coast helped a young Canada to bolster its coastal defence.
Coin features:
This is a commemorative coin that is a noteworthy addition for numismatists who have a naval, history or military-themed collection.
2015 $1 1oz Captain Jean-Luc Picard Star Trek The Next Generation
Capt. Jean-Luc Picard was the commander of the Federation Starship U.S.S. Enterprise and a renowned Starfleet office, diplomat and archaeologist. He commanded the Enterprise for seven years during important skirmishes, which included the defeat of the Borg invaders in 2366 and 2369.
Coin features:
2015 $20 Columbian Yew Tree- Forest of Canada Fine Silver Coin
The Columbia Forest lies in a series of mountain ranges situated approximately 600km from the pacific coast in British Columbia. It is the world’s only inland temperate rainforest where a majority of its moisture is snow rather than rain. The Western Yew, a slow growing and long living tree is also one of the few species of coniferae that lacks cones. It instead produces individual seeds in berry-like casings.
Coin features:
These are some coins under $100 that you can consider adding to your coin collection. Find more unique and collectible coins under $100 at Colonial Acres.
2015 $20 Canada's First Submarines During the First World War
The summer of 1914 was an eventful year for the Royal Canadian Navy as it was still in its infancy years when the threat of war hung over it. Two new submarines added to the navy’s fleet to guard the west coast helped a young Canada to bolster its coastal defence.
Coin features:
- Costs $89.95
- 99.99% pure silver with a limited mintage totalling 7,500.
- This is the second coin in the Canadian Home Front series.
- It highlights the country’s war effort on its home front.
This is a commemorative coin that is a noteworthy addition for numismatists who have a naval, history or military-themed collection.
2015 $1 1oz Captain Jean-Luc Picard Star Trek The Next Generation
Capt. Jean-Luc Picard was the commander of the Federation Starship U.S.S. Enterprise and a renowned Starfleet office, diplomat and archaeologist. He commanded the Enterprise for seven years during important skirmishes, which included the defeat of the Borg invaders in 2366 and 2369.
Coin features:
- Costs $99
- The reverse side of the coin has a coloured image of Sir Patrick Stewart OBE as Capt. Jean-Luc Picard.
- The design includes the traditional ‘P’ mintmark of Perth Mint.
- The coin comes in a housing of a replica of a Star Trek transporter machine, which lights up when you open the lid.
- Each purchased coin comes with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.
2015 $20 Columbian Yew Tree- Forest of Canada Fine Silver Coin
The Columbia Forest lies in a series of mountain ranges situated approximately 600km from the pacific coast in British Columbia. It is the world’s only inland temperate rainforest where a majority of its moisture is snow rather than rain. The Western Yew, a slow growing and long living tree is also one of the few species of coniferae that lacks cones. It instead produces individual seeds in berry-like casings.
Coin features:
- Costs $99.95
- Part of the series of coins that displays the beauty and diversity of Canada’s forests.
- Crafted in 99.99% pure silver and comes in a selective colour to highlight the distinctly crimson fruit of the Western Yew.
- An ideal gift to tree-lovers and British Columbian numismatists.
These are some coins under $100 that you can consider adding to your coin collection. Find more unique and collectible coins under $100 at Colonial Acres.
Gifts for the Coin Collector
You must be wondering what can you buy for your numismatist loved one? Finding collectibles, coins or subscriptions that might interest them may be easier than you think. Read these gift ideas to make your loved one feel special.
Loupe Coin Magnifiers
This item is a small magnification device that has at least two lenses and is small enough to fit within the palm of your hand. This helps users to decrease or increase the magnification power which it important to identify details on a coin that the naked eye cannot see or regular magnifying glasses.
Bullion Coins
American Gold and Silver Eagles are famous bullion coins that can be used as an investment because of their intrinsic metal value. Even if the person you give it to is not that interested in collecting bullion, this gift idea is ideal because it has value.
The person you gave it to can keep the bullion coins you gave them as an investment or for their collection. They can also sell the coins to purchase more collectibles for their collection.
Commemorative Coins
Aside from collecting mint coins, the person you are giving a gift to might be interested in commemorative coins of historical figures, athletes, movies and others. These types of coins may only be available once.
Presenting them with commemorative coins is a unique gift idea as there may be only a few people who have them.
Coin Show Tickets
A numismatist will have a lot of fun geeking out at various coins when you give them tickets to a coin show. There are different shows for hobbyists, check local listings to know when a show might be held near your area.
United States Mint Subscription
The United States Mint has a subscription program that a numismatist will appreciate. Subscribers get individual or set coin sets; they can also receive new coins as soon as the United States Mint releases them. You have the option to stop the program whenever you like.
Coin Books
A good coin book is a good gift to a numismatist, a book may contain all the information about the coins your loved one is looking for. Compared to browsing online, a book gives your loved one, one place to look for the coins they want to add to their collection.
These are gift ideas that you might want to give your numismatist loved one or friend. Make them feel special by giving them a gift that interests them. Find these items and more at Colonial Acres Coins, the trusted source of coin and paper money collectors since 1991.
Loupe Coin Magnifiers
This item is a small magnification device that has at least two lenses and is small enough to fit within the palm of your hand. This helps users to decrease or increase the magnification power which it important to identify details on a coin that the naked eye cannot see or regular magnifying glasses.
Bullion Coins
American Gold and Silver Eagles are famous bullion coins that can be used as an investment because of their intrinsic metal value. Even if the person you give it to is not that interested in collecting bullion, this gift idea is ideal because it has value.
The person you gave it to can keep the bullion coins you gave them as an investment or for their collection. They can also sell the coins to purchase more collectibles for their collection.
Commemorative Coins
Aside from collecting mint coins, the person you are giving a gift to might be interested in commemorative coins of historical figures, athletes, movies and others. These types of coins may only be available once.
Presenting them with commemorative coins is a unique gift idea as there may be only a few people who have them.
Coin Show Tickets
A numismatist will have a lot of fun geeking out at various coins when you give them tickets to a coin show. There are different shows for hobbyists, check local listings to know when a show might be held near your area.
United States Mint Subscription
The United States Mint has a subscription program that a numismatist will appreciate. Subscribers get individual or set coin sets; they can also receive new coins as soon as the United States Mint releases them. You have the option to stop the program whenever you like.
Coin Books
A good coin book is a good gift to a numismatist, a book may contain all the information about the coins your loved one is looking for. Compared to browsing online, a book gives your loved one, one place to look for the coins they want to add to their collection.
These are gift ideas that you might want to give your numismatist loved one or friend. Make them feel special by giving them a gift that interests them. Find these items and more at Colonial Acres Coins, the trusted source of coin and paper money collectors since 1991.
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