Posted ByKylie PerkinsCoins are something that every metal detectorist is going to find a lot of, and they will be dirty. So what should you do? What is the best way to clean the coins you find? I have gathered together some ideas that may be helpful. Don’t use chemicals without first researching them. I don’t use chemicals and I would stay away from them unless you’ve done your homework and are comfortable with the process.
The condition of the gold and silver coins may also influence their values. Coins that are in excellent condition will be much more desirable to collectors than coins that are damaged. The condition of the coins can influence the price considerably. That is why collectors find that it is much harder to sell a weathered gold or silver coin than a coin in good condition.
Also its great to have a real portrait of an Emperor in your possession. Many emperors came and went and it was customary to inscribe the portrait of the emperor on the coins that were minted during their reign.
Mint condition coins are almost perfect. There should be no signs of wear on any surface of the coin. MS60 to MS70 are the grades for this category. MS 70 will be a perfect coin. About uncirculated (AU) custom coins cheap will have some noticeable wear on the coin, but it will appear on the high areas of the coin. Make sure you look at your coins in a good light to be able to see the details of wear on the surfaces.
Until a few years ago, Gold Eagles and Maple Leafs sold at the same markups over spot. But, as Maple Leafs, which investors have bought since 1979, started coming into the secondary market, problems surfaced. Now, to keep investors in the U.S. market buying Maple Leafs, the Royal Canadian Mint has to offer new (current year) Gold Maple Leafs at a half-a-percent below Gold Eagle prices.
Always have a safe working environment to work with your coins. Prepare a soft space by laying down a thick soft cloth where you will be able to examine your coins without risking damage to the coins. A lot of inadvertent damage comes from dropping coins on a hard surface, which may cause dings or dents on your coins. Another problem comes when a dropped coin rolls to the floor only to be lost or damaged. If you are using a towel as your soft surface make sure it does not have a lot of scent left in it as this may also cause chemical damage to your coins. Many people who know how to handle coins will set up a tray lined with felt just for this purpose.
But time and changing economies have brought coin collecting to the masses. Today’s collections have expanded to include foreign coins, antique coins, those circulated only briefly, coins with mint errors, coins minted to mark historic occasions and artistic coins.
It is wise to invest in Gold Eagle Coins. The United States government backs its value and gold content. If you wish to find out about these coins, there are many forums and websites online that can help you make an informed buying decision.