Help me sell my gold

December 23, 2007 10:54 AM

I found a 1910 Indian head ten dollar gold coin in my childhood piggy bank. It looks like this. I have seen it listed online for different values between $400 and $1700. I am broke and (regretfully) feel like I need to convert it into cash. How do I do this quickly, fairly, and for maximum profit?
posted by mr. remy to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (5 answers total)

The worth of the coin will depend on the condition, and only a good coin dealer could give you some idea on that. Do you live in a town that has a few coin dealers that you could visit with your coin and get their input before making a decision? Don't go to a pawnshop. Go to a place that specializes specifically in coins (often they also specialize in stamps, too). Good luck.
posted by 45moore45 at 10:58 AM on December 23, 2007

the ten dollar indian has over .48 oz gold in it, so with gold at $800/oz, the gold value alone is about $400. there may be a substantial numismatic value beyond that, depending on date, mint and condition.
posted by bruce at 11:09 AM on December 23, 2007

Best answer: Find someone who is at least a member of the American Numismatic Association. Going to a pawn shop will be a waste of time. The keys to its price will be condition coupled with the current price of gold. Grading coins is a science as well as an art. The Red Book may give you a ballpark value, but don't expect the coin to actually trade at that.

Also, check to see if there are any coin shows in your area. You will be able to show the coin to multiple dealers to get an idea of the coin's grade and its value.

If you MeMail me what town your in, I may be able to suggest someone as I know some folks in this industry.
posted by MasonDixon at 11:15 AM on December 23, 2007

Response by poster: Later, I also have discovered a Moroccan franc dated ca. 1945
posted by mr. remy at 12:40 PM on December 23, 2007

Surprised that no one has mentioned this yet, but in case it's not too late: Don't wash it! Cleaning old coins is a natural instinct (we like shiny!) but the folks who buy your coins likely won't appreciate your efforts.
posted by funkiwan at 12:12 AM on December 24, 2007