Over the years I have been collecting and receiving silver coins from relatives and from small purchases. My silver consists of dollars (3 morgans, 2 peaces, 6 ikes) halves (2 walkers, 3 bens, 9 90% JFK's, 5 40% JFK's) quarters (10 old washington quarters 1935-1964, and 3 standing liberty with no date) some old dimes (4 silver) and some other silver coins lying around. I would get around 550 or 600 or so for all of this. I think it would be a smart decision to use this money towards purchasing a coin that will retain and increase value (hopefully). Any suggestions on what to buy? I was thinking, A key Wheatie (1914-D, 1931-S) Selling some of my other slabbed coins to buy a 1908/1909 St Gauden A bust half (probably wouldn't increase value much) perhaps a half or large cent ...but what do you think? What do you think will increase value the most? Thanks!
Find something in copper. A common St Gauden will fluctuate with the market. Any coin that fluctuates like that isn't something that will retain any kind of value, as it sounds like you want an investment piece. A few silver coins would be safe, like Key Morgans that don't adjust based on silver prices. Of course, you'd need to sell a few thousand dollars more of your collection to obtain one. Guy
I agree with Guy but would expand his advice. I would say buy a collector coin not tied to bullion instead of just copper. A bust half dollar has nothing to do with bullion. Skyler you state a bust half will probably not go up much, but I bought most of my vf-au bust halves for $35-$60 20 years ago. Have they gone up much? All true collector coins will appreciate, just get problem free, desirable coins. I would say all 19th century coins with the exception of Morgans are in this category. Also, early commemorative halves too. I would feel more comfortable personally buying this stuff than more modern "key" coins. I bought a lot of these when the price spread was not so great, but at today's prices I am unsure they can continue the run. Too much demand from investors because it is "key" and too little demand from collectors. Always remember the only real demand for coins above face value is either bullion or collectors. "Investors" are simply investing believing collector demand will increas in the future. Example, the 1901s was a good buy at $1,000 for a good when I bought it. It was representational of rarity, same with my 09sVDB for $400. The same coins at $10,000 or $1200 are not THAT much scarcer than commons, and I see fewer collectors trying to put together full sets, (which is the only real basis for a coin being "key"). I admit I bought some coins simply because of their rarity when I thougth they were good deals, like 27s quarters and 08 and 09s IHC, and I do the same with ancients, (groups of Cleopatra VII), but its a dangerous game that personally I think has been overplayed in the last 10 years.
Personally, I am spread between silver coins, gold coins, and coppers. I believe coins can be good investments, but just like stocks, its pretty risky to put all your eggs in one basket (coin). Plus its more fun having a bunch in your collection, who wants just one coin? ; )
Thank you everyone for your advice and suggestions. Being that I do not have any bust halves but love their look, I will probably end up buying one. Any years you think I should look into, or stay away from? My price range is about $500-$600 but I am willing to trade some other coins to purchases something a bit more special ($1000-$1500)
Most you see will be late 1820's-1830's. Those are the most common dates. Earlier the better. If you wanted to get into varieties you could, but generally I would choose an earlier date to a later one given same price/grade.
If I had $600, and choosing from your list, I'd buy a decent 1914-D cent. But if I had $1500, I'd buy a Saint Gaudens, because they are beautiful and they are almost pure gold.
I'f I had $600-1500 I'd get one of these. They're pretty and they're great dates. They'll also retain they're value because their prices aren't really based on bullion http://coins.shop.ebay.com/Early-Do...ns_US_Individual&_fln=1&_trksid=p3286.c0.m282
I like the $20 Liberties prior to 1888. Just my two-cents. I am not knowledgable, I just like them. I like Jefferson nickels, as well as modern proof set dimes.
The melt value of this lot is dropping fast... probably get about $450 for it now. But who knows what tomorrow will bring? Hopefully you can still get what you want.
Thanks for the suggestions, and the early dollars don't seem like a bad idea. I'm also ill just ask my good friend/rare coin dealer, hes a walking encyclopedia of coins. He always gives me great advice. Thank you everyone.
