The top left coin is a 1780, Salzburg, Count Hieronymus Collerdo Ducat. The Lewis & Clark looks like a gem . The other gold coins are just worth their content basically.
I would definitely not consider these valid markers for counterfeit coins. First off, as the OP mentioned, they were a stamp collector and not a coin collector which uses different methods of storage. I would definitely get it authenticated so you can dismiss allegations like "I think it is harshly cleaned because of ____" or it "I think it is counterfeit because of ____". I can tell you there are tons of coins out there with PVC damage because of poor storage. I have bought coins from stamp collectors storing coins in PVC plastic like they were stamps.
I agree with the others, get it slabbed and keep your relative away from any Pawn Shops and be careful with local coin shops.
LOL, good stamp collectors don't keep stamps in PVC. But I agree, grade the thing and eliminate all doubt, and make the coin attractive to big auction houses. I got an email from Stack's today, soliciting consignments for a big October sale.
I haven't checked these 1907s out much but is the capitol in the background on the lower obverse left always that weak with a tilted look to it? Maybe that's the norm? If there was a chance this was real I'd have a hard time sending it in the mail. Would likely drive to NGC or PCGS (whichever was closer) and pay for expedited grading while I waited at the hotel to pick it back up and drive home.
+1, he seems to know what he is talking about and I would believe it is authentic too and worth getting it authenticated.
I have seen worse things than storing coins in PVC plastic like shipping coins by taping them to card board. I bought some large cents from a jewelery store where it appeared they treated them like jewelry and stuck them in a jewelry cleaner lol. People who don't know better do all kind of stuff.
You guys are awesome. I really appreciate all of the help. I think my next step is to either make him a fair offer (showing him some past auction house prices) and then send it in myself, or if he prefers, get it slabbed, see what the grade looks like and then discuss a deal. There is a bit of a risk if I buy it raw, but I likely wouldn't need to pay as much since I'm taking a risk on grade (I would stipulate that it the coin must come back authentic). I'll definitely keep the board updated! Thanks again CT!