I have been collecting coins for a while now, but my interest in becomming an avid collector is growing so I'm only starting to learn the values of buying and selling. I was just hoping to get a rough estimate of what something was worth. I have the option to purchase 13 Canadian Silver Dollars in 'good condition' according to the owner as well as 44 Canadian Silver 50 Cent Pieces. I understand the value of the coins differ from edition and year as well as condition but I would just like a generalized idea so when I show up tomorrow I will have some idea of what to offer. Could someone maybe help me out with some numbers and an idea on how much I should buy for and what they may potentially be worth? Thanks a lot.
Welcome to Coin Talk! Unfortunately, there isn't a pat answer to give you concerning the values. Scrap value of silver dollars (Canadian) is about 16x face depending on the day. Pre 1967 silver dollars are .800 silver anything later is nickel. The catalog values can range from $16 to $1,500 depending on the variety and date. Also, one person's idea of "good condition" is totally subjective. I've had sellers tell me their "coin is in excellent condition except for the scratches all over it and the glue on the back and the hole in the middle of it". You would be best to arm yourself with a little knowledge first, perhaps by visiting a coin shop and seeing first hand what a "good" condition coin looks like. If the seller just wants to unload it, just offer him melt value and maybe you'll luck out with a "find".
With silver prices the way they are, a values (guide) book doesn't help anymore. I have this years book and they list some silver dollars for $10 when the melt value is $16 - $17.
So the melt value is basically 16$ or so for silver dollars and 50 cent pieces would be about half that?
