I stoped in at my locale dealer 2 buy some silver bullion,they were all out. They did have a 1879 $5 U.S. coin there for $410 i didnt buy it (wanted 2) because i do not know enough about them . From the research i did its difficult for me to tell if this is a good deal or not? Can anyone here help?? Thanks...jay
I presume it was gold. You did the right thing. The proper price for such a coin can vary a lot depending on condition. If it is damaged or cleaned, $410 could be a very high price, and something like $325 might be more appropriate. It could also be counterfeit if not certified unless you are expert enough to determine this yourself.
It is gold, my bad for not saying so. I believe its real my deal is a very gd one, but you just told me what my gut (and daughter) she is 5yrs old said which was NO dont buy. thankyou.
If it isn't certified, and you don't know a lot about them, don't touch it with a ten foot pole. Many people are risk takers, but in this hobby, more times than not, it is better to be safe than sorry.
I agree that some research is needed. $410 isn't a bad deal for a 1879 half eagle, but the condition does matter. If this dealer has several gold coins in a case, take a look at them all and compare what this half eagle looks like. Try to determine the condition yourself, reseach on gold coins and how they look per grade could help. I haven't bought any gold coins either mostly because of their cost. I want to make sure I'm spending money appropriately. But I intend on buying an Indian head half eagle for my first gold coin. I'm fairly good at grading silver coins and will bring a portable scale to weight the coin myself upon purchase. Remember, you have to start somewhere.
surfer, is it a 1/2oz? gold content was .20 of an oz i assumed it was it was a quarter. Againg i am bad for not giving you guys enough info sorry
