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Collectors Guide: What makes a coin so collectable?
The world’s most expensive coin, the Flowing Hair Dollar, went up for auction yesterday. In 2010 it sold for just under $8 million, three years later it set a world record when it sold for over $10 million. It was bought by a collector to add to a unique collection of Early Silver Dollars – including the 1804 Draped Bust Dollar which made headlines when it sold for over $3 million in 2017.
What makes a coin collectable?
It’s incredible to think that a 1 dollar coin could be worth millions today, but there’s several things that determine the numismatic value and collectability of a coin. So we’ve put together a collector’s guide to help you know what to look out for when adding coins to your collection.
Several things determine the numismatic value and collectability of a coin – usually it’s based on the type of coin, the year it was minted, the place it was minted and even its condition or finish. But the biggest factor is probably the mintage of a coin and its rarity.
Mintage and Rarity
It’s the old rule of supply and demand – the less that are made, the more difficult a coin is to source and the more collectable it becomes. There are thought to be less than 150 of the Flowing hair dollars in existence today which contributes to the value of them.
Or take for example the US 2015 Silver Eagle. This had a mintage of just 79,640, making it three times rarer than the second rarest silver Eagle (this year’s COVID Eagle). As these were snapped up by collectors, they have become more and more scarce, and in higher demand than ever, with collectors willing to pay a premium just to add one to their collections.
Year of issue
This doesn’t always mean age of the coin, but the year can play an important factor in determining the value of a coin. Generally you can expect to pay a premium for historic issues but this isn’t always the case. In fact some Roman coins can be picked up for less than £50, but coins from much more recent times, such as Victorian Crowns can sell for hundreds of pounds! Victorian crowns struck in important years, such as the 1887 Jubilee Head crowns are more desirable because of their links to significant events.
Finish
The finish of a coin, or the strike, is also an important factor to consider. Proof finished coins are struck several times with specially prepared blanks, which gives the design a particularly sharp edge and shows every detail. Proof finishes are highly desired among collectors, as are coins issued in BU – or brilliant uncirculated finish. This means the coin hasn’t been in circulation so is free from all the scratches you’d find on coins in your change.
Minting location
Sometimes the mintmark or location of the mint in which a coin was struck can affect the collectability of the coin. The mintmark on a coin tells us where a coin was struck, and from that collectors use historical records to work out just how rare each coin is. For example, the Morgan Dollar was struck in 5 different mints, but the Carson City issues are the most sought after – they were struck for only 13 of the 43 years in which the Morgan Dollar was minted.
Many collectors specialise in some of these areas and build their collections around rare coins, themes and years of issue, or even mintmarks. But demand can and often will change over time and sometimes that means the value someone is willing to pay for a coin will increase over time – just as we’ve seen with the Flowing Hair Dollar.
If you’re interested…
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The New UK Rarest 50p Coin – The Salmon 50p
The UK’s coin collecting community is buzzing with excitement following the announcement that the Salmon 50p has officially become the rarest 50p in circulation. This new status is due to its incredibly low mintage figures, making it a highly sought-after coin for collectors across the country.
The Salmon 50p – The New King of Rarity
The Salmon 50p has just dethroned the famous Kew Gardens 50p as the UK’s rarest 50p in circulation! It was revealed that only 200,000 of these coins entered circulation last year—an unprecedented low, marking it as the lowest mintage figure of any UK circulating coin. This rarity makes the Salmon 50p a highly prized addition to any collection, and it’s already generating significant demand among collectors.
The Solution – The UK Coinage Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) Set
With the chance of finding this coin in your change being extremely slim, to guarantee owning the UK Brilliant Uncirculated Salmon 50p coin is through the UK Coinage Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) Set. Here’s why this set is an essential purchase for collectors:
- Guaranteed Inclusion of the Salmon 50p: The BU set includes the UK Brilliant Uncirculated Salmon 50p coin without the uncertainty of hunting for it in circulation.
- Pristine Brilliant Uncirculated Quality: Each coin is struck to the highest Brilliant Uncirculated standard, ensuring that your Salmon 50p and the other coins in the set are presented in flawless, mint condition—free from any circulation marks.
- Full Range of 2023 Coinage: Alongside the Salmon 50p, the set includes the complete lineup of 2023 coin designs, giving collectors a comprehensive and beautifully presented snapshot of this year’s UK coinage.
- Collector’s Packaging: Housed in an official display pack, the set is designed for both protection and presentation, making it an ideal showcase piece or a perfect gift for fellow collectors.
Why the BU Set is the Ultimate Way to Collect
Given that only 200,000 Salmon 50p coins are in circulation, the likelihood of coming across one is extremely low. For collectors who value both rarity and condition, the UK Coinage BU Set provides the ultimate solution, allowing you to own the Brilliant Uncirculated version of this coin in pristine form.
Don’t Miss Out – Secure Your BU Set Today
To ensure that the Brilliant Uncirculated Salmon 50p coin becomes a part of your collection, secure the UK Coinage BU Set now.
>>> You can explore the full details and place your order here. <<<
Celebrate Batman Day with these Iconic Collectibles!
Every year on Saturday, 21st September, fans around the world unite to celebrate one of the most iconic superheroes of all time—Batman. Since his debut in 1939, the Dark Knight has captured the imaginations of comic book lovers, moviegoers, and collectors alike. Whether you’re drawn to his relentless pursuit of justice or his incredible rogues’ gallery, Batman has become a symbol of hope in the darkest corners of Gotham City.
This Batman Day, why not pay tribute to the Caped Crusader with stunning collectibles that will allow you to own a piece of his legacy? Read on to explore some remarkable Batman-themed treasures that will make your collection truly stand out.
Face of Gotham: Batman™ 1oz Silver Coin
Imagine owning a piece of Gotham’s hero, exquisitely captured in silver. The Face of Gotham: Batman™ 1oz Silver Coin brings the Dark Knight to life in a way no ordinary coin could. Struck from .999 fine silver, this unique coin has been shaped and colored to replicate Batman’s iconic cowl, making it a stunning collectible.
Limited to just 5,000 worldwide, this masterpiece from the renowned New Zealand Mint is a must-have for Batman enthusiasts. With its highly detailed craftsmanship and officially licensed packaging, this collectible will be the envy of any fan.
The Dark Knight 10oz Silver Batman Coin
For those seeking something even more impressive, the Dark Knight 10oz Silver Batman Coin offers a bold statement. Combining pure silver with 24-carat gold plating, this coin features intricate designs that include Batman himself, the Batmobile, the Joker, and the Gotham skyline.
What makes this coin exceptional is its use of the innovative multiple-layer technique—something never seen before in a 10oz coin. With only 150 pieces available worldwide, this exclusive collectible is as rare as it is breathtaking.
Presented in a luxurious wooden box and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, the Dark Knight 10oz Silver Batman Coin is a true showstopper. Plus, with an option to spread the cost over 10 interest-free monthly instalments, adding this to your collection has never been easier.
Batman Premium Capsule Boxed Editions
If you’re a fan of both stamps and superheroes, the Batman Premium Capsule Boxed Editions is a collectible you won’t want to miss. Featuring four distinct versions of Batman from comic book history—Modern Age, Bronze Age, Silver Age, and Golden Age—these editions also include the famous Bat-Signal from each era.
Each stamp is sealed within a tamper-proof capsule, ensuring its preservation for generations to come. With just 495 editions available, this is a rare and unique find for both Batman fans and stamp collectors.
NEW Official Batman Commemorative
Looking for an affordable yet striking Batman collectible? The NEW Official Batman Commemorative is a perfect choice. Expertly plated in 24-carat gold and struck to a proof-like finish, this commemorative features the official DC logo on one side and a full-color image of Batman on the other, straight from the original comics.
For just £19.99 (+p&p), you can add this commemorative to your collection today, and it even comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Twelve Official 1966 Batman Commemorative
Celebrate the campy charm of the 1966 Batman TV series with this set of twelve Official 1966 Batman Commemoratives. Featuring beloved characters like Batman, Robin, and the Joker, along with comic-style text and quotes from the show, this collection is a nostalgic tribute to a pop culture phenomenon.
Presented in a collector’s case with the original Batman logo, this set is a fantastic addition for any fan of the classic series. With limited availability, you’ll want to act fast to secure your piece of TV history.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the Dark Knight or new to the world of Gotham City, these exclusive collectibles offer a chance to bring a piece of Batman’s legend into your home.
Order now and celebrate Batman Day in true superhero style!
