FAQs
To assign a grade to a coin, numismatists analyze its coloration, strike, luster, surface preservation, and eye appeal. The objective of the grading process is to estimate a coin's value as a collector's item.
What are the grades for silver dollars? ›
While there are several different coin grading systems out there, most numismatists use a version of the Sheldon system. Under the Sheldon system, silver dollars are assigned a number from 1 to 70, with 70 being the highest possible grade and 1 being the lowest.
How do you get a silver dollar graded? ›
You can get your coins professionally graded by a third-party grading service. There are several reputable grading services that specialize in authenticating and grading coins based on their condition and rarity. Some of the most well-known grading services include: Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS)
How do you evaluate silver dollars? ›
The weight of your coins is probably one of the most accurate ways to tell if your silver coins are valuable. Since the silver market is measured by weight, you can look at the current price of silver and use that to determine your coin's value based on how much your coins weigh.
Can I grade my own coins? ›
Although it is possible to learn to grade coins yourself, it will take years of experience to do it correctly. In our experience, many collectors think their coins are in a better condition than they actually are � so always be on your guard.
How are coins graded? ›
Coins are graded on a 70-point grading scale with 1 being the worst condition and 70 being perfect mint state. The naming conventions can also lead to confusion, such as the grade of "Good" being a 4 out of 70 while "Fine" is 12.
What year silver dollar is worth a lot of money? ›
The Rarest and Most Valuable Silver Dollars
| Coin | Grade | Auction Record |
|---|
| #25 1895-S Morgan Dollar DMPL | MS67DMPL | $336,000 |
| #26 1801 Draped Bust Silver Dollar | MS65+ | $329,000 |
| #27 1802 Draped Bust Silver Dollar | MS65+ | $300,000 |
| #28 1798 Wide Date Draped Bust Silver Dollar | MS65 | $270,250 |
26 more rowsJan 18, 2022
Morgan Dollars have sold for impressive amounts, with one 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar coin selling for $881,250 in 2013. On the other hand, one of the highest-selling Peace Dollars, a 1922 Pattern Peace Dollar, sold for $325,000 in 2014.
Can you get silver dollars from the bank at face value? ›
Well, traditionally banks could not sell you these dollars above their face value. In other words, you are buying silver at a fraction of its value. Double the deal if you find rare collectible coins. While most Canadian and US banks rarely do have silver dollars on hand, you occasionally get lucky.
How can I get my coins graded for free? ›
When you visit the Photograde section of the PCGS site, you select the category and series of your coin. PCGS provides obverse and reverse images of your coin in all grades. Photograde is free, and does not require a PCGS membership.
Not All Coins Are Worth Grading
Our advice is to only get coins graded if you think the cost of grading is less than how much extra value grading will add to the coin. Example: You have a 1921 $1 Morgan silver dollar in what appears to be mint state condition.
How much does PCGS charge to grade a coin? ›
2024 PCGS Collector Services & Fees
| SERVICE LEVEL | PRICE |
|---|
| REGULAR | $40 |
| ECONOMY (Non-Gold, Non-Hammered) *World patterns and Chinese portrait/dragon/fantasy dollars must be submitted at the Regular Service Level or higher. | $23 |
| MODERN (1965 to date) | $30 |
| MODERN VALUE (1965 to date) | $17 |
19 more rowsJan 1, 2024
One convenient way to sell your old silver coins is to visit a local pawn shop or jewelry shop, as these types of businesses are usually interested in buying valuables of this nature.
What is a 1776 to 1976 silver dollar worth? ›
1776-1976 S SILVER Eisenhower Dollar Value
According to the NGC Price Guide, as of April 2024, a Eisenhower Dollar from 1776-1976 S in circulated condition is worth between $9.50 and $10.75. However, on the open market 1776-1976 S SILVER Silver Dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $7000.
Does cleaning silver dollars lower value? ›
In general, most coin collectors and dealers prefer silver coins that have their original surface and patina intact. Cleaning silver coins can reduce their numismatic value by damaging their surface and removing their natural toning.
What is the best grade for silver coins? ›
Perfect Uncirculated (MS-70) – Perfect new condition, showing no trace of wear. The finest quality possible, with no evidence of scratches, handling, or contact with other coins. Very few circulation-issue coins are ever found in this condition.
How do you know if a silver coin is valuable? ›
Calculate the Actual Silver Weight (ASW)
The value of a silver bullion coin is largely determined by its weight and purity. The heavier a coin and the more silver it contains, the higher its value. Actual Silver Weight (ASW) is a key metric to understand when determining the real value of silver coins.
Which is better PCGS or NGC? ›
For most collectors, they are effectively equivalent. They both provide the same service. You can submit your coins to them to be certified. Whether you use NGC or PCGS, your coins will be examined by a whole team of experts.
