Antique coins have garnered attention as a 'defensive' investment, particularly in recent years, due to their relative price stability even during economic downturns. However, the prices of these coins can vary greatly, with some fetching millions of dollars per coin. Many people may wonder how these prices are determined.

In this article, we'll address questions such as:

• 'How are the prices of antique coins determined?'
• 'How can I find out the market value of each coin?'

1. How Are the Prices of Antique Coins Determined?

When buying antique coins, there is no fixed price. Instead, the value is determined by various factors specific to each coin.

1-1. Gold Content

Since ancient times, coins have been made from gold. The price of gold fluctuates with the economy, generally rising during periods of economic instability. This trend continues today, reflecting the trust placed in gold. The more gold content an antique coin has, the higher its value.

1-2. Era of Manufacture

As the name suggests, antique coins are from past eras. Naturally, the older the coin, the more rare and valuable it is considered.

1-3. Condition of the Coin

The condition of an antique coin significantly affects its price. Deformation, discoloration, scratches, cracks, or chips can all lower the value. Even if a scratch occurred during the coin's production, it is still considered a flaw, affecting the price. If you store coins yourself, be very mindful of their preservation.

1-4. Artistic Design

The design of antique coins varies depending on the country and era in which they were issued. They can feature gods, historical figures, animals, and more. Coins with popular figures or deities tend to be more expensive. This might be because they served as collectibles, similar to how modern-day photo cards are collected.

1-5. Limited Number of Issuances

The number of coins issued also influences their price. For example, a popular antique coin, the 'Una and the Lion,' issued in the UK in 1839, had only 400 pieces issued, with each coin valued at over $70,000.

Another example is the 20-dollar gold coin 'Saint-Gaudens' issued in 1927, with 180,000 pieces issued, each valued at about $2,000.

However, only five Saint-Gaudens coins with a 'D' mark above the 1927 date have been confirmed worldwide, and their value skyrockets to millions of dollars per coin. Thus, the rarity of issuance can significantly impact the value of antique coins.

In the next installment, we'll discuss how to assess the value of your antique coins.

May your antique coin journey bring you good fortune!