Coins are classic collectable items. The opportunity to own a piece of history used by people of times gone by has established coin collecting as a popular hobby enjoyed by individuals of all ages. Using coins as a medium of investment is also becoming more widespread.
Collectable coins have a value that depends on two major factors; scarcity and condition. Prices are set by collectors and dealers based around demand. This happens mainly through auctions and a network of coin dealers. As well as rarity and condition, coins can also be attractive due to their cultural or historical significance. Coins featuring famous historical figures can often carry a premium due to their international fame.
Collectable coins are distinctly different from bullion coins, whose value derives solely from the weight of the precious metal they contain.
SCARCITY
The rarest collectable coins exist only in very limited quantities. Own a rare item in first rate condition and you have a reasonable chance that its value will increase in the future. The value of a rare coin is set and evolves through demand from the widespread collector or investor base. Although hoards of coins occasionally come to light, supply is usually strictly limited to known pieces on the marke
AN HONEST, TRANSPARENT MARKET
Coins are bought and sold through a network of dealers. Some specialise in particular aspects of the coin market. Coins are also bought and sold through coin fairs, and at auctions. It is a global market not dominated by any one player. Values are set by supply and demand. Auction records are a reference point for prices and values and there are well documented historical price trends for almost every type of coin.
GLOBAL IN SCOPE
There are collectors of, and investors in rare coins in most markets of the world. Many start off by collecting in the coins of their own country, or those of a particular historical period. So whether it is coins of the English Civil War period, American silver dollars, Islamic coins or Ancient Green and Roman pieces, there is an active market to suit the interests of most collectors and investors.
A HUGE VARIETY
The rich variety of historical coins and medals issued over the past 2000 years gives an amazing opportunity to anyone interested in starting a collection of their own. It might come as a surprise to many that it’s possible to own a genuine Roman or Greek coin from over 2000 years ago; or that a medieval silver groat of King Henry VIII, which might appear more at home in a museum is actually available to buy. Paintings from the Elizabethan Period or Ancient Classical Statues would cost a small fortune, but coins from these periods can be far more affordable. Coins are miniature monuments to the times they originate from, and a lasting, physical memory of the rulers and people who used them. It is an exciting prospect for many to build a collection of historical coins from a time period which fascinates them. As well as high value pieces there is a plethora of material available at almost any price point, making it possible for budding collectors of any age as well as seasoned veterans of the coin world to build or enhance a collection.
To guide you through this process, Baldwins’ experienced staff of specialists can tailor an initial pathway of coins to suit your interests, your time horizons, and the amounts – large or small – you wish to spend.
