Coin Grading Explained
The Sheldon 70-point scale, circulated vs. uncirculated grades, and what strike, luster, and eye appeal actually mean.
Read the guideCollector's Corner
Guides for Understanding Coins, Currency, and Precious Metals
These guides are written for real collectors and everyday people who've inherited a box of coins — not for search engines. Read one straight through, or use them as a reference the next time you're looking at a coin under a loupe.
How to use these guides
Start wherever your question is
Each guide stands on its own, but they build on one another. If you're brand new, start with grading and valuation, then move to storage. If you've just inherited a collection, jump straight to that guide — it will point you back to the others as needed.
What Makes a Coin Valuable
Mintage, survival rate, condition rarity, demand, and why an old coin is not automatically a valuable one.
Read the guideHow to Store Coins Properly
Holders, PVC damage, Lowcountry humidity, safes, handling rules, and why you should never clean a coin.
Read the guideInherited a Coin Collection?
A practical first-week guide: what to do immediately, what to avoid, and how to get an honest evaluation.
Read the guidePCGS vs. NGC (and PMG)
An honest comparison of the major third-party grading services, and when certification is worth the cost.
Read the guideUnderstanding Mint Marks
Where to find mint marks by denomination and era, the history of each U.S. mint, and notable branch-mint rarities.
Read the guideFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about buying, selling, inherited collections, and visiting the shop.
Read the guideHave a coin in front of you right now?
These guides answer general questions, but nothing replaces an in-person look. Bring it by or start an evaluation online.