Inherited collections are often mixtures: ordinary circulation coins, bullion, collector pieces, old holders, world coins, tokens and paperwork. The goal is not to assign a perfect price immediately. The goal is to avoid losing information or selling a valuable subgroup as anonymous bulk.
1. Original surfaces matter
Original surfaces matter should be handled in a way that preserves evidence and keeps the family’s options open. Record what you know, identify uncertainty and avoid turning a preliminary estimate into a rushed sale decision.
2. Hairlines can be permanent
Hairlines can be permanent should be handled in a way that preserves evidence and keeps the family’s options open. Record what you know, identify uncertainty and avoid turning a preliminary estimate into a rushed sale decision.
3. Toning can be desirable
Toning can be desirable should be handled in a way that preserves evidence and keeps the family’s options open. Record what you know, identify uncertainty and avoid turning a preliminary estimate into a rushed sale decision.
4. Residue can hold evidence
Residue can hold evidence should be handled in a way that preserves evidence and keeps the family’s options open. Record what you know, identify uncertainty and avoid turning a preliminary estimate into a rushed sale decision.
5. Professional conservation is different
Professional conservation is different should be handled in a way that preserves evidence and keeps the family’s options open. Record what you know, identify uncertainty and avoid turning a preliminary estimate into a rushed sale decision.