Certified U.S. Gold Coins

Investment Value
Investing in graded coins is a logical investment. Coins such as these are valued both by the metal from which they're made and their value as collectible items. Gold and silver bullion coins such as the American Eagle and the Canadian Maple Leaf are priced primarily because of their metal content, and are interchangeable for investment purposes. A coin such as a St. Gaudens, however, could be worth hundreds, if not thousands more, simply because of its condition, because a collector is interested in obtaining the best possible example of a particular coin. This is true for all of the pre-1933 gold coins on this page.

Our Selection
As a major dealer in coins and related items, our inventory of coins for sale is constantly changing. The chart below is a general description of what is usually in stock. You would do well to check back often for updated information as you seek the best numismatic investment. If you are looking for a coin of this particular type and don't find it here, please call us at 800-344-6468; as a major numismatics dealer, we have many resources to help match you with the coin you seek.

Grading Standards
The value of numismatic items is based on their condition and rarity. The better the condition, the more value the coin has above its intrinsic value — that is, the value of the gold or silver in the coin.

Coins are graded by independent grading services to ensure universal standards. The two best known are PCGS and NGC. Most of our pre-1933 gold coins are graded by them.

The highest-graded coins bear the "MS," or "mint state" designation, and are graded in numerals from 60 to 70 (although grades above 67 are near-impossible to find). These show no signs of wear (although they may have scuffs, or "bag marks"), and have not been circulated. We usually carry in inventory coins graded from MS-62 to MS-65. The PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) defines these grades as follows:

MS-65 - Shows an attractive high quality of luster and strike for the date and mint. A few small scattered contact marks, or two larger marks may be present, and one or two small patches of hairlines may show under magnification. Noticeable light scuff marks may show on the high points of the design. Overall quality is above average and overall eye appeal is very pleasing. Copper coins have full luster with original or darkened color as appropriate.

MS-64 - Has at least average luster and strike for the type. Several small contact marks in groups, as well as one or two moderately heavy marks may be present. One or two mall patches of hairlines may show under low magnification. Noticeable light scuff marks or defects might be seen within the design or in the field. Attractive overall quality with a pleasing eye appeal. Copper coins may be slightly dull. Color should be appropriate.

MS-63 - Mint luster may be slightly impaired. Numerous small contact marks, and a few scattered heavy marks may be seen. Small hairlines are visible without magnification. Several detracting scuff marks or defects may be present throughout the design or in the fields. The general quality is about average, but overall the coin is rather attractive. Copper pieces may be darkened or dull. Color should be appropriate.

MS-62 - An impaired or dull luster may be evident. Clusters of small marks may be present throughout with a few large marks or nicks in prime focal areas. Hairlines may be very noticeable. Large unattractive scuff-marks might be seen on major features. The strike, rim and planchet quality may be noticeably below average. Overall eye-appeal is generally acceptable. Copper coins will show a diminished color and tone.

Circulated coins are also graded. The best quality circulated coins are graded in "AU" ("almost uncirculated") ranges, and, of course, there are many ranges below, from "extremely fine" and "very fine" down through six much lower grades.

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