How are values of American Gold and silver Eagle coins determined?

It depends on if they are bullion coins intended for the investment in the metal (very few dates since the program began in 1986 are considered 'key' coins with extra collector value beyond the usual 5% - 10% premium you generally pay on the open market when you buy), or if they are proof collector coins, the values of which have much less relation to the bullion value. These sell for much more than the bullion value, percentage-wise, and a few dates are scarce or rare. One proof in particular in the silver series is worth in excess of $2,000.

The grade is ONLY important if they are professionally graded at the level of perfect 70, with a few exceptions, because coins graded at 69 in most cases don't sell for much more than 'raw', ungraded examples.

The best way to sell them is usually not the easiest way. I take best to mean, how to get the most money. You do this by researching what you have, every date, every mint mark, and then checking eBay to see what the going price range is. It's usually better to sell each gold coin individually and the silver coins in groups (a run of dates in series, or all one date).

The easiest way, which IS the best way for some, is to take the collection to at least three dealers and then take the highest offer.

Technically, they should be valued at their gold or silver market price. If they are 1 Troy ounce, then they would be worth the equivalent in the precious metals market. However, because they are coins, collector demand comes into play. If they are older or in better condition they will increase the value. Usually an eagle coin in MS-70 condition will go for much more than an MS-69 or 68, or an eagle from 1995 will be worth more than 2012, but the coin will never be worth less than its weight in the metal it was minted.

Hope this answers your question, and these coins are a great investment in our current economy.

Gold Coin Melt Value Calculator

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Live Spot Gold Price Calculator

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Roughly the spot gold (or silver) price. Depends on the condition (proof, uncirculated etc.) The coins weigh over one ounce but as they are 22k they contain 1oz pure gold. The spot price is for 'good delivery bar' so anything else, including coins may be less. Then again dealers have to make a profit. Find a dealer who will quote you a buying and selling price which will be around $10 either side of spot.

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