What should I know about selling a gold coin on eBay? - Yahoo! Answers
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Steve71 Steve71
Member since:
January 19, 2007
Total points:
4553 (Level 4)

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What should I know about selling a gold coin on eBay?

I have bought and sold many times on eBay, but what should I know about selling a $20 gold piece worth $1000? Is it enough to set a high starting bid, require PayPal, and supply big, sharp photographs of the coin? Is it worth the expense to have the coin professionally graded, sealed, and certified first? What ripoffs should I be aware of?
  • 2 years ago
CoinTrain by CoinTrai...
Member since:
April 14, 2007
Total points:
2720 (Level 4)

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

Certified coins tend to bring more in the coin market, including eBay. There are two services I recommend: 1) PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and 2) NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation).

Good closeup photos that you can take with a digital camera are a must. Be sure to use the "macro" setting and no flash when you take the pics. Position your light source (a lamp is fine) off to the side somewhat of the coin.

Before you set your starting bid, see what coins like yours have sold for recently. Use the "Completed Listings" check box located on the left panel of the listings. Prices that show in green are for items that actually sold at those prices.

One more thing... Give some thought to your write-up. A gold coin is special. Learn something of the history behind these coins. Your twenty dollar gold piece, also known as a "double eagle", is much more interesting than a mere bullion coin. It doesn't hurt to romance the sale a bit! Check my web site for some ideas: http://www.valuable-coin-stories.com/us-…

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  • 2 years ago
Asker's Rating:
5 out of 5
Asker's Comment:
This convinced me to get the coin graded. It guarantees the authenticity of the coin and helps both pros and amateurs feel better about bidding.

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Other Answers (1)

  • whoo by whoo
    Member since:
    April 02, 2008
    Total points:
    8073 (Level 5)
    You can set a reserve price so it won't get sold below a set amount. You have to be able to prove that it is authentic (or know for sure, because if you sell it and it turns out fake they can come after you for refund and damages)
    I would insist on paypal or similar, no cheques or money orders since they can be forged. You cash a fake money order or cheque and you are held responsible for paying the bank back.
    You may get a higher price if it is authenticated and graded professionally first, but that will cost you some money up front to get done.
    If you want it to sell, then you must have good clear photos, not blurry camera phone shots!
    • 2 years ago

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