Other Factors Affecting Price of Gold Coins

Other miscellaneous factors can affect the quality of a coin. The presence of all or part of the original luster usually increases a coin's value. Be careful, however, not to be fooled by a coin that has been dipped in a brightener in order to simulate this luster artificially. Toning can be either good or bad. If the toning a coin has acquired is dull, irregular, or splotchy, it is likely to be considered unpleasant and many collectors may choose to avoid it even if it is a high-grade coin. On the other hand, if it is mild or displays a "halo effect" around the edge of the coin, or is composed of pleasant iridescent shades, many collectors and dealers would consider paying a premium to obtain it based on its "eye appeal." Standard phrases used to emphasize a coin's eye appeal when grading include Premium Quality (PQ) and Proff Line (PL).

Also, the mint will sometimes strike a coin on a blank that is properly prepared enough not to be considered an error, but is nevertheless in some minor way imperfect. The poor mixing of the metals in the alloy or flaws left by trapped gas from this same process are examples. If trivial they may be ignored on most coins, but on more expensive or high-grade pieces, the level of concern over these flaws may increase.

Even on circulated coins, few collectors wish to have coins with scratches or edge nicks. These will occur even more frequently on larger coins like silver dollars, or on coins with reeded edges. Dependingon extent of scratches and nicks, such coins may be discounted by a little or a lot.

Of course, coins with damage are worth far less than coins without. Many coins have been mounted for use in jewelry, and even when the loop or bezel has been removed they still may show slight signs of this unfortunate experience. While discounted heavily, a few collectors consider these opportunities ot acquire coins with high-grade detail for a fraction of the cost. It should be remembered that the same havey discount will apply when that collector goes to sell his coins.