We’re back with another round up of coin collecting news and articles from around the internet! First, the upcoming start of sales of the the latest numismatic America the Beautiful Five Ounce Silver Coin and additional information on the bullion and numismatic releases for the series. Also, the US Mint explores alternative metal options for circulating coins, numismatic product sales report, the Ted Williams Collection, probabilities of pennies, early silver dollars, coin authentication services, counterfeit coin court case, proof coin packaging, goloid, chocolate coins, and notable auctions. On to the links…

Sales will soon begin for the 2011-P Chickasaw Five Ounce Silver Uncirculated Coin. This release will carry the lowest initial price for the series so far and will be available without ordering limits.

More information on the ATB Five Ounce Silver Coins. The US Mint has continued sales of the 2011-dated bullion versions into the current year, and lower mintage levels are planned for the 2012-dated bullion and numismatic issues.

These articles from CoinWorld and Numismatic News provide some details of the research and testing that the US Mint is performing to evaluate alternative metal options and reduce the costs for circulating coinage.

The latest United States Mint numismatic sales report includes the debut figures for the El Yunque National Forest numismatic bags and rolls and shows a big jump for sales of the 2011-W Uncirculated Silver Eagles.

NGC has encapsulated and graded 78 US coins and 13 world coins that were part of the personal items of Baseball player Ted Williams. Each carries the pedigree Ted Williams Collection.

An interesting article from Wired.com that examines that factors which influence the probability of finding a coin from a given year in circulation.

Coin Rarities & Related Topics covers the early silver dollars at the Heritage FUN Platinum Night auction, with a focus on the 1794 silver dollars.

A discussion of coin authentication services, which will mark their 40th year, and a warning about fake slabs.

News about a court case where a stamp and coin collector is trying to recover $70,000 paid for a collection of counterfeit coins. If the coins had been genuine, the collection would have been worth $10 million.

The Numismatic Consumer Alliance announces that they have helped to recover more than $1 million for buyers of overpriced coins.

This article discusses the evolution of packaging for United States Mint proof coins from the individual tissues used in 1858 to the framed rigid plastic holders used since 1968.

At one time a new metal alloy called “goloid” was proposed for use in circulating coinage. The alloy included gold, silver, and copper, resulting in a purple-golden color.

Here’s the story of a very different kind of coin business Foiled Again Chocolate Coins. They offer about 2,000 different designs and produce 1.5 to 2 million coins a year.

And now for some notable auctions. First, the 2006-W Reverse Proof $50 Gold Eagle graded NGC PF 70. These coins were only included in the 20th Anniversary Gold Eagle Set, which was limited to 10,000.

Next, here is an 1883-1912 Liberty Head Nickel Set in a vintage Whitman coin board. The set is complete, except of course for the 1913.

Last, Daniel Carr has created his own concept design for a “Palladium Eagle” with a winged Liberty head on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. Here is an auction for one of the not legal tender one ounce palladium pieces with a satin finish.

That’s it for another update. See you next time!

We’re back with another fresh round up of coin collecting news and articles from around the internet! First, an article dedicated to exploring some of the strategies, tactics, and innovations used by various mints around the world. Also, the US Mint’s new Design and Engraving Department, a new Coingrader Capsule, America the Beautiful Quarters and bullion coins, market report after the Long Beach show, two articles on classic commemorative coins, the Royal Canadian Mint’s new $1 and $2 coins, and notable auctions. On to the links…

Mint News Blog, which has always been focused on US coins, provides a post to explore some of the innovations and strategies used by other world mints. The post showcases many interesting recent world coin releases.

The United States Mint has created a new Design and Engraving Department and is seeking a new chief engraver. This was partially in response to the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee recommendations for improving coinage design.

A new Coingrader Capsule explores a case of condition rarity, discussing the process of evaluating the grade of an 1884-S Morgan Dollar based on photographs.

Will the 2012 America the Beautiful Quarters experience more robust and timely circulation than previous years of the series? This blog author has already received three El Yunque Quarters in change.

On the same topic, here is a post discussing some of the recent developments for the ATB program, including both the clad quarters and silver bullion coins.

An article on where all the pennies (cents) are going. The article states that 80% of all cents produced fall out of circulation. Cents are apparently still accepted at tool booths in Illinois to honor Lincoln.

The Legend Numismatics market report, following the Long Beach Show.

Steve Roach discusses classic commemorative coins and some of the factors that have made them attractive to marketers.

Here is an in depth article on Numismaster about the first classic commemorative issued for the World’s Columbian Expo.

The Governor of Maryland has proposed repealing the sales tax exemption for precious metals bullion and coins. Whitman is asking collectors to assist in defeating the proposal.

The Royal Canadian Mint’s new multi-ply plated steel $1 and $2 coins will enter circulation soon. The coins include new anti-counterfeiting technology and a unique electromagnetic signal.

And now for some notable auctions. To start, the First Spouse Gold Coin Liberty Subset. These four one-half ounce 24 karat gold coins feature designs from classic U.S. coins.

Next, a 1983-2011 Modern Commemorative Silver Dollar Proof Set, including all 64 coins.

Last, the 1859 Indian Head Cent graded PCGS MS64. This was the first year for the series, which featured a different reverse design than used for subsequent years.

That’s it for another update. See you next time!

We’re back with another fresh round up of coin collecting news and articles to bring you into the weekend! First, some reports and new world coin releases from the World Money Fair held in Berlin. Also, El Yunque National Forest Quarters, more articles on the $1 bill and $1 coin, Long Beach Expo road report, selling your collection, the Super Bowl flip coin, unusual new coinage standard, 2013 Red Book release, surcharges from the 2011 commemorative coins, and notable auctions. On to the links…

Dave Harper has some reports from the World Money Fair. He discusses the increasing prominence of bullion coins and several world mints that have produced coins designed by children.

Coin Update News has coverage of some of the new world coin releases from the World Money Fair. The Royal Canadian Mint announced the 2012 “Moose” Silver Bullion Coin. This is the fourth release in the Canadian Wildlife series, with mintages limited to one million per design.

The Perth Mint released a limited mintage black and red colored 2012 Year of the Dragon silver coin for the Fair, which has already sold out online.

Closer to home, the US Mint has started sales for the El Yunque Quarter bags and rolls. The circulation release for the coins actually took place more than a week earlier on January 23.

An article on the US government’s love/hate relationship with the $1 coin. Another article related to $1 coins, which mentions an individual who personally spent over $30,000 worth into circulation.

Coin Rarities Online has a road report from the Long Beach Expo.

An interesting list of a dozen top halves, that includes only coins with a mintage of more than one million.

CoinWeek has part two of an interview with Michael Bugeja, member of the CCAC, CoinWorld columnist, Coin Update News contributor, and Ames Iowa Coin Club president.

Part two from an article series by Jeff Garrett, which explores options for selling your collection of rare coins.

As they have for the past 21 years, the Highland Mint in Florida has made the flip coin for the Super Bowl.

A petition posted on the White House website seeks a new coinage standard that would include only a ten-cent coin, fifty-cent coin, and dollar coin. More than 6,100 people have signed the petition, and US Treasurer Rosie Rios has posted a response.

The 2013 Red Book will make its debut on March 22, 2012 at the Whitman Baltimore Expo.

Maryland may once again seek to repeal the sales tax exemption for coin sales of more than $1,000, bullion, and coin shows.

CNNMoney reports on the growing number of states considering alternative currencies of gold and silver.

The United States Mint’s 2011 commemorative coin programs generated about $5.5 million in surcharges, which will be paid to two designated recipient organizations.

And now for some notable auctions. First, the Type 2 1936 Proof Buffalo Nickel graded PCGS PR67. The same seller has individual auctions for all of the brilliant and satin 1936 proof coins.

Next, an auction for the 1999-2008 Proof Sets at a fixed price with multiple lots available. This run includes all of the 50 State Quarters.

Last, the 1936 Bay Bridge Half Dollar in a custom holder signed by the designer.

That’s it for another update. Enjoy the weekend!

We’re back with another fresh round up of coin collecting news and articles from around the internet! First, sales reports covering the United States Mint’s numismatic products and American Gold and Silver Eagle bullion coins. Also, a Senate bill seeking to switch from $1 bills to $1 coins, World’s Fair of Money, coin launch ceremonies, two articles on coin dealers, Liberty Seated Half Dollars, exchange $20 for $20, silver investment, gold denominations, and notable auctions. On to the links…

New sales reports are available for US Mint numismatic products and bullion coins. On the numismatic front, the five ounce silver coins sold faster. For bullion coins, both gold and silver showed big gains from the prior month, but fell compared to prior year levels.

A Senate bill has been introduced which seeks to transition from $1 bills to $1 coins. This is a companion bill to the previously introduced H.R. 2977.

Here is a news release about the bill from one of the co-sponsor’s website and coverage from one of the Wall Street Journal’s blogs.

Interestingly, the United States Mint has not taken a booth at the World’s Fair of Money in Berlin, although a representative will attend the show.

Coin launch ceremonies for America the Beautiful Quarters and Presidential Dollars are currently in limbo. The US Mint is looking at procedures to make sure the ceremonies are conducted efficiently.

John Brush of David Lawrence Rare Coins answers the question: “What do coin dealers do all day?”

On a related note, this Numismaster article from Patrick Heller asks: “Have you thought of becoming a coin dealer?” He provides some insights on what it involves in possible avenues to begin.

Coin Rarities & Related Topics discusses the Liberty Seated Half Dollars offered in the FUN convention auction.

The Royal Canadian Mint has released a new $20 silver commemorative coin, which is offered at face value. Each coin contains about a quarter ounce of silver content.

It seems that the $500 million in gold and silver coins recovered by Odyssey Marine Exploration may soon be turned over to Spain. After the latest ruling, the only avenue of appeal for Odyssesy would be the U.S. Supreme Court.

Silver has had its best start to a year since 1983, after rising 19% from its December 31 close. This Bloomberg article describes the record industrial demand and resurging investor demand.

Here are three classic gold denominations that may offer some great values.

An article from the PCGS Library with an example of how having a great attitude can pay off in the coin market.

And now for some notable auctions. First, a 1962-D Lincoln Cent struck on a scrap planchet with a weight of 1.12 grams. This compares to the standard weight of 3.11 grams. The mint error was graded NGC MS 64 RD.

Next, the bimetallic 2000-W Library of Congress $10 Coin graded PCGS MS69. This uncirculated version of the coin was struck in gold an platinum with a mintage of 7,261 pieces.

Last, a 1940 Proof Set with the coins graded PCGS PR65 to PR66.

That’s it for the update. See you next time!

We’re back with another fresh round up of coin collecting news and articles from around the internet! First, the US Mint has removed product listings for the $1 coin direct ship offerings, possibly signaling an end to the program. Also, steel cents and nickels, articles on the proposed Baseball Hall of Fame commemorative coins, the study for American Palladium Eagles, video on coin auction catalogs, coin dealer profile, strong silver bullion coin sales, and notable auctions. On to the links…

The US Mint has quietly removed references to the Circulating $1 Coin Direct Ship Program from its website and ended sales of associated products. After three and a half tumultuous years, has the program been put to an end?

An article on the bills introduced in Congress, which seek to change the composition of the cent and nickel to steel. Some brief comments are provided by the zinc association.

More recently, a bill has been introduced in the Senate seeking Baseball Hall of Fame commemorative coins. This follows a similar bill previously introduced and passed in the House of Representatives.

Another article on the HOF coins, which includes statements from members of Congress and a specific request to produce the coins at the West Point Mint.

There were several variations of the US Mint survey on potential numismatic offerings that was recently distributed to past customers.

A previously awarded contract to explore the feasibility of American Eagle palladium bullion coins has been terminated and a second solicitation will be offered. Under the authorizing legislation, the coins will only be produced if an independent study determines sufficient public demand.

Steve Roach discusses counterfeit coins and coin doctoring, in light of eBay’s recent policy change for counterfeits and the PNG’s struggle to adopt a definition for coin doctoring.

PCGS presents a video on how Stack’s Bowers auction catalogs are created.

CoinWeek has an interview with Michael Bugeja, member of the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee, CoinWorld columnist, Coin Update News contributor, and Ames Iowa Coin Club president.

Dave Harper discusses the large number of British commemorative coins issued for the Olympics and the universal problem of too many coins.

Local coverage of the Middle Georgia Coin and Currency Show, which had attendance of between 5,000 and 7,000.

The Chicago Sun-Times has a profile of coin dealer Harlan J. Berk. His shop is described as a “treasure house of ancient wonders.”

Reuters reports on strong silver bullion coin sales. One firm reports particularly strong sales for Silver Eagle Monster Boxes, which contain 500 one ounce coins.

And now for some notable auctions. First,the 10th Anniversary Gold Eagle Set, which includes the 1995-W Proof Silver Eagle, along with the four 1995-W Proof Gold Eagles.

Next, the popular 1937-D “3 Legged” Buffalo Nickel graded NGC AU 58 with CAC sticker.

Last, the 1970 “No S” Roosevelt Dime graded ANACS PF 67 in an old small holder. This is one of several years where a small number proof coins from San Francisco were struck without mint marks.

That’s it for another update. See you next time!

We’re back for another round up of coin collecting news and articles from around the internet! First, the pricing has been announced for this year’s United States Mint commemorative coins. Also, more on the potential numismatic products discussed in a US Mint customer survey, America the Beautiful Quarters mintages, future of the cent, coin collecting habits, pending coin related legislation and some newly introduced bills, an interview with Chief Cashier of the Bank of England, and notable auctions. On to the links…

The United States Mint has published the pricing for the 2012 commemorative coins and revealed some related products. The prices for the silver dollar are unchanged from the prior year, and gold coin prices will be based on a grid.

Could the Infantry Silver Dollar be a sleeper hit?

Numismatic News has some more information on the survey recently sent to US Mint customers asking about potential types of products, mintages, and order limits. Quote from the article: “Just because a question is presented doesn’t mean that a product would be offered.”

Here are the mintages for the 2011 America the Beautiful Quarters and an explanation of why the production levels have been so low for the first two years of the program. The first release of 2012, quietly entered circulation on January 23, with US Mint bags and rolls available next week.

Dave Harper has some ruminations on the future of the cent and other coinage, following an interview with the Deputy Director of the US Mint.

This interesting article discusses how coin collecting habits and patterns for collecting have been changing.

A revised draft definition for “coin doctoring” has been rejected by the PNG’s membership.

David L. Ganz reviews some of the 30 coin and paper money currency bills currently before Congress.

A new bill was just introduced this week seeking commemorative coins for the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Also, a Senate version of the bill calling for Baseball Hall of Fame commemoratives was introduced yesterday.

Canada has released commemorative coins, license plates, medals, stamps, and other items for the War of 1812.

In some off-beat news, a singer-songwriter has written a song protesting the suspension of the Presidential Dollar Program and other songs inspired by the coins.

An interview with Chris Salmon, the Chief Cashier of the Bank of England. This follows the recent launch of a new £50 banknote.

And now for some notable auctions. First, this seller has separate auctions for 1913-1916 Proof Buffalo Nickels from a registry set. The coins are each graded PCGS PR66 and listed with no reserve.

Next, the 2010-W Buchanan’s Liberty $10 Gold Coin graded PCGS MS70. This coin features the obverse design of the Liberty Head Quarter Eagle designed by Christian Gobrecht.

Last, separate auctions for the 2004-D Wisconsin Quarters graded NGC MS 66 with extra high leaf and extra low leaf.

That’s it for the update. Have a great weekend!

We’re back to bring you another fresh round up of coin collecting news and articles from around the internet! First, the latest sales report of numismatic products from the United States Mint includes the debut figures for the America the Beautiful Quarters Set. Also, other updates on US Mint products, Heritage Long Beach auction highlights, more FUN convention articles, 1792 Half Disme, euro notes and coins, Royal British Mint, Rosie Rios interview, Goldman Sachs on gold, and notable auctions. On to the links…

A new sales report for US Mint numismatic products reveals a slower start for the 2012 America the Beautiful Quarters Proof Set, when compared to the prior year offerings and the recently released silver version of the set.

Mint News Blog provides some quick updates related to US Mint products, including the gold coin price increase, lower pricing for ATB Quarter bags and rolls, and the removal of a household ordering limit.

Heritage provides some of the highlights from the Long Beach U.S. Coins Signature Auction held from February 2-5, 2012.

A nice account of the FUN convention from a collector in attendance.

Continuing coverage of important coins included in the FUN auction from Coin Rarities & Related Topics. The latest installment focuses on the half dollars.

Steven L. Contursi of Rare Coin Wholesalers has donated a 1792 Half Disme valued at more than $220,000 to the ANA Money Museum.

In separate news, the ANA Money Museum has reported missing coins and items worth $420,590, outside of the recently reported theft. Ironically, one of the missing items is a 1792 half dime donated in 1978.

As Dave Harper prepares to go to the World Money Fair in Berlin, he discusses his experiences carrying and spending Euro notes and coins.

Will there be a flood of fakes into the Proixibid auction stream, following eBay’s policy change to ban replica coins from its listings?

Criticism of the Royal British Mint for issuing too many coins, in too many different metals, while raising prices. The Royal Mint argues that demand is strong and the premiums reflect the craftsmanship involved.

Bill Fivaz provides ten rules of thumb for coin collecting.

The Washington Post has an interview with Rosie Rios, Treasurer of the United States. She has direct oversight of the United States Mint, Bureau of Engraving and Printing, and Fort Knox.

Goldman Sachs has foretasted that gold will reach a new record this year. Gold had the best Bloomberg “riskless return” ranking among the commodities tracked.

And now for some notable auctions. First, the 1926 Sesquicentennial of American Independence Half Dollar graded PCGS MS64+ with CAC verification. This issue sees a big price jump at the next grade level.

Next, a group of 2000-2009 P&D Sacagawea Dollar rolls in US Mint wrappers. For most of these years, the coins were not issued for general circulation, but only within US Mint rolls, bags, and products.

Last, a group of four different Indian Quarter Eagles graded PCGS or NGC MS 62.

That’s it for the update. See you next time!

We’re back with another fresh round up of coin collecting news and articles from around the internet! First, the United States Mint may offer additional numismatic versions of the American Silver Eagle this year based on information in the annual report and a recent survey. Also, how coins are priced, forecasts for 2012, new series from Royal Canadian Mint, NYINC auctions, gold performance, National Silver Dollar Roundtable, classic collectible coins, Coingrader Capsule, and notable auctions. On to the links…

The United States Mint has plans to release a 2012-S Uncirculated Silver Eagle. A survey recently conducted on behalf of the US Mint also reveals other possible numismatic versions of the coin for this year.

Coin Collectors Blog has two recently provided two lengthy posts on how coins are priced. See part one and part two.

Dave Harper provides ten forecasts for 2012. Forecasts #1 and #2 already seem possible based on the first article in today’s round up.

An internationally renowned artist will design six celebratory coins for the Royal Canadian Mint featuring “ice cream cones, tooth fairies and smiley faces.”

CoinWorld reports that the auctions held in conjunction with the 2012 New York International Numismatic Convention realized more than $59 million, setting a new record.

More information on eBay’s decision to ban replica coin sales. Based on customer feedback many coins shown in pictures stamped “COPY’ weren’t delivered that way.

The World Gold Council has provided updated country statistics and commentary on gold’s performance during 2011.

CoinWeek has video coverage from the National Silver Dollar Roundtable.

Steve Roach discusses the increases in price for classic collectible coins over the past decade.

The wreckage of the HMS Victory will be raised from the sea after 250 years. The ship was believed to be carrying gold coins now worth £500 million.

A new Coingrader Capsule explores misused numismatic grades.

And now for some notable auctions. First, an 1881-S Morgan Dollar graded PCGS MS64, which has received a gold sticker from CAC.

Next, an auction for a lot of 10 uncirculated 1960 Franklin Half Dollar Rolls with an original bank bag included.

That’s it for the update. Have a great day!

We’re back with another fresh round up of coin collecting news and articles from around the internet! First, the high secondary market prices for the 2011 Army Commemorative Half Dollar. Also, a recent US Mint sell out, numismatic sales report, classic quarters sold at Heritage FUN auctions, 1944 Steel Cent, selling a rare coin collection, eBay and replica coins, best secured coins shows, early proof gold coins, ANA money museum theft, and notable auctions. On to the links…

Mint News Blog has posts on the uncirculated 2011 Army Half Dollar, which has seen soaring prices on the secondary market, and the 2011-W Uncirculated Gold Eagle, which recently sold out at the Mint.

Here is the latest US Mint numismatic sales report. Debut figures are included for the 2011-P Vicksburg Five Ounce Silver Coin and 2012 ATB Quarters Silver Proof Set.

Coin Rarities & Related Topics discusses some of the important classic silver quarters sold in Heritage’s FUN convention Platinum Night auctions.

The interesting story of a 1944-D Steel Cent also sold at the FUN auctions. The owner had originally contacted a local dealer who said the coin was not real and offered to buy it for a token amount.

Dave Harper reviews his annual forecasts from the previous year. He had six out of ten correct.

Jeff Garrett begins an article series on options for selling a rare coin collection. The first part discusses some considerations for selling at auctions.

eBay has officially announced their new policy that will disallow replica coin listings effective February 20, 2012. The auctionbytes blog has some reactions from collectors.

The 15th annual list of the best secured coins shows, along with some comments on the escalation in the number of crimes affecting numismatics.

The collector who had two ancient coins seized at NYINC has been charged with one count of criminal possession.

Doug Winter illustrates when the deep cameo or ultra cameo designation is worth a premium for early proof gold coins with two examples.

The Royal British Mint will release 5p and 10p coins with a new steel composition. Some vending machines and parking meters will reject the new coins.

The coin theft from the ANA Money Museum should serve as an expensive security wake-up call for the ANA, according to Beth Deisher.

And now for some notable auctions. First, an auction for the 2011-P Medal of Honor $5 Gold Coin graded PCGS MS70. The recently sold out issue has a low mintage and a beautiful design.

Next, the 1900 Lafayette Silver Dollar graded PCGS MS64. This was the first commemorative silver dollar issued by the United States Mint and the first time a president was depicted on a legal tender U.S. coin.

Last, a big collection of 131 United States Mint Proof Sets from 1968 to 1998.

That’s it for the update. Have a great weekend!

We’re back with another fresh round up of coin collecting news and articles from around the internet! First, the United States Mint’s latest numismatic product release and updated circulating coin production figures. Also, trial strikes for alternative metal compositions, more coverage of FUN and NYINC auctions, NGC and PCGS news, historic collection of checks on display, coin performance by segment, Year of the Dragon coins in Taiwan, recent world coin releases, and notable auctions. On to the links…

Mint News Blog has posts on the release of the clad composition 2012 America the Beautiful Quarters Proof Set and the US Mint circulating coin production figures for the 2011 calendar year.

In December, the US Mint began producing trial strikes to test alternative circulating coinage alloys. Many of the alternatives are currently being used in other countries.

While some coins at the Heritage FUN auctions made headlines, some rarities lagged their prior prices.

Although the lot expected to set a new record price for an ancient Greek coin was withdrawn, the Cabinet W offerings at NYINC realized nearly $5 million.

NGC has announced that on January 31 their Coin Registry for World Coins will become NGC-exclusive, meaning only NGC graded coins are eligible for inclusion. The US Registry Sets will not be affected.

PCGS has announced the winner of their coin grading contest held at the FUN show, who graded eight our of 20 coins correctly. Another contest will be held at the Long Beach Expo in February.

Hungtinton Bank recently re-discovered a collection of checks signed by former presidents and other historic figures. A selection of checks will go on display at one of their branches through January 31.

Here is a measure of how coins did in 2011 by looking at indices for various segments. The biggest winners were proof Silver Eagles and Silver Proof Sets, while the laggards were collector key date coins and regular proof sets.

Here is a list of ten coins “that aren’t boring” from a non-coin site.

An article from Taiwan where people lined up for hours outside of Bank of Taiwan branches to purchase new Year of the Dragon coin sets.

This CoinWeek article discusses some of the various purposes and considerations for coin appraisals.

Some of the recent new world coin releases highlighted on Coin Update News include the Austrian Mint gold series Klimt and His Women, the Royal Canadian Mint’s Silver Anniversary Loonie, and the Royal Australian Mint’s Wheat Sheaf Dollar.

And now for some notable auctions. First, a big collection of 88 Presidential Dollar Rolls across a variety of designs. The bid is still below the face value of $2,200.

Next, the 2007-W Uncirculated Platinum Eagle 4 Coin Set, with all coins graded NGC MS 70 Early Releases.

Last, the 2003 National Wildlife Refuge System Silver Medal Set. This interesting series featured Theodore Roosevelt on the obverse and four different animals on the reverse.

That’s it for the update. See you next time!