Personal Finance
Articles- Coins Collecting
for pleasure & investment purposes.
Collectibles are
increasingly being looked upon as one of
the main element in any investment
portfolios. Collectibles includes items
such as art pieces, jewelleries and the
most popular of all coins. Coins
collecting is quite popular in Malaysia
and Singapore and long queues can be
seen whenever special commemorative
coins are issued. Coins can appreciate
over time depending on the rarity of the
coins, the condition of the coins and
the value of the metal contents.
Below are
classifications used by serious
collectors when valuing a coin.
Proof-
Issues that are restrictive in mintage
and are very sharp in details with
smooth and sometimes mirror like
surfaces. Some coins have frosted like
raised surfaces. Such coins are mostly
presented in a tamper proof casing and
comes with certificates of authenticity.
Brilliant
Uncirculated -
Coins that are of high quality
production but are uncirculated with
full original lustre, free from defects
and without marks from packaging or
contact
Uncirculated-
Coins that are uncirculated and still in
mint condition but may have hints of
handling marks.
Extremely fine
- Coins in circulation with slightest
degree of wear only on the highest
points of the surface
Very fine
- Coins that are still very sharp in
details but may have wear on fine points
of the design. Letterings and high
points may be flattened or worn.
Fine
- fine coins are
considerably worn with minor nicks and
scratches but details remains visible.
V.Good-
Usually refers to coins in circulation
which is worn with scratches and nicks
or may be stained. Details are still
visible although not quite clearly
defined.
It is recommended that
when collecting coins special albums are
to be use as this will protect the coins
from exposure and wear and tear. When
done properly coins collecting can be
both pleasurable and profitable.
By Shum Ying Loon,
23/03/2000