A RARE gold coin commemorating Jackie Robinson was sold at auction, with an estimated value of $3,290.
This limited-edition coin is a prized collector’s item in the modern commemorative series, and if you have this coin and plan to sell it, keep an eye out for some specific details.
Only 5,174 of these coins were minted, making it a rarity sought after by collectors.
Known as the 1997-W Jackie Robinson Five Dollar Coin, this particular coin is certified in perfect condition (MS70), meaning it has no visible imperfections, a highly desirable trait in the world of numismatics.
Uniformly frosted and boasting a mellow yellow-gold hue on both sides, the coin stands out for its visual appeal and pristine quality.
GET THE SPECS
Weighing 8.36 grams and made of 90% gold with a 10% alloy, the Jackie Robinson Five Dollar Coin is more than just a collector’s item – it’s a piece of history, per Heritage Auctions.
The design celebrates the legendary baseball player, adding to its significance.
As modern commemorative coins continue to be in high demand, owning a perfect MS70 example like this is a rare opportunity.
For those looking to add this unique piece to their collection, it’s essential to note the “mellow-yellow” hue across both sides, the auctioneering site reports.
Collectors use this subtle tone to verify its condition and value, making it an important detail in the auction process.
UNDERSTAND A GRADE
Coin grading can seem complicated, but understanding the basics can help you make informed decisions when buying or selling coins.
They are graded on a 70-point scale, with 1 representing the worst condition and 70 being a perfect mint state, according to Coins Carats.
Grades like “Good” are low at 4, while “Fine” is a 12.
However, grading considers more than just wear. Factors like luster, strike quality, and even coloration can impact a coin’s value.
Two coins with similar wear may have different grades due to these elements.
Rare coins
You may be holding something valuable in your wallet. Check out these articles on rare coins to see if you may have a treasure hidden deep in your pockets.
- Rare Lincoln penny sells for $201
- This buffalo nickel sold for $1,165
- 1971 Eisenhower silver coin sells for $264,000
- Lincoln double die obverse penny sells for $2,000
- Half cent sells for $3,383
- Rare nickel sells for $1,956 on eBay
- 1889 CC Morgan Silver dollar coin sells for $1,850
- Lincoln 1992 penny can be worth up to $25,000
- Standing Liberty quarter sells for $565
- Lincoln coin minted in 2020 sells for $525
Authenticity is also crucial, ensuring the coin hasn’t been tampered with.
Trusted third-party grading services, like NGC and PCGS, provide professional evaluations, assign grades, and encapsulate coins in protective holders.
Using these services boosts a coin’s credibility and marketability.
Coin grades range from Poor (1) to Mint State (60-70). For example, a coin graded “Good” shows basic outlines of the design, while “Extremely Fine” retains sharp details with minimal wear.
Mint State coins, although in perfect condition, can still show minor flaws from handling, but no wear from circulation.
Grading services can also identify proof coins, which are specially made and are not graded in the same way as regular coins.
With this knowledge in mind, perhaps it’s time to pick up on coin collecting.
You can start by checking your coins, and if you don’t know where to start, The U.S. Sun can serve as a guide to figure out what makes a coin you may own so valuable.
A weak detail on a rare nickel can get you $109,250 and the year its from can up its value.
Plus, a single detail on the back of a coin makes it worth $114,000.
