If you’ve inherited coins or have an old collection tucked away, you may already own something of value. Identifying rare or high-value coins doesn’t always require immediate professional input. There are several basic steps Illinois residents can take before contacting a dealer.

Here’s what to look for:

• Unusual mint marks – Check for less common markings such as “CC” (Carson City) or “S” (San Francisco), which may increase value.
• Minting errors – Double strikes, off-center designs, or misprints often appeal to collectors.
• Low mintage years – Coins produced in smaller numbers tend to have greater scarcity.
• Pre-1965 silver coins – Many dimes, quarters, and half dollars from before 1965 contain high silver content.
• High condition or uncirculated – Minimal wear and strong details often mean higher value.

Once you’ve reviewed your coins, consider reaching out to a rare coin dealer Illinois provider to confirm which pieces are worth further attention. A quick appraisal can help you decide what to keep, sell, or professionally grade.

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