Question: What would be the best source for trading approximately a dozen Chinese coins which were collected by a relative around the turn of this century? I am not a collector and would like to dispose of these and other coins which might be of value and interest to real enthusiast.
You fail to mention the type of coins but I’m assuming that these are Republic issues and not provincial issues. The age of the coin is meaningless in terms of value. Collectors are looking for rarity and condition. For example, many of the small and large bronze cash from around 1900 are common in low grade but quite rare and expensive in high grade or uncirculated condition. Some China Republic examples could be:
- 5 cash, yr 1 (1912)-rare in any condition value from $650-1500 depending on grade
- 10 cash,yr 1 (1912)-common- In copper, worth from $1-$20, in brass 25cents to $4.
- 2 cents, yr 19 (1930)-Rare $100-$500
- 20 cash, yr1 (1912)-common-in copper $1-10, in brass 25 cents to $5.
You need to determine what coins you have first. A valuable collection will work better in a public auction such as those held by Sothebys, Stacks, Christies and others that sell rarities. Common pieces might serve better as keepsakes.
