How to Sell Lincoln Wheat Penny, Cent, Rare Coins Online 2025: Complete Guide: If you have a few old coins lying around and you’re thinking about selling them, you’re not alone. Many people in USA are discovering that rare or vintage coins can be worth a lot of money. But before you rush to sell them, it’s important to understand their value and where to find the right buyers. This guide will help you identify, value, and sell your coins for the best possible price.
Things You Should Know
- Identify your coins by noting the denomination, date, and mint mark. Use this information to search for comps online to determine your coin type and its worth.
- Determine your coins’ value by having them graded. Coins are graded on a 70-point scale—the higher the coin grade, the more the coin is worth.
- Use a reputable coin association like The American Numismatics Association to find trusted coin dealers, coin shows, collector magazines, or online auctions.
- Don’t clean old or dirty coins—collectors like them in their current state, as cleaning your coins can cause damage and lower the coin’s value.
How to Identify and Understand Your Coins
Before selling any coins, the first step is to know what you have. Take a close look at each coin and note down the denomination, year, and mint mark (usually a small symbol or letter on the coin). This information helps you figure out what type of coin it is.
You can search online using this data to find similar coins and see how much they are selling for. Reputable sites like the American Numismatic Association or NGC Coin Explorer are great places to start. If you’re still unsure, take a clear photo of both sides and ask for help in online collector groups or forums.
Check the Condition of Your Coins
A coin’s condition affects its value. Coins are graded on a scale from 0 to 70. The closer to 70, the better the condition and the higher the price.

Be careful not to clean old coins. Cleaning can damage them and lower their value. Collectors actually prefer coins in their original, untouched state, even if they look a bit dirty.
Look for rare features too. Sometimes, printing errors or unique marks can make a coin more valuable.
How to Find Out the Value of Your Coins
Once you know the type and condition of your coins, it’s time to estimate their value. Use online price guides like the PCGS Price Guide or The Official Red Book. These platforms give you an idea of current market prices.
You can also check out recent auction results for similar coins on websites like Heritage Auctions. This will help you understand what buyers are currently willing to pay.
If you think your coin is rare or you have a large collection, it’s a good idea to get it appraised by a professional. Many appraisers are certified by respected organizations like the American Numismatics Association. Always check reviews and reputations before choosing an appraiser.
Grouping Coins for Sale
If you’re planning to sell several coins, it’s smart to separate them by value—high, medium, and low. This makes it easier to find the right buyer for each type. You can also group them by metal (like silver or copper), or based on condition.
Where to Sell Old Coins in USA
There are several trusted ways to sell your coins:
Coin Dealers: Local dealers are good for beginners. But remember, they’re running a business, so they’ll offer less than market price to make a profit.
Coin Shows: These are events where collectors and dealers gather. It’s a great place to network, get offers, and learn more.
Error Coins 101
April 10, 2025, 12pm MT
Many new collectors attend a coin show wondering if a coin they have in their collection is some kind of error. Error coin dealer Jon Zampedro, a full-time dealer since 1992, can answer those questions with authority. His program is focused on how error coins are made and what they may be worth. It’s PERFECT for the new collector of errors or varieties!
Jon Zampedro, owner of J Edwards Collectibles, has been assisting collectors since 1992. A 1982 graduate of the University of Notre Dame, he specializes in error coins and small copper coins. Jon was born in Warren, OH, and is a retired member of the United States Air Force (USAF).
Online Dealers: Websites like ModernCoinMart, or Apmex are fast and easy platforms to sell coins from home. Always upload clear photos to attract serious buyers.
Collector Magazines: Publications like Coin World and Numismatic News list ads and advice. They can connect you with genuine collectors.
Online Auctions: Platforms like Stack’s Bowers, Heritage Auctions, and eBay allow you to reach a wider audience. But auctions charge fees, so keep that in mind when pricing your coin.
Handling the Sale Safely and Smartly
Choose buyers who take time to inspect your coins. Avoid anyone who offers a flat price without checking the details of each coin. Let multiple buyers evaluate your coins and then compare offers.
Also See:
Alabama State Coins Dealers List Updated 2025: Sell your Wheat Pennies, Rare Coins and Cents
If you’re selling a big collection, it’s better to sell it as a whole rather than individual pieces. Selling by weight is usually a bad deal, as it ignores the value of rare pieces.
Always keep records of what you sell. Even if you got the coins for free, profits from selling them may need to be declared for tax purposes.
Selling old coins can be a rewarding experience, both financially and educationally. The key to getting the best price is knowing what you have, understanding its value, and choosing the right place and person to sell to. Take your time, do your research, and don’t settle for the first offer. With some patience and planning, you can turn your old coins into good money.
FAQ
How do I check the value of my old coin?
You can check the value of your coin by noting the denomination, year, and mint mark, then comparing it with online resources like PCGS or The Official Red Book. For a more accurate estimate, get it evaluated by a certified coin dealer or appraiser.
Is it safe to sell coins online in India?
Yes, selling coins online is safe if you use trusted platforms like Apmex, CoinsForSale, or Heritage Auctions. Always verify the buyer’s profile and reviews before making a sale.
Should I clean my coins before selling them?
No, you should never clean old coins. Cleaning can reduce their value because collectors prefer coins in their natural, aged condition.
Can I sell coins on OLX or eBay?
Yes, but be cautious. These platforms have both genuine buyers and scammers. Always use secure payment methods and try to verify the buyer’s identity.
Do I need to pay tax on money earned from selling coins?
Yes, any profit you make from selling coins may be taxable. It’s best to keep records of your sales and consult a tax expert for proper reporting.
Where can I sell rare coins for the best price in India?
For the best price, consider selling to reputed coin dealers, at coin shows, or through online auctions like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers.
Can I sell foreign coins in India?
Yes, but the demand may be lower compared to Indian coins. You can try selling them online to international buyers or via niche collector groups.
How can I identify a rare coin?
Rare coins often have low mintage numbers, errors, or historical importance. You can check online databases or ask a coin expert for help.
I collect coins of all kinds I have a 1687 silver Spanish coin I found on ground extent condition. Need to no what it worth. It has all the right marking as it was back n 1687
Hello Wes,
You can check your coins value here: https://www.coinvaluechecker.com/penny-value/
i have a penny that is the sizeof a dime but halh as thick it is 1.2g the obvese looks like it was ptinted through a nylon and yhe reverse is okthiscoin has no rim.looking for advise onwhat to do to find out value.
Hello Peggy Jihnson,
You can check your coins value here: https://www.coinvaluechecker.com/penny-value/
Hey. My. Fren. Is me. Alex 818 3929431. I’m haved. Anticipation. Coins. 1880 weeth. Penies
Cora. Coing. Silver. 1930. And. Much. More. Silver. Dollares. Seritificated. Too.
Tankyou. I’m wzsed check. Ses. Cost. Alot. Thousands. Dollares.
I got all kinds of penny’s 1944d 1944 1971s 1976 1979d ⁹
I have a lot of old Lincoln penny’s I think that’s valuable just don’t know how to sell them if you can help me with selling my error Lincoln cents call please 786 730 4677 Leonard
Hello Leonard White,
You can find the dealer from this website: https://coin-dealer-directory.money.org/
good afternoon
i have a 1976 bicentennial quarter no mint mark possibly a no “S” mint mark this coin weighs 6.0 grams
what could this be worth !!!
TY
BUZZY
Hello EDWARD WARD,
You can find the dealer from here: https://coin-dealer-directory.money.org/
They will tell the worth of your coin