Coin Appraisals for CPAs, Estates, Executors and Trustees
How Our Appraisals Support IRS Documentation
The IRS doesn’t require a specific license to appraise coins. What it looks for is a qualified appraiser with documented expertise. American Rarities appraises, buys and sells coins every day and has a long track record of work for estates, executors and trustees. Our reviews are the evidence: see our 4.7-star Google rating.
Estate tax return. The main one. We document the date-of-death fair market value of each coin and note, with well-documented records so the values can hold up under IRS review.
Estate and trust income tax. Values for coins held by an estate or trust, and the basis to use when they are sold or distributed.
Gift tax. Fair market value of gifted coins on the date of the gift.
Corporations. Documented value for coins and bullion held as corporate assets.
Individual income tax. Stepped-up basis, so heirs can figure gain or loss when inherited coins are sold.
Free Coin Appraisals for Estates, Usually Within 24 Hours
American Rarities appraises coins, paper money and bullion for CPAs, executors, trustees, attorneys and other fiduciaries. Send us an inventory list or photos for a free, no-obligation appraisal. Appraisals are usually done within 24 hours. When the estate file needs a formal, itemized date-of-death report, we prepare one as a separate, fee-based engagement.
- 4.7-Star Google Rating
- A+ BBB Rating
- ANA Life Members
- Authorized PCGS, NGC and ANACS Dealer
- Since 1990
What We Do for Estates and Fiduciaries


- Formal, itemized reports. Each coin or note is listed with photos, its grade and certification number, the valuation method and the comparable sales used.
- Valuation dates. We value as of the date of death, or as of any other date you need, such as an alternate valuation date or a date of distribution.
- Bullion and rare coins sorted. Bullion is valued by metal content; collectible coins by grade, rarity and comparable sales. We separate the two so the method is clear.
- Paper money too. We appraise U.S. currency, such as large-size notes and national bank notes, along with the coins in the same report.
- Ship insured or meet in person. Ship fully insured, or meet us in person for larger estates anywhere in the country.
- If the estate decides to sell. We make an offer on the collection, and if it is accepted, we pay you immediately by cash, check, ACH or wire.
We provide coin and currency valuations, not tax or legal advice. The estate’s CPA or attorney decides how the values are reported.
Guides for CPAs, Executors and Fiduciaries
Start with the guide that fits your role. Each covers one question in depth, and we add new guides here as they are published.
For CPAs and Tax Professionals
Coin Appraisal for Estate Tax: An IRS Documentation ChecklistWhat Form 706, Schedule F and Form 8971 call for, and the records that hold up on examination.
Step-Up in Basis and Date-of-Death ValuesHow inherited coins get their basis, and how fair market value is set on the date of death.
IRS-Compliant Numismatic Appraisals for CPAsWhat an itemized appraisal report from American Rarities includes.
For Executors and Families
How to Sell Inherited CoinsA step-by-step guide for families and executors, from inventory to sale.
What to Do With Old Coins Found in an EstateHow to sort, handle and list coins before anyone cleans or sells them.
Tax Implications of Liquidating Bullion vs. Rare CoinsWhy bullion and rare coins are valued and taxed differently when an estate sells. Collectibles gain is taxed at a maximum 28% rate.
Coins Found While Downsizing: What to Do FirstA first-steps guide for professional organizers and downsizing experts.
For Attorneys, Trust Officers and Advisors
Estate Appraisals and LiquidationOur full estate service, from the first inventory to the sale of the collection.
Red Flags in a Tangible Asset AppraisalA fiduciary’s audit checklist for reviewing any coin or collectibles appraisal.
For the Probate and Estate LawyerHow we work with attorneys handling an estate that includes coins.
For the Bank Trust OfficerHow we support trust departments with appraisals and liquidation.
Why CPAs and Fiduciaries Work With American Rarities
- Experience. Between all the buyers at and associated with American Rarities, we have hundreds of years of combined experience with U.S. coins, gold, silver and paper money.
- Volume. Founded in 1990, we have purchased over $400 million in rare coins, paper money and precious metals.
- Coordination. We work with the executor and keep you copied, so item numbers match your schedules and inventories.
To get started, send your inventory list or photos with the free appraisal form below.
Get a Free Estate Coin Appraisal
Email, Text, or Use This Form To Send Us Your Inventory List or Pictures
Email: staff@americanrarities.com | Text: 720-600-4740
