Defensible Numismatic Appraisals for the CPA & Tax Professional
Solving the "Mystery Asset" Compliance Gap in Estate Accounting
The Capital Gains Trap in Inheritance
When your firm assists a client with an inherited estate, the discovery of a tangible asset portfolio (rare coins, currency, or gold and silver bullion) introduces a major compliance challenge.
Most generalist executors (and even legal counsel) do not possess the specialized knowledge required to value these volatile assets, nor do they understand the implications of the "Step-Up in Basis" on a dynamic collection. A mistake in this area can trigger severe tax penalties for the estate, an unexpected capital gains audit for the beneficiaries, and significant liability for your accounting firm.
At American Rarities, we function as your technical sub-contractor. We provide the specialized numismatic data that is integrated seamlessly into your estate accounting and final tax filings.
IRS-Compliant Valuations: Meeting the "Qualified Appraiser" Standard
Establishing the "Defensible" Date of Death Valuation (DOD)
For tangible personal property, the IRS requires that appraisals meet precise "Fair Market Value" standards (often as of the DOD). A casual quote from a retail coin shop or reliance on a website’s "blue book" value is insufficient for estate tax reporting (IRS Form 706).
For clients who first want an informal value, our free coin collection appraisal is a no-obligation starting point.
We deliver the written appraisal that meets rigorous audit scrutiny. We do not "guess." We provide a formal, written document that includes:
- Detailed Inventory: Line-item specifications (Country, Type, Date, Mint, and Variety) that generalists overlook.
- Third-Party Grading: Verification of grades (MS-60 to MS-70) from established services like PCGS and NGC, which is critical for value.
- Qualified Signature: As a Life Member of the American Numismatic Association (ANA) and authorized dealer for major grading services, our lead numismatists meet the IRS definition of a Qualified Appraiser (Treasury Regulation §1.170A-17).
Step-Up in Basis & Historical Cost Basis Reconstruction
If the estate is planning a liquidation, understanding the "Step-Up in Basis" is paramount. Inherited collectibles receive a new basis equal to the FMV on the DOD.
However, many lifetime collectors only keep partial records. Determining the "Historical Cost Basis" of a collection started 40 years ago is impossible without expert reconstruction.
We help you reconstruct the audit trail. When record-keeping is absent, we utilize our database and 30 years of market data to assist your firm in creating a reasonable, defensible estimation of the historical purchase dates and values of substantial holdings. We help you properly calculate potential capital gains (taxed at the high 28% collectibles rate) and manage client expectations regarding their tax liability.
Seamless Liquidation Pathways for Fiduciary Ease
A professional appraisal is the first step, but often immediate capital is required to pay estate taxes or satisfy creditors. We offer your firm a dual pathway built on operational efficiency and transparency.
| Private Sale (Private Equity) | Preferred Auction Consignment (Maximizing Rarity) | |
|---|---|---|
| Costs | No fees, commissions, or premiums. | VIP preferred consignment terms. |
| Speed | Immediate payment once items are received. ACH, Wire, Company Check. | 3–6 months for maximum market depth. |
| Audit Trail | Clear, single-source documentation. | VIP professional advocate managing the entire multi-stage settlement process. |
Coordinating with your client’s wealth advisor? See our numismatic services for wealth advisors.
Free Download: The Heir’s Cost Basis & Inventory Template
To give your firm immediate technical value, we offer an exclusive resource: the Heir’s Cost Basis & Inventory Template (FREE).
This isn’t just a checklist. It’s a specialized Excel spreadsheet designed by numismatists and reviewed by tax professionals. It prompts the heir to enter the critical operational data your firm needs to determine basis and satisfy the court. Built-in guides cover how to handle different tangible asset classes (bullion vs. rare coins).
Convert Your Stagnant Discovery Into Defensible Data
Don’t expose your firm to unnecessary liability. When your client discovers tangible assets, make American Rarities your first stop.
We provide the technical documentation that satisfies your internal accounting standards, the estate court, and the IRS.
Text 720-600-4740 or email staff@americanrarities.com for a free, no-obligation appraisal consultation. When a client is settling an estate, see our estate appraisals and liquidation services.