Found a tin of old coins in your grandfather's drawer? Clearing a family estate and not sure what those Straits Settlements pieces are worth? Or perhaps you've been collecting for years and it's time to sell.
Whatever your situation, selling antique coins in Singapore is more straightforward than most people think — if you know where to go and what to avoid. This guide walks you through the entire process, from identifying what you have to getting paid a fair price on the same day.
What Kinds of Coins Are Worth Selling in Singapore?
The Singapore collector market has strong demand for several categories. Here's what tends to command the best prices:
Qing Dynasty Cash Coins (清朝通寶)
These copper and bronze coins span from the early 1600s to 1912. Common reign titles like Qianlong and Daoguang are readily bought by collectors. Rarer provincial mint varieties can fetch S$200–800 per coin. Even common pieces in decent condition sell for S$20–60.
Straits Settlements Coinage (1826–1939)
Victoria, Edward VII, and George V silver dollars are consistently in demand. A Straits dollar in Very Fine condition typically sells for S$250–500. Rarer dates and denominations command significantly more.
Malaya & British Borneo Currency
Pre-war Malayan coins and the post-war Malaya & British Borneo series are popular with regional collectors. Silver 50-cent pieces are particularly sought after.
Singapore Proof & Commemorative Coins
Year 1 (1969) Singapore proof sets in original packaging are highly collectible. SG50 and other commemorative issues have a steady buyer base. Values range from S$20 to S$5,000+ depending on series and condition.
World Gold & Silver Coins
Gold sovereigns, American Eagles, and Pandas are bought at or near spot price. Collectible world coins depend heavily on grade and rarity.
Ancient Chinese Coins
Pre-Qing dynasty coins — Han, Tang, Song — attract specialist collectors. Values vary enormously by type and condition; expert assessment is essential.
How to Know What Your Coins Are Worth Before You Sell
You don't need to be an expert to get a rough sense of your coin's value before visiting a dealer. Here are three free tools to start with:
Numista.com: The world's largest free coin database. Search by country and year to find your coin's catalogue listing, metal composition, and approximate value range.
PCGS CoinFacts (pcgs.com/coinfacts): The industry standard for graded coin values. Search by coin type to see auction results and population reports.
Google Lens / Image Search: Photograph your coin and run a reverse image search. This helps identify unusual or undated pieces quickly.
That said — condition matters enormously. A coin graded Very Fine (VF-30) can be worth three to five times more than the same coin in Fine (F-12). This is where a professional assessment makes a real difference to what you're offered.
How the Selling Process Works at Jade Dynasty Gallery
We've tried to make selling as frictionless as possible. Here's exactly what happens:
Step 1: Submit photos or walk in — WhatsApp clear photos of your coins (both sides, in good lighting) to our number, or bring them into the gallery at Lucky Chinatown. No appointment needed for walk-ins during opening hours.
Step 2: Expert assessment — Our numismatists identify the coin, assess condition against grading standards, and check current market pricing using recent auction results.
Step 3: Receive a written offer — We present you with a transparent offer that explains our assessment — dynasty, mint, grade, and comparable sales. No pressure, no rushing.
Step 4: Accept and get paid — Accept the offer and receive cash or bank transfer the same day. The process typically takes 20–45 minutes for small collections, longer for estates.
Tips to Get the Best Price for Your Coins
Never clean your coins. Cleaning — even with water — removes original surface patina and dramatically reduces collector value. A naturally toned coin in Fine condition is worth more than a cleaned coin that looks brand new.
Keep original packaging. Singapore Mint proof sets and commemorative coins retain far more value in their original cases with certificates. A missing box can reduce value by 30–50%.
Bring everything together. Mixed lots of coins often contain hidden gems. Don't cherry-pick the pieces you think are valuable — bring the full collection for assessment.
Get more than one opinion for high-value pieces. For anything you believe is worth S$1,000 or more, it's reasonable to get two or three assessments. Any reputable dealer will understand.
Know your minimum. Decide beforehand what price you would accept. This helps you negotiate calmly without pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you buy coins in any condition?
Yes — we assess all conditions, from well-worn pieces to gem uncirculated examples. Condition affects the price we offer, but we will always give you an honest assessment regardless.
I have a large estate collection. Can you come to me?
Yes. For large collections or estate clearances, we offer home visits anywhere in Singapore. WhatsApp us to arrange a convenient time.
How do I know your offer is fair?
We provide a written breakdown of every offer showing our grading assessment and the market comparables we used.
Do you buy coins from overseas?
We primarily serve Singapore-based sellers. For overseas enquiries, please WhatsApp photos for a preliminary assessment before making any trip.
What if I'm not ready to sell — can I just get a valuation?
Absolutely. Free, no-obligation valuations are available in-store or via WhatsApp photo submission. There's no expectation to sell.
Ready to Sell? Contact Jade Dynasty Gallery
📍 211 New Bridge Road, #02-07 Lucky Chinatown, Singapore 059432
🕐 Open daily: 10am – 7pm
💬 WhatsApp us photos for a free, no-obligation valuation
We specialise in Qing dynasty coins, Straits Settlements currency, Singapore commemorative sets, imperial jade, rare banknotes, and gold & silver.
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