Olympic Coins and Other Investments
Diego Gonzalez
When I initially looked into this net, there seemed to
be some concern for the low activity of the net group. I
hope I can spice things up for some of you who are
interested in collecting or investing (really the same
thing) in rare coins.
To begin, let me tell you that I am an independent
agent for the Dubin, Brown Rare Coin Gallery of Natick,
Mass. Mr. Charles Brown is one of the most respected num-
ismatists in the U. S. and is the principal buyer for the
firm. However, it is not my interest to pitch to you.
Rather, I would like to pass on to you any ideas about
coins that might be helpful when you are planning your
investments.
A few people were asking, I think, about investing in
the Olympic Coin sets put out by the Treasury Department.
There are some pros and cons. Certainly these mintings
have some intrinsic value, since they are made of precious
metals -- something which has been lacking in other recent
U. S. coinage. In addition, they will probably retain
some value as curiosities over the years. However, they
are not legal tender; in truth, the Olympic "coins" are
really commemorative medalions. They are being sold at an
above-face-value rate to raise revenue for the national
olympic effort. Since the games memorialized by the coins
are not special (savr the non-participation of some
nations) it is not likely that any unusual consideration
or demand for these items will occur in the future. Also,
because the coins are not currency, they are all "uncircu-
lated" and have essentially equal quality and value.
Considering these issues, the Olympic minting is prob-
ably not as strong an investment as are some of the rare
and proven past coinages. If you are considering the
Olympic coins, their aesthetic value and your support of
the Olympic spirit and cause should be foremost. For coin
collecting or investment from which you expect substantial
appreciation (remember that coins are relatively long term
investments, with a remarkable growth record), the rare
minted currency coins of above average quality are the
best bet. In another note, I'll try to cover the reasons
why.