That biscuit tin full of old pennies or the single, gleaming sovereign passed down through generations could be worth more than you think. But turning old coins into cash can feel daunting. The question 'where can I sell old coins?' is the first step on a journey that can lead to a surprising payday, and this guide is your definitive map. We will navigate the UK's coin-selling landscape, from accessible online marketplaces to prestigious London auction houses.
This resource is organised to help you find the best venue for your specific needs, whether you're selling a single rare piece or a lifetime collection. We will explore a curated list of reputable dealers, auction specialists, and online platforms. For each entry, we provide a practical analysis of its pros, cons, and ideal use case, helping you match your coins to the right buyer.
Our goal is to cut through the confusion and provide clear, actionable information. You'll learn the key differences between selling to a dealer like Chards, listing on a platform such as eBay UK, or consigning to a renowned auctioneer like Spink & Son. We will detail the entire process, empowering you to understand your collection's true potential and choose the right path to maximise your return.
1. Cavalier Coins Ltd
Cavalier Coins Ltd stands out as a premier destination for those wondering where to sell old coins, offering a comprehensive and professional service tailored to a wide range of sellers. This UK-based retailer has built a strong reputation not just for its extensive inventory but also for its transparent purchasing processes, making it an excellent choice for both individual collectors and organisations. They specialise in acquiring everything from individual rare coins and banknotes to large, unsearched bulk collections.
The platform provides a streamlined experience for sellers, whether you are monetising a personal collection, liquidating an inherited estate, or a charity raising funds from donated currency. Their direct purchasing model and support for bulk sales offer a distinct advantage over more fragmented auction sites, ensuring clear, upfront communication and fair market-value offers. For those new to the process, Cavalier Coins provides valuable guidance; their blog offers practical advice, as detailed in their guide on how to sell old coins.
Key Features and Selling Options
- Direct Purchase of Collections: Cavalier Coins buys a diverse range of coins and banknotes directly, including UK pre-decimal currency, world coins, and themed sets. This is ideal for sellers seeking a quick, straightforward transaction without auction fees.
- Charity Fundraising Programme: A standout feature is their dedicated programme for charities and non-profits. They purchase donated foreign and old British currency in bulk, providing a reliable way for organisations to convert non-cash donations into operational funds.
- Bulk and Wholesale Purchasing: If you are a dealer or have a substantial volume of coins, their team offers tailored quotes for large orders. This makes them a key resource for those looking to sell significant quantities of currency efficiently.
- Expert Valuation: The team possesses the numismatic expertise to accurately assess the value of both common and rare items, ensuring you receive a competitive offer based on current market trends.
Why It's a Top Choice for Selling
Cavalier Coins is a trusted option if you're looking for a reliable place where you can sell old coins with confidence. Their active customer engagement, responsive service, and clear business practices remove much of the uncertainty often associated with selling collectibles online. The focus on direct acquisition provides a valuable alternative to the unpredictability and fees of auction platforms.
Website: https://www.cavaliercoins.com
2. eBay UK
For those wondering where to sell old coins with the broadest possible reach in the United Kingdom, eBay UK stands out as the dominant online marketplace. It provides an unparalleled platform for connecting directly with millions of potential buyers, making it ideal for selling modern commemorative coins, circulated rarities like the Kew Gardens 50p, or entire collections. The site’s immense traffic offers the best liquidity in the UK, meaning your items are seen by more people, more often.
Sellers retain full control over their listings, choosing between an auction-style format to potentially drive up prices or a fixed-price "Buy It Now" option for a straightforward sale. You also manage the photography, descriptions, pricing, and shipping yourself, which offers great flexibility. This hands-on approach requires more effort but can lead to higher net returns if managed well. To maximise your profit, understanding the platform's nuances is key. For a detailed breakdown of strategies, you can review this complete guide to selling coins on eBay UK.
Pros vs. Cons of Selling on eBay UK
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Massive UK Audience: Unrivalled exposure to collectors. | High Effort: You handle all listing, shipping, and service. |
| Price Research: Use "Completed Items" to gauge market value. | Fees: Final value fees and listing fees reduce your profit. |
| Listing Flexibility: Choose between auction or fixed price. | Risk of Disputes: Buyer-centric policies can favour returns. |
| Direct Payouts: Fast access to funds for eligible sellers. | Competition: The marketplace is crowded with other sellers. |
Website: https://www.ebay.co.uk
3. Noonans Mayfair
For sellers with potentially high-value, rare, or specialist coins, Noonans Mayfair represents the pinnacle of the UK auction market. As a leading specialist auction house, it provides a trusted and professional route to market for significant British, ancient, and world coins. Their key advantage lies in connecting consignors with a global network of serious, high-spending collectors and dealers, making it an excellent answer to "where can I sell old coins" for maximum financial return on premium items.
The process begins with a free, no-obligation valuation from their team of named specialists, which can be done online, in person, or even via a home visit for major collections. If your coins are accepted for consignment, Noonans handles everything: professional photography, expert cataloguing, marketing, and managing the live or timed auction. This hands-off approach ensures your items are presented in the best possible light to a qualified audience, though it comes with a seller's commission and a timeline dictated by their auction calendar.
Pros vs. Cons of Selling with Noonans Mayfair
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong Hammer Prices: Potential for exceptional results on high-quality coins. | Selective Acceptance: Not all coins will meet their consignment standards. |
| Global Reach: Access to a worldwide audience of serious collectors. | Auction Calendar: Sale turnaround is dependent on scheduled auction dates. |
| Expert Services: Professional cataloguing and photography are included. | Seller’s Commission: A percentage of the final sale price is taken as a fee. |
| Free Valuations: Easily determine potential auction value without commitment. | Slower Process: It is not an instant sale like a direct dealer purchase. |
Website: https://www.noonans.co.uk
4. Spink & Son
For those with exceptionally rare, high-value, or historically significant items, Spink & Son represents the pinnacle of where to sell old coins in the UK. Established in 1666, this prestigious London auction house commands global respect, attracting serious, high-net-worth collectors. It is the ideal venue for consigning important collections, individual rarities, and valuable banknotes, often achieving record-breaking prices, particularly for British numismatics. Their reputation ensures your items are presented to the most discerning buyers.
Selling through Spink involves a consignment process. Their in-house numismatic experts will appraise your items and, if they meet the required standard, will include them in a suitable upcoming London or international e-auction. This is a hands-off process for the seller, as Spink manages the entire journey from cataloguing and marketing to the final sale. While this service is selective and comes with associated fees, the potential for achieving the highest possible market price for premier coins is unparalleled.
Pros vs. Cons of Selling with Spink & Son
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Blue-Chip Brand: Attracts serious collectors and top prices. | Selective Consignment: Not all coins will be accepted for auction. |
| Expert Handling: Full-service appraisal, marketing, and sale. | Fees Apply: Commission and lot charges reduce the final payout. |
| Global Reach: Markets your coins to an international audience. | Long Lead Times: You may wait for the next appropriate auction date. |
| Maximum Value: The best platform for truly rare collections. | Not for Low-Value Items: Unsuitable for common or modern coins. |
Website: https://www.spink.com
5. A.H. Baldwin & Sons
For those with potentially valuable coins or entire collections, A.H. Baldwin & Sons offers a prestigious and traditional route to market. As one of London's longest-established coin dealers and auctioneers, they provide expert-led services that are ideal for anyone wondering where to sell old coins of significant numismatic or historical worth. Their primary strength lies in their professional valuation services, which can be accessed by appointment at their London office or by submitting high-quality photographs via email. This makes them a trusted choice for realising the full value of rare items.
Sellers are offered flexible options, including an outright purchase for a quick sale or consignment to one of their specialised auctions for a chance at a higher price. Their expertise covers a wide range of numismatics, from ancient and modern coins to banknotes, tokens, and military medals. This established, expert-driven approach provides a level of assurance that online marketplaces cannot match. For more information on navigating different sales avenues, you can find helpful advice in this complete guide on how to sell coins in the UK.
Pros vs. Cons of Selling on A.H. Baldwin & Sons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Face-to-Face Expertise: Direct access to specialists in London. | Best for Higher Value: Not ideal for common, low-value coins. |
| Flexible Selling Options: Choose between private sale or auction. | Offers Reflect Market Value: Outright purchase for common coins is often based on bullion. |
| Free Professional Valuations: Get an expert opinion on your items. | Location Dependent: In-person service is based in central London. |
| Trusted Reputation: A long-standing, globally recognised name. | Slower Process: Auctions and private sales can take more time than online listings. |
Website: https://www.baldwin.co.uk
6. London Coins
For sellers wondering where to sell old coins in a more traditional, specialist setting, London Coins is a premier UK-based auction house. Based in Kent, they specialise exclusively in coins, medals, and banknotes, attracting a dedicated audience of serious collectors. This focus ensures your items are presented to a knowledgeable and motivated buyer pool, making it an excellent choice for consigning high-value individual coins, rare sets, or significant collections where expertise matters.
The process is more hands-off than a marketplace like eBay. You consign your items to London Coins, and their team handles the expert valuation, cataloguing, photography, and auction management. While you relinquish direct control, you gain access to their professional services and established reputation. Sellers can post their items directly to the saleroom for valuation and inclusion in one of their regular auctions, which provides a convenient option for those not based locally.
Pros vs. Cons of Selling with London Coins
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Specialist Audience: Reaches serious collectors who pay top prices. | Commission Fees: A percentage of the hammer price is charged. |
| Expert Handling: Professional valuation, listing, and marketing. | Auction Schedule: Sales are held quarterly, not instantly. |
| Transparent Archives: Past results are searchable for research. | Variable Communication: Response times can sometimes be slow. |
| Less Personal Effort: The auction house manages the entire sale. | Less Control: You do not manage the listing or final price. |
Website: https://www.londoncoins.co.uk
7. Warwick & Warwick
For those wondering where to sell old coins with the reassurance of expert guidance, Warwick & Warwick offers a distinguished service. As established auctioneers and valuers, they provide a more structured and supported route than open marketplaces. Their main appeal lies in offering sellers a choice: either consignment to a public auction or a straightforward sale via a guaranteed private treaty, where a price is agreed upon and paid directly. This flexibility caters to different risk appetites and timelines.
The process begins with a free, no-obligation valuation from their in-house experts, ensuring you understand your collection's market value before committing. Warwick & Warwick manages the entire sale, from cataloguing and marketing to final payment, which is ideal for individuals who prefer a hands-off approach. Their established reputation and global client base, accessible via partner bidding platforms, help ensure your coins are presented to a serious collector audience, potentially achieving strong results at auction.
Pros vs. Cons of Selling on Warwick & Warwick
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free Expert Valuations: Understand your coins' worth upfront. | Private Treaty Price: May offer less than an auction's peak. |
| Flexible Selling Routes: Choose auction or private treaty sale. | Fees and Commission: Costs are deducted from the final sale. |
| Expert Handling: Professionals manage the entire process. | Slower Process: The auction cycle can take several months. |
| Targeted Audience: Reaches dedicated numismatic collectors. | Less Seller Control: The auction house manages the listing. |
Website: https://www.warwickandwarwick.com
8. The Coin Cabinet
For sellers with high-value gold, British, or ancient coins, The Coin Cabinet offers a specialised and professional consignment service. This London-based auctioneer provides a streamlined path to market, targeting a discerning audience of serious collectors. Their regular monthly and specialist auctions create focused buying events, which can be an excellent answer for those wondering where to sell old coins of significant numismatic or material value. The process is designed for simplicity, with the company handling insurance-backed shipping, photography, and listing.
The Coin Cabinet stands out for its transparency, with clearly published seller commissions and payment timelines, removing the guesswork often associated with traditional auction houses. Their standard commission is a competitive 10%, which can be reduced to 9% if you opt for their grading service. In addition to auctions, they run a fixed-price marketplace, with listings also syndicated across major platforms like eBay and MA-Shops for maximum exposure. This hybrid approach ensures your coins reach a broad yet targeted international audience.
Pros vs. Cons of Selling on The Coin Cabinet
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clear, Published Fees: Transparent commission structure. | Minimum Value Thresholds: Not suitable for low-value coins. |
| Expert Handling: Professional service from shipping to sale. | No Reserves Allowed: Items may be offered at a discount. |
| Targeted Auctions: Reaches dedicated and serious collectors. | Consignment is Required: You must ship your coins to them. |
| Broad Syndication: Listings appear on multiple platforms. | Fixed Commission: Less room for negotiation on fees. |
Website: https://thecoincabinet.com
9. Chards Coin & Bullion Dealer
For those wondering where to sell old coins primarily for their metal content, Chards Coin & Bullion Dealer is a superb choice. This well-established, Blackpool-based dealer specialises in buying common gold and silver bullion coins like Sovereigns, Krugerrands, and Britannias. Their standout feature is the transparency of their live, frequently updated buy-back prices, which are clearly displayed on their website, allowing sellers to know the exact value they can expect based on current market rates.
The selling process is designed for speed and convenience, making it ideal if you need a fast settlement. You can sell in person at their showroom, or use their popular postal service by sending your coins via insured delivery. Chards offers next-day payment after receipt and verification of your items, with options for bank transfer or even cash. This streamlined approach removes the guesswork and effort associated with auction platforms, providing a reliable and straightforward transaction for bullion investors.
Pros vs. Cons of Selling to Chards Coin & Bullion Dealer
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Transparent Buy Prices: Live, updated prices for bullion. | May Undervalue Rarity: Focus on bullion can miss numismatic value. |
| Fast Settlement: Next-day payment options are available. | Price Fixed on Receipt: Final offer is based on their checks. |
| Flexible Selling: Sell in person, by post, or by distance. | Not for All Coins: Best suited for bullion, not collectable rarities. |
| Trusted Dealer: Long-standing reputation in the UK market. | Market Fluctuation: Bullion prices can change quickly. |
Website: https://www.chards.co.uk
10. Atkinsons Bullion & Coins
For those wondering where to sell old coins primarily for their metal value, Atkinsons Bullion & Coins offers a streamlined and trustworthy solution. This Birmingham-based dealer specialises in bullion, making them an excellent choice for selling gold sovereigns, Britannias, Krugerrands, and other investment-grade coins. Their transparent "Sell to Us" system provides live, up-to-the-minute buy-back prices directly on their website, removing any guesswork from the process.
The selling process is designed for speed and simplicity. You can lock in your price online for two business days, giving you ample time to post your coins securely. Once received and verified, payment is typically processed via bank transfer within 24 hours. While this is ideal for bullion, remember that the premium for rare or numismatically valuable coins may be better realised through specialist auctions. For a straightforward, no-haggle sale of bullion coins, Atkinsons is a top contender.
Pros vs. Cons of Selling on Atkinsons Bullion & Coins
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Frictionless Selling Process: Simple online system to lock prices. | Bullion Focused: Not ideal for realising numismatic premiums. |
| Competitive Bullion Offers: Strong prices for sovereigns and Britannias. | Postal Risk: Requires careful, fully insured registered mail. |
| Guaranteed Price Lock: Your offer is fixed for two business days. | No Negotiation: The offered buy-back price is final. |
| Fast Payouts: Payment usually made within one day of receipt. | Collection Value Ignored: Prices are based on metal content only. |
Website: https://atkinsonsbullion.com
11. The Royal Mint - Collector Services
While not a direct platform for where to sell old coins, The Royal Mint's Collector Services is an indispensable resource for anyone with pre-decimal British coinage. It offers authoritative authentication and valuation, providing the official validation you need to maximise your coin's value before selling it elsewhere. This service is crucial for confirming the provenance and rarity of a piece, giving you a powerful negotiation tool when approaching dealers or auction houses. It also offers a historic coin buying service, where they may make an offer for particularly rare or significant items.
Engaging with their services is straightforward via an online enquiry form. Beyond valuation, they provide expert guidance on coin care and secure storage, helping you preserve your assets. Utilising this service is a strategic first step for owners of potentially valuable historic British coins, ensuring you understand exactly what you have. This official confirmation can significantly increase buyer confidence and the final price you achieve, whether you sell privately, through a dealer, or at auction.
Pros vs. Cons of Using The Royal Mint - Collector Services
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Authoritative Valuations: Get expert opinion from the source. | Limited Scope: Service is only for pre-decimal British coins. |
| Confirms Authenticity: Adds credibility before selling. | Not a Direct Marketplace: Primarily a valuation service. |
| Historic Coin Buying: May purchase very rare items directly. | Process Can Take Time: Not an instant selling solution. |
| Expert Guidance: Advice on coin care and preservation. | No Guarantee of an Offer: They only buy select coins. |
Website: https://www.royalmint.com/collector-services/
12. British Numismatic Trade Association (BNTA)
For those wondering where to sell old coins with maximum peace of mind, the British Numismatic Trade Association (BNTA) directory is an essential resource. Rather than being a direct selling platform, the BNTA provides a curated list of its vetted members, who are all established and reputable coin dealers and auctioneers across the UK. This allows you to identify specialists in your specific type of coin, from ancient Roman to modern British, and confidently solicit multiple offers.
Using the BNTA directory is a strategic way to find trustworthy buyers. You can browse the list of dealerships, find those whose specialities match your collection, and contact them directly for a valuation or outright offer. This approach is particularly effective for high-value or specialised collections where expert appraisal is crucial. It puts the responsibility on you to reach out and compare terms, but the assurance that you are dealing with professionals who adhere to a strict code of ethics is invaluable. This method helps mitigate the risk of dealing with fraudulent or untrustworthy individuals.
Pros vs. Cons of Selling via BNTA Members
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Trusted & Vetted Members: Reduces the risk of dealing with bad actors. | Directory Only: It's a list, not a marketplace for direct sales. |
| Find Niche Specialists: Connect with dealers expert in your coins. | Requires Effort: You must contact dealers and compare offers yourself. |
| Solicit Competing Offers: Easily get multiple quotes to ensure fair value. | No Centralised Process: Each dealer has their own terms and procedures. |
| Free to Use: The directory is a free resource for all sellers. | Valuations May Vary: Different dealers may offer different prices. |
Website: https://bnta.net/dealerships/
Top 12 Coin Selling Platforms Comparison
| Provider | Core Features/Offerings | User Experience/Quality ★ | Value Proposition 💰 | Target Audience 👥 | Unique Selling Points ✨ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Cavalier Coins Ltd | Rare & themed coins & banknotes; fixed price & auctions | ★★★★☆ | Affordable starter lots & bulk discounts 💰 | Casual & expert collectors 👥 | Extensive inventory, charity support, strong service ✨ |
| eBay UK | Auction & Buy It Now listings; seller-controlled shipping | ★★★★☆ | Large buyer base; transparent fees 💰 | Individual sellers & buyers 👥 | High market exposure, completed sales data ✨ |
| Noonans Mayfair | Specialist British & ancient coin auctions & valuations | ★★★★★ | High hammer prices for quality 💰 | Serious & international collectors 👥 | Expert cataloguing, free valuations ✨ |
| Spink & Son | London & online auctions; expert numismatists | ★★★★★ | Premium auction platform 💰 | Blue-chip & serious collectors 👥 | Historic brand, record sale prices ✨ |
| A.H. Baldwin & Sons | Valuations & flexible sales (direct or auction) | ★★★★☆ | Mid-high value coin expertise 💰 | Local & collector clients 👥 | Face-to-face expertise, auction & private sales ✨ |
| London Coins | Regular specialist auctions; online bidding | ★★★★☆ | Transparent archives; collector focused 💰 | Specialist collector audience 👥 | Searchable results, consignment support ✨ |
| Warwick & Warwick | Auction or private treaty sales; expert valuations | ★★★★☆ | Flexible selling routes 💰 | Risk-averse & flexible sellers 👥 | Choice of sale type, vendor support ✨ |
| The Coin Cabinet | Gold & ancient coin auctions; fixed-price & consignment | ★★★★☆ | Clear fees & published commissions 💰 | Sellers of quality coins 👥 | Syndicated marketplace, insurance-backed shipping ✨ |
| Chards Coin & Bullion Dealer | Live buy-back prices; postal & in-person selling | ★★★☆☆ | Fast payouts for bullion coins 💰 | Bullion-focused sellers 👥 | Transparent live prices, next-day payment ✨ |
| Atkinsons Bullion & Coins | Online live offers; price lock; quick bank transfers | ★★★☆☆ | Smooth bullion selling process 💰 | Bullion & coin sellers 👥 | Price lock, fast payment ✨ |
| The Royal Mint - Collector Services | Authentication & valuation; coin care guidance | ★★★★★ | Authoritative ID & valuation support 💰 | Pre-decimal coin collectors 👥 | Official service, secure storage advice ✨ |
| British Numismatic Trade Association (BNTA) | Vetted UK dealer directory; multiple offer solicitation | ★★★★☆ | Reduced fraud risk 💰 | Sellers seeking competitive offers 👥 | Vetted dealers, searchable specialties ✨ |
Choosing Your Best Route to a Successful Coin Sale
Navigating the world of numismatics to sell your collection can seem daunting, but as we've explored, the UK offers a rich landscape of options tailored to every type of seller. The central question of "where can I sell old coins" doesn't have a single answer; instead, the best path forward depends entirely on your specific circumstances, the nature of your coins, and your personal goals.
Your journey begins with a crucial first step: understanding what you possess. A preliminary identification and, if possible, a rough valuation are your most powerful tools. This initial research prevents you from selling a rare treasure for a fraction of its worth or approaching a prestigious auction house with common-circulation currency. This knowledge empowers you to select the most appropriate venue, whether it’s a high-street dealer or a global auction platform.
Matching Your Collection to the Right Platform
Reflecting on the options detailed in this guide, consider which profile best matches your needs:
- For Maximum Control and Broad Reach: If you have a diverse collection of low to mid-value coins and are comfortable managing the sales process yourself, online marketplaces like eBay UK are hard to beat. You set the price and control the listing, reaching a massive audience of potential buyers.
- For Rare, High-Value, and Historical Pieces: When you believe you hold a significant numismatic treasure, the specialised expertise of world-renowned auction houses like Noonans Mayfair, Spink & Son, or London Coins is indispensable. Their global client lists, professional cataloguing, and marketing prowess are designed to achieve record-setting prices for premier items.
- For Bullion and Investment-Grade Coins: If your collection consists primarily of gold sovereigns, Britannias, or other bullion coins, your priority is a fast, transparent transaction based on live market prices. Direct bullion dealers such as Chards or Atkinsons Bullion & Coins excel in this area, offering competitive, straightforward purchases.
- For Trusted, Direct Sales and Valuations: For those who prefer a face-to-face interaction or need expert guidance, approaching a reputable dealer is an excellent choice. Members of the British Numismatic Trade Association (BNTA), including specialists like A.H. Baldwin & Sons, offer a guarantee of ethical practice and deep market knowledge.
Your Final Action Plan
Before you commit to a sale, take a moment to synthesise your strategy. Start by cataloguing your key coins. Use online resources and price guides to get a ballpark figure of their value. Based on this assessment, shortlist two or three of the most suitable venues from our list. Contact them for a preliminary valuation or consultation. This comparative approach ensures you not only find the right place to sell your old coins but also secure the best possible return for your treasured pieces. The key is to move from being a passive owner to an informed seller, transforming your collection into its true financial potential.
Ready to take the next step with a trusted specialist? For a straightforward, expert valuation and a competitive offer on your collection, consider reaching out to Cavalier Coins Ltd. Their team provides a professional, no-obligation service perfect for anyone looking to sell individual coins or entire collections with confidence. Visit Cavalier Coins Ltd to learn more about their simple selling process.