How to Detect Counterfeit Coins (2026 Guide)
Test 1 — Weight Use a 0.01g jewellery scale and compare to the official mint specification. Most counterfeits are off by 5–15%. Test 2 — Diameter and thickness Digital callipers. Genuine coins hit specification within 0.1mm.
Are Pokémon Booster Boxes a Good Investment in 2026?
The short answer Sealed Pokémon booster boxes have outperformed the S&P 500 over the last 10 years for vintage sets (1999–2003). Modern sets (post-2020) have not consistently appreciated and many speculators are sitting on losses.
Best Grading Companies for Collectibles (2026 Comparison)
The big four PSA — gold standard for sports cards and Pokémon. Highest premiums, longest waits, strongest resale. CGC — leader for comics; rapidly growing in cards, video games, and home video. Faster turnaround than PSA.
15 Red Flags When Buying Collectibles Online
Here are 15 specific warning signs that should make you walk away from any online listing. Stock photos instead of in-hand photos. Real sellers can always show the actual item. Single low-resolution image.
How to Ship Collectibles Safely (2026 Guide)
Here’s how to ship anything from a single graded card to a full coin collection without losing a piece. Universal rules Double-box anything fragile. Use 2 inches (5 cm) of cushioning on every side. Insure for full replacement value.
How to Insure Your Collection (2026 Guide)
Here’s how to protect yours properly. Step 1 — Get a written appraisal For collections above $5,000 total, hire an appraiser certified by ASA, ISA, or AAA for a written appraisal. Update every 3–5 years.
Collectibles Tax Guide (2026): Capital Gains, Losses, and Reporting
This guide explains the basics for US filers; consult a CPA before acting. The 28% collectibles rate (US) In the United States, long-term capital gains on collectibles are taxed at up to 28% — higher than the 15–20% rate on most other long-…
Weekly Auction Recap — Week 19, 2026
Top 5 results of the week 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent, MS65 RD — sold above estimate, continuing the multi-year strength in top-grade key-date Lincolns.
Sneakers: 2025 Year in Review
The headline number 2025 was the year sneaker collecting matured as a financial-grade collectible.
Coins: 2025 Year in Review
The headline number 2025 was the year rare coins matured as a financial-grade collectible.