How to Safely Ship Coins for Sale
Shipping coins safely is straightforward when you know what to do. This guide covers everything from packing materials to carrier selection, so your coins arrive in the same condition they left.
Step-by-Step Packing Guide
Before packing anything, confirm that no coins have been cleaned. Cleaning destroys collector value and cannot be undone. Leave every coin exactly as you found it.
If coins are in plastic flips, 2x2 cardboard holders, albums, or folders, leave them there. Do not remove coins from their holders for shipping — the holders protect the coins and preserve their presentation.
For loose coins, wrap each one individually in a soft tissue or coin tissue paper. Do not use regular paper towels — the texture can scratch coin surfaces. Place wrapped coins in a small zip-lock bag.
Place wrapped coins or holders in a small rigid container (a small cardboard box or a plastic container with a lid). This prevents coins from shifting and protects them from crushing.
Surround the inner container with bubble wrap or foam padding inside the outer shipping box. The coins should not be able to move or rattle when the box is shaken.
Use a new or like-new cardboard box. Avoid reusing heavily worn boxes. The outer box should be at least 2 inches larger than the inner container on all sides to allow for adequate padding.
Seal all seams with packing tape. Do not use masking tape or scotch tape — they fail in transit. Attach the shipping label to the top of the box, not the side.
Choosing the Right Carrier
Recommended for most shipments. Tracked, with declared value coverage available, and delivered in 1–3 business days. After you accept an offer, we provide clear instructions on which service to use and how to arrange coverage.
For very high-value shipments. Requires a signature at delivery and provides a chain of custody record. More expensive but appropriate for collections worth $5,000+.
Good alternatives with strong tracking. Note that FedEx and UPS have restrictions on shipping precious metals — check their policies before using for gold coins.
Never use regular letter mail for coins. It is untracked, uninsured, and easily lost or stolen. Even a single coin worth $20 deserves a tracked service.
Insurance for Coin Shipments
Canada Post Xpresspost includes $100 of coverage by default. For collections worth more than $100, you should purchase additional declared value coverage at the post office. The cost is typically 1–2% of the declared value.
For very high-value collections (over $5,000), consider a specialized fine art and collectibles shipper, or contact your home insurance provider — some policies cover collectibles in transit.
When you accept an offer from SellMyCoins.ca, we provide clear shipping instructions that include guidance on appropriate coverage for your specific shipment. For collections worth over $500, contact us before shipping to discuss coverage options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to ship coins before getting an estimate?
No. The estimate is based entirely on photos. You only ship coins after you have accepted an offer and received clear shipping instructions. This means you never send coins without knowing what you will receive in return.
What if my coins are damaged in shipping?
This is why proper packing and coverage matter. If coins are damaged in transit, contact Canada Post immediately to file a claim. Keep all packing materials as evidence. We provide guidance on appropriate coverage before you ship.
Can I ship coins in an envelope?
Only for very low-value coins in rigid cardboard 2x2 holders. Even then, use a padded envelope and a tracked service. For anything valuable, always use a box.
How long does shipping take?
Canada Post Xpresspost typically delivers in 1–3 business days within Canada. Once your coins arrive and are verified, payment is usually sent the same day or the next business day.
How does shipping work?
Once you accept an offer, we provide clear Canada Post shipping instructions. You pack your coins as instructed and drop the parcel at any Canada Post location.
Do I pay for shipping?
Shipping arrangements are discussed as part of the offer process. We provide clear instructions on what service to use and what costs, if any, apply to your specific shipment.
Can I sell coins from anywhere in Canada?
Yes. SellMyCoins.ca purchases coin collections from anywhere in Canada. Canada Post delivers to all Canadian postal codes, including rural, northern, and remote communities.
Ready to Sell Your Coins?
Start with a free photo estimate. Once you accept an offer, we provide clear Canada Post shipping instructions — sell from anywhere in Canada.
Get Your Free EstimateMost photo submissions reviewed within 24–48 hours · No obligation to sell
This guide explains the value of Canadian coins, including key dates, silver content, and factors that affect collector value. If you believe you may have a valuable coin, you can upload photos for a free estimate.
How Coin Values Are Determined
Four key factors influence what a coin is worth. Understanding these helps you know what to look for.
Rarity
Coins with low mintage numbers or surviving in small quantities are worth more. A coin minted in the millions is common; one minted in the thousands can be scarce.
Condition
Collectors grade coins from Poor (heavily worn) to Mint State (uncirculated). A coin in excellent condition can be worth many times more than the same coin in worn condition.
Silver or Gold Content
Many older Canadian coins contain 80% silver. Even a common silver coin has a base value tied to the current silver price, regardless of collector demand.
Collector Demand
Some coins are actively sought by collectors, which drives prices higher. Key dates, varieties, and coins from popular series attract more buyers.