Frequently Asked Questions

Please take a look at the sections below to find the answers you’re looking for. If you can’t find what you’re looking for or have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always here to help!

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Last updated: July 2025

1. Numismatics & Coin Basics

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2. Collecting & Value

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3. Buying & Selling with Scoin

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4. Storage & Services

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5. Pricing & Market Factors

1. Numismatics & Coin Basics

What is numismatics? And what is a numismatist?

Numismatics is the study or collection of currency, including coins, tokens, paper money, and related objects. A numismatist is someone who studies or collects these items, often with a focus on rarity, historical significance, or design.

What are mint marks?

Mint marks are small letters stamped on a coin that indicate where the coin was made. They can help identify variations in production and can affect a coin's collectability and value.

What does grading mean?

Grading refers to evaluating the condition of a coin, usually on a numerical scale (like 1 to 70) to help determine its value. Higher grades generally indicate better preservation and are often more valuable to collectors.

What are proof coins?

Proof coins are specially minted using a high-quality production process that creates sharp detail and a mirror-like finish. They are made for collectors and typically not meant for circulation.

What is a bullion coin?

A bullion coin is made primarily for investment purposes, typically from precious metals like gold or silver, and its value is based largely on metal content rather than rarity or condition.

What are coin slabs?

Coin slabs are tamper-proof plastic cases that house coins certified and graded by professional grading services. These cases provide protection and authenticate the coin's quality.

2. Collecting & Value

What are my coins worth?

Coin value depends on several factors, including rarity, demand, condition, and metal content. We recommend consulting a professional appraisal through The Scoin Shop for a valuation.

Why buy gold?

Gold has historically been a stable store of value. It protects against inflation, currency fluctuations, and economic uncertainty. It's also highly liquid and globally recognised. Note, past performance does not guarantee future gains. We do not offer financial advice.

Why collect coins?

Coin collecting combines hobby, history, and investment. Many coins increase in value over time and tell stories of significant cultural or historical moments.

Do Krugerrands hold VAT?

No, Proof Krugerrands are exempt from VAT in South Africa as they are considered legal tender and not subject to the normal VAT rules. Bullion Krugerrands are subject to VAT.

Why collect rare or proof coins?

Rare and proof coins often have limited mintage, historical significance, or exceptional craftsmanship, which can lead to higher long-term appreciation.

3. Buying & Selling with Scoin

What type of coins do you buy?

We buy bullion Krugerrands, proof Krugerrands, certified ZAR (Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek) coins, and modern collectibles—provided they meet certain criteria.

Do you buy Krugerrands?

Yes, we buy Proof and Bullion gold Krugerrands, including 1oz and fractional sizes. Bullion prices are based on the live gold spot price and condition of the coin. Proof Krugerrands, which are valued for their rarity, condition, and packaging, are evaluated individually.

Do you buy modern collectible coins?

Yes, we may purchase modern collectibles from reputable mints (e.g., Royal Canadian Mint, Perth Mint, SA Mint) depending on demand, packaging, and condition.

Do you buy extremely rare ZAR coins?

Yes, but they must be authenticated and certified. These coins are often slabbed and must meet investment-grade standards.

Do you buy medallions?

Only certain medallions from recognised mints are considered. Most medallions and commemorative tokens hold more sentimental than monetary value.

Do you buy coins in SafeGold?

Yes, we accept trade-ins or purchases of coins already stored in our SafeGold vault, provided they meet our buying criteria.

Do you buy current circulation coins or Mandela R5s?

No. Current coins and standard R5 Mandela coins are considered legal tender at face value and are not eligible for purchase.

4. Storage & Services

What is the best way to store valuable coins?

Store coins in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For high-value items, we recommend using SafeGold—our professional secure storage vault.

What is SafeGold?

SafeGold is a secure coin storage service offered by The Scoin Shop. Your coins are kept in an insured, off-site vault with full documentation and access procedures.

How can I sell coins stored in SafeGold?

Coins stored in SafeGold can be sold back to The Scoin Shop, subject to inspection and approval. Contact our team to initiate a trade or sale.

How can I start coin collecting (especially with kids)?

Start with basic themes—like animals, history, or sports—and build a small collection over time. Coin collecting can be fun, educational, and a great family activity.

5. Pricing & Market Factors

Why do bullion coin prices fluctuate?

Bullion prices are linked directly to the live gold spot price, which changes constantly due to global supply and demand, geopolitical factors, and currency strength.

How is a Krugerrand’s value determined?

The value of a bullion Krugerrand is based on its gold content (1oz or fractional) and the current spot price of gold and the current demand. Proof Krugerrand coins may carry a collector premium.

What influences your trade‑in or exchange prices?

Prices depend on the spot gold/silver price, product demand in the market, exchange rates, and product condition/grading which are all taken into consideration.

Are historical or sold‑out bullion offers valid for price matches?

No. To qualify for our price match policy, the quote must be for an in-stock Bullion Krugerrand with a valid, verifiable, and live price from a licensed dealer. Price match only applies to Bullion Krugerrands and no other category of product.