Precious metals are frequently passed down through generations. Understanding how estate sales work ensures proper valuation and a smooth transaction.
Inheriting Precious Metals
### Valuation
- Have items professionally appraised by a qualified dealer
- Numismatic coins require specialized evaluation (grading, rarity assessment)
- Bullion can be valued based on weight and current spot price
- Inherited metals receive a "stepped-up basis" equal to the fair market value at the date of death
- This eliminates capital gains taxes on any appreciation during the deceased’s lifetime
- Subsequent gains above the stepped-up basis are taxable upon sale
Selling Estate Metals
- Get multiple quotes from reputable dealers
- Do not clean or polish coins — this destroys numismatic value
- Keep items in their original holders, cases, or packaging
- Document everything with photographs before selling
Working with Intervault Trading
Our team can evaluate estate collections, provide fair offers, and handle the process with the discretion and sensitivity these situations require.