A question on customs.

newbiecollector · November 7, 2003 5:18AM

I hope this is not too far off topic.
If I understand correctly some countries have a very heavy tax on importing coins..eg Canada, I think.

My question is does this same tax (duty) apply if I was to ship someone a coin or coins that are all no longer legal tender? Replaced by the Euro for example?

theboz11 · November 7, 2003 5:21AM

For small items ,less than $100 I just put "Gift" and a nominal amount

newbiecollector · November 7, 2003 5:23AM

I never put anything except "gift" on the customs form. I am not sure what that might mean or how it might effect the person receiving it if customs were to open and inspect it.

Lloyd · November 7, 2003 5:37AM

Why use a customs ticket - send it airmail as flat as possible, wrapped in carbon paper with an " urgent application form enclosed" sign on it...

L

newbiecollector · November 7, 2003 5:39AM

This was just a question, not an actual situation. I was curious if anyone knew if the duties would apply if the coins were no longer legal tender so.......of "no value".

newsman · November 7, 2003 5:47AM

Depends on the country. If you sell a coin to a buyer in an EU country and the customs (or insurance) form lists the value, they will probably have to pay at least the VAT, if not an import duty as well.

newbiecollector · November 7, 2003 5:52AM

Sorry to beat this to death but here is what prompted my question.

If I had a "giveaway" and it was for any number of these "no longer circulating" coins. I never put more than $1-2 on the customs form, always mark it "Gift".

Would it still be liable for duties (especially in Canada) where I understand it is very heavy?

Sort of a strange question but I am curious as to what "establishes" this duty.

1jester · November 7, 2003 6:02AM

Customs officials have this annoying tendency to, and reserve the right to assess the value of anything they choose, and calculate the duties and taxes based on their assessments.

A question on customs.

Comments