More than a few novices think that their worn junk coins of the same type as a gem rare date should be worth about equal money. So they might see a slabbed gem key date Buffalo nickel for sale in the case at $1500, and conclude that the dealer offer at 25 cents for their G4 common dates is out of line.
As for heirs, most collections are going to be of low value, that's why they call them "rare coins." Maybe one collection in 1,000 accumulations has anything worthy of Stack's display case. Part of being a dealer is fielding all the brick bats from those that think their old coins are worth a lot of money, when they are common average low value circulated coins. That is going to be the average experience. The sadder experience might be dealing with those that paid over market for their coins from telemarketers or other high priced venues. The heirs might bring invoices with their prizes and get a double whammy of disappointment--not only is that pot of gold an illusion, but their loved one was a mark for the sharks that circle the hobby.
Most collectors would do well to sell everything before they go, or lose their senses, if finances are the end game. Most heirs would appreciate that because there a thousand things to do when settling an estate, and dealing with unfamiliar collectables is yet another big task. The living collector likely has better connections than any heirs, and/or can get better terms at an auction house. By the time any heirs get the coins, any dealer names left in instructions, might be gone or retired.
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As for heirs, most collections are going to be of low value, that's why they call them "rare coins." Maybe one collection in 1,000 accumulations has anything worthy of Stack's display case. Part of being a dealer is fielding all the brick bats from those that think their old coins are worth a lot of money, when they are common average low value circulated coins. That is going to be the average experience. The sadder experience might be dealing with those that paid over market for their coins from telemarketers or other high priced venues. The heirs might bring invoices with their prizes and get a double whammy of disappointment--not only is that pot of gold an illusion, but their loved one was a mark for the sharks that circle the hobby.
Most collectors would do well to sell everything before they go, or lose their senses, if finances are the end game. Most heirs would appreciate that because there a thousand things to do when settling an estate, and dealing with unfamiliar collectables is yet another big task. The living collector likely has better connections than any heirs, and/or can get better terms at an auction house. By the time any heirs get the coins, any dealer names left in instructions, might be gone or retired.