eBay, Heritage, and GreatCollections: Online Market Updates

Online coin marketplaces continue evolving, offering collectors more options for buying and selling than ever before. Understanding how eBay, Heritage, GreatCollections, and other platforms differ helps collectors choose the right venue for their needs.

eBay Market Dynamics

eBay remains the largest general marketplace for coins, with significant recent developments:

Authentication Guarantee

eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee program for coins over $150 routes purchases through third-party authentication. This reduces counterfeit risk but adds shipping time and applies only to qualifying listings. Not all coin listings are covered, requiring buyer awareness.

Managed Payments

eBay’s managed payments system has replaced PayPal for most transactions. Fees, payment timing, and dispute resolution differ from the previous system. Sellers report generally positive experiences, though some miss PayPal’s buyer protection features.

Competition and Fees

eBay faces increased competition from specialized platforms. In response, they’ve adjusted fee structures and introduced seller incentives. Current final value fees for coins run approximately 13% for most sellers, competitive with but not clearly better than alternatives.

Counterfeit Challenges

Despite authentication programs, counterfeits remain problematic on eBay. Buyers should favor certified coins from established sellers with strong feedback. Deals that seem too good to be true usually are.

Heritage Auctions Online

Heritage has built the dominant position in online coin auctions:

Weekly Internet Auctions

Heritage’s weekly internet auctions provide regular selling opportunities without the wait for major signature sales. These auctions attract strong bidding for quality material, though premiums can be substantial.

Buyer’s Premium Structure

Heritage charges a 20% buyer’s premium for most online purchases, plus additional fees for credit card payments. This premium significantly affects total cost and should be factored into bidding strategies.

Consignment Options

Sellers can consign to weekly auctions with lower minimums than signature sales. Commission rates vary by material value and type. The platform’s reach and reputation often justify the fees for quality material.

Make Offer Feature

Heritage’s “Make Offer” feature allows negotiation on many fixed-price items. Successful offers typically run 10-20% below asking price, providing opportunity for buyers while moving inventory for sellers.

GreatCollections Platform

GreatCollections has established itself as a major alternative to Heritage:

Sunday Night Auctions

GreatCollections runs weekly auctions closing Sunday evenings. The predictable schedule helps both buyers and sellers plan, and the timing avoids conflict with Heritage’s Wednesday closings.

Fee Structure

GreatCollections charges a 0% buyer’s premium on most items, instead taking their fee from sellers. This creates a different bidding dynamic, as the winning bid represents the actual purchase price.

PCGS/NGC Direct Submission

GreatCollections offers submission services for raw coins, handling grading and then auctioning results. This service appeals to sellers with ungraded material who want professional handling of the entire process.

Market Positioning

The platform has built particular strength in modern issues and certified coins in the $100-$5,000 range. They continue expanding into higher-value material and are increasingly competitive with Heritage for significant pieces.

Other Notable Platforms

Several other platforms serve specific niches:

Legend Auctions

Legend specializes in CAC-approved coins and maintains a strong reputation for quality material. Their Regency Auctions draw serious collector bidding, particularly for premium quality pieces.

David Lawrence Rare Coins

DLRC runs regular internet auctions focusing on U.S. coins. Their auction format and fee structure appeal to both buyers and sellers in the mid-market range.

Stacks Bowers Galleries

Stack’s Bowers maintains their traditional auction business while expanding online capabilities. Their monthly Collectors Choice auctions provide regular selling opportunities between major sales.

Specialized Platforms

VCoins, MA-Shops, and similar platforms connect collectors with dealer inventories. These venues often feature world and ancient coins less commonly found on U.S.-focused platforms.

Choosing the Right Platform

Different situations favor different platforms:

For Buyers

• High-value rarities: Heritage and Stack’s Bowers signature sales offer the best material and provenance
• Mid-range certified coins: GreatCollections’ no-buyer-premium model can offer better value
• Bargain hunting: eBay still offers opportunities for knowledgeable buyers willing to search
• World and ancient: Specialized platforms provide better selection and expertise

For Sellers

• Important collections: Major auction houses provide marketing, expertise, and reach
• Regular selling: Weekly auctions from Heritage or GreatCollections provide consistent outlets
• Control over pricing: eBay allows fixed-price listings and direct buyer interaction
• Raw material: GreatCollections’ grading/auction service handles the entire process

Trends to Watch

The online market continues evolving:

• Mobile bidding is increasing, with platforms optimizing for smartphone use
• Authentication programs are expanding to reduce counterfeit exposure
• Fee competition is intensifying as platforms seek market share
• Integration of grading submission with auction services is growing

Collectors benefit from understanding multiple platforms and choosing strategically based on their specific buying or selling needs. The online market’s continued growth provides more options and greater convenience than ever before.