Many things are contributing to the recent declines in the market for rare coins. It doesn’t matter who said it, or how many of times it’s been mentioned. The Internet is not hurting the coin market. While it’s true that coins became more available than in the 1980s, what is also true is that they have been posted for sale on eBay for over 20 years. A better question to ask would be, what has changed since the late 90s? Since 2003?
-Apathy of the younger generation? This is as big as a concern today as it was in the 1980s. It’s important to address but it’s not a new problem.
-Grade inflation? This is a new problem and it’s serious. Over all these years, mistakes happen. The grading services can help combat this by honoring their guarantees.
-Low gold and silver prices? Not new, prices have been low before. The problem seems to be the direction they‘ve been heading. Since 2011, it has been an epically slow crash coinciding with interest rate lows and the longest stock market bull run in history. Don’t forget crypto currencies. Definitely new.
-Baby Boomers retiring in large numbers? If many of them collected rare coins and want to cash out, the effects can seem enormous. Hopefully, most are passed on to the succeeding generation who appreciate and will guard them. Too many coins dumped into the market could cause lowered prices. Who wants to be left holding the bag? Protect yourself. Check your numbers often and get out of the declining areas. Get the nicest quality coins. Don’t hold stuff that everyone has. Then cross your fingers as you ride it out. It’s a phase after all.
The Internet is hurting the coin market? Lol