Want to jump straight to the best collectible ... coins can match or even beat the rate of inflation. Rare, vintage coins can have much greater value compared to traditional gold or silver coins.

If you've got a silver or gold Eagle in your coin collection, there are a few collectible ... box and certificate of authenticity. The highest quality of these coins are worth quite a bit.

“They come in a nice little box with a certificate of authenticity ... Generally, though, collectible coins “are literally worth their weight in gold or silver,” Mr. Stapleton said.

Prior to 1965, dimes, quarters and half-dollars issued by the U.S. Mint contained large quantities of silver. While many of the coins have no collectible appeal, they maintain value tied to their ...