Realcent.org

Finally got around to getting the red book. I really wanted it for the pictures and coin descriptions more than anything. That said, I seen that the prices are A LOT more than can be bought usually. For example, 1979 s type 1 proof Kennedy half. $5 in the book and can get for under $2. Do you guys use a percentage of the book price to determine a fair price to pay? I know that book prices are very subjective. I thought I would ask the experts to try and get a firmer idea on the prices that are correct with the real world
Thanks
Chris

I usually check closed ebay listings on real time prices. The redbook is somewhat high priced.

I usually check this site
http://numismedia.com/fmv/fmv.shtml

Redbook does not really take into account internet pricing (unlike most of the coin collecting world). They've been sticking to the established corner coin store Suggested Retail pricing...and even there the values listed in the book are high.

I usually buy an edition every 3 or 4 years, to see what anecdotal info has been updated.

I agree that Redbook prices are high most of the time. However, there is at least one exception in the case of MS-65 rated common date Morgan dollars. Most are valued at $175.00 and that is often lower than the grey sheets wholesale listings.

Thanks guys, Thought maybe there was a set percentage of book value.

Redbook wasn't even correct in the late 1960's. Draw you own conclusions from there.

It's been said before. Redbook is great for everything but pricing. History, photos, mintage figures. However, pirce listnings can leave a lot to be desired. But if you exclude the priving, great book.

I like basing my buy prices on the Blue Book value. It's not an exact science, but it is a good starting point for me.