If you’ve got a coin or stamp collection, you’re thinking about selling, one of the first questions you’re probably asking yourself is: “When should I sell it?”
It’s a fair question—and an important one. The truth is timing really can affect how much you make at auction. At Centennial Auctions, we’ve been helping people just like you sell their collections for more than 30 years. And over that time, we’ve seen clear patterns that show sometimes of the year are better than others when it comes to putting your collection up for sale.
Let’s look at how the seasons can impact coin and stamp auctions—and what it could mean for your collection.
Why Time of Year Makes a Difference
When it comes to auctions, it’s not just about what you’re selling—it’s also about when you’re selling. Some seasons bring in more active bidders, higher attendance, and better prices. Others tend to be a little quieter, with fewer people paying attention to the auction world.
That’s not to say your collection can’t sell well at any time of year. But if you can be a little strategic with your timing, you may be able to catch the market when it’s most active—and get the best possible return.
Winter: A Strong Start to the Year
January and February
Once the holidays are over and people settle back into their routines, interest in auctions tends to pick back up—especially with indoor hobbies like coin and stamp collecting. We usually see a strong wave of activity at the start of the year.
Collectors are back at their desks, scrolling through catalogs and planning their next purchases. There’s also less competition from other auctions, so your collection gets more attention. If you’re ready to sell early in the year, winter can be a great time to jump in.
Spring: Prime Time for Selling
March through Early June
Spring is when the auction world really comes to life. The weather’s nicer, people are more energized, and hobbyists are actively looking to buy. Many collectors also have some extra spending money from tax refunds, which can lead to more aggressive bidding.
At Centennial Auctions, some of our most successful sales happen during the spring months. If you want to sell during a high-energy season, spring is tough to beat.
Summer: A Bit Slower, But Still Solid
June through August
Summer tends to be a mixed bag. A lot of folks go on vacation, attend shows, or spend more time outside. That can lead to slightly smaller bidder turnouts, especially for mid-range collections. But that doesn’t mean your items won’t do well.
In fact, summer can sometimes be a smart time to sell if you have rare or unique pieces. With fewer competing lots on the market, your collection could stand out more. And the serious buyers—the ones always on the lookout—are still paying attention.
Fall: A Second Wave of Opportunity
September through November
Once summer wraps up and people return to their usual schedules, we see another spike in auction activity. Fall is the second big season of the year, and many collectors get back into buying mode.
Dealers are also getting ready for end-of-year shows or holiday sales, so they’re actively shopping for inventory. If you missed spring, fall gives you another solid shot at getting strong results for your collection.
December: A Good Time to Wait
The Holiday Season
December, on the other hand, is usually quiet in the auction world. Between holidays, travel, and year-end deadlines, most collectors and dealers are focused on other things.
Unless you absolutely need to sell by year-end, we’d usually recommend waiting until January. The market tends to bounce back quickly in the new year, and you’ll have a better chance of reaching an engaged group of buyers.
Other Things That Can Affect Timing
Timing isn’t just about seasons. A few other factors can also play a role in when you should sell:
Market Trends
Some coins or stamps may be especially popular at certain times, depending on collector trends or current events. For example, if a specific type of coin is suddenly in the spotlight, you might want to take advantage of that buzz.
The Type of Collection You Have
If your collection includes especially rare or high-end pieces, timing becomes less critical. Exceptional items tend to draw attention no matter the season. Still, pairing a rare item with the right market moment can lead to fantastic results.
Estate or Legal Requirements
If you’re handling a collection as part of an estate or trust, you might have certain timelines you need to meet. In those cases, we can help you choose the best auction window that still works with your schedule and responsibilities.
When’s the Best Time for You to Sell?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but in general, spring and fall are the busiest seasons for auctions, followed closely by early winter. Summer can still work well, especially for standout pieces. And December? Usually better to wait.
If you’re unsure about when to sell or want help figuring out your best option, we’re always happy to chat. At Centennial Auctions, we don’t just list your items—we work with you to make sure your collection gets the attention (and the return) it deserves.
Ready to Talk? Let’s Get Started.
If you’ve got coins or stamps, you’re thinking about selling—whether it’s a small personal collection or part of a larger estate—reach out to us. We’ll walk you through the process, answer your questions, and help you find the perfect time to go to auction.
Contact Centennial Auctions today at 603-356-5765 to get started with a free consultation. We’ve been doing this for over three decades, and we’re proud to be New England’s trusted name in coin and stamp auctions.