Collection-- valuable vs low value

[paul monfils]

I'm afraid the news isn't good. Collectors differentiate between "commercial grade" shells (also called "beach shells") vs. "specimen grade" shells. Specimen grade shells are primarily live-collected, checked for any natural flaws, then carefully cleaned, avoiding any chips, scratches, etc. Once a mollusk dies and is rolled around in the surf and sand for days or weeks, tossed against rocks, and baked and bleached in the sun on a beach, it is no longer in a condition that would interest a serious collector. Such shells might find their way into a bag of shells sold for a few dollars in a tourist shop, but a specimen shell dealer or serious collector would not want them. The only shells in your photos that might qualify as specimen grade are the three Murex pomum on the right edge of the middle photo, and perhaps the bat volute and one of the ceriths. These have good color, are nice and clean, and show no damage, and the murexes also have the operculum in place, which is also a plus. However, these are all common species that typically sell for $2.00-$3.00.

There is another rating system that is commonly used. "gem" means a flawless specimen. "fine" means a small flaw or two, but many collectors would still accept it. Between those two is "fine+", a minute flaw easily overlooked. Below "fine" is "fair" and then "poor". These last two would be considered commercial grade under the other system.