Gst

I must agree with rggoodie as I buy and ship all over the world and you quickly learn what nations pass packages on thru and which ones OPEN every package. I also learned NOT to put an invoice or paperwork with the coins, even if it is an ebay item. If the customs declaration is marked as a gift and the actual contents are $3.85 worth of Vatican Coins that is all customs could tax unless you have paperwork in the package stating differently. Germany will open all most ALL packages, unless they are going to a hotel, so face value is what they see without the invoice or paperwork declaring collector value. Those Vatican Coins in 2002 were worth about $1,300.00 but it was a gift of $3.85 when it hit customs. I have also bought coins and bullion for European collectors who forwarded the money for me to do so. Its their money and their coins! I send them back as gifts and they have always cleared customs. If their is a will there is a way so explore your options and find something that works. Having the coins sent to U.S., or any other nation, and sent back is not a bad idea especially when you are dealing with customs and postal authorities that can be trusted ALL the time. Just don' mention coins or currency on the declaration. I use the term "hobby supplies" or "numismatic items" most of the time and so far, so good!!! And thats not bad for 5 years of mailings!

Thanks everyone for the excellent advices.
I have looked downies where the local price with GST is A$3740, and the US price is $2999.
That makes our local price 10% cheaper even after tax.

I am a collector and silver investor (bulk silver local coins), but may have more coins than a dealer, because if I see bargains I'll buy. So some of the biggest ebay sellers call me before they list.

Peter Toldi