Collectibles Capital Gains Tax Calculator 2025

Collectibles — works of art, antiques, stamps, coins, and certain precious metals — are the federal collectibles category in IRC section 408(m). That label is not a new rate. Gold and silver ETFs backed by physical metal are taxed as collectibles. They face a special federal long-term capital gains ceiling of 28%, higher than the 20% maximum for most other long-term assets.

The 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax can stack on top of the 28% collectibles ceiling when MAGI is high enough. The ceiling does not replace NIIT. Short-term collectibles gains (held one year or less) are still taxed as ordinary income. If your ordinary marginal rate is below 28%, your long-term collectibles rate may also be limited by your ordinary rate under the tax computation rules — the 28% figure is a ceiling, not a flat rate for every taxpayer.

NIIT and state tax can still apply. Some states follow federal collectibles characterisation; others simply tax the gain as ordinary state income. Auction fees, dealer commissions, and insurance costs may affect net proceeds or basis — keep detailed records.

Use this calculator with the collectibles tab selected to estimate federal, NIIT, and state layers. Confirm characterisations with IRS publications and a tax professional familiar with collectibles before filing.