For some, coin collecting is more than just a pastime. It’s a lifelong passion, and one that’s often passed down to children. Coins have been treasured for their beauty and scarcity since prehistoric times, making them among the oldest of all collectibles. Whether you are looking for an interesting way to pass the time or are searching for a unique gift, this article will help you get started with some basic coin collecting facts.
Coin collecting is a complex hobby that requires patience and a willingness to learn. It’s important to take your time and understand the different areas of a coin, such as its head (obverse), reverse, reeding, and what material it is made from. Keeping these basics in mind can make your hobby more enjoyable and will help you create a collection that you’ll be proud of.
It’s important to keep in mind that a coin’s value is more than the metal it’s made from. This is especially true for rare coins, which can have a much higher intrinsic value than their bullion price. The same principle applies to paper money, as a $20 bill is worth more than the paper it’s printed on.
A new collector may be tempted to jump into the hobby with a “collector-friendly” approach, which means focusing on a specific area of the market (for example, branch mint gold coins from the late 19th century). However, the best collections are built over many years, so it’s important for new collectors to avoid impetuous decisions that could prove costly in the long run.
Complete 50 Uncirculated State (99-08) Quarter Collection Set + 6 Territory Quarters from The US Territories Program in a Beautiful Folder Display Book (Complete Set)
$59.95 (as of March 7, 2025 20:41 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Profile Coins & Collectibles 1917 to 1947 Walking Liberty Half Dollar XF/VF - PDS Mint Marks- 90% Silver - Half Dollar US Mint - Extremely Fine/Very Fine
$24.89 (as of March 7, 2025 20:41 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
ZSALSTING - Love Coin Collection Challenge Coin: Unique Memento and Pocket Token Gift to Inspire and Make Him/Her Lucky - Perfect Commemorative Gift to Show Your Love and Appreciation-ZSALSTING
$8.99 (as of March 7, 2025 20:41 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
50 Wheat Pennies (Unsearched Shotgun Roll) - Mixed Years Circulated Good or Better.
$14.37 (as of March 7, 2025 20:41 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Walking Liberty 1 Avdp Ounce .999 Fine Copper
$5.88 (as of March 7, 2025 20:41 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Lincoln Wheat Cent 1909 S VDB Design 1 oz Pure .999 Copper Round Collectible Jumbo 39mm Coin in Capsule - COA by Heavenly Metals
$7.99 (as of March 7, 2025 20:41 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
USA-Navy Core Value Sailor's Creed Challenge Coin (Single Coin)
$13.99 (as of March 7, 2025 20:41 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Saint Michael Patron Saint of Law Enforcement Challenge Coin The Thin Blue Line Silver Plated Coins
$6.99 (as of March 7, 2025 20:41 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
2025 - American Silver Eagle .999 Fine Silver with our Smyrnacoin Certificate of Authenticity Dollar Uncirculated US Mint
$49.99 (as of March 7, 2025 20:41 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)