Why Collect Coins?

So why collect coins? The answer is simple. Coin collectors, sometimes called numismatists, enjoy collecting coins on various levels. Some collect coins for their rarity; some collect coins hoping that one day their collection will be worth a value. Some just do it for the pure pleasure of having a hobby that is easy to do.

Starting small and doing a bit of research is the best way to dive into this rewarding hobby. Take time to learn the basics of coin collecting through books, websites (like this one), and other resources designed to help you understand the essentials. We’re here to guide you and provide the knowledge you need to start your coin-collecting journey with confidence.

Coins have a history about them; when they were struck, why was the design chosen for that period? There are no reasons etched in stone that say you have to collect coins in any particular way. You collect the way you want to; if you want to only collect pennies, then only collect pennies; if you want to collect complete sets of each of the denominations of coins, then do that; or you can collect the coins that interest you. You decide what, when, and how to collect.

The basics of coin collecting are simple: start small and focus on what excites you. Decide what type of coins you’d like to collect—pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, half-dollars, dollars, gold, silver, or even paper money. It’s entirely up to you! Perhaps you’re drawn to coins from a specific period that fascinates you. Let your interests guide your collection.

Once you decide what to collect, stay committed and work toward completing your collection. Keep in mind that coins minted in different locations bear unique mint marks—letters that indicate where the coin was produced. To complete a set, aim to collect each coin with its corresponding mint mark, adding depth and value to your collection.

Subscribe to a coin magazine; Coin World is a good one. They have a wealth of knowledge about collecting coins. Also, visit a local coin dealer; not only will you be able to look at a variety of coins that the dealer will be selling, but they can also answer questions that you may have. They are there to help you build and understand coin-collecting basics. Use that to your advantage.

I guess you will need a nice place to put your newly acquired coins. Find yourself a coin folder to display your coins. And once you get into the hobby more, you can get some coin sleeves to house your collection and store them the way you would want. The possibilities are endless with coin collecting, and learning coin collecting basics is the first real step in the progression of building a great coin collection.