Getting started with coin collecting doesn’t have to be expensive. There are many ways to begin without spending much, and numerous free resources to help you along the way.
- Explore your own coins: Look through pockets, piggy banks, couch cushions, and even the car. You might be surprised by what you find – foreign coins, older dates, or coins with interesting variations.
- Gather your findings: Store any coins that pique your interest in a safe place.
- Document your discoveries: Keep a list of your coins, noting their type, year, and any other relevant details.
- American Numismatic Association (ANA): The ANA website offers a wealth of information including beginner guides, grading resources, and links to other valuable numismatic websites. They also have virtual museum exhibits, videos, and a podcast to deepen your understanding of coins and currency.
- United States Mint: The official U.S. Mint website provides information about new releases, educational resources on the basics of coin collecting, and even links to download free coin board templates.
- Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) and Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS): These coin grading companies offer valuable resources on their websites including coin explorer tools, pricing guides, and educational materials on coin grading. The NGC also has a free app for verifying coin certifications and accessing other handy features.
- Coin Week: This site offers news about upcoming numismatic releases, articles, videos, and podcasts on both ancient and modern coins.
- Online Forums: Engage with other collectors in free online forums like [Coin Talk], [Collectors Universe Message Boards] , and Coin Community Forum. You can ask questions, learn from experienced collectors, and potentially even trade coins.
- Check your change regularly: You never know what interesting or valuable coins might turn up in your everyday transactions.
- Coin Roll Hunting: Banks can be a source for rolls of coins that you can search through for older or rarer pieces.
- Trade with other collectors: Joining a local coin club or online community provides opportunities to connect with fellow collectors and potentially trade for coins that interest you.
- Start Small: Don’t feel pressured to invest a lot of money when starting out. Begin by focusing on coins that are easily accessible and pique your interest, like a specific type of quarter or coins with a particular design.
- Research and Learn: Read books, explore online resources, and learn about different types of coins, their history, and how their value is determined. You can find free e-books and articles online, such as the ANA’s eBook, “Treasures in Your Pocket,” which helps you identify collectible coins in your change.
By using these free resources and starting with coins you already have, you can embark on a fulfilling and educational journey into the world of coin collecting without breaking the bank.
What coins should a beginner collect?
If you want to buy your coins, Morgans are popular for beginners.
Is there a free app for coin collecting?
Download Coinoscope app on your Android or iPhone for FREE and start identifying coins!
What is the best way to start collecting coins?
The internet is the best place to learn about coin collecting these days. Begin by searching for the type of coins you are interested. Once you think you have some idea about the coins you are interested in, search Facebook, Yahoo! and Instagram for groups that discuss these coins and join them.
How do you get coins appraised without getting ripped off?
I can help with that. Getting a professional appraisal will be the most accurate way to determine a coin’s value. You can get your coins appraised at a local coin shop or at a coin show. Alternatively, you can try to figure out the value of your coins on your own. Coin pricing guides like the PCGS Price Guide provide a good starting point.