The Basics of Coin Collecting

Coin collecting often referred to as the “Hobby of the Kings.”  There is a significant difference between coin collecting and money hoarding.  Collecting coins is an art form that can be traced back to the 14th century.  Today, people all over the world enjoy the popular hobby of collecting coins.  Some collect coins for their value, while Continue reading ‘Coin Collecting Tips For Beginners’

All about Grading Coins with Ease

Coin collections are not just about collecting as many coins as possible. More important than the number of coins is the quality of the coins.  The quality is measured by the coins’ grade.  The coin’s grade is measured using a scale from zero to seventy (seventy being the highest point grade). Doctor William Shelby introduced the grading point scale in his work “Penny Whimsy”.

The following are the classifications of coins according to grade:

1. “Mint State” Coins

Mint state coins are the equivalent to a value of 60 to 70 on the Shelby’s grade scale.  These coins are blemish-free. Most of the coins in this category are un-circulated shiny, new coins with absolutely no signs of wear.

2. “Almost Un-circulated” Coins

Almost Un-circulated coins have a point grade of 50, 55 or 58.

It is very important to note that in this category of coins that coin collectors are aware of the locations of the high points in a particular coin.  By checking the difference of the light reflected in the high points to the other parts of the coin, an almost un-circulated coin is separated from the Mint State coins.

3. “Fine Coins”

These coins can further be classified as” Extremely Fine” (40, 45), “Very Fine” (20, 25, 30, and 35) or “Fine” (12),  depending on the sharpness of the remaining details on the coins.  The coins are observed to have wear but the designs are still intact.

“Extremely Fine” coins are defined when the mint luster is still present on the coin.

“Very Fine” coins can be compared to coins that have been in circulation for one to three years.  Minor features of the coins are already gone.

4. “Good Coins”

Good coins can be specifically defined as “Very Good” (12), “Good” and “Almost Good” coins.

The coins in this category are worn out.  Only weak designs can be observed since the details of the coins in the high points are nearly smooth.

Full rims must be observed on coins to be defined as the “Very Good” coins category.

For “Good” coins, the mint mark and date must be visible.

On the other hand, “Almost Good” coins are the most worn of coins in this category.

5. “Fair Coins”

The coins are basically worn out, but can still be distinguished as belonging to one of the types of coins; as long as one can identify a coin, it is a “Fair C”.

6. “Basal Coin”

These metals can be determined to be coins; however, the kind of coin is undeterminable.

With the descriptions of the above classifications, grading coins is a less daunting task. Just remember that knowledge of the coins’ grades gives coin collectors many advantages!

Coin Collecting Book

A good coin collecting book is a necessity for a coin collector, whether beginner or expert. The book can give you all the information you need to know about collecting coins for fun and profit.

I have been a coin collector for 30 years, but I still buy books on coin collecting. A beginner should buy a book before even buying their first coin. This is because there are smart ways to buy coins, and without having knowledge, you may not get the best value in buying the coin. A coin collecting book will show you how to buy coins, where to buy them, and how to value coins so you know you are getting the right deal. Continue reading ‘Coin Collecting Book’

How to Take Care of Collectible Coins

There are collectors that specifically collect classic editions of coins that existed during the time period from 1892 to 1954.  These coins have marked events or may signify the work of royalty during that period.  There are also collectors that prefer the modern series that are very distinct as well.  One modern collection is that of the quarter dollars that represent the 50 states of the US. Minting. Circulation of this collection began in 1999 and will continue through 2008.  These are specially made editions available for collectors.
Continue reading ‘How To Take Care Of Coins’

Keeping Coins Clean Using a Folder

We all know that the price of an antique item goes up, especially if it is kept in good condition. By having items stored in a safe place, one can be sure that damage by the elements is minimal.  Other items that have been neglected or stored improperly will have a reduced value; therefore, proper storage is essential for preserving items from eras long gone. Continue reading ‘Coin Collecting Folders’

Accessories for Coin Collection

Whether you are an avid coin collector or a beginner, there is one very important thing that you should keep in mind when caring for your coin collection: how to arrange and care for the coins. Some of the most poplar coins collected may include antique, ancient, or limited edition coins.  These valuable coins come from a host of foreign countries and usually very high in value. As a collector, you should know how to keep and care for your coins so that they will retain their same appearance and value. Continue reading ‘Coin Collecting Accessories’

Coin Collecting Book: Handbooks for Every Collector

If you are looking for a handbook that contains all the necessary information that every coin collector needs, literally speaking, then you are in luck.

The truth is that coin collecting books are “must-haves” for both avid and novice coin collectors alike because they provide all of the necessary information that a collector needs to be successful in this type of leisure activity. Continue reading ‘Coin Collecting Book’

Canadian Coin Collecting: Pleasures vs. Treasures

In Canada, the popularity and interest of coins has shown a significant increase due in large part of the value of the “paper money” tends to deflate as much as 25% to 30% in a short period of time.

With the increase of interest, coin manufacturers in Canada began to make different kinds of coins to replace the value that was lost in the depreciation of paper money.  Gold, however, continues to thrive in various types of coins and its value continues to increase. Continue reading ‘Canadian Coin Collecting’

Software for Coin Collecting: The Smarter Way to Collect Coins

Many coin collectors share the same problem: too many coins but not enough information on what kinds of coins to collect, or a disorganized group of collectibles.

The Solution – Coin Collecting Software

Disorganized coin collectors may find coin collecting software the perfect solution to get a collection neat and organized. Continue reading ‘Coin Collecting Software’

By Mike Taylor

If you are thinking about starting the fun hobby of coin collecting there are a few basics you should learn that will help you get started on the right foot and might even save you some money.

One problem (if you can call it that) with coin collecting is that there are so may different types of coins to collect that a novice might but be overwhelmed and get frustrated. Relax, this has happened to many others before you and the fact is most coin collectors specialize in certain types of coins as there is no way unless you are extremely wealthy that you could collect every coin ever made from around the world. Continue reading ‘Coin Collecting Basics – How To Get Started Collecting Coins As A Hobby’