What is the best way to start a coin collection?

Answer 1

I would suggest that you start by buying a book, or borrowing one from the library. If you are interested in US coins, my choice would be A Guide Book of United States Coins by R.S. Yeoman. For world coins, look through the Standard Catalog of World Coins - you might want to check the library copy of this one as it is four large volumes and not inexpensive. From these books you can get an idea of what might interest you. If you want to get a child interested in collecting, buy one of the maps or folders for the State Quarter series and let him search all your pocket change to fill it. Don't buy one that includes spaces for the "S" mintmarks unless you are willing to purchase the proof coins to fill them. Some folders don't even have spaces for both (P and D) mintmarks found on the circulating coins, just one coin of each state design. Even the earliest (1999) quarters that were "scarce" are now showing up in circulation as people who saved multiple rolls or even bags of them have found that they are not valuable. the red book by Yeoman is great , having a weekly newspaper Coinworld or Numismatic News is great for up to date information for United States Mint released coins, proof sets,and new nickel , quarter designs. Information is the key,Personally I have been interested in coins since I was 8 years old, and have had both of the above papers plus the red and blue book by Yeoman. Robert E. Flora www.1refco.com I suggest that you pick up the 2006 Red Book by R.S. Yeoman. It explains everything you need to know about coins and how to get started on coin collecting (coil bound is the best for easy-to-use and cheaper than hard back). I myself started less than a year ago on coin collecting at the age of 13 with the 2005 Red Book and I picked up and learned extremely fast. It is really fun if you take the time to learn.