Coins have a rich history, making collecting a rewarding hobby.
Why collect? People collect coins for their bullion, investing in coins for potential long-term profit, and/or artistic value. Additionally, some people are casual enthusiasts, collecting foreign coins from trips or coins found by chance, such as lucky pennies.
Learning about a coin’s design, mint mark, condition, and composition offers useful historical knowledge and insight into coins’ unique stories.
Get started building your collection with these helpful resources.
Get Started Collecting Coins
It’s easy to start a coin collection. You can begin with coins that you already have on hand.
Caring for Your Coin Collection
To retain the value and aesthetic of your coin collection, proper care and storing are essential.
Anatomy of a Coin
Learn the main features of a coin, including obverse, reverse, edge, and mint mark.
Coin Term Glossary
Learn the definitions of common coin terms – from coin anatomy to collecting.
Mint Marks
Use of mint marks dates back to ancient Greece and Rome. A March 3, 1835 Congressional Act established the practice in the United States.
ANA Coin Grading Scale
U.S. coins are most often graded with the American Numismatic Association (ANA) grading scale.
Coin Collecting for Kids
Kid-focused resources for the budding numismatist.
Collectors’ Clubs
There are many ways to meet other coin collectors and to share your hobby. Joining or starting a club and/or teaching kids about coin collecting are both good starting points.