Guidelines To Coin Collecting
By Atlantic Provinces Numismatic Association | Tuesday, 8 November 2011
Anyone can start collection coins and it will probably turn into a great hobby for you. Some coin collectors focus on all different types of coin collections while some collect coins from all over the world. Collecting old coins or ones from a particular country is also popular. There are some collectors out there who focus on coins that are not being circulated anymore. These coins are have no wear and are in mint condition. You will start collecting particular types of coins when you figure out what your specific interest is.
You should check out some reference books from your local library on collecting coins if you are wanting start this hobby. Find out if there are any clubs near where you live that you can join to help you start learning about coin collecting.
You'll be amazed at the different places you might find coins for your collection. You are able to buy coins from coin dealers through your local coin shops and coin shows. This also gives you a chance to see a huge amount of different coins at one time.
Online websites are a great place for you to buy coins for your collection. Mail order is also an option to adding new coins to your collection. When buying coins online you should be very careful. Check out the dealers return policy and look over the coins carefully when you receive them to make sure it is what you ordered and in good condition. Check out the seller's feedback rating if you buy coins through an online auction site. This will give you a good indication if other buyers have been happy with their items. It is very unusual for coins to be bid above their actual value so be careful when buying coins through an online auction.
There are other resources out there that are great for find coins at wonderful prices. Check out flea markets, craft fairs and antique shows because you never know what treasures you might find.
To prevent causing wear on the coins be very careful when handling them. Hold uncirculated or proof coins by the edges only. A coins value can be lessened if fingerprints are present. Start a good habit now of picking up your coins by the edges only. Make sure you always do this when handling someone else's collectable coins.
A grade is given to collectable coins depending on their condition. The value will be affected by the grading of a coin. Objective criteria for grading can be found in different publishing but you can also pick up this skill yourself. You will need time, exposure to experienced collectors and deals and lots of practice.
Many great books have been published on coin collecting. Check out these resources at your bookstore to help you with grading, pricing guidelines and an introduction to collecting coins.
This article is part of the Collection of short articles for beginners from the Atlantic Provinces Numismatic Association.
More articles
- Canadian coins
- Canadian banknotes
- Canadian tokens and medals
- International
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