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Coin Collecting Tips

Coin collecting is a popular hobby that involves the collection of minted currency in coin format. Collectors typically collect coins with a special interest in finding those that are rare or contain an error from the mint, and coins that are aesthetically appealing, historically significant or simply unusual. These factors often influence the value. A coin collection is more than just a grouping of items; it is an investment that will grow in value as time passes, in most cases. Knowing a few of the basic tips to get started will help beginners get the most out of the experience.

Buy The Basic Supplies
- A collector should obtain all of the basic supplies before starting a collection. There are some common objects that will enhance the coin collecting experience and prove to be very handy when taking part in this hobby.
  
  Common items in the coin collector's possession include a magnifying tool, a coin price guide, protective sleeves or coin holders, coin folders, cotton gloves and a felt cloth to place on a table when examining coins.
Don't Wash Them
- Sometimes when a collector acquires a new coin it may look dull or dirty. Resist the urge to clean coins. Loose dirt or soil that may be on the coin, such as one found with a metal detector, can be wiped off using a soft cotton cloth. However, using any cleaning agents on the coin could potentially damage it and actually reduce its value. Serious collectors will likely be able to tell if a substance has been used on the coin that shouldn't have been.
Educate Yourself
- It's always a good idea to stay informed about coin collecting. An educated collector will enjoy the hobby more and understand its intricacies better than one who is only casually interested. Buy books about coin collecting and study its history. Learn what makes coins valuable and what reduces their value.
  
  Learn about the numeric grading scale standard used to determine the worth of a coin. Knowing the grade is essential in knowing a coin's value. The grade system is based on a one to 70 scale. A grade of one represents a coin of such poor quality that it is difficult to even make out what the coin is, while a coin graded 70 is in perfect mint condition with no traces or wear and the original luster intact.
Other Collectors
- Find other experienced collectors who are willing to share information with you. They will likely have additional tips that you may not get from reading books or articles. One on one mentoring for a coin collector can provide a great deal of depth to the hobby.
Lingo
- Learn some lingo associated with coin collecting. Terms such as "attribution," which means any marking on the coin that helps it be identified, or "double strike," which is a coin that has been unintentionally struck twice by the die used to cut it, making a double print on the coin, are just a couple of examples of hundreds of terms used by coin collectors.

Coin Collecting