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How to Collect Paper Currency

Coin and paper currency collecting, known as numismatics, can provide value beyond the value of each piece in a collection. Numismatics gives collectors the opportunity to learn intricate details about the pieces in their collection, as well as providing enjoyment and a sense of accomplishment when acquiring desired pieces. There are a few essential details to keep in mind when beginning a numismatics hobby, and adhering to these details will help keep the hobby enjoyable and ensure that you will encounter few difficulties in your undertaking.

Things You'll Need

Protective plastic cases for paper currency
Price guides
Currency identification guides

Instructions

How to Collect Paper Currency
- 1
  Determine the type of collecting you would like to get involved with. Your options are numerous. You can be broad in your approach and collect any currency that you desire, or you can get specific. For instance, you could focus on collecting foreign paper currency or the currency of one particular nation; or you could collect American Civil War-era currency---the choice depends entirely on your interests.
- 2
  Research and learn as much as possible about the field you've decided to focus on. Your local public library, the Internet and any local historical societies and their libraries and archives are good places to start.
- 3
  Start acquiring pieces for your collection at the bank. Depending on your interest and focus, the bank can be a good place to begin. Maybe you'd like to acquire small bills from each of the U.S. Mint's processing branches, or, perhaps you're interested in foreign bills. In larger cities and at certain banks, you can obtain currency from other nations.
- 4
  Acquire pieces for your collection from coin dealers and antique shops. If you're looking to collect older currencies, you'll usually need to deal with experts in these fields. Pricing practices will vary greatly among dealers, so familiarizing yourself with the market before setting out to purchase anything will help to ensure the best collection for the price.
- 5
  Store and display your collection. You'll want your collection to be protected as well as accessible for viewing and display. There are a number of different ways to store and display your collection. Perhaps the most popular method is to store your pieces in individual plastic cases or sleeves; these are available at any coin dealer or hobby shop.

Coin Collecting