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How to Buy Military Coins

Military coins are most familiarly known as challenge coins, and they are small medallions that depict military symbols. Many believe that the coins originated from the United States army during World War I as a memento that was passed on among members of the air force. Today, original coins can be hard to find as they are not often sold. Challenge coins are still made, but also can be expensive depending on the quantity you want, but some can be had for under $20.

Instructions

- 1
  Before you start looking for military coins to buy, make sure you know the various types and prices for each coin out there. Use coin guides that show the different types of military coins, including air force, army, navy, marines, pentagon, U.S. commands and government. You can also use a professional grading service as a reference for coin buying.
- 2
  Find the symbols for all the military and Department of Defense (DoD) services. Use the Military Information website to find any military department. It's important to know these symbols to help you identify the many military coins available.
- 3
  Search an online military auction marketplace like the Government Liquidation website. This is a good way to search for rare military coins. Also, such military marketplace websites include a directory of upcoming auctions in your area.
- 4
  Join the Challenge Coin Society to be updated with a monthly newsletter concerning auctions and any relevant news about military coin collecting. This will give you an opportunity to join a community of other coin collectors, learn about coin grading and terms and get a chance to buy, trade and sell with other military coin collectors.
- 5
  Go to the Military Coins website to look through a large online inventory of military coins. Choose the type of military coin and try to find the coin you're looking for. For example, click on the "Air Force" option and then find the 302nd Airlift Wing coins on the second page. Scroll over the coin to see a description.

Coin Collecting