Hobbies And Interests
Catalogue
Coin catalogs are the textual guides for identifying coins. Catalogs are usually updated annually and can sometimes be found at the local library. The catalog will have pictures of the coins as well as pertinent information, such as year a coin was minted and where, the number of coins minted and any errors or variations known regarding the coin. Of course, the catalog will also provide a monetary value for the coin.
Checklist
A checklist is your child's inventory list. You can help your kid create a checklist on the computer, use software designed to create checklists or obtain one at your local coin collecting supply store. A checklist can be tailored to your child's personal needs. She may want to list all the coins she wants, and then check them off as she obtains them. She may want to list coins as she obtains them and then categorize them according to year or mint. A checklist should be designed so your child is comfortable using it.
Magnifier
A jeweler's loupe is an ideal tool for coin collectors. A loupe is small, fits easily in the pocket and small fingers can easily grasp it. Coins are small objects and there is a considerable amount of detail in that limited space. A jeweler's loupe magnifies that detail with a minimum amount of distortion. However, a good magnifying glass will do for young children, if you feel it would be easier for him to grasp a handle.
Albums
Provide a way for your kid to safely store her collection and still be able to access it. Albums or folders are a simple, effective way for your child to keep her coins organized and free from damage. There are different types of albums. Push-in folders allow for coins to be pushed into a slot. Another type of album is created using plastic pages that have pockets to hold the coins in place. The pages can be placed into a three-ring notebook. Your kid can then organize her collection within the albums.
2 x 2s
A 2 x 2 is a small square of cardboard with a Mylar window in the center. A coin is placed within the 2 x 2 so it can be seen through the window. The ends can then be stapled to secure the 2 x 2. Your kid can write on the cardboard frame of the 2 x 2 so the coin inside is labeled. He can use these for special coins or for storing coins she doesn't want displayed in his albums.
Tubes
Coin tubes are for bulk storage. Wheat pennies, a common collectible among numismatists, can be stored in these tubes, for example. These can be small plastic tubes with lids that screw on and the tube may be round or square.