Getting Starting in Coin Collecting

Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby for young and old alike, and a perfect activity for any member of the family. Some basic information will help you get started on this fun, educational and rewarding pastime.

When starting a coin collection, your budget will largely determine how and where you begin. For a youngster, this can be a simple as asking friends and relatives to set aside any unwanted or interesting coins. Start by searching the coins you already have. Everyday pocket change can contain special or rare coins and is the best way to start a collection of specifically dated coins.

A simple way to store your collection, as a beginner, is to get a few coin albums to keep them organized and safe. Your collection will probably include a wide range of coins at first, so look for albums that hold many denominations.

There is no real need for fancy albums or expensive cases at this stage of the game. But you will want to make sure your budding collector has some small coin envelopes or cardboard coin holders to protect those coins from scratches and damage. You can find these in local coin and hobby shops, or at one of the many online coin suppliers. Expect to pay between $2-5 for 100 cardboard holders or envelopes. You’ll also want a sturdy box to store your growing collection. Nothing fancy needed here…an old shoe box will do just fine! Make sure you store it in a safe, dry place.


A simple way to store your collection, as a beginner, is to get a few coin albums to keep them organized and safe. Your collection will probably include a wide range of coins at first, so look for albums that hold many denominations.

Invest in a good reference book to get started too. Though they can be pricey, you can check with a local coin shop of online auctions to find a used one at a discounted price.

Many people who are new to collecting start by searching for the newest released coins, like the state quarters. These are popular and they sell albums specifically for them that can be found at many discount stores. They are easy and fun to collect. Another easy collection is to collect coins from the year you were born. There is a wide range of albums, maps and other accessories that makes this collection especially fun for kids and grownups alike.

Another option is to choose a theme for your collection, such as the Civil War, pirates, flowers, animals, etc. Your collection should be as unique as you are. You can also work on several collections at a time. Aside from coin shows and putting your display together, coin collecting does not take up very much time. More than anything you will be sifting through any coins that come through your hands, but that is only a few minutes here and there.

When building your collection you need to figure out a budget and know how much you will be able to set aside for your newfound hobby. Include such costs as the coins, display cases, cleaning supplies, magnifying glass and mini lights, as well as fees to attend local coin shows.

Once you’ve got the hang of it and are ready to move onto bigger and better collections, it may be time to join a coin collectors club to find like-minded people who can inform you about coins, local dealers, local exhibits and shows and buy and sell from their own collections. But before buying any coins, make sure you’ve done your homework and have a good understand of what the coin should be worth. A little bit of research can help you avoid making a costly mistake.