The Exciting Hobby Of Collecting Coins

By John F Smith

Have you been a collector of things - key chains, stamps, books, figurines or anything else? How about collecting coins? You may be one of the few individuals who have a huge collection of gold coins, silver coins, commemorative coins and rare coins. Collecting coins is not only a thrilling pastime; it can be a brilliant investment too.

Here are a few tips as you start collecting coins:

1. Begin small - Every great thing has a small beginning. This same method best applies to collecting coins as well. You can start with one or two rare coins. Annual coin sets are wonderful items to open your assortment with. Or you'd probably enjoy starting with individual quarters in circulation. Gradually, you will gain understanding of various coins and will have a more specific eye for judging them.

2. Get acquainted with the concept - This is not merely done for the sake of accumulating commemorative coins, rare coins, gold coins and silver coins. The collector needs to get accustomed to the idea of "collecting". Meaning, the coins have to be prominent; it has to have a certain reason why it is part of the collection. You don't just add to the set each coin that you see about; look for "collector's items".

3. Acquaint yourself - Among the many coins circulating in the market, collectible coins are rare and unique. In order to obtain familiarity concerning the characteristics that make them stand out from others, you will need time to study about the various coins. Their value potentials is something that you will learn afterwards.

4. Give your collection some attention - Coins are valued depending on their rarity, unique characteristics, special minting, inclusions and metal value, whether gold coins, silver coins, rare coins or commemorative coins. You need to preserve the condition of your collection so that you can maintain or raise their value.

5. Extra patience works - Like excellent wine collection, coins improve and appreciate its value over time. You just need some patience for you to see your collection increase its value. Your collection may not cost much at this time, but after a time, they will turn out as special, unusual and antique with the value increasing accordingly.

Collecting coins is an exciting and fulfilling hobby. Not only does it bring you satisfaction, but it also increases your knowledge about some types of historical and rare coins. Studying the commemorative coins is similar to walking down memory lane. It is an excellent form of investment too. Its value improves in time; thus collecting coins is well worth your time, money and energy.

Currencyvault.com is a superb website in order to become familiar with collector's items of commemorative coins, rare coins, gold coins and silver coins. It will show you various and uncommon collectible coins. They have a number of proof sets and great coins at affordable prices. Currencyvault.com also offers excellent information to familiarize you about collecting coins.

About the Author:

John Smith is a coin collector. He is fond of collecting silver coins and gold coins. He agrees that collecting coins make a good future investment. Free reprint avaialable from: The Exciting Hobby Of Collecting Coins.

Distinctive Heads And Tails Of Roman Republic Coins

By Alan Brenner

Ancient Roman Republic coins were used not only for their purchasing power but also to convey a message or plan through their designs or writing. The first image shown on the coins was that of the entire Roman state during its Republic in 150-100BC. The 'trio of money men' also known as Tresviri monetales, determined the images to appear on the coins. The numbers of tresviri monetales were raised from three to four by Julius Caesar at the last part of the Republic. The arrangement of these men vanished during the middle of the third century AD.

The denarius of the ancient times depicted the bust of Roma on the front and a deity wheeling a biga or quadriga on the rear side. A small symbol or monogram illustrated as a control mark did appeare, though rarely, on these coins indicating the person accountable for them. However, these monograms and symbols were swapped by the short form names of the moneyers. The family histories of moneyers were displayed by their portrayal on the coins of Sextus Pompeius Fostulus. The depiction of theses multiple references turned out to be the center of the present interest.

A self endorsing portrait on the coins was a way relied upon in the Roman Republic by the ruling class as a part of brutal competition. The height of cut throat rivalry between the higher classes has been displayed by Lex Gabinia, by initiating secret ballots in elections so as to compress electoral corruption. The memorandums were crafted to the elite and not to pressurize the people.

The Roman Republic Denarius released by L. Valerius Flaccus, 108 - 107 B.C., weighs 3.878g with a maximum diameter of 20.5mm. The obverse showed an image of a winged and draped bust of Victory, while the reverse displays Mars walking left holding a spear in right and a trophy in left.

The Roman Republic coins released by M.Porcius Laeca, during 125 BC, each had a weight of around 3.768g and a width of 18.3 mm, depicted the Roma in a winged helmet on the head and Libertas, holding rod and pileus in a running quadriga on the tail of the coin.

This Roman Republic coin, L. Caecilius Metellus, 128 B.C., shows the head of Roma facing right in a winged helmet on the front, while Pax or Juno is in a biga facing right and an elephant head with bell at the neck below on the reverse. This coin weighs .788g, with a maximum diameter of 18.9mm.

Mn.Fonteius issued the ancient Roman Republic 7 and 8 denarius in 107-108 BC. The displayed laureate and combined heads of Dioscuri were on the front and a portrait of a galley under oar was on the rear side of his coins. These coins weighed 3.880 g and measured 19.9mm.

Almost a limitless variety of these ancient Roman Republic coins are obtainable. These coins provide a great investment opportunity as their value will most likely stretch northward in the years to come and possessing these coins means treasuring an ancient civilization.

About the Author:

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The Best Ways To Start Coin Collecting

By Lexa Allendrisa

Today, you can find thousands and thousands of people who are taking pleasure in coin collecting and these numbers are continually growing, which is a welcome change from the condition which existed before the year 1999. Actually ever since the mid sixties, coin collecting as an activity and hobby had been showing signs of decline because of the change in material that US coins were being made.

Base Metals Replace Silver

If silver was replaced with base metals, it became much more difficult to find right old coins and thus the interest in coin collecting is declined. However, the year 1999 saw the advent of the 50 State Quarters Program when the first State Quarters were issued which honored the US state of Delaware.

This 50 State Quarters Program reignited interest in coin collecting and it led more people to take up coin collections as a serious interest. Individuals may want to collect coins on account of the fact that those coins were minted in the year that their kids were born or they might begin collecting coins with a view to sell them off later when their value appreciates.

The best example of how coin collecting can prove to be a profitable activity is exemplified in the matter of one Louis E. Eliasberg Sr. whose collection of coins, after his death, fetched his heirs a huge forty-four million dollars.

The best way to begin the coin collecting activity is by making a beginning with date-and-mint coin collections. The Lincoln cent which is issued each year is a good example of tips on how to go about adding coins to the collection. Or you should collect coins according to specific coin types and rather than collecting coins from each year and according to mink-marks it may be a better idea to collect coins from a particular series as well as from a special mint.

Mint error coins too make ideal coins that every one which is interested in coin collecting has to consider including in their coin collections. To make coin collecting less difficult why not also make use of coin collecting software of which you will come across different types though each will help you with various aspects of coin collecting.

With a little bit of luck, you might even succeed in adding some very important and perhaps even rare coins to your collection and then you can reap a tidy profit by selling them off later when they are much in demand and when their value appreciates adequately to warrant selling them off.

About the Author:

One of the best tools you want with regards to coin collecting is coin counter machine. If you want to keep track of your coins, you should get digital coin counter for your need.

Collecting Old Coins And Determining Values

By Pete Marks

Many coin collectors collect old coins for a lot of reasons. A lot of people collect coins as a hobby and others will collect coins for their new numismatic value or metals. Regardless coin collectors often find collecting coins rewarding and fun.

People will collect coins from certain regions countries or just collect coins made from certain metals or a certain time period. Some collectors just collect any old coins and others may collect only made coins or sets.

Coin values are often determined by many different factors such as age, condition and even where it was minted. In recent months there are many coin collectors hoarding more valuable mint coins and this has been driving up the value of old coins because most coins contain precious metals such as gold or silver.

Many people only feel comparable purchasing their coins from local coin dealers or shops. I've been your best coin deals will be found at online auction sites. There are a multitude of reasons from buying either from a dealer or purchasing online.

One of the main benefits of collecting old coins from a dealer locally is you get to physically inspect up close. One of the other advantages is that you are less likely to find a fake coin when purchasing locally. When dealing locally the local coin dealer you can establish a relationship and the dealer keep you informed of certain coins you are looking for.

That numerous benefits to collecting coins online from auction sites often outweigh the benefits of collecting or purchasing coins from your local coin shop or dealer. I then you'll find auction prices are reasonable and unacceptable way of determining current coin prices without paying a premium. You will also likely find that hard to find coin that may complete your collection you can't find your local dealer for coin shop.

It may be a little more confusing purchasing coins online but once you have developed a relationship with an online coin dealer or auction seller you will also establish a relationship of trust and a source you can go back to. Most auction sites rate their sellers and this way you may have a good idea on who is best to buy from. In todays age most sellers online have very reasonable refund policies so making a return on a purchased coin that does not arrive in the condition advertise should be a problem.

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There are many ways to determine find out how much your old coins are worth.

Silver Coins Currency Or Something Else

By Ben Burr

Silver coins were first minted in very ancient times. Their value is determined by their rarity, purity and time length. These coins were also used as currency by various countries such as India, Greece, Persia and china.

Evolution and history, of these coins is extensive and varied. With time both have changed: usage and value. The metal, silver holds a prime position in nature, used as a currency in previous times; it outshines gold, another similar component.

These coins have different types. There are silver bullion coins, pure silver coins, silver dollar coins, collector models etc. They are differentiated on account of alloys, purity, make and origin. Uses are many.

In the current economy, it is not possible to use these as currency. Coins are known to upset money markets. And if this were to happen, the prices would be too high. Investment is one field where they are extremely useful. Minting of such coins and their sale is implemented by a few nations.

The silver bullion is a fat coin manufactured by a country to measure currency values. They are sold as well. But the field of investment is where they are pretty well known. This is because of reasonable prices, and surety of the item. Gold is less popular. People collect and store them as they have an impressive storage value.

Silver is the perfect metal for minting coins, owing to its brilliant features. There is no reaction barring a few exceptions. Durability is guaranteed. No decay or damage. And the value never changes due to its purity. Sadly though, coins are not made from this element, on a large scale, now.

Silver has a great potential as a future currency due its unique qualities. Hence, coins made from the substance will also be usable. They are also used as a lucky charm or as a sign of good luck by seafarers. There is great hope for these valuable objects. But one can never be sure.

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You may believe that you just have a piggy bank of junk silver coins, but you should take a closer look. Online coin auctions are becoming very popular as a way to buy and sell your coin collection or your pocket change.

Collectible Coins

By Sam Von Beehum

The form of money has changed a lot over the years. People use credit cards a lot to buy things and pay for where they live. Coins and banknotes, just like credit cars can be used to buy and sell. Change is a nuisance in everyday life but rare and precious coins are not something that you would want to through away. There is something really appealing to people about collecting coins and doing business in precious metals. However, some people think that gold is not for them. Collectible coins are indeed affordable for 98% of Americans. If you're collecting diamonds or rare paintings these can fetch prices that are out of reach of most investors and prices tend to be higher. With coin trading you can collect coins worth anywhere between $100 and $10,000. There is a strong reason for investing in coins. Nominal value can often be disregarded because collectible coins have a much stronger collectible value. Even when there are downfalls on the market, one can always sell coins for what they are - quality gold and silver. Collectible value of coins can differ and depends on several things like mintage and topic. Collectible coins appreciate even when the price of gold going down, which doesn't happen very often. Even recession can't stop popularity of collectible coins, and they have appreciated by strong 14% in the last 3 years.

The idea behind the market of collectible coins is one of the best of all investments. There are many important benefits of scarce collectible coin investments over stamps, pictures, antiques, and even pure gold bars, so let's find out what makes coins so attractive to collectors. Rare US coins are a part of American history, and as timeless and valuable as history itself. For over 200 years, collectible coins have been symbols of American stability and pride. There are price-driven forces in the coin market that define supply and demand.

Of course this is only the general rule. However, a coin's value is defined in terms of a number of factors. Country of emission is very important in defining a coin's value. US coins will always be in more demand then coins emitted in third world countries. Bigger, more affluent countries with eventful history like USA will always draw more attention to their collectible coins. Mintage number is another important aspect. And 500 coins will be more in demand than 100,000 coins because everyone will be trying to get a rare coin. Coins that are rare will be more valuable than most exquisite coins that have been emitted in millions. Investing in rare coins is a wise move. Coins are more expensive when they are made of gold with a touch of precious extras. These extras can make a coin more popular. Coins can be produced either independently or in series. Generally series of coins are more demanded than single emissions. Not all coins in the series are in demand.

But when you buy all the coins that you like, you will be tempted to buy the missing ones as well to complete the series. Coins have different topics and an interesting or patriotic topic will add to the value of the coin. More widespread topic is more demanded. Rare American coins are what all collectors want to see in their possession.

If you have 200$ or 20,000$ and want to see it grow, then you can certainly be among the many people who invest in coins.

About the Author:

Learn more about Commemorative Coins today at our large online store. If you are looking to purchase Silver Coins, please visit us on the web at www.currencyvault.com.

What You Should Do Before Beginning Gold Coin Collecting

By Brian Andanielo

Are you one of those individuals who are only getting into the gold coin collecting hobby? If it is new gold coin collecting, first thing you need to do is to find out easy methods to select the type of gold coin to collect. No, you cannot only go out there and find any coins that caught your fancy. You need to have a system if you need to come up with an amazing gold coin collection. To help you begin gold coin collecting, here are some tips for you.

Starting out

Before you start collecting old coins, you need to know a lot about history. Why? Coins are part of history and the more you know about history, the more it will be possible to pick the best type of coins to collect. Read some good history books and take note of the coins that are minted and circulated on particular time period. You will get good tips when you start gold coin collecting.

Besides reading books, you might want to join seminars on gold coin collecting and learn several things about the right way to collect historical coins. Attending gold coin collecting seminars can also provide you with a venue to meet other coin collectors and learn something from them.

Working On Your Collection

Though there are no hard and fast rules in terms of old coin collecting, it is usually better to work systematically when collecting gold coins. First, you have to start collecting gold coins based on their country of origin. For example, if you want to come up with an impressive gold coin collection, you can collect gold coins that come from England at a certain period of time.

Next, you can collect gold coins by kinds or series. For instance, you can collect U.S. gold eagle coins. Third, you should collect your coins by period and time. You should understand that gold coin collecting is like collecting bits and pieces of history. If you need to come up with a good collection of coins, you need to start by collecting coins from different periods and times.

Yes, collecting historical coins can be a lot of work and it would be quite expensive but the good news is that if you are able to complete some coins minted on a particular period of time; that collection can fetch a handsome price on the market if you choose to sell this. Many coin collectors have made quite a fortune out of their collection over time of gold coin collecting.

About the Author:

With regards to coin collecting, it is a great idea to get helpful tool like coin counter machine. To account for your coins, digital coin sorter is recommended to you.

Thinking Of Purchasing Gold Coins?

By James Read

There are assorted reasons why a person would select to begin buying gold coins. An explanation is they are seen as wise investments because their value can be increased, so people are more inclined to purchase them. Even these days, you will find that coin collectors are highly motivated to pay whatever the marketplace demands to acquire most uncommon coins.

People are aware that purchasing gold coins is a safe and dependable way to make an investment with their extra funds. Just because they know that gold coins are only going to achieve worth with time.

Before acquiring any coins you need to discover a reliable coin dealer. If you are able to, select somebody who belongs to the association called the Professional Coin Grading Service, or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation. A coin dealer who is not a member of these professional bodies will often sell you counterfeit coins.

After discovering your dealer you will then need to decide just how much gold it is you want to acquire. Because the cost of gold changes so frequently, it is best to know how much you can to spend.

You need to be conscious how much money you can afford to invest in gold coins, you also need to recognize which coins are the best investment. Currently gold coins are usually divided into a maximum of three various groups. Those that are rated as standard gold bullion, those that are classed as hard to come by and those which are collectible.

Gold bullion "coins" are really valued based on the volume of precious metal in them. While hard to come by and collectible coins their prices actually fluctuate enormously and particular aspects will need to be taken account in order to place a worth on them. Along with how much gold is contained in them, the age and how rare the coin is will determine what price these types of coins are purchased and sold for.

When buying coins, it is vital to know about the process of grading and evaluation. Comprehension of the rare coin marketplace is a fundamental skill in helping to spot a potential bargain.

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Undiscovered Facts About Mercury Dimes

Mercury in Greek mythology was known as the "quick messenger" and was armed with wings to easier perform his obligations.

The confusion gets in when the designer of the coin, Adolf Weinman, added wings to Liberty's headgear.The wings were appended to symbolize "liberty of thought". However in the end, due to misconception, the coin was improperly addressed the mercury dime.

The mercury head dime was minted from 1916 through 1945 when it was replaced by the Roosevelt dime.

All mercury dimes are 90% silver, therefore they are at least worth their silver bullion price... which is more than 10 cents.

For mercury dimes -- and most other 90% silver coins -- you can anticipate a dealer to pay you 9 times face value for them (silver being 15.00/oz). So every mercury dime is worthy at least 90 cents or more. This is of course with the exclusion of the less usual mercury dimes which are listed here:

Dime Values:

1916 D - $900.00-$9,200.00 : Extremely low mintage value

1916 S - $4.00-$20.00 : Lower mintage value

1917 D - $4.50-$45.00 : Lower mintage value

1919 D - $4.00-$24.00 : Lower mintage value

1921 - $60.00-$300.00 : Low mintage value

1921 D - $75.00-$400.00 : Low mintage value

1925 D - $4.00-$40.00 : Lower mintage value

1926 S - $12.00-$60.00 : Lower mintage value

1931 D - $8.00-$20.00 : Lower mintage value

1942 2/1 - $625.00-$900.00 : Same as above without the D mintmark

1942 D 2/1 - $675.00-$950.00

The large margin in price ranges all depends on the grade of your coin.

The mint mark on the mercury head dime is very little and can be found on the reversed side of the coin on the bottom left -- right after the E in the word ONE and just left of the branch.

The prices listed previously for the more rare mercury dimes are from the Red Book. You likely will not receive this amount of money for them from a dealer, because a trader won't always give you exactly what the coin is worth. If they did, they would never make any money and be out of business.

For the most popular mercury dimes, you can anticipate to get about a buck for each one for them, no matter what shape they're in. Silver is silver, whether it's pretty or not.