US coins what to collect?

I would normally give you some comical reply but since your in India, I guess you need an honest reply so you don't think we are all nuts.
However, your asking difficult question. Collecting coins is really supposed to be a hobby and for enjoyment. Of course there are many that do this for a possible profit. But if you don't plan on selling coins, then the only important thing would be to collect what you like and can afford.
I suggest you look into buying a copy of the Red Book by Whitman Publishing. Then scan through that book until you find a coin you like. Maybe two or three or more. Again, this is a hobby and should be for fun. So don't worry about which ones to collect or not to collect. Probably the most important thing for you would be accessibility. Being able to aquire some coins in India from here may not be to easy. Not sure if there are any coin shows or coin stores there to help you either. There are othes on this forum from all over the World so just keep on hanging around here and who knows, you may find a neighbor that is a coin collector right next door.

I would suggest a type set. One good choice is the Dansco 7070 album which covers all the major types going back to the early 1800's. Another is to put together a nice high grade 20th century coin set which covers all the coins from 1900-1999

just_carl, I've never seen you give anyone a comical or misleading reply. I'm not sure what you're talking about. :P

Theres a reason there are two forums for US coins Modern and Classic. I for one have no real path in what I want to collect but I do tend to sway towards the Classics. If you want one of each coin the the Dansco 7070 and a 20th century type set would be a great way to start as Jfransch said.

Thanks all...its a privilege to be part of this great community...

There's a fellow on the forums from Egypt (eg_collector) who has completed several US sets who might have some tips for collecting US coins from abroad.

Probably the first step is to take a look at a cross-section of US coins and decide which ones you like. You'll also have to consider your budget. I agree that a type set is a good choice if you can't decide what you like best. If your budget is limited, a 20th century type set is reasonably affordable - the more expensive types are going to be earlier.

A modern series like State quarters, National Park quarters or Sacajawea dollars might be a good place to start too. A set can be assembled inexpensively in uncirculated condition, and you get a variety of designs within a single series.