How To Start

I think the first thing you should do is define your goals. There is a book by Q. David Bowers about Commemorative Coins that you can buy online at your preferred book seller- or, if you want classic commemoratives (those that predate 1982) there is a better version of the Q. David Bowers book that was published by Bowers & Marina Galleries in 1991- it runs 768 pages and is the source for the much smaller Whitman book.

But to get started, I'd say, set a goal, set a budget, and have fun.

You might want to start with something with local or personal significance.

As you already have a copy of the Red Book, I think your first step should be to closely review the book's commemorative section and decide whether you'd like to collect the traditional series of US commems (1892-1954) or the modern series (1976 to date). [FYI: I include the Bicentennial coins as part of the modern series.] Each series has its merits and the decision to collect one vs. the other can be based on many factors.

Within the modern series, each coin is available in Proof and Uncirculated. I'd have a look at several coins in each finish before deciding which to collect (if you don't plan to collect both). Many collectors go with the Proof coins due to their attractive appearance -- the frosty finish of the main design elements set against the mirror-like fields is certainly attractive! Personally, I prefer the Uncirculated coins. I like their satin finish and generally don't have to worry about the dreaded "milky haze" that can often appear on proof coins over time. One nice thing about collecting the modern series is the fact that the coins are easy to find in great condition; their special handling during minting and delivery in protective capsules helps ensure that you can assemble a very nice set. In my own experience talking with collectors at shows and the local coin club, the modern series of commemoratives is typically the choice of collectors new to the hobby.

Assembling a set of nicely preserved commemoratives from the traditional series is a bit more of a challenge. Over the years, many of the coins have been abused by collectors/dealers in an attempt to "improve" them (for example, cleaning the coins to remove dirt or tarnish without knowing proper techniques) or simply by poor storage methods. As such, nice mint state examples can be tough to find for many issues and strong cost premiums are attached to the nicer coins. A collector needs to learn much more about each of the traditional commemorative coins in terms of strike characteristics, luster, etc. in order to recognize the better quality pieces (even if they are in graded holders). Also, coins in the traditional series are generally more expensive on a per coin basis when collected in mint state grades. The traditional series does have the allure of "coins from days gone by", however, and so is attractive to many experienced collectors.

I collect the traditional series as well as the modern series and enjoy each of them tremendously. If you collect what you enjoy, I don't think you can make a mistake picking either series.

In terms of which coin(s) to collect first, pick one or two coins that are fairly low cost to start -- maybe a 1982 George Washington half dollar or a 1986 Statue of Liberty silver dollar. Buying a few inexpensive coins as you are learning is a great way to get excited about your collection!

(I apologize for the long reply, but collecting commems is my passion and I can go on and on!)

I agree. I feel it is also a way to avoid making an expensive mistake. Mistakes do happen and when they do, they can discourage one from continuing the hobby.

No need to apologize for an informative post.

That's some good info GR58. That price break down is some great info. I just wrote it down. Hope you get your coins soon. Cya round.

So Andreus, have you figured out what you want to do next?

It is overwhelming and very expensive to try and collect them all, so looking for ones that interest you most and fit your budget, is the best place to start.

I like to collect by designs that interest me most and places I've been to.

And you'll want to learn how to grade them. If you don't, some day you'll way over pay for one. And that is the most expensive mistake people make. It generally applies to the Classic ones, since they actually circulated. I think most sold for double face value, back then?