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 Replies: 8 / Views: 1,538 |
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New Member
United States
1 Posts |
hi I'm new to collecting coins. can anyone suggest a book to check out for pricing and for history of old US coins? thanks a bunch! also what are some good coins to start with? |
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Rest in Peace
United States
7075 Posts |
 I'm pretty new to collecting myself. The first book I was advised to get is United States coins commonly called The Red Book. It will give you an idea about coin values and some information on coins. There is a lot of information on this site. To the left is a column of titles -- there is a section for US Coin Facts and US Coin History. More up-to-date information on coin values can be found at Numismedia.com and by searching around on ebay to see what they actually sell for. If you're really, really new to this, I would suggest getting the Cherrypickers's Guides. You can then just look through your pocket change....maybe you'll find a good error coin. I also think it's fun to collect the State Quarters. You can probably find them in your change -- or by searching rolls of quarters that you buy at the bank. Just try to put together a set and then keep looking for coins that are in better shape. It's fun to do and while you're looking through your change, you'll figure out what coins you like the best and that's what you should collect. |
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Bedrock of the Community
United States
10284 Posts |
This is the best place I think you'll find for information, not all is correct but if incorrect information is given, it isn't long until somebody sets it right, and they do so in a friendly way almost always. I suggest you discover what type of coins are attractive and interest you. Then read topics or ask questions in the proper topics provided here. The Official Red Book for 2013: A Guide Book of United States coins by R.S. Yeoman and Ken Bressett would be the most logical place to start with buying a book. Most all of us US collectors have bought or owned one at some time. I refer to mine regularly. Here's a link to ONE place to get one and I am by no means promoting the supplier, there are many places to get one. http://www.bing.com/images/search?q...&FORM=IDFRIRPerhaps Susan is selling one on ebay. They usually do sell the new issues as soon as they come out. http://www.ebay.com/sch/merchant/bobby131313/and to CCF! |
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CCF Sponsor
United States
702 Posts |
Red Book is definitely the place to start. Available on Amazon or most any book store. I prefer the spiral bound version. For what it's worth, vintage ones can be had at vintage books shops cheap. They can be found for $1/piece. It's fun to see how certain coins appreciate over time. There's a lot of good information available on-line - PCGS CoinFacts and NGC's CoinExplorer have a ton of information. I should mention - in case you haven't heard yet - DON'T polish coins. Ever. Some people thinks it makes them worth more if they look nice and shiny. The general rule of all collectibles, but especially coins, is never use polish on them. Happy hunting, and welcome to CCF.
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Pillar of the Community
United States
1510 Posts |
welcome Id start with pennies ( LMC) --alot out there and pretty cheap Retired USAF 1983-2003
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Valued Member
United States
57 Posts |
The Red Book is a great resource for information (mintage stats, physical descriptions, etc.) but their prices are generally rather inaccurate. For prices I would use the internet, or a monthly coin publication for more accurate prices... |
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Valued Member
United States
307 Posts |
As has already been suggested, an older " Red Book" is good because it gives a great little history on different coins, series and types. Also it lists the mintage which is a good indication if a coin is rare or not. Yes the prices wont be very accurate, but that does not really matter since the price is what you are willing to pay. A good idea of actual values can be found on ebay or heritage auction prices realized. I would suggest starting out with Morgan dollars or half-dollars, since there large enough to enjoy and "fun". Also check out walking Liberty Quarters, those are cool too. |
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Pillar of the Community
Australia
7096 Posts |
mwcmedic254 I started collecting US coins 6 months ago and have completed the Jefferson nickle set and the Kennedy half dollars without breaking the bank. As you are in the US you should be able to do these easily. They are great looking coins and feel good in the hand  |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
2596 Posts |
Read everything you can. When you finally decide to settle on a type there are many books out there that specialize on that coin type. The library usually has good books to begin with.
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Replies: 8 / Views: 1,538 |
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Posted 04/12/2012 6:28 pm
