I was looking online about getting a red book, is there a big difference between the 2017 and 2018 book. I did notice that the 2017 ($18.99) was more expensive and the 2018 was ($10.84) on Amazon. Is one better than the other, the description were identical for both books. Which one should I buy. Both were listed as such: A Guide Book of United States Coins 2018: The Official Red Book, Spiral A Guide Book of United States Coins 2017: The Official Red Book, Spiralbound Edition
The reason for the price difference in the two books that you listed is that the 2017 is spiral bound. I personally prefer the spiral bound edition as it lays flat when open and leaves me two hands to work with my coins. The information contained within will not be much different for either 2017 or 2018, or 2019 for that matter. I would recommend going spiral bound.
I WOULD recommend the same thing, IF I used it open regularly, which I do not. I typically use it by pulling it down off a shelf, looking for something specific, and then retuning it to the shelf. Accordingly, I buy the traditional hardbound version. They look cool all similar from 1959 to date.
I recently bought the Hidden Spiral Bound Edition...lays flat when opened but is hard bound covering the spiral. Looks similar to hard bound editions while on the shelf for easy locating.
Im still using a 2016 spiral bound. I really only use the redbook to look up mintages. Probably upgrade when the 2019's come out.
The third one from the top looks like a winner https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-lis...?ie=UTF8&condition=used&qid=1516726900&sr=1-1
There is a small difference as the 2018 book has the 2017 coins. The prices are out of date before the book is published and are full retail anyway... It's still the best for basic facts and figures. Many people buy it every year, but many find updating every few, 4, 5, whatever years is sufficient. If you are looking at it as a reference, consider the more expensive "Mega Red" edition - expanded coverage, articles about coins, etc.
I agree that the "Mega Red" edition is very nice. Each edition highlights a different denomination, so pick the edition that you are most interested in. The second edition has a hugely expanded section on cents, the 3rd edition has a huge section on nickels. Buying a new Red Book each year is not necessary - not much changes. Each year will update the newest mint releases, and will theoretically update the pricing. However, don't use the Red Book for pricing - it is not terribly accurate. The Red Book is used for mintages, series information, and specs. So, it doesn't really matter what year's edition you get.
The first Mega Red highlighted Large Cents. I intend to get Mega Red every year. I am going to get them all hardbound by a local bookbinder as well.
