Ideas needed

Be careful who you are comparing yourself to

 

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Yes, but if he chose only to do the short set, not so much, at least if something remotely challenging is part of the plan.

 

yeah I definitely want something somewhat challenging. My favorite so far is still the 20th century type set but that one will have a few expensive coins. I already have a 1921 peace which is nice. Although it's quite circulated. I'd probably guess vf20. But I'm still pretty horrible at that.

 

Franklins. Even on a tight budget, you can put together a high-quality set.

And there's enough variety to make it interesting...

 

If you like the 20th century type set, go for it... and if your Peace is sufficient for what you want to do, you're already on your way. I would, however, suggest that you start with the more readily available and/or inexpensive issues only because you're learning. This way if (when) you make a mistake or simply wish to upgrade, the loss is minimal and can rather painlessly be considered tuition. Get yourself a few books, read as much as you can online (but do understand there's a lot of poor info out there), and perhaps most importantly, examine as many coins, preferably in-person, as you can. Also, realize that your tastes are likely to change down the road, so don't overextended yourself trying to build a large collection before you're ready. Have fun with it, but also be smart and careful.

 

What are some books that you'd recommend for me?

 

Do you presently own any? Also, beyond the type set, what interests you the most?

I'll wait for your response before saying more, but a good place to start is the ANA guide (grading, although not TPG standards) and a red book. However, with the latter, prices are generally to be ignored (not because theyre "outdated" but due to where they come from) but there's still a lot of good and useful information within.

 

I actually just finished A Guide Book of Morgan Silver Dollars. I also have The Coin Collector's Survival Manual but I've just started working on it. I'd say that Morgan's interest me the most, but I doubt I'll ever put together a full set of them as much as I'd like to. I had a red book a few years ago when I first started kicking this hobby around but I'm not sure what happened to it.

 

Not to overload you with ideas, you can see we all have our favorite series - but since you mentioned Morgans (I love 'em), an option could be a Morgan date set, just chose the least expensive of the four mints for each date. There are still a few dates that will cost you, but you can dodge the expensive key dates. There are nice albums available for this that work if you are not shooting for too high grade/expensive coins but like has been said you need to have some knowledge if buying uncertified coins. Since you are reading Scott Traver's book you will know this! (So maybe just an idea for future reference). Anyway, enjoy whatever you decide to pursue!

 

I think nice circulated sets have more history to them than uncirculated coins. They have actually been in commerce, many for decades. Each could tell a story.

 

Full sets aren't necessary; collect what you want as you want. This is easy slabbed, but if raw, you can always buy a generic type dansco.

In response to Morgans, I would suggest picking up a copy of the so-called "VAM book" - Comprehensive Encyclopedia of Morgan and Peace Dollars - but do note that it's importance has little to do with VAMs (authors: Van Allen and Mallis), but with the plethora of information within on the coins themselves. It's not a cheap book, but not costly either.. a paperback copy of the 4th Edition (the last, around 1997) should set you back maybe $75 give/take but certainly worth every cent. If something you're interested in let me know; there was a retailer selling at a very reasonable price, but the name escapes me.

Also, the below link may also interest you.

http://www.pcgs.com/books/silver-dollars/

I'll come up with a few others and post tomorrow.

 

If you are looking for a set that has affordable coins and an abundance of toners, perhaps you should consider JEFFERSON NICKELS.



Most Jefferson Nickels are less than $25 in MS66. They get a little expensive at MS67 and some get really expensive if you want full steps. Jefferson Nickels are one of the most versatile of all US series.

 

Thanks very Much for the book info! I'll look into it, I'll let you know if I definitely decide to buy that one.

Lehigh, glad to see you're still around. You're actually the reason I like toners. You posted some of your Jefferson nickels years ago when I was lurking here. I agree they're beautiful.

 

I would try for a good short set (1941-47) of Walkers (Liberty walking half dollars 50C)...many are available in ms63 or better for under $100. I bought a 41P 65 CAC for $90. Have to be patient and shop around.

 

A nice 44S might be a problem in your price range...but worth saving for.

 

Roosevelt dimes would be a good candidate...even with FBs...and most of the time you will get a number of coins for $100 or less, if you are on a monthly and make rapid progress...Jefferson are another series you can have a lot of fun with..

 

I would go for a short set of Walkers. Beautiful coin and can be found in MS64 at reasonable prices.

 

Johnrhcfl beat me to it. Based on your requirements, I'd go for a Silver Roosie set at MS-65. It would be a fun and a decent sized set to put together. You may even be able to do a toned Roosie set in MS-64.

 

Thanks for all the ideas everyone! I've decided to go with a 20th century type set. Are there any good coin books made to store this type of set? I googled and found a few but are there some that are better than others?

 

Oh yes you are... Just like the rest of us!