Hi, As my son and I get more serious about collecting I feel the need for one of us to have more extensive expertise on all aspects of collecting. I had a look at the ANA diploma program and was tempted, but I wondered if this is overkill; perhaps there are a few key books I could get that would get me 90% of the way there. Of course, I figured turning to the CoinTalk community for opinions and guidance is the best next step. Any ideas, recommendations, etc. are much appreciated. Mike
Thanks... are there any standard texts (other then the Kramer books) that will get me started? I'm reading "Coin Collecting for Dummies" but would be interested in putting together a few serious texts to plan my studies.
I learned from my old man and the RedBook. Self education after that... Chuckle, yes I'm a REDDIE Take Care Ben
As CappedBustDimes asked - "what is your primary focus...series, type, denomination..." There are literally so many books out there that you need to narrow things down a little. I have shelf after shelf of books and more stacked on the floor - and I still don't have anywhere near all those I want.
if you are an ana member, i believe the diploma course is worth it. you can buy the materials individually and take the tests w/o spending the extra $ for the final exam. i like the " dummies" book as well. for more in depth, i would highly recommend david bowers book..the evperts guide to coin collecting and investing. it is well worth the money. you can buy more in depth research books once you decide what you like to collect. the ana course for beginnners (intro to numismatics) will give you an overview of the many facets you can collect. many of us here are more than happy to help you on your journey in collecting. seeking advice from the experts here will save you much heartache and $ as well as make collecting more fun. good luck!.......steve
With so many books on coins out there now, coin web sites, coin stores, coin shows, magazines, I just don't see why you don't spend the time checking them all out. Your time spent traveling to any place for a coin education could be spent reading. Or just asking a lots of questions right here. OH, that is what you doing now. See how this works.
Mike: Great question, but not an easy answer to whihc books. As Ben mentioned (naturaly) get a copy of the Red Book. Great info not easily available elsewhere. Then, decide on a series that you would like to collect. there is a reference book (or three) on nearly every coin series out there. As others have mentioned: what would you like to collect?
Morning Mike; I have to agree with Bonedigger, the Red Book is a must have for the new collector. It offers invaluable information in a one volume text and the photos are great. For in depth info you can use one of the other texts that have been mentioned in this forum...but that's down the road as you just need some general knowlege and (IMHO) Red Book's the best.
Oh...one more thing Mike. Do not hesitate to ask a question on any subject regarding coins and numismatics in this forum. The folks who post in these threads are some of the most knowlegable, intelligent and friendly people I have ever come across....and they get back to you quickly with answers.
