Jag, Everyone has differing opinions. Since no one has mentioned Franklin halves, I will. They are a great place to start as a collector- only 35 coins. can put together a complete set for $100 or so, and upgrade into uncirc mint state as your eyes and budget get larger for not much more than 3x that amount. Other than roosies, and Jefferson nickles, it is the least expensive US series (outside of the clad dollars). Don
AU = Almost Un circulated BU = Brilliant Un circulated Also we have: G=Good VG= Very Good F=Fine VF or XF= Extra Fine AU = Almost Unc BU or Mint State= Brilliant Unc
I have been collecting Kennedy halves for a while now,they are not really expensive.I have been able to get alot of them from my bank at face. I fill my whitman folders then replace the coins (upgrade) in the folders as i find them in better grades. Good Luck,enjoy them coins !