1) Gain knowledge through reading books on the series you want to collect 2) Talk to as many advanced and knowledgable collectors you can that collect the series you want to collect 3) Join the ANA and take some of their courses if you can 4) Join forums that are known to help new collectors out and do not make you feel like a fool 5) Take the advice from well known collectors like Doug and Mark. They are stright shooters and tell it like it is. That is five I think new collectors should follow. My five 1) I buy only coins with strong strikes and clean fields 2) Try to stay with one series 3) Follow the market prices on the series I collect 4) Help new collectors if I can 5) Keep adding new coin books
I like your signature, but I believe it should read: Non Nobis, Domini, Non Nobis, Sed Nomini Tuo Da Gloriam Psalm 115:1 Kent
My Creed: 1. Buy what drives you absolutely passionate as well as insane ! 2. Understand that insanity before you buy it. 3. Make sure there are no wrinkles in that insanity when you do buy it unless all known insane items have wrinkles. 4. Always buy the best you can afford..if that means saving for a while to get that piece, then save for it! 5. Do what makes you happy for your collection...it matters not to anyone else except you, the Master of your destiny. Live, enjoy and live some more! RickieB
So much ground has been covered that I will just add one: Look at a coin like a clock face. Start at 12 o'clock and work your way all the way around. Get in the habit of looking like that and you will notice things that you could otherwise miss. Although eye appeal is a big deal marks and ticks on grade sensitive areas seem to be the number one determining factor in tpg unc grading.
Yes you are correct as it should read. This is how my grandfather spelled it out to me back in 1966. NON NOBIS, DOMINE, NON NOBIS, SED NOMINI TUA DI GLORIAM
My Five Numismatic Truths. 1.) Knowledge = Time + Money. You can either spend more money and make mistakes or spend more time and learn how to make wise purchases. 2.) A coin is only ever worth, what someone is willing to purchase it for. 3.) Only purchase coins that you love. 4.) The Greatest way to bring overall honesty to the Numismatic Hobby, is to always act with honesty in your heart and your dealings, even when you could get away with a dishonest act that would put you ahead. 5.) Always Have FUN!!!! When your fun ceases this Hobby loses you and that is a real bummer