I was in to coin collecting as a kid, but got out of it because I didn't know where to get any coins so I got out of it. I recently went to an antique store and they had a bunch of coins. It sparked my interest back into collecting coins. I was reading that I should only collect a few different series of coins. I know everybody has a different opinion on the best coins to collect. I have been looking into a few different series. I would some opinions on if these are some good series to start collecting. I'm thinking about Mint, Proof, Morgan, Walking half, barber half, Peace silver dollar, and Civil War paper money. I also think it would be cool to do any old 1800 coins. I saw a 1804 draped bust 1/2 cent at the store I thought it was cool.
I collect them all varieties that is......got tired of filling holes and decided to collect something different so I look for varieties. But I do like half dimes, and nickels. But if a nice eye appealing coin comes along and it strikes my fancy bingo it's mine.
welcome to CT. collect what you want. buy books on grading. learn how to grade. buy what you can afford. once you've learned basic grading then buy more expensive coins.
Nothing but your own interests should define what you collect. Point being, the definition of "good" and "bad" varies in direct proportion to how much you like the issue. Morgans are "bad" for me because I really can't afford them, but that doesn't stop them from being my favorite.
There are many different sorts of personalities in coin collecting. Some like to obsess (too strong a word?) about getting date/mint-marks of a series, some collect types, some collect errors. Which is right? All of them. Only warning, don't think that you are going to get rich doing it. Enjoy and welcome to CT.
I'm not looking to get rich. I just think its cool and I want something to pass down to my kids. Now I'm not oppose to making money. It's just not my reason for doing it.
Worthy indeed. That's the right attitude to have, my friend. Welcome back to collecting and welcome to the forum.
There was nearly half a century between my two sessions of collecting. Never have had such fun since I got back in. Welcome to our group! There is a wealth of information here.
Welcome to CT. Read these threads, day after day, and you'll be amazed at what you didn't know...but know now! Steve
A wise move that puts you well ahead of an unfortunate number of would-be collectors. Regarding what to collect, the first thing you should understand is that your tastes are likely to change, so jumping face first into what you think you like now can be a recipe for regret. I realize that buying coins is part of collecting, but don't hurry into it... the more you learn before you buy the better. Be careful about making purchases from an antique mall or the like as there's is almost always a lot of over priced problem and/or novelty-type material available at such venues. If at all possible, try to find a dealer (does not have to be a B&M) local to you that is willing to walk you through the growing pains. Paying what may seem like a little more now from a knowledgeable straight shooter can actually, in the long run, be money well spent, especially when compared to the alternatives. You asked about books, and as the other young gentleman suggested, the "red book" would make a fine starting point, not so much for pricing (which, contrary to what some will tell you, are not simply "outdated"; the problem is where the so-called "values" come from) but for the other information within. Take it slow, learn first (before you buy), and most importantly, do what makes you happy.
This for first, and then hold off while you peruse what is and is not available for information at places like CT online. I offer this advice because specialized numismatic books can be expensive and you ought to further refine your interests before throwing money at them, not that I wouldn't suggest you buy books.
Yeah... that's it. However, you may want to consider an older edition (year or three) if you'd like to save a little money. Not necessary, of course, but is an option nonetheless.