Coin and Paper Money Collecting/Coin collection

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Expert: - 12/8/2008


Question
Dear PAPAJACK. I write to find out from you the real purpose why people engage in this kind of hobbie as I do altogether understand why. Perhaps with a great level of understanding I too can benefit from it. Thanks as I await your reply.

Answer

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Hello David,                     

This is a great question but has more than one answer I will only cove some aspect of Coin Collecting to keep it brief.

Why does anyone make collections of anything?
There are all kinds of art.
I think coins, especially if in good shape are beautiful examples of a lost art form. Many were designed by great artists like Augustus Saint-Gaudens and Hermon MacNeil.

The Current coin designs use the crafts of a medalist artist. (Someone who sculpts using metal.) Weather it is a religious icon or a piece of jewelry hanging on a neck chain, the medalist was working from conception to finished product.

Many older coins are quite Beautiful as well, up till 1909 there was never a living or dead person portrayed on coinage in the US.  The Mint used allegorical figures (justice, freedom, liberty) to express the American dream.  These were designed by artists and sculptors.  Some very famous sculptors were the Fraser’s’ and George Morgan for example.

It is harder to see on the flatly struck coins of today but look at a mint state grade 65 or higher MORGAN SILVER DOLLAR. The artistry is easily seen.  How the medalist carved the master so the finished product would strike up in full relief, each cotton boll every wheat grain and all the stars and letters.  Many consider it the most beautiful coin ever made.

Coins in fact are history in your hands. They were used daily by all people throughout the past millennia.  They also make a great gift for anyone who has not seen or used them. It may even start them on collecting coins or another common item.  

I would suggest something like Coin Collecting for anyone.

It is a hobby I share with many older than you. And I always find new aspects of it to interest me; sometimes the history of money alone is fascinating. Like the 3 cent piece and Half dime coin, or the Carson City Mint of the old west minting coins for pioneers.

Also it can be tailored to fit your budget and if you do tire of it you can pass it on to another hobbyist or liquidate your collection after holding it for a time.

It can be done regardless of weather at any time of year, warm or cold, where ever you may live.

Any one can start with a Type Set Collection or a Lincoln Cent Collection by Date and Mint Mark.

My only warning would be to watch for dealers overcharging for coins. Most coins are very common in lower grades. Just buy a book before buying a coin and you will be forearmed and ready to start. Look for the Red Book titled "A GUIDEBOOK TO UNITED STATES COINS” by R. S. Yeoman. It will help you decide if Coin Collecting is right for you.

I hope this information Helps. Feel free to ask me any question on USA Coins.

Thank You and Good Luck

PapaJack

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PAPAJACK

Expertise

Knowledge of United States Coins from 1793 to date. Able to answer most common numismatic questions. Collected U.S. Coins from half cent to 50 dollar gold coins.

Experience

QUALITY CONTROL
United States Coin COLLECTOR/DEALER OVER 20 YEARS, U.S. COINS Worked trade shows,
EXPERT Consulting since 1990, Knowledge of all methods of fabrication used in the industry.
Hobbies:US notes, clocks, cars, computers, coins, leisure activity and crafts to name a few.

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