Just ask any experienced coin collector: If you want to get the most enjoyment out of your coin collection, you need to know the history of each coin. One of the best things about collecting coins is knowing that each has its own unique story to tell.
Here’s how you can make the most of your own coin collection.
Learn About Scarcity of Your Coins
The scarcity of a coin refers to the number of a specific issue that currently exists; other elements that contribute to its value include age, composition, design, and denomination. Coins can be scarce if limited quantities were struck or because—for whatever reason—few have survived since they were issued. The best way to determine the scarcity of the coins in your collection is to take a look at the latest copy of
A Guide Book of United States Coins. This handy resource gives collectors easy access to details about U.S. coins.
In addition to the aforementioned Red Book, other coin resources are readily available on the internet or by visiting your local bookstore, library, or
coin shop. Build your own by checking out the many specialized books that are available on coin collecting. You can also look up coin-collecting forums where collectors can ask about specific coins and talk numismatics with like-minded individuals.
Learn About the Stories Behind Your Coins
Stories add to a coin’s value—and it makes it fun and interesting to talk about.
When a new series of coin is made, despite careful planning, alterations are often made. For example, the original Abraham Lincoln had the designer’s initials on the reverse side: VDB (for Victor David Brenner). After complaints that the initials were too noticeable, however, they were ultimately removed. Consequently, the original VBD coin from 1909 became one of the famous coins in the United States.
Because coins display their year of issue, they are among the few dated keepsakes from specific years in history. There are coins from 1859 that commemorate the year the Comstock silver lode was discovered in western Nevada. During the Civil War, a coin shortage resulted in short-lived bronze 2-cent pieces that were struck from 1864 to 1873 and nickel 3-cent pieces from 1865 to1889. As you can imagine, these are prized mementos from this difficult time in our country’s history.
Coins dated 1969 have significance because that is the year men first walked on the moon. Coins struck in the year 2000 celebrate the turn of a brand-new century. Coins tell a story—and mark a little bit of history.
Contact Mile High Coin
We are a full-service rare coin company and precious metals brokerage with extensive knowledge and reference material for most American and foreign coins. With more than three decades of experience, we can answer all of your questions and advise on large and small coin collections. In addition, we offer the following services:
- Appraisal services for tax planning, divorce, insurance claims, estate planning, bankruptcy and more
- Educational seminars for community and professional organizations
We also work with sterling flatware, estate jewelry, diamonds, and watches. We work by appointment only at our Aurora location, so please call us at 720-370-3400. We look forward to serving you with our expertise.