Thinking of becoming a coin collector? 5 simple steps to get you started.
- May 15, 2025
- Learn
- 5 minutes read
Are you thinking of starting a coin collection—but have no idea where to begin? Follow these five simple steps to help you get started and embark on your journey into the world of coin collecting!
Are you thinking of starting a coin collection—but have no idea where to begin? Follow these five simple steps to help you get started and embark on your journey into the world of coin collecting!
But first…why should you collect coins?
Collecting coins is no different than collecting artwork, sports memorabilia, or vintage stamps. Though everyone collects coins for a different reason, there are two main reasons why some people do it: for personal enjoyment or as an investment.
Collecting coins brings value
Not everyone collects coins as an investment. But if your collection includes higher-end coins made of pure precious metals or with very a low mintage, you may discover that some of these rarities have increased in value over the years.
Value that you may decide to pass on to children and grandchildren one day—enabling them to further enjoy (and increase upon) the legacy collection you’ve created!
So now that you understand the “why” of coin collecting, here are five simple steps to help you with the “how.”
Coin collecting is fun!
There is satisfaction in owning a collection of little treasures: intricately designed pieces of art that you can display and admire, any time you wish. There is also a lot of excitement that comes in the search for that perfect coin missing from your collection, but that’s not all.
You can also learn a lot from collecting coins and may even find yourself delving into history books, learning about different cultures, iconic individuals and milestone events. Studying coins taps into our passion for learning new things!
Step #1: Get to know your mint lingo
Like any specialized hobby or discipline, the world of coin collecting has its own language. Here are a few key terms to get you on your way, but more can be found in our glossary:
Bullion coins
Coins made of precious metals like gold, silver, platinum and palladium for investment purposes.
Circulation coins
Coins used in commerce and circulated among the general population.
Commemorative coins
Coins minted to commemorate or celebrate a particular event, person, place, or institution. These numismatic or collectible coins are not intended for circulation.
Face value
The nominal value displayed on the coin (not what you paid for it or what its worth).
Obverse
The ‘heads’ or front side of a coin, which normally depicts the national emblem or effigy of a prominent person.
Reverse
The ‘tails’ or back side of a coin, usually depicting a unique design.
Step #2: Just start collecting (yes, really)!
A coin can be prized for many reasons. It may be for its intrinsic value. Or because of the precious metal it’s made of like silver, gold, or platinum. But at its core, building a collection is about creating something of significance to you.
So simply begin your collection by acquiring coins that pique your interest.
A classic choice: A classic uncirculated coin set is a collection of uncirculated or proof coins, released by a mint. Almost every mint worldwide offers an uncirculated set. The coins are in true “mint condition” and make for a great budget-friendly starter set.
Classic Uncirculated Coin Set (2025)
Update your collection with this set of uncirculated 2025 coins.
Step #3: Define your collection type
Over time, you may notice similarities across your growing collection. It may be the glimmer and gleam of gold and silver. Or it could be the mintage. Or maybe you’re attracted to unique coin shapes and colours. Whatever those attributes may be, taking note of them will allow you to:
- Define more specifically what you want to collect
- Create coin sets based on type
Collection type ideas for beginners
Step #4: Create your toolkit
Great news! You don’t need expensive equipment to get started. Although you may want to invest in more specialized coin-collecting supplies and tools as you become more serious, these items are enough to get you started:
- Magnifying glass (ideally 7x magnification): To see coins’ details up close
- A notebook, index cards or software: To keep track of your growing collection
- Storage holder: To keep your collection safe and dry
- Cotton gloves: For handling your coins
- A basic reference book: For general information about coin collecting
Step #5: Take care of your coins
Caring for coins is not just a question of esthetics: your collection requires proper handling and storage to retain its value!
Below are a few tips to keep them safe.
Never handle with bare hands
Skin oils and dirt will damage your coin's finish and value. So never handle coins with bare hands; instead, use cotton gloves.
Avoid latex or plastic gloves because their powder or lubricants can damage your coins.
Use caution while handling
Always pick up a coin by the edge, between the thumb and forefinger. Never hold a coin by touching the obverse (front) or reverse (back) surface!
Afraid of dropping your coin when you’re handling it? Hold it over a thick, soft towel.
Meanwhile, limit how much you talk when you handle your coins. Why? Because tiny, almost invisible droplets of saliva can create impossible-to-remove spots.
Store and display safely
There are a number of different ways you can store and display your coins. Whatever you choose, make sure you’re using a product that’s designed specifically for coins such as acid-free paper envelopes or PVC free plastic holders.
Coins can be damaged by light, extreme temperatures, humidity, and even air. Your best option is to store them in a dark, dry, temperature-controlled environment.
For more inspiration and storage solutions, read our blog on how to safely store and display your collection.