Coins
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Why Was There No United States Large Cent Minted in 1815?
If you are a collector of United States large cent coins, you will have a gap in your coin album where an 1815 belongs. Just like in modern times, the story of the missing 1815 cent is a story of supply chain disruption caused by a war.
Mercury Dime (1916–1945) Coin Collector's Guide
The Mercury dime was minted from 1916 to 1945 and is a favorite among coin collectors. The purpose of this article is to give the coin collector, whether a novice or an expert, a basic understanding of the Mercury dime series, including the history of the series, major rarities, and pricing.
Symbolism on the Mercury Dime Coin
The United States Mercury dime is a coin loaded with symbolism. The front depicts Lady Liberty with a winged cap, symbolizing “freedom” of thought. The reverse features the ancient symbol of the fasces, signifying great power, and the olive branch of peace.
The Follis Coin of the Ancient Roman Emperor Licinius I
The follis coin of the ancient Roman emperor Licinius I, who ruled the eastern kingdom of the Roman Empire from AD 308 to 324, is a fascinating coin and full of history. The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Licinius while the reverse has the god Jupiter, the goddess Victoria, and an eagle.
Collecting the U.S. Classic Head Half Cent Coin (1809 to 1836)
This article is an introduction to the U.S. Half Cent dating from 1809 to 1836 called the “Classic Head” design. The article provides the coin collector some basic information to get started collecting this series of U.S. half cents.
Highlights of the Jefferson Nickel Coin Series
The Jefferson nickel series started in 1938 and is still in use today. Over the years the series has undergone many changes: the silver nickels during World War II, the 2004 and 2005 Westward Journey nickels, and finally today's facing portrait of Jefferson and Monticello.
Kansas State Sales Tax Tokens
To bring revenue into the state treasuries during the 1930s, states started issuing sales tax tokens to cover the tax due on small purchases. The state of Kansas issued two small metallic tokens used to pay the sales tax on inexpensive items purchased at stores throughout the state.
Collector’s Guide to Barber Dime Coins (1892 to 1916)
Barber dimes, or “Liberty Head” dimes as they are also called, were minted from 1892 to 1916 and are popular with coin collectors. The purpose of this article is to give Barber dime collectors a basic understanding of the series, including the history, major rarities, and tips for collecting.
The 1605–1606 King James I Silver Shilling Coin
The silver shilling coin minted during the reign of King James I of Great Britain is an interesting coin full of history. The coin doesn’t have a date, but we know it was minted in 1605 or 1606 in London.
How to Spot a Counterfeit American Silver Eagle
American Silver Eagles are being counterfeited. Here are a few ways you can easily tell whether or not your Silver Eagle is legitimate.
1921 Missouri Centennial Commemorative Half Dollar Coin
The 1921 Missouri Centennial commemorative half dollar coin was minted to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the state of Missouri’s entrance into the United States in 1821 as the 24th state.
A Collector’s Guide to the Morgan Silver Dollar Coins
The Morgan silver dollar minted from 1878 to 1921 is the most widely collected United States coin of that era. They were minted in large quantites and are still available to collectors today. This article has tips and helpful information on collecting these treasures of yesteryear.
What's the Best Starter Metal Detector for Beginners?
Are you looking to get into the hobby of metal detecting? Check out my recommendations, as well as my tips on how to choose the best starter metal detector with the right features for your needs.
How to Detect Counterfeit Coins
Counterfeit coins have always been a problem for coin collectors. This article has some basic tips to help you avoid getting ripped off by purchasing fake or altered coins. A little knowledge about avoiding counterfeit coins can save you a lot of money.
Battle for the Peace Silver Dollar
The Peace silver dollar came into being through the vocal requests of coin collectors to commemorate the end of World War I. It was the last dollar coin to be made of silver for general circulation.
The 2016 10th Ounce Gold Mercury Dime
The 2016 Mercury Dime Centennial Gold Coin. This is an event 100 years in the making. Beautifully struck in .9999 fine 24–karat gold and weighs one-tenth of a Troy ounce.
Collecting U.S. Mint Lincoln Cent Coin Errors
Error Lincoln cent coins are interesting and fun to collect. Type of errors include: clipped planchet, blank planchet, defective die, off-center strike, and broadstrike.
America the Beautiful Quarter Errors List
Why stop with just the Statehood quarters when you could be collecting the America The Beautiful Quarters Program? Come learn more about National Park Quarter errors and values!
American Silver Eagle Coin Collector's Guide: Mintages and Price Guide
The American Silver Eagle one-Troy-ounce silver coin is a very popular coin with silver collectors and investors. Tables list quantities minted by year and likely eBay prices.
What Is a BU Coin?
Estimating a coin's value can be tricky for a novice, but most of us have happened across an interesting old coin and wondered about its worth. Here's a guide that will take you step by step to understanding how much your coin is worth.
Wheat Penny Values Charts
The wheat penny was an American coin designed by the U.S. Mint from 1909 to 1958. Some wheat pennies can be worth over $1,000! Now that's a pretty penny!
Ten Valuable Pennies Still in Circulation Today
Be sure to check your pockets! You might have a valuable penny in your possession. Find out which pennies you should look out for when counting your change.
7 Rare and Valuable Pennies Found in Circulation Today
In this guide, I cover seven valuable pennies that are still found in circulation today. These rarities pop up more often than you think! In addition to these seven coins, I reveal some of the rarest and most expensive pennies out there and discuss some of the nuances of numismatics.
State Quarter Errors List
State quarter errors are a great way to add value to your collection. Learn the history of the statehood quarters and examine a list of mistakes you can find.
Washington Quarters: History, Composition, Errors, and Value
Due to the quarter's long-running mintage, Washington quarter values have always remained promising. Discover which of these coins are the most valuable.
Roosevelt Dime Error List
The Roosevelt Dime Collection is a unique piece of U.S. Coinage history. In this guide, discover the history, key date values and dime errors contained within the Roosevelt Mintage.
Tips on the Value of Collecting Old Coins
The correct term for the study of coins is numismatic. Collecting coins from the U.S. and foreign countries over a few years can yield a small fortune with returns ranging from 20% to 30%.
Minerals, Metals, and Gemstones of Pennsylvania
This is a list of 60 minerals, metals, and gemstones that are native to Pennsylvania.