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Collecting Basics


Coins have a rich history, making collecting a rewarding hobby.

People collect coins for many reasons, including historic or artistic value, or to invest in coins for potential long-term profit. Some people are casual enthusiasts, collecting foreign coins from trips or coins found by chance, such as a steel penny. Get started building your collection with these helpful resources.

Want to get kids interested in coins? Find kid-focused resources for the budding numismatist on the U.S. Mint Coin Classroom kids site.

Fun Facts

 

Did you know? The "D" mint mark has been around since 1838, but it hasn't always stood for Denver. The nickel's mint mark jumped Monticello in 1942 to signify some metal changes. No mint marks appeared on circulating coins from 1965 to 1967. The “W” mint mark can only be found on one circulating coin.

Test your knowlege on our Mint Marks page.