Coin Myths, Trivia & Facts

How NOT To Clean Coins: Tips On Cleaning Coins

how-not-to-clean-coins

OK, as I always start every post I write about how to clean coins, I’m going to put this blanket statement out right now: I strongly urge anybody who wants to clean their coins to reconsider. Why? Because an improper cleaning can ruin a coin’s value, damage its surface, and deny future generations the chance to enjoy your coin in its wholly original form. That being said, some people will still engage in cleaning coins anyway in an often ill-fated attempt to make it look brand new … [Read more...]

Six Fun Facts About Sixpence Coins

sixpence coins

For many, sixpence coins are more well known as a part of cultural lore than as a once-important part of the British pre-decimal monetary system, as well as that of several other nations, including Colonial America. So, for being a being a somewhat diminutive 19 millimeters, about the size of a United States one-cent coin, sixpence coins certainly have an incredible large presence in history. During most of their production, sixpence coins were struck with a 92.5 percent silver composition, … [Read more...]

New 2012 Coins from the United States Mint Commemorate an Iconic American Hymn, National Parks, and More

The selection of 2012 coins from the United States Mint include commemoratives honoring the bicentennial of the writing of the Star Spangled Banner. Image courtesy the United States Mint.

The United States Mint’s field of 2012 coins offers a wide array of beautiful designs paying homage to our nation’s historic figures, points of interest, and culture. As in previous recent years, coin collectors again get to choose from several designs honoring our country’s past presidents and national parks, but there is a new offering adding a more lyrical touch to the wide selection of coins, and a dollar coin that you’ll be chomping at the bit to buy.   2012 America … [Read more...]

Platinum American Eagle Coins Returning?

platinum-american-eagle-coins

Since 2008, the popular American Eagle bullion coin program has not seen the release of any platinum coins other than the one-ounce proof coin. But, that may change in 2012, as the United States Mint considers ushering in the return of the full line of platinum Eagle coins. Platinum American Eagle coins were first minted in 1997, and had been a favorite coin for tens of thousands of portfolio and IRA investors and coin collectors. Platinum Eagle coins are .9995 fine and were offered in … [Read more...]

Enormous Silver America The Beautiful Quarters Make Huge Debut

In 2010, America the Beautiful quarters made their debut. After much anticipation in the numismatic community, 5-ounce silver versions of the America the Beautiful quarters have finally been released. Here's the inside scoop on these large, silver America the Beautiful quarters and how you can get one (or more!)   … [Read more...]

The 2011 Mint Set: Great For Collecting Uncirculated Coins

Collecting each of the coins from 2011 is made easier by purchasing a 2011 mint set. The 2011 mint set contains uncirculated coins representing each of the designs and denominations the United States Mint has made for the year. 2011 is going to be another busy year for the United States Mint, so buying a set of coins for the year is one of the most convenient ways to keep up with the action. The 2011 United States mint set costs $31.95.   … [Read more...]

The No Cents ‘V’ Nickel: An 1883 Coin With A Story… Or Two!

When it comes to popular coins with interesting stories, there are few pieces that match the intrigue of this 1883 coin: the no-cents Liberty nickel.Designed by Charles E. Barber -- the same man who designed the Liberty Head 'Barber' dimes, quarters, and half-dollars -- the Liberty Head nickel was first released in 1883. However, during the first months of production, the 1883 Liberty Head nickel, a design which has a big Roman numeral 'V' on the reverse to symbolize five cents, lacked the words … [Read more...]

New 2011 First Spouse Gold Coins

The 5th year of the First Spouse gold coins series has begun. First Spouse gold coins honor the wives of each of the presidents featured in the Presidential $1 coin series. The half-ounce gold coins in the First Spouse series are released throughout each year.   … [Read more...]

2011 Proof Sets Offer Variety For Every Coin Collector

2011 is bringing a variety of United States Mint proof sets to coin collectors. With silver proof sets, copper-nickel clad proof sets, and commemorative proof sets, there are plenty of options when it comes to buying examples of 2011 United States coins. Let's take a look at all the shimmering details of what numismatists have to look forward to this year.   … [Read more...]

2011 Native American Gold Dollar Coin

With the Presidential $1 coin series in full tilt and now entering its 5th year, the changing designs on the Native American dollars also continue forth. 2011 marks the 3rd year the United States Mint has been honoring Native American history and culture on the dollar coin.   … [Read more...]