An Introduction to US Coins

A coin is simply a piece of flat, thin plastic or metal used for the transfer of value, usually for trading, that is not meant to be carried around with the owner. They are usually standardized in size, weight, and made in large numbers at a central mint so that they can facilitate widespread commerce. Usually, coins are issued by an issuing government. Many coins also contain images, words, or numeric symbols on them.

US Coins

Many people collect coins for their value and as an investment. Some coins are rare, in that there is very little production of each coin, making each coin extremely valuable. Rare coins are also usually highly valued because of their scarcity, making it more difficult for collectors to find and purchase these coins.

Achievement, Bar, Business, Chart, Coin

Collectors should use due diligence when looking for coins that could be worth a lot of money since many unscrupulous people will offer coins that seem to be rare but are not challenge coins for less. To determine the value of coins, one must evaluate the piece’s age, rarity, condition, and other factors.

One type of coin that is collected widely is gold coins. Gold bullion coins are collectible because they represent a certain level of wealth and are usually stored by the governments in depository facilities. Because of the high value of these coins, they are issued in limited quantities and are usually obtained directly from the mint. Governments usually issue these coins with a certificate. The certificate shows the amount of gold that was released in the coin, how many were issued, and the date that they were issued.