How to Assemble a U.S. Coin Type Set as a Novice Collector

Barber Half Dollar

A basic "Type" Set of U.S. Coins is a collection of one representative piece for each denomination. If there has been more than one design for each domination, these are included too. The first United States-issued coin was the 1792 "half disme." Specimens of any coins prior to 1834 are very difficult (and expensive) to obtain. The novice collector is encouraged to start small and build his set gradually. He might want to focus on common date 20th century coins as his first project. We are now talking about the penny, nickel, dime, quarter, half dollar, silver dollar, etc. (Another of my articles explores rarer coins and the more serious side of building a complete Type Set, including gold coins).



Numismatics is a great hobby for children, as there is a lot of history associated with coins. Novice collectors will want to assemble an "entry level" Type Set. At first, circulated examples are fine, however, you may want to upgrade to uncirculated and Proof issue. Please keep in mind it is important to properly catalogue and store your coins. The following is a guideline for each denomination of coin.

Things You'll Need

• A magnifying glass
• A good light source
• Special acetate "flips" to hold coins
• A copy of "The Official Red Book" by R.S. Yeoman

Instructions

1. 20TH CENTURY CENTS
   
   Indian Head, 1900 to 1909 (This series began in 1864)
   
   Lincoln Head Wheat Reverse, 1909 to 1958
   
   Lincoln Head Memorial Reverse, 1959 to 2008

2. 20TH CENTURY NICKELS
   
   Liberty Head, 1900 to 1912 (This series began in 1883)
   
   Buffalo, 1913 to 1938
   
   Jefferson, 1938 to Present (There are also "Wartime" Nickels)

3. 20TH CENTURY DIMES
   
   Barber Head, 1900 to 1916 (This series began in 1892)
   
   Mercury Head, 1916 to 1945
   
   Roosevelt (90% Silver), 1946 to 1964
   
   Roosevelt (Clad) 1965 to Present

4. 20TH CENTURY QUARTERS
   
   Barber Head, 1900 to 1916 (This series began in 1892)
   
   Standing Liberty, 1916 to 1930
   
   Washington (90% Silver) 1932 to 1964
   
   Washington (Clad) 1965 to 1998
   
   Washington (Clad, Silver) State Quarters, 1999 to 2008
   
   
   Note: Regular Washington design resumes in 2009

5. 20TH CENTURY HALF DOLLARS
   
   Barber Head, 1900 to 1915 (This series began in 1892)
   
   Liberty Walking, 1916 to 1947
   
   Franklin, 1948 to 1963
   
   Kennedy (Silver), 1964
   
   Kennedy (40% Silver), 1965 to 1970
   
   Kennedy (Clad), 1971 to Present

6. 20TH CENTURY DOLLARS
   
   Morgan, 1921 (These were first minted in 1878)
   
   Peace, 1921 to 1935 (The 1921 Peace dollar was issued in "high relief")
   
   Eisenhower (40% Silver), 1971 to 1978
   
   Eisenhower (Clad), 1971 to 1978 (There are other varieties of "Ike" dollars)
   
   Susan B. Anthony, 1979 to 1981 and 1999
   
   Sacagawea, 2000 to Present

Tips & Warnings

• Start with uncirculated coins.

• Collect only one of each issue for each denomination.

• Move up to higher grades and all mint marks when you are ready.

• Some coins may be available in circulation; most will need to be purchased.

• Join a local coin club if there is one in your area.

• Find a local dealer who may be willing to help you for a fair/honest price.

• If you are new to the hobby, be sure to read "The Official Red Book" (mentioned above).

• Maintain an up-to-date inventory of your collection.

• Do not purchase coins from a flea market dealer or from TV coin shows.

• Do not buy coins from a dealer who you do not know.

• Be very leery of coins offered on an Internet auction house.

• Do not try to clean your coins.

• Do not store your coins in warm, moist areas.