Coins have been used as currency for thousands of years, but as technology advances, traditional coinage may soon fade into history. The world of numismatics often lacks the visual appeal and accessible guidance that could capture the interest of new enthusiasts. This scarcity of engaging, straightforward resources is one reason why the hobby may be dwindling today.

As I surveyed the coin-collecting market, it became clear that there were few simple, concise, and visually appealing introductory books or materials available. This observation inspired me to create my own guide. Initially, I intended to focus solely on key date coins, motivated by the time I spent combing through the internet when I first started collecting.

However, as I researched key dates, the project naturally expanded. I realized that a more comprehensive approach covering the basics of collecting, clarifying essential terminology, and offering historical insights into the U.S. monetary system would be far more valuable. By providing not just key dates, but also the stories and contexts behind each denomination’s design, I hope to create a resource that revitalizes interest in coin collecting and offers a better understanding of our numismatic heritage.

The information has been carefully selected and organized, and PCGS provided the coin images.