Collecting means bringing together objects of similar nature in order to observe, study, classify and preserve them,
whereas accumulating is just grouping or gathering objects without any particular order or care.
The enormous variety of pieces in existence means the first thing you should do to start building your numismatic collection
(i.e. coins, medals or banknotes) is choose the type of pieces or theme you wish to collect according to your interests, likes
and economic possibilities. Below are just a few of our suggestions from the many options available:
Denomination and monetary unit
Material
Origin
Year
Commemoration
Image
Shape
Period
Historical figure
Others
Remember that these topics are only suggestions. You are the one who decides the type of collection you wish to build.
Keep in mind that the pieces you choose will give you with the opportunity to learn and enjoy because you will have to observe them,
get to know their characteristics and research their context in order to understand their history. Collecting numismatic pieces is a
rewarding activity, but don't forget it requires time and dedication.
We generally believe that collecting numismatic pieces implies investing large amounts of resources, but this not necessarily true given
that the cost depends on the abundance and material of the pieces chosen. For instance, you can build a collection of Mexican coins
currently being minted (without including commemorative pieces) by investing just $18.80 per year, or, thanks to the inflation experienced
by many countries during the last decades of the 20th century, you can find banknotes and coins from various countries at very affordable prices.
As for managing and preserving your collection, it is important to follow our recommendations for handling, storing and taking care of numismatic pieces.
You should take into account that the above are just a few suggestions, every collector sets their own criteria according to their taste, interests and possibilities.
Now go ahead, start collecting!
