Coin Collecting: An Introduction to the World of Numismatics, fourth edition is an up-to-date, comprehensive guide that explains everything a new collector should know about how to succeed in the "Hobby of Kings"--what to look for in a coin; mints and mintmarks; what makes a coin valuable; getting the most out of coin clubs, shows, and exhibits; how to find a trustworthy coin dealer; where to buy coins; how to care for and store your coins; understanding how coins are graded; the ins and outs of both buying and selling; commemorative coins; U.S. circulating coinage from 1793 to date, plus other coin-related collectibles--and many other subjects.

As the old saying goes, "Find a penny, pick it up, and all day long you'll have good luck." Now Kenneth Bressett, Editor Emeritus of A Guide Book of United States Coins (the "Red Book") and former president of the American Numismatic Association, has updated the definitive reference to finding just how lucky you can be as a coin collector.

From how to get started in the hobby to how to care for a collection, with full explanations of grading techniques and standards, coin prices, and values, Coin Collecting: An Introduction to the World of Numismatics shows everything clearly and with easy-to-follow detail. Squarely aimed at newcomers to collecting, this is a guide that covers all the different aspects of coin collecting--and in doing so brings a fun and potentially lucrative hobby home to readers everywhere.

Formerly titled Whitman Guide to Coin Collecting: An Introduction to the World of Coins and known by many as the "Yellow Book," this is the first title to be rebranded and published under the new Collector Series(TM)--your essential gateway into the fascinating world of collecting. This series provides comprehensive, up-to-date guidance on identifying, valuing, and caring for coins. Authored by industry experts, each book ensures enthusiasts can maximize both their enjoyment and investment.

New features include:

Expanded table of contents with more preview information.

New foreword by long-time coin collector and numismatic author Michael Garofalo.

Indexed with the type collector in mind, organized to help the reader who has taken an interest in one particular type across multiple denominations (e.g., Barber coinage, or the many variations on Bust coinage).

Revised Chapter 8, now called "Collecting with a Stated Purpose," focuses on the newcomer who is ready to start building their collection, providing basic information on every circulating U.S. coin series, from early copper half cents and large cents to date.

"A very important book that will help you begin your journey and learn what is important. It truly is a 'must have' when trying to find a good coin book that can help you get off on the right foot.'" --from the foreword by Michael Garofalo

"An invaluable research tool for a novice and a standard reference to look back to once you have become a seasoned collector." -Rod Gillis, Education Director, American Numismatic Association

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Foreword by Michael Garofalo

Publisher's Preface

Preface

Chapter 1: COIN COLLECTING AS A HOBBY

Chapter 2: COINS ARE WHERE YOU FIND THEM

Chapter 3: LEARNING ABOUT YOUR COINS

Chapter 4: HOW TO GET STARTED

Chapter 5: CARING FOR YOUR COLLECTION

Chapter 6: GRADING TECHNIQUES AND STANDARDS

Chapter 7: COIN PRICES AND VALUES

Chapter 8: COLLECTING WITH A STATED PURPOSE

Chapter 9: COMMEMORATIVE, BULLION, AND SPECIAL COINS

Chapter 10: ODDITIES, COUNTERFEITS, AND OTHER COINS

APPENDIX: GALLERY OF ACTUAL COIN SIZES

GLOSSARY OF COIN TERMS

BIBLIOGRAPHY

ABOUT THE AUTHOR