Welcome to American Legacy: Unveiling the History of U.S. Coins, a blog series created for CoinCollecting.com. Whether you’re a lifelong collector or new to the hobby, this series will explore the rich and storied history of U.S. coinage, uncovering everything from iconic designs to hidden treasures. We’ll take you on a journey through America’s numismatic past, offering insights on how to build your collection, spot valuable coins, and understand what makes each piece a part of the American legacy.
Why U.S. Coins Hold a Special Place in History
U.S. coins are more than just currency; they’re a window into the country’s history and values. Each coin tells a story, from the revolutionary days of the U.S. Mint's inception to the modern, collectible masterpieces of today. This blog series will reveal the evolution of American coinage, touching on its most remarkable milestones and showing collectors what makes these coins so fascinating and valuable.
So, what’s in store for you? Let’s take a look at the exciting topics we’ll be covering!
NOTE: Blog links will become live as they are posted.
American Eagle Coins: A Collector’s Treasure Trove
The Silver Eagle is the world’s best-selling silver coin and a favorite among both investors and collectors.
We’ll kick off the series with a deep dive into American Eagle coins, some of the most popular modern coins produced by the U.S. Mint. These coins—available in silver, gold, and palladium—are loved for their stunning designs and valuable metal content. We’ll explore the history behind their creation, the most desirable editions, and how factors like grading and special labels can enhance their value.
Coin Collecting as an Investment: What Beginners Need to Know
Not all rare coins are expensive—sometimes, a hidden gem is waiting to be discovered in your pocket change!
Many coin collectors also see their collections as long-term investments. But what makes a coin valuable, and how can you build a collection that appreciates over time? This post will provide practical advice for beginners on how to invest in coins, including key tips on recognizing valuable coins, understanding market trends, and making smart buying decisions
A Practical Guide to Building a Collection of U.S. Large Cents
The U.S. Mint's first coin ever produced for mass circulation was the 1793 Large Cent—making it a true piece of American history!
U.S. Large Cents are among the oldest and most historic American coins, minted between 1793 and 1857. In this post, we’ll explore the best ways to start a collection of these fascinating coins. We’ll cover key dates to look for, the importance of condition, and where to find these coins at reasonable prices.
A Complete Guide to U.S. Mint Marks: Deciphering the Code
What do those little letters on coins mean? Mint marks are a key element of U.S. coins, indicating where they were struck. This guide will help you understand the history of mint marks, where to find them, and how they can dramatically impact a coin’s value.
How to Start Your Collection of Morgan Silver Dollars: A Comprehensive Guide
The Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most famous U.S. coins, known for its beauty and historical significance. We’ll guide you through how to start collecting these coins, including what to look for in terms of dates, mint marks, and coin conditions.
The Peace Dollar: America’s Symbol of Hope and Recovery
Struck from 1921 to 1935, the Peace Dollar was created to mark the end of World War I and the beginning of a new chapter in American history. In this guide, you'll learn about the coin’s origin, its striking design, key dates to collect, and how to start your own Peace Dollar collection with confidence.
Fun Fact: The 1921 Peace Dollar was struck in high relief, but the design had to be lowered the very next year due to excessive die wear. This makes 1921 issues highly prized by collectors today.
The Indian Head Cent: A Window into America’s Past
Discover the history and value of the Indian Head Cent, minted from 1859 to 1909. Learn why this iconic coin remains a favorite among collectors, which dates are most valuable, and how to begin building your own set.
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The Mercury Dime: A Symbol of Freedom and Democracy
Uncover the story of the Mercury Dime, minted from 1916 to 1945. We’ll explore its artistic design, symbolic meaning, and how collectors can identify valuable issues and varieties.
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How to Start a Collection of Walking Liberty Half Dollars: A Complete Guide
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar, minted 1916–1947, is one of the most beautiful coins ever struck. This guide highlights the history, key dates, and tips for spotting rare varieties and building a meaningful collection.
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The Ultimate Guide to Collecting U.S. State Quarters
The U.S. State Quarters Program (1999–2008) captivated millions of Americans. This guide explains how to collect them, highlights rare varieties and errors, and shows why the program remains one of the most popular in U.S. history.
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U.S. Commemorative Coins: Celebrating National Achievements
From honoring Olympic athletes to preserving historic landmarks, U.S. Commemorative Coins reflect America’s milestones. Discover how to collect these special issues and which commemoratives hold the greatest value for collectors.
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The Mysterious Origins of the 1804 Silver Dollar
Known as the “King of American Coins,” the 1804 Silver Dollar has a story unlike any other. Learn why no 1804 dollars were struck in their dated year, how they became legendary, and why collectors pay millions to own one today.
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