As a seasoned expert in the world of coin collecting, I am often asked for my recommendations on the best coins to add to a collection. While there are many factors to consider, such as rarity and value, there are a few coins that stand out as the most popular among collectors. These coins not only add beauty and value to any collection, but they also have fascinating stories behind them. One of the most sought-after coins in the United States is the 1909-S Lincoln Cent VDB. This coin, designed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln's birth, is highly coveted by collectors.
In fact, many coin enthusiasts begin their collecting journey by acquiring these coins. The 1909-S VDB is considered the Holy Grail of Lincoln's one-cent coins due to its scarcity and historical significance. Another highly coveted coin among collectors is the 1878 cc Morgan Silver Dollar. While it may not be considered a key or scarce date, this coin holds a special place in American history as it was minted in Carson City, Nevada during the Wild West era. The uncirculated pieces of this coin are moderately priced and within the budget of both beginning and intermediate collectors. The 1914 D Lincoln Cent is another popular coin among collectors.
With a mintage of 1,193,000 coins, this coin is not as scarce as the 1909-S VDB, but its uncirculated samples are rarer due to not being kept in the same quantities. This makes it a desirable addition to any collection, especially for intermediate and expert collectors. One of the most famous error coins ever produced by the United States Mint is the 1955 Lincoln Cent with double circulation. This coin, which received two slightly offset impressions on its die, caused quite a stir when it was discovered. While it may not be as scarce as other coins, it is highly sought after by collectors and is considered a must-have for any collection. The three-legged buffalo nickel from 1937-D is another popular mistake coin among collectors.
This coin, which was created when an overzealous employee of the mint ground down the die, is a unique addition to any collection. While it may not have received the same level of attention as the 1955 Lincoln Cent, it is still highly sought after by intermediate and advanced Buffalo Nickel collectors. When it comes to collecting rare coins, it's important to be cautious. These coins are often the target of counterfeiters, so it's crucial to buy from a reputable coin merchant and have them certified by an external rating service. Many of these high-quality counterfeits come from China, so it's important to establish a relationship with a trusted coin trader. While these coins may be highly coveted by collectors, they are also within the budget of beginning and intermediate players.
Whether you're just starting your coin collecting journey or are an experienced collector looking for a quality addition to your collection, these coins are sure to add value and beauty to your collection.
