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Buy or Find?

Is it better to buy coins for your collection or to find them? You certainly can do either or both.

The combination approach can be a good way to enhance your collection. For example, you can save coins in the America the Beautiful Quarters^® Program as you find them in your change and also purchase related collectibles like proof sets, uncirculated sets and first-day coin covers. 

If you are collecting coins from a certain year, but are having trouble finding them, you may want to purchase the hard-to-find coins.

Sources

Here are some sources to help build your collection. (The United States Mint does not recommend, regulate, or endorse individual providers of goods or services.)

• Banks: Search through rolls of coins you get from your local bank.
• The United States Mint: Add coins you purchase directly from the United States Mint's catalog, either in print or online at www.usmint.gov/catalog.
• Collectors: Other collectors sell or trade coins either privately or at coin clubs.
• Coin dealers: Coin dealers buy or trade coins. You may want to ask an experienced collector to suggest reputable dealers. Just watch out for scams. Dealers may run shops and/or be found via:
  • Coin shows: Compared to individual shops, these usually offer multiple dealers, a better selection, and more competitive prices.
  • Mail order: Numismatic publications run dealer ads, but check for a reasonable return policy before ordering and satisfactory coins on receipt.
  • Online: Hundreds of dealers offer coins on the Internet. Again, check for a reasonable return policy before ordering and satisfactory coins on receipt.
• Auctions: The rarest and most expensive coins often are available only through auction houses and online auctions. In either case, check prices in shops first to avoid overpaying, check for a reasonable return policy before ordering and make sure the coins are satisfactory when you get them.
• Flea markets, antique shows and craft fairs: Sometimes coins can be found at these events as a secondary source, but less competition can mean inflated prices and problem coins. Be careful.