Coin collecting, the most widespread hobby in the world is often referred to as the “King of Hobbies.” However, this term is a bit of a misnomer. Coin collecting involves more than just coins. In fact, in addition to rare coins, other frequent areas of interest in the coin collecting world include rare paper money, U.S. coins, world coins, and ancient coins. If it had a monetary value, there is someone collecting it.

It is not hard to see why there are so many coin collectors out there. Imagine holding a 100 to 1000 year old coin or bill. The weight of history far outweighs the weight of that coin or piece of paper.

The Beginning of Coin Collecting

Since the inception of standardized currency, people have hoarded coins for their bullion.; Later in Rome and Greece, people began collecting coins for their beauty as well. In addition to having an intrinsic value, coins were affordable, portable pieces of art. In fact, Augustus Caesar was known to give old or exotic coins to friends and courtiers on special occasions.

Later as the hobby grew and the years went by, collectors began to acquire old paper money, rare coins, world coins, U.S. coins, or even older ancient coins. The story of the coin or bill became just as important as the physical value of the coin’s metal content.

Why Collect Coins or Paper Money

Why would I or someone else collect coins or paper money? That is an excellent question. There are two main reasons for coin collecting – investment and passion.

*Investment – Rare world, U.S., and ancient coins and paper money have both an intrinsic value and a perceived value. Profit can be made through the value of a coin’s metal, or the demand for specific types of coins or bills. Those collectors whom fall into this category include speculators, long term investors, and hoarders.

*Passion – The vast majority of coin collectors do it for the pure joy of coin collecting. The beauty, history, or both of coins and paper money are what attract these collectors. For these collectors it is all about holding a rare coin or bill in their hand that could have been held by a great figure in history.

Whether for pleasure of profit, coin collecting can be a rewarding, exciting experience. With so many coins available, there is more than enough room for the enthusiast as well as the investor. So give it a try. Go out and find a coin or a bill. There are so many great coins and paper money out there – world, U.S., ancient, rare – you are sure to find something that sparks your interest. Who knows? You might make a mint!