Introducing children to coin collecting can be both educational and exciting. Lincoln cents, also known as pennies, are an accessible choice due to their availability and historical significance. Starting a collection on a budget is feasible and can be accomplished for under $10.00. This guide outlines practical steps and resources to help you get started.
Understanding the Basics
Before beginning a collection, it’s essential to understand Lincoln’s cents. These coins have been minted since 1909 and feature the image of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse side. Over the years, various designs have appeared on the reverse side, such as the wheat ears (1909-1958), the Lincoln Memorial (1959-2008), the Bicentennial designs (2009), and the Union Shield (2010-present).
Gathering Initial Coins
The first step in starting a collection is gathering some initial coins, often found around the house. Check places like:
- Coin jars
- Wallets and purses
- Between couch cushions
- Under car seats
Once you have collected some coins, encourage kids to sort them by date and mint mark. This process will help them recognize different features and understand basic coin terminology.
Visiting Banks and Coin Stores
Once the initial coins have been sorted, a bank or coin store trip can be beneficial. Banks often have rolls of pennies that can be purchased for face value, and searching through these rolls can yield exciting finds. Additionally, many coin stores have bins or boxes of common Lincoln cents sold at a minimal cost, sometimes even a few cents each. This can be a cost-effective way to add to the collection.
Using Online Resources
The internet is a valuable tool for expanding a Lincoln-centric collection. Websites like eBay or coin-specific forums often have lots of pennies in bulk available for purchase at low prices. Be sure to set a budget and check seller feedback before purchasing.
Organizing the Collection
Once several coins have been gathered, organizing them is the next step. Affordable options for organizing a collection include:
- Coin folders or albums specifically designed for Lincoln cents
- Small cardboard holders, available at most coin shops
- Plastic zip-lock bags for temporary storage
Learning and Researching
Encourage children to learn more about their coins and the history behind them. Useful resources include:
- U.S. Mint – Lincoln Penny History
- Coin World – Lincoln Cent History
- PCGS CoinFacts – Lincoln Cents
- NGC Coin Explorer – Lincoln Cents
- Lincoln Cent Resource
Setting Goals
Setting goals can make the collecting experience more engaging. These goals can include completing a specific year set, finding pennies with different mint marks, or seeking out special editions like the 1909 VDB penny.
Conclusion
Collecting Lincoln cents can be an enjoyable and educational hobby for children, allowing them to learn about history, economics, and the value of collecting. With a small budget and the right approach, starting a collection is both feasible and rewarding. Encourage kids to take pride in their collections and continue exploring the world of numismatics.