It’s the thought that counts: unique gift ideas

Gifts are always a good thing to get, and if you are thinking of getting someone something, you want it to be special. There are many occasions varying from one person to another that is celebrated with gift giving. While there are so many options to choose from, once in a while, someone may want something that's unique and has a value measured by a lot of factors. If your friend or special someone happens to be into coin-collecting, then you know for sure what kind of gift would bring that light in their eyes.

There are a lot of coins out there, and you can choose from a wide array of them differing in size, beauty, bullion value, date and era, and place of mintage. Coin collectors may prioritize a collection, and you should put this in mind when looking for the ideal gift coins. Know the kinds the recipient likes to collect, and is constantly in the hunt for. Coins aren't always thought of first when thinking of gifts, and this will make yours a special one.

The one you're planning to give gifts to does not necessarily have to be a coin collector for you to choose coins to give. There are many beautiful coins out there that are sure to make non-collectors appreciate them just as much. Ornate old coins are always a good pick, since these kinds seem to carry sentimental value with them. These coins also show elegance to the artistic eye, since the designs and inscriptions are intricately decorated.

There are many coin shops out there as well as private collections from coin collectors. If you have decided to go for coins as a gift, then it is wise to visit reputed and trusted shops. Colonial Acres Coins is one of these shops, and the vast array of coins and friendly staff will assist you in picking just the right coins for your friends and family. We do not just sell coins, but also storage packs and materials to help for easier and safer packaging--- ones that will prevent your chosen gift coins from tarnishing and getting scratches.

Colonial Acres also features gift sets that may appeal to you. So if you have coins in mind, just drop by the Colonial Acres Shop. You are sure to find something valuable you'd want to share with that special friend. Stop and shop at Colonial Acres Coins, and you're guaranteed to have a fun and fulfilling time.

Interesting facts about Canadian decimal coins

Canadian Decimal Coins have been manufactured and minted for a long time. It has a history of its own, and every story has some interesting facts to share. Here are some interesting things about the Canadian Decimal Coins you should know:

• Canadian Decimal Coins started in 1858, and then soon after the Canadian Confederation was given authority in terms of coinage by the British Parliament. Before 1858, Canada adopted the British pound system.
• Also in 1858, Canada (which was still then a province) issued 20-cent coins. In 1867 the British Parliament declared the Dominion of Canada and after this the 1858 20-cent coins were recalled and melted. This happened because it was decided that the official denomination to be used will be the 25-cent.
• In 1871, the Uniform Currency Act dictated that the decimal currency is the official system to be used throughout Canada. It was also by this time that the first Canadian coins struck in the Royal Mint were made.
• From 1870 to 1923, 25-cent bank notes were made in Canada and were known as "shinplasters".
• In 1949, Newfoundland joined the Canadian Confederation. During this time, the first ever $2 22K gold coins struck in 1865 for Newfoundland only, became legal tender.
• In 1954, there were conflicts regarding the early printings of the Bank of Canada issues. These early printings showed a malicious image (devil's head) in the Queen's portrait. The image was seen through the highlights in the queen's tresses. This was a controversy and it led to total redesign of the Queen's portrait. The highlights were darkened and thus the image was removed.
• In 1968, coins minted were in base metal composition. 
• In 1979, the Gold Maple leaf coin was released and had a purity of .999. This was raised to .9999 in 1982 and became the purest of gold bullion coins.
• In 2007, Canadian Five Nines Pure Gold Maple Coins were created. These million dollar worth coins had a mass of 100kg, and only 5 were officially struck as of May 2007.

These are just some facts in the history of Canadian Decimal coins. The Canadian currency system had a rich history, and collectors appreciate this kind of value. Many collectors opt for their very own set of Canadian Decimal coins.

If you are interested in starting your own, you need to have dedication to do a lot of research about the coins you are collecting. Shops like Colonial Acres Coins can help you with their vast numismatic resources. More than that, Colonial Acres features a wide range of Canadian Decimal coins from 1858 one cents to present day $2 coins. Start your journey in coin collection with this set, and let Colonial Acres be the shop that guides and provides you the best of coins.

Canadian Decimal Coins: Where You Can Find Them

Canadian decimal coins known as the Canadian nickels, dimes and quarters are some of the rare coins in history. One- and two-dollar coins are also categorized under Canadian decimal coins. Some of these decimal coins are very rare because of minting quantity limitations and historical events that their value has skyrocketed like the 1936 dot cents. These dot cents were sold in auctions for as much as hundred thousand dollars. The 1936 quarter may not be as rare as the nickel and dime, but it is still very difficult to find.

There are a lot of Canadian decimal coins, varying in design and composition every minting year or era they were made. Many of the Canadian decimal coins have marked history. In fact, there are so many Canadian coins that have made their own names because of certain highlights in history. These coins mark special dates and represent major changes in economy or society. Some of these coins have become so rare that every collector wanted his/her own hands on them.

Coins have long started even before the forming of the Canadian Confederation back in 1858. But in 1867, the Dominion of Canada was formed by the British Parliament, thus officially starting the era of Canadian Decimal Coins.

Coin designs varied each reigning era and almost every coin featured the king or queen in ruling. Starting with Queen Victoria coinage, to King Edward VII, King George V and VI, to Queen Elizabeth II, the coin's obverse designs featured monarchs to commemorate their reign and to present authority and grace. As it has been from 1953, the Queen Elizabeth II bust is featured in today's coins as well. Special coins falling under the Canadian decimals are the 1936 dot coinage, the 1947 Maple Leaf coinage.

There are many coin shops and collectors that have these coins among their collections. Colonial Acres Coins, for example, has numerous categories for the Canadian decimal coins ranging from 1858 one cents to present day two-dollar coins. If you are looking for a shop which offers these coins then you should stop by Colonial Acres Coins. Their wide collection of Canadian decimal coins will surely give you what you're looking for, and while they may not have thousand dollar worth pieces, they are all in good condition. If you want to start coin collecting and are into these kinds of coins, then Colonial Acres Coins is the shop you're looking for.

Canadian Decimal Coins: Where You Can Find Them

 Canadian decimal coins known as the Canadian nickels, dimes and quarters are some of the rare coins in history. One- and two-dollar coins are also categorized under Canadian decimal coins. Some of these decimal coins are very rare because of minting quantity limitations and historical events that their value has skyrocketed like the 1936 dot cents. These dot cents were sold in auctions for as much as hundred thousand dollars. The 1936 quarter may not be as rare as the nickel and dime, but it is still very difficult to find.

There are a lot of Canadian decimal coins, varying in design and composition every minting year or era they were made. Many of the Canadian decimal coins have marked history. In fact, there are so many Canadian coins that have made their own names because of certain highlights in history. These coins mark special dates and represent major changes in economy or society. Some of these coins have become so rare that every collector wanted his/her own hands on them.

Coins have long started even before the forming of the Canadian Confederation back in 1858. But in 1867, the Dominion of Canada was formed by the British Parliament, thus officially starting the era of Canadian Decimal Coins.

Coin designs varied each reigning era and almost every coin featured the king or queen in ruling. Starting with Queen Victoria coinage, to King Edward VII, King George V and VI, to Queen Elizabeth II, the coin's obverse designs featured monarchs to commemorate their reign and to present authority and grace. As it has been from 1953, the Queen Elizabeth II bust is featured in today's coins as well. Special coins falling under the Canadian decimals are the 1936 dot coinage, the 1947 Maple Leaf coinage.

There are many coin shops and collectors that have these coins among their collections. Colonial Acres Coins, for example, has numerous categories for the Canadian decimal coins ranging from 1858 one cents to present day two-dollar coins. If you are looking for a shop which offers these coins then you should stop by Colonial Acres Coins. Their wide collection of Canadian decimal coins will surely give you what you're looking for, and while they may not have thousand dollar worth pieces, they are all in good condition. If you want to start coin collecting and are into these kinds of coins, then Colonial Acres Coins is the shop you're looking for.

What the letter “H” Stands for on Coins

Numismatics or the study of coin and paper currency is an age-old hobby that has been engaged by many people around the world. At its infancy, only the royalties were able to afford this hobby, as it was not affordable to trade rare and high-value coins.

When coins became common, coin-collecting was extended to the masses and people have started their own collections for many reasons: some for its monetary value; others for the historic significance of certain coins they collect.

If you have already started on coin-collecting, you may have come across coins that bears the letter “H” as one of its mint mark. What does this really stand for?

Digging a little bit into history, mint marks were used to trace the origin of the coins just in case the currency encounters any problem when it begins circulating. If for example the coin had discrepancies in weight, the mintmarks allow the government to trace the mint origin and have it corrected.

So going back to the letter “H”. These coins bearing the letter “H” are actually minted at the Birmingham Mint, which was owned by Ralph Heaton. The Birmingham Mint started producing coins in 1850 in cooperation with the Royal Mint until around 1907.

What does this mean for collectors?

Well, you can now have the same date and denomination coin, but with different mintages. For example, you may have in your collection the 1900 1-cent Plane that are both struck at the Royal Mint and at the Heaton Mint. Both coins would have varying rarity and values as well.

Knowing the history of your coins will help you a lot in determining their values and how you will proceed as an experienced collector. Numismatics is more than just looking for the face value of coins; it is a science that requires research and in-depth study so that you will be able to find the coins that can fit your collection best.

Whether you are a budding collector or an experienced numismatist, it is important to be connected with reliable numismatic firms that can help your source the coins that you need in your collection or to sell the ones that you do not have any penchant for. Colonial Acres Coins provide you with more than two decades of expertise and experience in numismatics and we do not only engage in buy and sell of coins but has the sincere desire of educating collectors like yourself. When it’s coins you seek, Colonial Acres is your best bet!

Coin Profiles: US Twenty Cent Coin

Coin collecting is a hobby that has stood the test of time. Often called as numismatics, people all over the world have fallen in love with collecting coins that tell a story or has more perceived value than what meets the eye.

In old manuscripts about the Roman Empire, it was depicted that Emperor Augustus collected coins that were old and foreign to his land. It can be said that this hobby was only afforded by royalty as it was not cheap to buy and trade these coins.

As years go by, the hobby of collecting coins has gone widespread, reaching almost every nook and cranny. Most beginners would start with affordable coins and once their collection grows, move up to collecting those that has more than just face value.

One of the more interesting coins that numismatists, or people who collect coins, look for is the US Twenty-cent piece. This coin was struck from 1875 to 1878. Quite amusing is the fact that the last two years when these coins are produced were reserved only for coin collectors!

This coin has proven to be quite a failure because it was confused for the already existing quarter dollar coin during that time. The two coins looked identical in size with the twenty-cent piece measuring 22 mm and quarter coin at 24.3 mm. Both coins feature the Liberty Seated design on their obverse or front sides and an almost same eagle on its reverse side. This resulted to poor demand, which prompted the abolishment of this certain coin by 1878.

The US Twenty-cent piece was designed by William Barber and weighed 5 grams. It is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. More than its metal composition, this coin is more memorable for its history, being one of the coins with the shortest mintages in the history of America.

As you see, there are a lot of things that you can learn about culture, history, and the people behind the minting of coins in different parts of the world. That is the reason why coin-collecting is not only a hobby but a tool on preserving a little piece of history in our hands.

If you want to start on your first coin collection or wanting to grow your current one, it is important to have a reliable partner who can help you expand your hobby further. Colonial Acres Coins has been in the industry for more than two decades of helping people find that prized coin that will complete their collection or to provide resources for those who want to start on the craft. If you want to start on numismatics, visit Colonial Acres today and learn the tricks of the trade the fastest way!

Coin Profiles: The 1930 Australian Proof Penny

Coin collecting has started since coins were first created. People hoarded coins for their bullion value, and it was only later on that collectors started to appreciate coins by their artistic value and design. The coin collecting hobby sprawled worldwide, and Australia has its very own numismatic history.

One of the most prized in Australian coins is the 1930 One Penny. Back in the days when coin collectors started their own collections and noticed that some of the coins are actually hard to come by, the 1930 penny was the rarest. For some time after, it was known to most collectors how rare the 1930 penny was. Some collectors were even willing to pay a large amount just to get it and finally complete their coin sets. Recently, one coin was sold by the owner, Belinda Downie, for an amount higher than $1.5 million.

During the Depression, no 1930 pennies were issued by the Commonwealth of Australia. Some were struck by the Melbourne Mint to test dies in preparation if ever the Commonwealth gave orders to officially produce coins. These "test" coins are the 1930 Australian Proof Penny.

Because of the continuous rise in the value of the 1930 Australian Proof Penny, forgeries have become inevitable. If you happen to have one and are unsure, always ask for professional assistance from a member of the Australian Numismatic Dealers Association. They have enough experience and are of high calibre to help you fault the coin or consider it genuine.

The obverse side is struck with the Indian Obverse Die. Only two 1930 pennies were believed to be struck with the London Die. The final upstroke in the N of the OMN sits in line with an outer rim bead. The colon following the inscriptions IMP is aligned between two beads.

The reverse is struck from the London Master Die. The letters A and L in AUSTRALIA are aligned with the beads of the outer rim, and the letters I and A at the end of the inscription are between the beads of the outer rim.

So if you ever come across a 1930 Australian Penny and are unsure whether or not it is genuine, check the obverse and reverse side if they coincide with the standards above. Also, it is a good practice to ask for people specialized in faulting coins and also sending it to a trusted coin grading company.

Coin collecting is a fun and rewarding hobby, especially if you have the diligence to search through the many coin shops and events. A trusted coin shop is a good partner as you grow into a professional collector, and one coin shop with a trusted reputation such as Colonial Acres is a helping hand to assist you in achieving your ideal collection.

Understanding Coin Toning

Toning might make your coins look better, but there is a chance that it may lose value despite its new sheen. Valuing a coin based on its toning presents problems for the collector.

Is the coin more valuable or not after toning?

What is coin toning?

Toning describes the light patina or discoloration that appears on the surface of a coin because of the oxygenation of the chemicals in the air. The level of the tone depends on the metal. This process may take months or years; you shouldn’t worry about it if you stored your collection properly.

Toning is a natural process, especially if the coin is decades old. It may take centuries for a coin to reach its least attractive and darkest look.

Will toning add value to your coin collection?

Several factors affect the value of a coin, but the highest value goes to coins that retained their surface appeal. If a coin is unattractive, unless very rare, no one will likely purchase them and their value low; an attractive and toned coin will be worth more.

As the cliché goes, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Coins with a natural shine to them will always be worth more, but there is also a market for naturally toned coins. Always remember that the value of a coin will rely on its natural look, especially if it is a rare or old coin with limited mint.

What are the toned coins you will likely see?

The toning of a coin will depend on the type of metal. Older coins will display more color variation because of the less pure metal and multiple blends to produce it. Some metals also react faster and tone easier when exposed to certain environments.

1. Copper – the tone you will likely see is an orange to reddish-brown sheen to a full brown to almost black.
2. Gold – the coin will be bright yellow to orange, in some cases, the coin will look reddish.
3. Silver – the tone will be bright silver to brown or black. In some cases, you will see rainbow-style colors on the surface of the coin, which add to its value.
4. Nickel – the coin will have a silvery appearance to a grayish tone.

Toning is a natural process, but there are “coin doctors” who artificially tone a coin to increase its value. Watch out for these types of coins to avoid a scam. A coin that is artificially toned will not be as valuable as a naturally toned coin.

Find out more about coin toning and other essential tips for your coin collecting at Colonial Acres.

Cataloguing Your Coin Collection

Coin collectors are different from accumulators because the former keep a catalogue of their collection.

A written record of your coin collection allows you to monitor what you currently have, track its value and set future goals. A catalogued collection also makes it easier for your heirs to sell if they do not want to keep it. The records must contain the details of each coin, how much you bought them for and their current value. This makes sure that your heirs are paid properly when they decide to liquidate it.

Ways to Catalogue Your Collection

Coin cataloguing is not difficult, but it can be tedious, as you have to be detailed about your recording. There are several ways to catalogue your collection for your reference.

Notebooks

Notebooks are an old-fashioned way to catalogue your coin collection. Using a pen and ruler, start making columns to jot down detailed information about your coins. Here are some of the basics that your catalogue must have if you use a notebook:

1. Country
2. Variety
3. Year
4. Mintmark
5. Grade
6. Purchase date
7. Purchase price
8. Date sold
9. Sale price
10. Quantity

Checklist

A checklist is a simple way to catalogue your coin collection while you plan on which coins to add. Notebooks allow you to get creative, but a checklist is more organized. It has a type, denomination, year and mintmark for United States series coins. You can add more sections to your checklist to make it comprehensive, especially for tax purposes.

Spreadsheets

Simple programs such as Microsoft Excel let you monitor your coin collection and transactions. This program makes it easy for you to delete and add lines to each column and row, sort your coins and lets you calculate their value. It is also easy to add information using Excel.

Cataloguing Software

For enthusiasts, you can get software specifically for cataloguing your coin collection.

Some are free, some are at an affordable $20-$30 and others are pricier with more features. Its ease of use, user-friendly screens and a feature to allow you to organize your collection, pricing information and coin revaluation based on current prices are some of the things you should look for in software you buy.

You get what you pay for when you purchase coin-cataloguing software. Look for a product that has a free trial version or a refund guarantee if you do not like it.

These different coin-cataloguing methods will help you monitor and update your collection. Find out more about coin cataloguing at Colonial Acres Coins.

Wear Your Numismatic Hat and Get Ready for Colonial Acres Auction

Kitchener, ON, October 25, 2015 /ColonialAcres.com/ Are you ready to grow your coin collection? Well, you are in for a treat because we will not only be auctioning coins; we will also be putting great numismatic finds on sale!    

One of Canada’s leading numismatic firms, Colonial Acres, is holding a numismatic live public auction sale on October 25, 2015, 12pm EST.  With more than 750 quality items this auction will give collectors a challenging, but hopefully a pleasurable time in choosing that perfect piece to complete their collection. Collections will include, but not limited to the following:

• Old coin estate collections

• Gold and silver bullions

• Old paper money

• Group lots of tokens

• Overstocked items

• Original rolls

• World paper money

• Jewellery

• Silver year sets

• Royal Canadian Mint

• Franklin Mints and so much more

If you want to see these pieces in person, visit Colonial Acres’ October 25th auction at Colonial Acres Coins, 991 Victoria Street North Kitchener, ON N2B 3C7.

So what are you waiting for? Do not miss this rare opportunity to bid for your piece for as low as $1.00! Get that numismatist hat ready and grow your collection with wonderful finds from Colonial Acres! To get updates for this upcoming auction, visit https://www.colonialacres.com/auctions/.

About Colonial Acres
Colonial Acres has been in the numismatic industry for more than two decades and was founded in 1991 in Waterloo, Ontario. The business expanded with its first flagship store on Victoria Street in Kitchener, which was built in 1996.  Colonial Acres has been buying, selling, appraising Canadian and US coins, paper money and other related numismatic items and has been one of the leading numismatic firms in Canada. More than doing pure business, Colonial Acres prides itself with the helping hand they extend to both amateur and professional coin collectors with the helpful information they post about different numismatic items in their website. To know more about Colonial Acres, visit their website at www.colonialacres.com.

Coin Profiles: Canadian Maritime Coins

Coins are made for different purposes. One of the many reasons why coins are made is to commemorate a certain event in the history of the country or state it represents. Canadian coins, for example, have a reputation for representing the many highlights of Canadian history. One of these commemorative coins is the Canadian Maritime Coins.

Canadian Maritime Bronze Coins were made from 1861 to 1947. This was in celebration of Newfoundland’s union to the Canadian Confederation. Newfoundland was the last of the independent provinces to join the confederation.

This series of coins is composed of 4 coins from different provinces that have joined the confederation. Because all the independent provinces have united into one state, which is now Canada, they produced coins to level their monetary system with that of the United States of America.  In 1860, New Brunswick dollar was made. The coins were struck at the Royal Mint in London and were dated 1861 to 1864. These dollars were made to be of equal value to the gold dollar of the United States of America.

The obverse side of the New Brunswick cent featured Queen Victoria as was designed and engraved by Leonard C. Wyon of the Royal Mint. It was a similar design to the Canadian cent and Great Britain’s halfpenny. The reverse side of the coin was unique, however. A floral wreath surrounding a crown was featured on this side—which was intricately designed. This reverse side design was from C. Hill, and this design was the basis for the Nova Scotia bronze coins also. The production of New Brunswick coins came to a stop as it joined the Dominion of Canada in 1867.

The next coin in the Canadian Maritime series is the Nova Scotia coins. These coins are highly similar to those of New Brunswick. The notable difference is that these coins were valued for five dollars to the British pound sterling. All Nova Scotia coins also ceased in production when it joined the Dominion of Canada in the same year New Brunswick had.

Also a part of the Canadian Maritime Coin series is the Prince Edward Island coins. These bronze cents were produced at a privately owned mint—which is the Heaton Mint in Birmingham, England. The obverse features a portrait of Queen Victoria, which is identical to the Jamaican halfpenny. The reverse design was based on the provincial seal. It features the mighty English oak protecting three saplings, which represent the three counties of the Island. Unlike the New Brunswick and Nova Scotia coins, the Prince Edward Island coins continued in production even after it joined the dominion in 1867.

Now the last, but certainly not the least, are the Newfoundland coins. From 1865 to 1936, bronze cents that were similar to Canadian cents were struck for Newfoundland. These cents were designed like those of the other provinces; featuring a floral wreath surrounding the crown of St. Edward. The obverse also featured the portrait of Queen Victoria. Most of these bronze cents were struck at the Royal Mint, although some that are dated 1872 and 1876 were found to have been minted by Heaton Mint in Birmingham.

After Newfoundland joined the Canadian Confederation in 1949, the move ended a colorful era in Canadian numismatics.

As a coin collector, you make sure you get an honest and stress-free deal—and this is what Colonial Acres will be happy to give you.

Coin Profile: The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle Gold Coins

Coin collecting isn’t just a great hobby; for some it is a profitable activity and for others, even a profession. Some prominent figures in history have been avid coin collectors themselves. One of the famous people who loved coins is President Theodore Roosevelt.

In fact, there is one special coin that is tagged along his name. The coin is called the Saint-Gaudens double eagle coin. It is a gold coin worth twenty dollars in monetary value, but because of the ornate features, this coin is a gem to coin collectors to date.

When the United States of America became wealthy because of the California Gold Rush, the government decided to put that huge resource to use by minting gold coins in large denominations. This was also because people then didn't trust the paper money yet. Coins were still preferred over bills, because of the value of the metal used for the coins.

The double eagle coins were then minted in 1850, after the Gold Dollar Bill was passed in February 1849. These coins were twenty dollar coins. There were two different designs for the double eagle coins. First is the  Liberty Head design by J. Longacre which were minted from 1850 to 1907, and the next one was the famous Saint-Gaudens design, which was used from 1907 to 1933.

In 1907, Theodore Roosevelt requested sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens to design the double eagle coin because of his fascination over ancient coins. The obverse side featured a Hellenistic Lady Liberty in a flowing gown, holding an olive branch and a torch. The reverse side featured an eagle flying over a sunrise. The Saint-Gaudens coin is known for its ornate value. It was so intricately designed that some numismatists can easily declare it to be the most beautiful American coin to ever be minted.

The following year, 1908, some changes were made to the Saint-Gaudens coin. The "In God We Trust" inscription was added over the rising sun, and the roman numerals representing the year of mintage was changed from roman to arabic. Because of these changes, the original 1907 coins were considered rare and more valuable.

If you have just started with your coin-collecting journey, it is important to know of these different kinds of coins that you may want to include in your collection further along. In the case of some coins, there is more value that what meets the eye so it is important that you do some research. Keen coin collectors are knowledgeable enough to know that they can't successfully complete a collection without the help of other collectors and coin shops.

Colonial Acres Coins is one trusted shop that has rendered service to many coin collectors over the years, both in the business of buying and selling coins, as well as providing resources that could help budding collectors. Colonial Acres Coins have a wide variety of resources and coins to  answer the demands of serious collectors.

Different Strikes of Coins

Coins are made from different strikes. There are two known varieties of coin strikes. First is the business strike, and the second is the proof strike, Now, as a coin collector, it is handy for you to know what these strikes are.

The business strike coins are made for one purpose: for public circulation. Business strike coins are the coins you trade for everyday transactions. These are the coins you get from the bank. These coins are what you use in your daily exchanges at the mall, the market and whatever place that requires your money.

Business strike coins are made from coin blanks that are stamped from long sheets of metal that come in rolls. These coin blanks are annealed so they are easier to stamp. They are then washed and upset. After that, the coin blanks are ready for the coin die. Both sides of the coin are struck by the die. These coins are then inspected and if they pass the standard, they are prepared for release and circulation. The coins are sent to the Federal Reserve Bank, and from there distributed to banks, credit unions, stores and other outlets.

Proof strike coins on the other hand, are uncirculated coins. Proof strike coins are also made differently from business strike coins. Although it is struck at both sides (the obverse and reverse) like the business strike coins, proof strike coins are struck more than once. This results to sharper features, and clearer inscriptions and details on proof strike coins.

Also, the coin die for proof strike coins are specially polished and treated. This is the reason why proof strike coins have a different appearance. The background of the coin is mirror like and polished, while raised parts of the coin give a more frosty look. This kind of profiling is also known as cameo.

Coin shops such as Colonial Acres Coins have a wide variety of both coins for collectors such as business strike, proof strike or other kinds of coins ranging from different eras of human history.  So, if you ever want to start your own collection, or are in search of good coins, Colonial Acres Coins is a shop you should make a stop for.

Famous Collections Around the World

Coin collecting isn’t just a hobby for some people. Serious coin collectors like to think of coin collecting as a profession. This is actually true especially if the collector has gathered rare coins into his collection. Coin values continue to rise the rarer they get, and these values may soar to a  =big sum of money in the future.

There are many coin collectors around the world, but there are some whose collections have become the most famous .  Among these famous coin collections is the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution.  It is located in Washington DC in the Smithsonian Institution's Museum of American History.  It is one of the largest numismatic collections in the world and considered the largest in the whole of North America. It holds 1.6 million objects, and there are about 450,000 coins, medals and decorations.  It holds coins that were known to be found 2,700 years ago. Among its rarest coins are The Brasher half doubloon, the 1849 double eagle which is the first of the $20 gold coins,  and two  1877 fifty dollar patterns.

The Eliasberg Collection is also one of the most famous collections known. It is the first complete collection of circulating United States coins, categorized by date and mint mark. His collection includes an 1804 silver dollar, an 1870-S three dollar gold coin, the unique 1873-CC no-arrows Liberty Seated dime, a 1913 Liberty Head nickel and the very rare 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle gold coin. The only coin missing from his collection was the 1849 Double Eagle, which is considered a pattern coin by numismatists because it was made before the official production of coins. This coin is found in the Smithsonian Museum.

Also among the most famous is The American Numismatic Collection.  The main exhibit is the Harry W. Bass Collection. It is a collection that started after Bass decided to aim for a complete collection of United States-issue gold coins minted from 1795 to 1933. The collection also included the only complete collection of three dollar gold pieces including the 1870-S, and a complete collection of all U.S. Gold coin types from 1834 to 1933.

One of the most famous and timeless collections that have been auctioned for the last century is the King Farouk Coin Collection. This collection is owned by King Farouk I of Egypt who has ruled from 1936 to 1952.  Farouk was known for his insatiable appetite for coins and travelers from all over the world traded rare coins with him; some even traded him precious collections during the Great Depression because of financial instability.  The collection included the only complete set of Saint Gaudens twenty dollar double eagle gold coins. Also, some of the rare coins in this collection was auctioned and made their way to other collections such as the Harry W. Bass Collection, the Norweb Collection and John J. Pittman Collection.

Coin collecting is a good form of investment, aside from the fact that it is also a fun hobby. People will continually seek the rare coins and will pay a lot to get them. Starting your own collection is fairly easy and requires good knowledge. Colonial Acres Coins is open for sharing the knowledge to their young and new collectors-- and also has the vast array of coins that will help you start your own coin collection. Who knows? Maybe someday you will be one of the famous coin collectors the world has ever known.

Colonial Acres Coins is one of the leading numismatic firms in Canada, with more than a decade of helping coin collectors find their rare treasures.

Advanced Coin Collecting Supplies You Need to Know About

Advanced coin collectors need better supplies as they increase their collection. As you move forward in your hobby of collecting coins, you will discover that you have several options. There are also supplies that allow you to inspect and authenticate your coins on your own.

These advanced collecting supplies allow you to achieve your goals as an experienced collector.

Digital Scale
This tool lets you determine the weight of a coin. The weight is one of the factors that determine the authenticity of a coin. A digital scale also helps you identify if a coin you bought or planning to buy is an error coin.

A majority of digital scales lets you choose the unit of measure. It is important that the tool you purchase measures in grams with an accuracy of 0.01.

Digital Caliper
This tool is also known as a sizing gauge and is used to measure the diameter of a coin. To use this tool, place a coin between its jaws and slowly close it until it touches the opposite sides of the coin. A coin that was struck broadly or on an incorrect planchet, will not have the correct diameter. You can easily choose the unit of measure using the digital readout. Get a caliper that has an accuracy of 0.01mm.

Stereo Zoom Microscope
This tool enables you to inspect a coin at a high level of magnification. Choose a microscope that comes with dual eyepieces and optics to get you the most accurate image of a coin’s surface. The unit you purchase must also come with a mounted light on its neck to illuminate the coins you inspect properly.

A magnification range between 10X and 45X provides you with the best view of the coins you inspect. You can also use a stereo zoom microscope to authenticate a coin and identify die varieties.

Coin Cataloging Software
This tool enables you to keep track of the coins you have in your collection. Get software that has the following features:

1. Updated coin values and prices
2. Database of types of coins
3. Coin characteristics

​Natural Daylight Camp

To get the price grade of a coin, it is important to have this tool that provides a broad spectrum of colors and natural white light. A majority of indoor lights make uncirculated copper coins look redder than they actually are. On the other hand, fluorescent lights make silver coins look brighter than they appear to be. This tool enables you to identify if a coin is about uncirculated or uncirculated.

These are some of the advanced coin collecting supplies you must have to help you keep track, authenticate and inspect your collection.

Basic Coin Collecting Supplies You Need to Know About

Coin collectors need specific tools to preserve their coins from the elements, dirt and other factors that may decrease the coin’s value. Basic supplies such as holders, folders, albums and magnifiers are just a handful of things you need to have for your collection.

Holders
The most important supply you need for your collection is a safe place to store your coins in to protect them from damage. A majority of beginners starts using a ‘cigar box’ to keep their coins safe. However, this is an inadequate holder for coins as it does not prevent them from touching and rubbing against each other. This friction causes damage that reduces the value of your collection.

Get a holder specifically customized to store your coins. Most collectors use cardboard 2x2s as coin holders. These are 2” x 4” pieces of cardboard that has a hole in the center on both sides, and has a Mylar plastic inside. An affordable yet popular alternative is coin flips. These use Mylar plastic and measure 2” x 4”.

Albums and Folders
Another way to store your coin collection is by using a folder or album. Using a folder limits you to one side of the coin when you want to view your collection, but are affordable alternatives for beginners.

A coin album is ideal for advanced coin collectors as they are a bit pricier, but enable you to view both sides of your coin. They also provide extra protection because of the plastic inserts, keeping your coin’s surface safe form scratches and the elements.

Lighting and Magnifiers
You need to have proper lighting and a magnifier to view your coins properly. The best type of lighting is incandescent as it reveals any damage on the coins. Fluorescent lights are too mild and may make it difficult for you to spot any imperfections.

A hand lens with a magnification power of 2X to 3X is ideal for general viewing. For in-depth coin analysis it is best to use a lens with magnifying powers between 10X to 15X.

Padding or Soft Cloth
Collectors often overlook the importance of having a soft cloth or padding for viewing and displaying their coins. A coin is often damaged because it fell on a hard surface. Pads or a soft cloth will reduce the possibility of this happening.

These are some of the basic supplies you must have when you begin collecting coins. These make sure that your coin collection stays persevered over a long time.

Colonial Acres offers a variety coin collection supplies for budding and longtime numismatists.

Importance of Getting Your Coins Professionally Appraised

As a coin collector, it is important to know the value of the coins you want to purchase. You might get the short end of the stick because you failed to identify a value of the rare coin. You might pay more or get less for a coin inappropriately appraised. In such situations, a professional coin appraiser is a must-hire.

Determining Coin Value
The untrained eye will not be able to determine if a coin is worth its hefty or cheap price tag. Professional appraisers have the training and experience that developed their keen eye for details. They will help you determine the value of the rare coin you want to add to your collection.

Many new numismatists overpay for coins that are below their assigned grades, and only find out after trying to resell them. Avoid overpaying or underselling the coin in your collection with the help of an appraiser.

Identifying Rare from Common Coins
One of the less obvious mistakes of coin collectors is that they purchase unpopular or common coins that they plan on reselling.

There are coins that are too common or unpopular to have much value outside of your collection. A professional appraiser helps you determine which coins will have value, once you try to sell them to other numismatists. Their experience will help you identify which coins have value from the ones that do not have any. Appraisers can also identify which are rare form common coins that are worth an investment.

Facilitate Trades
Appraisers help you facilitate an exchange with a fellow hobbyist. It helps make the trade as even as possible, especially if it involves complete collections of rare coins or bullion. Some of these trades may cost five, six or seven figure coins, which makes a professional important and beneficial for all the parties involved.

Selling Your Collection
There are certain coins that will sell for a good profit at auctions, while others will not do as well. An appraiser will help you determine and suggest which coins you should sell at an auction and which ones to keep. They also re-analyze coins that you can resubmit for grading. There are rare coins that might increase in value after you resubmit them for grading.

These are some of the advantages of hiring an appraiser for your coin collection. A professional’s eye is different from a collector as they provide you with a detached and unbiased view of your collection.

Increasing the Value of Your Rare Coins

Are you planning on selling your collection or purchasing coins for the purpose of reselling them? It is important to know the value of the coins you purchase and the techniques for proper preservation. Doing so helps you get the ideal price for your collection when you decide to sell them.

Increasing the value of your rare coins also gets you a decent profit once you sell them.

How do you increase the value of your collection?

Avoid Cleaning Rare Coins
A rare coin has higher value when you leave it as it is. When you clean it using an abrasive or cleaning detergent, you remove its natural color, reducing its coin value. A rare coin gets hairlines or scratches and will lose its natural luster when you clean it thoroughly. Cleaning it will cost you more than half its uncleaned original value.

Cleaning a coin and selling it to a collector will not get you the value you want. A keen eye will quickly and easily detect the difference between a cleaned and an uncleaned coin.

Cleaned pennies have an unnatural, orange hue and will have blotches or streaks of color. Silver coins have an unusual and uniform grey color when cleaned. Generally, cleaned coins have a uniform reflectivity that they would normally not have.

Store the Coins Properly
Rare coins retain or increase in value when you store them properly. Scratched, marred and blotched coins lower their value that is why it is important to keep them in a holder.

Holders protect your coins from the elements and from falling. There are different kinds of holders such as 2x2 cardboards, plastic and Mylar holders just to name a few. These holders have their pros and cons, and varying price ranges. Look for one that is within your budget and can store your growing collection.

For advanced collectors there are AirTite, binders, tubes and albums. These storage supplies are pricier, but will preserve a larger collection better. AirTite holders are similar to 2x2 plastic holders but are round instead of square.

Get an Appraiser for Your Collection
There are certain coins that do well in auctions while others do not. With the help of an appraiser, you can find the right buyer and auction to get the most of your collection.

They also help you inspect and authenticate rare coins in your collection. You do not want to find yourself in a situation where you try to sell a counterfeit or severely damaged coin to another collector.

These are some of the ways to increase the coin value of your rare collectibles. Collecting coins can be a profitable hobby, only if you know how to store, authenticate and find the right market.