| By :
Mark Etinger
Coin collecting is a fantastic hobby to have, but like many hobbies, it can be a little hard to get started. There are varying levels of coin collecting and you need to make sure you know which level you identify with. They are the same precautions you would take if you were learning to paint. You wouldn't go out and spend hundreds of dollars on professional painting tools and supplies if you're really not at that skill or interest level. Therefore, if you are starting a coin collection for the first time, you would need different supplies than the veteran collector who has been collecting for decades. Coin collecting can be an expensive hobby depending on what level of collector you are interested in becoming, so it's best to be realistic when you think about what supplies you need. Here is a little guide to help you decide where you stand, and what the best option is for you and your budget. Young Collector or Low-Budget: For young collectors or those without an exorbitant amount of money to spend on coin collecting, you don't need to go all out to get started. All you need to have a successful collection is an interest in the hobby, a keen-eye for good coins, and a box to put your finds in. If you want to protect you coins from banging around and getting dull and scratched, put them in an envelope inside of the box. Many kids starting out don't have the attention span or the funds to maintain dansco coin albums, so it's best to start off small and the interest and professionalism will grow with the individual. Teen Collector or Low/Medium Budget: If you are in the mid-level of collecting or just want the step up from the plain-box, you may want to consider something that holds each individual coin and displays it attractively. Great coin holders are coin envelopes or sleeves with slots for each coin. Coin folders are also a viable alternative. They aren't quite as serious and professional looking as a leather coin album which can be an attractive attribute for a mid-level collector, as it can be less intimidating. Also, at this level of coin collecting, you may want to consider buying a good coin identification book. These can be great tools for helping you get pricing information on coins. If you're not able to purchase a book, the library could be a free substitute. Adult Collector or Moderate Budget: If you are at this level, your interest in coin collecting is higher than the average individual's, but budget is still a bit of a limit for you. It is still best to start gradual and build your coin supplies as you see fit. Starting off on the simple collecting foot is always smart. By not investing a great deal of money in the beginning, you are potentially saving yourself a fortune if you loose interest in the hobby or feel that you don't have enough time or energy to keep up with it. However, if you feel you are dedicated to the hobby and are willing to keep up with a professional type of album, you should go for it. Dansco coin albums are a really elegant choice, and preserve your collection for generations to come.
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