Coin collecting, also known as numismatics, is a rewarding hobby that combines history, art, and investment. For decades, the Littleton Coin Company has been a primary resource for collectors ranging from beginners to seasoned experts. If you are looking to start or expand a collection, understanding how to navigate their offerings is the first step toward building a portfolio of rare currency and historical artifacts.
Founded in 1945, this company has grown into one of the largest coin and paper money distributors in the United States. They provide a wide array of services designed to make collecting accessible to everyone, regardless of their location or experience level. This guide will walk you through the process of buying rare coins and currency effectively.
Understanding the Inventory
Before making a purchase, it is helpful to know what types of items are typically available. The inventory usually spans several centuries of history and includes various metals and denominations. Knowing these categories helps you focus your search on the items that interest you most.
United States Coinage
The bulk of most collections focuses on U.S. coins. You can find everything from early colonial issues to modern-day releases from the U.S. Mint. Popular categories include Morgan and Peace silver dollars, which are highly sought after for their silver content and iconic designs. You will also find classic “type” coins, such as Indian Head cents, Buffalo nickels, and Mercury dimes.
Paper Money and Global Coins
Beyond metal coins, many collectors enjoy paper currency. This includes large-size “blanket” notes from the 19th century, silver certificates, and modern star notes. Additionally, the company offers a vast selection of world coins, allowing collectors to own a piece of history from virtually every continent and era, including ancient Roman and Greek civilizations.
How to Place an Order
Purchasing from a reputable dealer should be a straightforward process. There are several ways to acquire items, depending on your preferred shopping style. Whether you like browsing a physical catalog or searching through a digital database, the options are designed for convenience.
- Online Shopping: The most direct way to buy is through their official website. You can search by specific dates, mint marks, or denominations. The site often features web-exclusive deals and real-time inventory updates.
- Mail-Order Catalogs: Many collectors still prefer the tactile experience of a printed catalog. These catalogs are sent periodically and feature curated selections, historical context for specific coins, and special sets that may not be highlighted elsewhere.
- Phone Orders: If you have specific questions about a coin’s grade or history, calling a customer service representative can be helpful. They can guide you through the ordering process and ensure you are getting exactly what you need for your collection.
The “Coins on Approval” Service
One of the most unique aspects of this company is its “Coins on Approval” program. This service is designed to bring the coin shop experience directly to your home. It is particularly popular among those who want to see a coin in person before committing to a purchase.
When you sign up for an approval service, the company sends you a selection of coins based on your interests. You have a set period—usually 15 days—to examine the coins in your own home. You only pay for the items you decide to keep. Anything you do not want can be returned in the provided protected packaging.
This service is an excellent way to build a collection systematically. For example, if you are trying to complete a set of Statehood Quarters or Franklin Half Dollars, the company will periodically send you the next coins in the series. It takes the guesswork out of finding the next piece for your set.
Evaluating Coin Quality and Grading
When buying rare coins, understanding “grade” is essential. The grade of a coin refers to its physical condition and level of wear. Most professional dealers use the Sheldon Scale, which ranges from 1 to 70. A coin graded 1 is barely identifiable, while a 70 is a perfect specimen with no visible flaws even under magnification.
Circulated Coins: These are coins that have been used in daily commerce. They will show varying degrees of wear on the high points of the design. While they are generally more affordable, they carry the history of having passed through many hands.
Uncirculated and Proof Coins: These items were never intended for general use or were preserved immediately after minting. They retain their original luster and sharp details. Proof coins are specially struck using polished dies and planchets, resulting in a mirror-like finish that is highly prized by collectors.
Protecting Your Investment
Once you begin purchasing coins, proper storage becomes a priority. Environmental factors like humidity, heat, and oils from human skin can damage the surface of a coin over time. To maintain the value of your collection, consider the following steps:
- Use Cotton Gloves: Always handle high-quality coins by their edges while wearing lint-free cotton gloves. This prevents fingerprints from etching into the metal.
- Invest in Proper Housing: Avoid using generic plastic baggies or PVC-containing flips, as these can cause chemical damage. Instead, use archival-quality holders, albums, or hard plastic slabs.
- Climate Control: Store your collection in a cool, dry place. Many collectors use silica gel packets in their storage containers to absorb excess moisture.
Managing Your Account
If you are a frequent buyer or a member of an approval club, managing your account is vital. You can easily track your orders, see what is currently out on approval, and update your preferences. If you ever feel that the frequency of shipments is too high, or if you want to switch to a different series of coins, customer service can adjust your subscription settings.
It is also important to keep records of your purchases. Documenting the date of purchase, the price paid, and the grade of the coin will help you track the value of your collection over time. This is especially useful for insurance purposes or if you ever decide to sell your items in the future.
Building a Lasting Hobby
Buying coins is more than just a transaction; it is an exploration of the past. Each coin tells a story of the era in which it was minted, the leaders of the time, and the economic conditions of the world. By purchasing from a trusted source, you ensure that the items in your collection are authentic and accurately graded.
Whether you are looking for a single silver dollar to give as a gift or you want to complete a comprehensive set of 20th-century coinage, the resources available through professional coin companies make the process enjoyable and secure. Start small, educate yourself on the history of the pieces you buy, and enjoy the hunt for that next rare find.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on preserving collectibles and understanding market trends in the world of antiques. Building a collection is a journey, and we are here to provide the guidance you need at every step.