The U.S Mint began releasing annual proof sets in 1936 that included one proof of each coin that was struck for circulation that year. The practice continues to this day with many collectors considering the annual proof set a ‘must get’ every year. Since the early 19th century, the United States Mint has been producing proof … Continued
ModernCoinMart proudly presents an in-depth article on coin toning. This article will cover what causes coin toning, precious metals that are the most prone to toning, and more! What are toned coins? Toning is the visual evidence of a chemical interaction process. The metal in the coin interacts with ambient chemicals, often oxygen or sulfur, … Continued
This entry will cover some of the most frequently seen Ancient Coins from the Roman, Greek, and Byzantine Empires. These are the most common denominations of ancient coins. Greek Coins Electrum Staters The first coins of the world, minted in electrum, were staters and their fractional parts. The most common size of the earliest coins was … Continued
The Una and Lion Coin is one of the most stunning coins ever made. Read more to learn about this classic numismatic design and its modern iterations! Who Designed the Original Una and Lion Coin? William Wyon remains one of the most prolific and admired artists in the history of British coinage. Wyon was responsible for … Continued
This 1 oz. silver round carries a rare design on its face – a forgotten sketch created nearly 100 years ago by George T. Morgan! Based off of the obverse of the silver trade dollar, this design was intended to be used on a 5 oz. gold coin used for large money transfers. Instead, it … Continued
Every year, the United States Mint issues its Uncirculated Coin Sets as a way of preserving coins with the same designs as those used in everyday commerce. The sets are perfect for collectors who choose not to take circulating coiage for granted, and they are often affordable enough for even the most budget conscious collectors. … Continued
In 2019, collectors were treated to special issues from the US Mint. Each of the three annual sets included a penny with the “W” mint mark of the West Point Mint. Although pennies had previously been struck at the facility, never before had they borne its mint mark. In keeping with the theme of the set, the W-Lincoln … Continued
The five-cent coin was created in 1866 to meet the growing need for circulating coinage in the aftermath of widespread hoarding of silver and gold coins during the Civil War. It was not known at the time as a nickel because coins of that metal, three-cent pieces, already existed. When postwar rebuilding began, nickel was … Continued
Confused as to whether certifed coins or uncertified coins fit you better? We offer some points to consider that may help you in your decisions regarding how you collect coins. Certified coins are a growing part of the coin collecting hobby. Certified coins have been submitted to a professional grading service such as the Numismatic Guaranty … Continued
Coin Collecting is considered the world’s oldest and most rewarding hobby of them all. Coins tell the story of humanity from the beginning of early monetary systems to today’s economic structure. Every coin has a story to tell, where you can hold history in your hands. Rare coin collecting was originally known as the Hobby … Continued
