how to start collecting coins

I just received an e-mail from a grandmother asking how she could introduce her grandson to coin collecting. I thought the information I shared with her might be helpful to others who would like to help a young person learn how fun it can be to collect coins. This is especially true during the Christmas season where many a parent and grandparent are searching for a gift that will be cherished and remembered with fondness rather than one that will be tossed aside in a matter of days once the fad has worn off.

With that in mind, here is what I suggested to her. I would start by going to a local coin shop and picking out a few Whitman folders for your grandson to begin filling from pocket change. You can also buy them online (or search for the best price on Froogle).

It would also be a good idea to get him the redbook, formally known as A Guide Book of United States Coins.

It will probably cost less than $20 for two folders and the book, and the recipient would be able to begin collecting a series and learn more about them in the guide book. It seems like a pretty good gift idea for the nascent coin collector.