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Bellevue 425-454-1283 · Lynnwood 425-672-2646 · Issaquah 425-392-0450 · Tacoma 253-328-4014

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Tools for Coin Collectors

A binder of coins in a collection

Are you interested in collecting coins? Whether you’re an expert collector or a novice, it helps to have the right tools for coin collectors.

In this guide, we’ll go over both physical tools for coin collectors, as well as digital resources you can use in your coin collecting journey.

Physical Tools for Coin Collectors

There are a few different categories of coin collecting tools that are worth having on hand.

Tools for examining and handling coins

  • A magnifying loupe (10x magnification is commonly recommended)
  • An LED light, which could be a desktop lamp or a coin-specific product
  • Gloves for handling coins (cotton or nitrile are recommended)
  • Soft cloth or felt mat
  • A digital microscope for closer examination
  • A digital scale with a fine 0.01g sensitivity rating

Tools for storing coins

  • Coin flips (mylar is the preferred material generally, as PVC can damage certain coins)
  • Desiccants to keep moisture levels in check
  • Coin albums/binders
  • Safes or storage boxes
  • Airtight capsules

For more on this, see our coin care tips on how to store and protect your coins!

Reference tools

  • Coin value books
  • Notebook or inventory sheet
  • Coin collecting reference books

Digital Tools for Coin Collectors

Coin collecting has evolved in the digital age! Here are a selection of useful digital tools for coin collectors, along with digital reference materials to bookmark.

Price Guide Websites

A variety of websites exist to help you get an idea of what your coins might be worth. Of course, remember that these are just guidelines and the actual value that your coins could fetch will vary on a number of factors.

Digital Reference Tools

One of the most enjoyable parts of coin collecting is learning more about the new finds you’ve acquired! These reference sites and apps will help you learn about the history of coins and help you authenticate them.

Online Auction/Sale Platforms

If you’re buying or selling coins, you might wind up using an online auction platform. Before you do so, see these tips for buying rare coins and tips for selling rare coins.

Digital + In Person Resources Provide the Best of Both Worlds

While these coin collecting tools are helpful in a variety of ways, you’ll likely find the most enjoyment with getting involved in coins in your local community. That could be joining a coin club, visiting your local coin shop, or even attending a coin show!

Here in the greater Seattle area, Bellevue Rare Coins is proud to serve the coin enthusiasts in our community. We’ve been in business since 1979, helping Washingtonians buy, sell, and trade with confidence.

If you’re not in the Seattle area, we recommend doing some research in your community to find great coin shops, or even clubs that meet in your area. Getting connected locally can be very rewarding!

 

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  • Bellevue

    Bellevue

    321 Bellevue Way NE
    Bellevue, WA 98004
    Hours:
    Mon–Fri 10 am – 6 pm
    Sat 10 am – 3 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Phone: 425-454-1283
  • Lynnwood

    Lynnwood

    18411 Alderwood Mall Parkway Suite F
    Lynnwood, WA 98037
    Hours:
    Mon–Fri 10 am – 6 pm
    Sat 10 am – 3 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Phone: 425-672-2646
  • Issaquah

    Issaquah

    1175 NW Gilman Blvd Suite B16
    Issaquah, WA 98027
    Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am - 6 pm
    Saturday & Sunday Closed
    Phone: 425-392-0450
  • Tacoma

    Tacoma

    2302 Pacific Ave
    Tacoma, WA 98402
    Hours:
    Mon–Fri 10 am – 6 pm
    Sat 10 am – 3 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Phone: 253-328-4014