Coin collecting can be a very rewarding hobby once you know what you are doing. You might even be able to save up a significant collection that you can one day cash in for profit. But getting there from a fresh start will take some time. Here are some tips to keep in mind as a rookie coin collector if you want to jump start your collection and keep it in top shape.

Pick a Year or Series That You Enjoy

A mistake some rookie coin collectors make is to just start seeking out literally any coin at all from any year or series. But one of the keys to successful collecting is to seek out a complete series whenever you can. Owning a complete set from a specific year, for example, could increase the value of the entire series. So instead of just picking up coins willy nilly, do some research first and figure out which coins you enjoy most. Then, work towards building out your first series or year. 

Never Touch the Face

The first rule of handling coins is to never actually touch the front or back of the coin. If you must handle your coins for some reason, place one thumb along the edge on one side and your index finger on the other side. Do not ever the touch the image on the front or back of the coin. It's not a good idea because your fingers contain oil and even a brief touch can begin the process of deterioration. Ideally, you'll want to keep your coins in a sleeve or some other form of protection that locks out air.

Make Friends with a Local Coin Buyer

A great way to start your collection is by hanging out at a local coin shop. This will allow you to connect with others who enjoy the hobby. If you can hit it off with the coin shop owner, you may have an "in" to get first dibs on certain coins when they come in. If the shop owner sees a coin come in that they know you are interested in, they might let you know. Forming this relationship could also prove useful if you ever decide to sell your coin collection off for profit.

Start small when collecting coins and work on building out your first series or two. Use caution when handling the coins and keep them inside plastic sleeves when possible. If you follow these tips, you may be able to reap the rewards in the future. Contact a curator service such as Harlan J. Berk, LTD to learn more.