Coin guides and articles
Identification guides, value checks, error coins, and collecting advice, written for people who just found a coin.
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Error Coins1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent: Complete Identification ReferenceThe 1969-S doubled die cent shows bold obverse doubling with a single S mint mark. Genuine examples sell from $25,000 to over $100,000.
Articles
Coin IdentificationMint Marks on US Coins: Where to Find ThemMint marks on coins are small letters that show which US Mint struck the coin: P for Philadelphia, D for Denver, S for San Francisco and W for West Point, plus CC, O and C on older pieces. On most coins dated 1964 or earlier, look on the reverse near the bottom. From 1968 on, look on the obverse, usually near the date.
Coin IdentificationCoin Scanner: Scan a Coin With Your Phone to Identify ItA coin scanner is a phone app that names a coin from a photo of its front and back, usually in a few seconds, and shows its country, date range, metal and an estimated value. The apps are free downloads, but most charge for full results, with in-app purchases on the US App Store running from about $1 to $50 (September 2026). A scan is a first guess: confirm the date, mint mark and weight yourself before you buy or sell.
World & Ancient CoinsHow to Authenticate Russian Imperial Coins for New CollectorsAuthenticating Russian imperial coins means checking weight, die detail, and edge lettering against known records. New collectors should verify rubles through PCGS or Heritage auction comps.
World & Ancient CoinsKingdom of Two Sicilies Coins: Identification and Value GuideKingdom of Two Sicilies coins are identified by ruler, denomination, and Naples mint marks. Values run from a few dollars to thousands for rare gold.
World & Ancient CoinsHow to Tell if a Canadian Coin is Silver or Just PlatedThe fastest way to tell if a Canadian coin is silver is its date and a magnet test. Circulating silver coins run through 1968.
World & Ancient Coins20 Most Valuable Canadian 100 Dollar Gold Coins for CollectorsThe most valuable Canadian $100 gold coins are the 1976 Montreal Olympics and early 22-karat commemoratives. Their value tracks gold spot, mintage, and grade.
Values & PricesHow to Find Rare Coins by Asking Your Bank Teller: Coin Hunter PSAThe fastest way to find rare coins is to ask your bank teller to order coin rolls and boxes at face value. Tellers can request half-dollar boxes, cent bricks, and dollar bags that often hide silver and error coins. This costs nothing beyond the coins' face value, so every hunt stays low risk.
Coin IdentificationHow to Identify Civil War-Era Coins: Authentication GuideCivil War-era coins date from 1861 to 1865. Identify them by metal composition, denomination, and mint mark against PCGS references.
US CoinsHow to Identify a 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar: One of Only 16 KnownThe 1964 SMS Kennedy half dollar is a rare satin-finish special striking. Fewer than two dozen genuine examples are known to collectors today.
Coin IdentificationHow to Spot a Counterfeit Trade DollarThe fastest way to spot a counterfeit Trade Dollar is to weigh it. A genuine coin hits 27.22 grams of .900 silver. Most fakes run several grams light.
World & Ancient Coins18 Canadian Silver Quarters Worth Money: Pre-1968 IdentificationThe most valuable pre-1968 Canadian silver quarter is the 1875-H, worth over $2,000 in VF-20. The 1889 and 1936 Dot follow close behind.
World & Ancient CoinsHow to Read Roman Coin Inscriptions for BeginnersReading Roman coin inscriptions starts with the obverse legend naming the emperor. Abbreviations like IMP and COS reveal his titles and date.