My Numismatic Journey with Four-Legged Fridays: Celebrating Furry Creature Coins

There’s something special about coins that feature our furry companions. That’s why I started ‘Four-Legged Fridays’—a weekly ritual where I set aside time to explore and share coins, tokens, and medals with animal designs. From majestic lions to graceful stags, it’s become a highlight of my collecting week. And let me tell you, I’ve stumbled upon some real treasures!

Iconic Animal Coins I’ve Encountered

Over the years, I’ve met a whole zoo of creatures on coins that seem to leap out of history. One of my favorite finds? A Sicilo-Punic coin with Tanit on one side and a horse on the other—it’s from the SNG Cop 1024 series, and the level of detail still takes my breath away. Here are a few other animals I’ve run into:

• Lions, roaring with strength on ancient Greek or British coins
• Stags and deer, gracefully bounding from Roman times to modern commemoratives
• Griffins and other mythical beasts that add a dash of fantasy to any collection
• Even tokens with animal designs—they’re often affordable and a great way for new collectors to start

But the one that got away? A hobo nickel with a Franklin design carved into a moose. I saw it online and was blown away by the skill, but it slipped through my fingers. Maybe next time!

Practical Collecting Insights and Tips

If you’re thinking of starting your own animal coin collection, here’s what I’ve learned along the way. Grading matters: look closely at how well the animal details are struck—things like fur texture or the curve of a leg. Coins with crisp, clear features usually grade better and hold more value. When hunting for pieces, I’ve had good luck on eBay—you’d be surprised what turns up! Just remember to check the seller’s reputation and ask for clear photos to avoid fakes.

Right now, animal coins are hot. Collectors are snapping up both ancient and modern pieces. Silver rounds with wildlife designs can be especially appealing because they combine art with precious metal value. And here’s a tip: keep a simple catalog of your finds. It helps you spot trends and stops you from buying the same coin twice!

Why You Should Start Your Own Four-Legged Tradition

Adding this little theme to my week has made collecting even more fun. Every Friday feels like a mini treasure hunt! Whether you’re drawn to ancient history or shiny new bullion, animal coins have a story to tell and come in so many forms. Why not give it a try? Share what you find, and let’s enjoy these furry gems together.