Can Silver Coins Be Restored? My Numismatic Insights
June 25, 2025My Fascination with the Rust Impression from the SS Central America Double Eagle
June 25, 2025
With 2025 just around the corner, I’ve been thinking about my coin collecting journey and setting some clear targets to make my collection even more special. Thought I’d share my personal wishlist along with a few lessons I’ve picked up about staying focused in this wonderful hobby.
My Personal Goals for 2025
I’ve tried to keep my collecting ambitions realistic this year. Budget realities mean I might only cross off a couple, but here are ten coins I’d love to find:
- That stunning 1957 Ceylon 5 rupees Buddhism commemorative in Cameo or DCAM proof – the eye appeal on commemoratives always grabs me
- An ancient coin with pedigree to the John Quincy Adams collection (specifically from the 1974 sale). As an Adams descendant, holding a piece my ancestor touched would be incredible
- A Mexican ‘Caballito’ peso in Mint State (MS62-63) without issues – gem examples go crazy price-wise, so I’m stalking the 2025 FUN show
- A gold Spanish cob, 1- or 2-escudos – shipwreck provenance would make it extra fascinating
- A US $3 gold piece in AU to MS grade to replace one I foolishly sold years back
- Key dates for my US Type sets – affordable but historically important gaps
- An Indian gold elephant pagoda – the artistry on these always stops me in my tracks
- A Cleopatra VII portrait coin in Fine or better with smooth surfaces – my gateway into ancients
- Either an English Commonwealth coin from Cromwell’s time or a 16th/17th century German thaler – those bold designs speak to me
This approach helps me chase quality pieces that each carry their own story.
Overcoming Common Collecting Challenges
Like many collectors, I’ve wrestled with impulse buys and ‘filler’ coins that clutter the collection. My toughest lesson? Discipline pays off. Limiting myself to 100 pieces means making hard choices – selling decent coins to fund great ones. Letting go feels like parting with old friends, but it’s taught me to buy smarter. For budget collectors like me, recycling sale money means fewer raids on the savings account. And cataloging early? Best decision I ever made – adding fair market values now saves my heirs headaches later.
Practical Advice for Achieving Your Goals
From my own stumbles and successes, here’s what actually works:
- Grading and Quality Focus: Stick to problem-free coins. For series like the Caballito peso, MS62-63 often hits the sweet spot between quality and cost. Always check luster and eye appeal – especially at auctions
- Market Savvy: Hit shows like FUN for specific targets, and watch for shipwreck coins – they pop up unexpectedly. Gold cobs hold value well, but wait for the right piece
- Collection Management: Clear out the clutter! I finally spent those hoarded bicentennial quarters. Good photos and records make downsizing less painful and preserve your collection’s story
- Set Realistic Targets: Start small – Jefferson nickels via roll hunting, maybe. For ancients, raw coins can be steals if you learn the diagnostics
This approach keeps your collection exciting and meaningful.
Broader Insights for a Rewarding Hobby
For me, collecting connects us to history and fellow enthusiasts. There’s real joy in completing sets, even with a rare gap or two. Downsizing actually feels freeing – it makes room for showstoppers like that multiple thaler I’ve always wanted. Remember: this hobby should spark joy, not stress. Focus on what truly speaks to you. Here’s to a year of great finds and shared passion!
