Four Legged Fridays: My Journey Collecting Coins with Furry Creatures

You know, I’ve always had a soft spot for coins featuring wild animals—especially the furry, four-legged kind. It sparked this little tradition I call “Four Legged Fridays,” where I pull out my collection just to enjoy those numismatic treasures. Let me share some of my finds, along with a few practical tips I’ve picked up for building your own animal-themed collection.

Some Favorites from My Collection

Over the years, I’ve come across some truly special pieces that bring these creatures to life. Here are a few that always make me smile:

• A Hobo Franklin token with a striking moose—quirky American folk art and what a conversation starter!
• Ancient Sicilo-Punic coins, like one showing Tanit on one side and a horse on the other—you can practically feel the history.
• Various pieces featuring lions, griffins, and stags; my heart belongs to a medieval European coin with an incredibly detailed stag—the artistry is stunning.
• A token crammed with different animals on one face—a fun way to pack a lot of critters into one find.

Handy Collecting Tips

Building a collection like this? You’ll need a sharp eye and a bit of know-how. Here’s what’s worked for me:

• Where to hunt: Online auctions and coin shows are goldmines for rare pieces. I’ve had good luck on eBay searching simple terms like “animal coin” or “four-legged design.”
• Rarity and value: Mythical beasts like griffins tend to be scarcer (and pricier), while animals like horses are great starter pieces. Always ask about a coin’s history to avoid paying too much.
• Don’t skip tokens: They’re often affordable and feature fantastic animal art—perfect for expanding your theme without emptying your wallet.

Market Thoughts & Grading Tips

Coins with animals can hold their value well, but condition is everything. Here’s what I’ve noticed:

• Market trends: Pieces with history, like ancient horse coins, are getting more attention and can appreciate due to scarcity. Precious metals rounds featuring wildlife also hold solid intrinsic value.
• Grading focus: Keep an eye out for wear on the animal details—fuzzy legs or worn fur can really hurt the grade. A lion with a crisp mane might hit MS-65 or better, boosting its worth. Grab a magnifier to check those high-relief spots!
• Keeping them safe: Store these in acid-free holders to protect delicate features. I learned the hard way that sunlight can fade those lovely animal images.

Whether you’re a long-time collector or just starting out, my “Four Legged Fridays” have added real joy to the hobby. Give this theme a try—you might just find a hidden gem with a story as wild as the creature it shows!