How Niche Specialization in Tech Can Command $300+/Hour Consulting Rates
December 7, 2025How I Authored the Definitive Guide to Bicentennial Coins: A Technical Writer’s Path to Publishing with O’Reilly
December 7, 2025Sharing what you love can be a fantastic way to earn a living. Let me walk you through the exact process I used to turn my passion for coin collecting—especially evaluating sets like the Bicentennial series—into a profitable online course that’s earned me over $55,000.
Why Create an Online Course About Coin Valuation?
I noticed so many collectors were confused about what their coins were really worth. You’d see forum posts with people asking, “Any idea what this might be worth?” That’s when it clicked. My deep knowledge of coin valuation wasn’t just a hobby—it was a product people needed.
Finding a Niche People Actually Need Help With
Look for topics where people are clearly struggling. Take Bicentennial Coin sets. I saw one collector guess their set was worth $100, while another pointed out huge differences between auction prices and fixed listings. My course, “Coin Valuation Mastery,” was born to clear up that exact confusion.
Building Your Course Content Step-by-Step
Great content is everything. I broke my course into bite-sized modules that make complex ideas simple. For example:
- How to accurately grade a coin’s condition
- Spotting the difference between silver clad and standard issues
- Using free online tools to research value quickly
I made sure to include real-life examples, like walking through actual forum photos of Bicentennial sets. It makes learning feel practical, not theoretical.
Choosing Your Platform: Teachable vs. Udemy
I went with Teachable because I wanted full control over my brand. But Udemy is great for getting your first students. Here’s the breakdown from my experience:
- Teachable: You keep more money per sale and build a real brand.
- Udemy: Huge built-in audience, but you earn less per enrollment.
I started on Udemy to build momentum, then moved to Teachable to grow my own community and income.
Getting the Word Out: Marketing That Actually Works
A course won’t sell itself. I focused on free, helpful content to attract the right people. My strategy included:
- Short YouTube videos showing how I value specific coins
- Blog posts answering burning questions, like “Is Your Bicentennial Set Really Worth $100?”
- Joining online forums and groups to offer genuine advice (not just promotions)
This organic approach brought in eager students and consistently filled my courses.
Your Turn to Share What You Know
Turning your expertise into an online course is one of the most rewarding moves you can make. Find a need, create clear content, pick a platform that fits your goals, and connect with people who need your help. Your knowledge has value—why not start sharing it today?
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