Coin collecting for beginners

Tip 1 – Seek information:
from a coin dealer

The obvious place to start is by contacting your local coin dealer(s). In Switzerland, it is advisable to choose dealers who are members of the Association of Swiss Professional Numismatists (VSBN). You will also find useful tips and information about collecting on the association’s website:

To find out more: www.vsbn.ch

Tip 2 –
Seek information: online

The internet is a good source of initial information about coins. Search for specific coins or visit selling platforms, but beware of taking the asking prices at face value. Sellers will often try to push their luck.

Tip 3 –
Seek information: the Coiniverse app

Make use of the Coiniverse app (available on the App Store for iPhones and Google Play for Android). The app offers a host of coin-related features: scan and identify your coins, share your collection with the community and find out lots of interesting background information about your coins.

 

Tip 4 –
Seek information: learn the jargon

Coins can be roughly divided into bullion coins (these usually have a high material value and are attractive as a store of value), circulation coins (minted for payment transactions) and special coins, which are often minted for anniversaries. Bullion coins are often worth many times more than their minted face value, while circulation and special coins are, with a few exceptions, less suitable as a store of value.