Identifying old coins can be a fascinating hobby, and there are several methods to help you do so effectively. Here a step-by-step guide on how to find and identify old coins:
Finding Old Coins
Exchange Money at Banks: Obtain rolls of coins from banks and sift through them. Banks often have coins from various periods, and you might find older coins by examining these rolls closely. I think every digger in the back of his mind dreams of finding a redhead with his metal detector, which in professional slang treasure hunters is called gold. In any form, but, of course, it would be better to be a small bunch of royal chervos.
Search in Overlooked Places: Look in areas like backyards, inside walls, fountains, creeks, or abandoned houses. These places can sometimes yield hidden treasures.
Use a Metal Detector: Public areas, parks, and historical sites can be searched with a metal detector. This method requires patience but can be rewarding.
Identifying Old Coins
Visual Inspection:
Observe the Metal: Determine the metal type (e.g., copper, silver, gold) to narrow down possible origins.
Portraits and Symbols: Identify any portraits or symbols on the coin. This can help in pinpointing the era or ruler associated with the coin.
Legends and Inscriptions:
Read the Inscriptions: If possible, read the legends or inscriptions on the coin. These can provide crucial information about the coin's origin, date, and ruler.
Language: Note the language used on the coin, which can indicate its country of origin.
Use Online Resources:
Image Search Engines: Websites like Coinoscope allow you to identify coins by taking pictures of them.
Numismatic Forums: Platforms like Numista offer communities where you can post images and descriptions of your coins for expert identification.
Consult Experts or Books:
If the coin is particularly rare or valuable, consider consulting a numismatic expert or checking specialized books for more detailed information.
Check for Value:
Once identified, research the coin's value online or through auction sites like eBay.
By following these steps, you can effectively find and identify old coins, whether they are from your backyard or a distant historical site.
