Every sound collection begins with a few core pieces. These coins were typically available at moderate or affordable prices, making them practical starting points and a foundation for building a collection around individual interests. For someone buying coins, the following selections were generally viewed as essential additions to a collection.
Walking Liberty Half Dollar
Many collectors consider the Walking Liberty Half Dollar among the loveliest coins to circulate in the United States. Adolph Weinman created the design, which presents a patriotic image of Lady Liberty moving toward a sunrise; the reverse displays an American bald eagle. The series was minted from 1916 through 1974. At the time of publication, individual examples could be purchased for under $10, and a collector with a moderate budget could assemble a complete circulated set for less than $1,000.
Indian Head Cent
The Indian Head Cent was struck from 1859 to 1909 and is recognized for James Longacre’s distinctive design. Rather than a Native American, it depicts Miss Liberty wearing a Native American-style headdress. When the original article was published, these were presented as approachable beginner coins, with examples found from $1 to $2, offering an entry point into coin buying. The Indian Head penny dated 1877 was described as the most popular and valuable. The article also cautioned that counterfeits had entered the marketplace and advised buyers at that time to use an experienced, knowledgeable coin dealer who could authenticate the piece.
Mercury Dime
This silver coin is called the Mercury Dime because Lady Liberty’s winged cap resembles the Roman god Mercury. Also designed by Adolph Weinman, the coin was minted for nearly 30 years, from 1916 through 1945. Its period of circulation included the Great Depression and two world wars, which helped establish it as a familiar collector staple. At the time of publication, examples could be found for a modest $1.50 to $5. The original article noted that many could be purchased in bulk, including $50 face-value bags. That approach was described as a cost-effective way to obtain a varied assortment of dates and begin working toward a complete collection.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
Although it was not presented as affordable as the other examples, the Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel was described as a highly popular error coin, with value depending on appraisal. These Buffalo Nickels retain the buffalo’s other features but lack its front leg on the reverse. The visible minting error made the coins well known; despite their scarcity, the article characterized them as a way for a beginning collection to progress. The Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel resulted from a Mint polishing mistake: the reverse side was effectively polished too heavily.
Coin collecting and buying were popular for their connection to American history and historical significance. Learning about these foundational pieces could help a collection develop from the ground up. When this article was originally published, readers were invited to learn about appraisal process at Atlanta Gold & Coin Buyers and to review coins in our inventory as a novice collector starting out.
