SALARSNET READING ROOM
Coin collecting guides
Find a place to start, then explore the coins and questions that interest you. These 44 guides and articles are on SalarsNet and cover collecting, silver, grading, authenticity, and coin history.
Start here
New to coins? Begin with the basics and learn how silver coins differ from collectible coins.
U.S. coins
Explore familiar American series, from early coins to Morgan and Peace dollars.
Grading and certification
Learn what a grade means and how third-party grading works.
- Coin Grading Standards
- Below VF: Lower Grade Coins
- VF to XF: Very Fine to Extremely Fine
- AU-50 to AU-58: About Uncirculated
- MS-60 to MS-64: Typical Uncirculated
- MS-65 to MS-69: Gem Uncirculated
- MS-70: Perfect Uncirculated
- PCGS Certification: Industry Leader
- NGC Grading: Global Excellence
- Population Reports: Market Intelligence
- Holder Technology: Security Innovation
Authentication and tools
Check what you have and learn which tools can help you inspect it.
Bullion coins
Understand gold and silver bullion coins, proof versions, and common buying decisions.
- Bullion Coins Investment Guide - Gold & Silver Eagles, International Coins
- American Eagles Investment Guide - Gold & Silver Eagle Coins
- International Bullion Coins - Krugerrands, Maples & Global Precious Metals
- Proof Coins Investment Guide - American Eagle & International Proof Coins
- Bullion Coin Investment Strategies - Portfolio Allocation & Timing
Ancient and world coins
Read about coins from other places and time periods.
- Ancient Greek Coin Collecting
- Ancient Roman Coin Collecting
- Byzantine Coin Collecting
- World Coins Investment Guide - International Numismatics
- British Commonwealth Coins Investment Guide
- European Coins Investment Guide - German States & French Issues
- Asian Numismatics Investment Guide - Chinese, Japanese & Indian Coins
- Emerging Markets Coins Investment Guide - Africa & Latin America
Research and care
Build a collecting plan, research prices, and protect the coins you keep.