Every coin collector has to start somewhere -- now The New York Times provides a wealth of information in one concise yet definitive volume. Every aspect is covered, from the history and origins of coins to the ins and outs of professional and hobbyist collecting. Topics include:

* How coins are made
* A history of striking techniques, and a look at the U.S. Mint today
* Coin grading: what to look for, and how to obtain professional certified grading
* Where to buy them: the Internet, coin shops, auctions, and places to find great deals
* How to properly care for a coin collection
* The whole spectrum of collectible coins, from novelty items and children's coin collections to high-end, extremely rare collections.

Additional features include profiles of ten historic U.S. coins, a glossary of coin terms, and a detailed bibliography of essential reading. For both seasoned coin collectors and young readers who just picked up their first Statehood Quarter, this book is bound to prove more valuable than a rare mint.