US Coins & History

Learn how US two-cent and three-cent pieces were made, why they were minted, and what shapes their collector value today.

Why the US Trade Dollar was minted for Asian commerce, how it differs from other silver dollars, and what shapes its value today.

What US Mint commemorative coins are, how they differ from bullion and circulating coins, and what shapes their collector value.

What Draped Bust coins are, when the US Mint made them, and how to think about their design, rarity and condition.

How the 50 State Quarters and America the Beautiful Quarters programs worked, and what collectors look for in each series.

How the American Gold Eagle began in 1986, what it’s made of, and how its weights and designs work.

A clear, jargon-free look at how American Silver Eagles are made, what .999 fine silver means, and how their value is determined.

How the Standing Liberty Quarter (1916-1930) came to be, what its symbolism means, and what to look for on this classic US coin.

Learn how to identify Mercury dimes, what the designs and mint marks mean, and what factors drive their condition and value.

Learn how the Barber dime, quarter and half dollar were designed, minted and identified, and what affects their condition and value today.