Where to look for your coins, tokens and notes

• Your wallet
• Ask your family and friends
• Your local bank
• Collectors and coin clubs
• Coin dealers
• Coin shows
• Mail order
• Flea markets, antique shows, and craft fairs
• Auctions (must be 18 years or older to buy)
• Internet (must be 18 years or older to buy)

Investing in your collection

• Collecting can be a long-term investment but it should be done primarily because you enjoy collecting.
• Buy quality. It is better to buy one quality piece than many low-quality ones.

The basic tools you will need to start collecting

• Envelopes, holders, or albums for storing your coins and notes.
• A high-quality magnifying glass so you can look at a coin or note’s tiny details.
• A good general numismatic reference book. It should include information on dates, mint marks, major varieties, grading guidelines, and prices.
• Soft cotton or nitrile gloves.
• A plastic ruler that measures in inches and millimetres. Avoid hard metal rulers that may scratch your coins.
• A padded jeweller’s tray, plush towel, or some other soft cloth to set coins on when viewing them.
• Good lighting, such as a halogen lamp.