Before collecting, learn about ancient coins. Discover the civilizations whose coins you collect's history, culture, and numismatics. Books, online sites, and museums provide great knowledge.
Set your collecting objectives and preferences. Do you like coins from a certain civilization, time, or place? Want to specialize on Greek, Roman, Byzantine, or Celtic coins? Having specific goals will guide your collecting.
Buy books on the ancient coins you want to collect. These books identify coins, explain their history, and explain their market values.
Online forums, social media groups, and local coin clubs allow you to meet other collectors, ask questions, and exchange experiences. New collectors benefit from numismatic communities' knowledge and support.
Due to counterfeits and forgeries, antique coins are hard to authenticate. Learn about authentic antique coins' weight, metal composition, inscriptions, and style.
Start your collection with inexpensive, easily-identified coins. Beginner collectors should start with Roman or Greek city-state bronze coins.
Choose a theme or story for your collection. You could focus on coins with portraits of notable monarchs, mythological figures, or a place or era.
Visit trustworthy auction sites, online marketplaces, and ancient coin numismatic dealers. Look for merchants with good feedback, clear return policies, and a history of selling legitimate coins.
Carefully handle old coins to avoid damage or degradation. Cotton gloves prevent oils and dirt from spreading to coins. Keep coins in archival holders or coin albums.