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As the title would suggest, collecting mint errors is something that should be enjoyed by the collector. While this seems like it would be obvious, it's easy to get caught up in various aspects such as paying too much attention to the coin's grade, or being concerned what other collectors may think of the "boring" niche that you collect, or even simply not taking the time to properly organize and look at your collection.

When I began collecting about 25 years ago (it's been that long!), there was not much that was more enjoyable than sitting down and reading the most recent weekly edition of Coin World, or pulling out my relatively small coin collection and looking at the dates and mintmarks that I needed, or calculating what my $75 from cutting lawns for months would be able to allow me to buy at the next coin show. Coin collecting was a blast (and still is) for me, and it should be for all collectors. There so much to enjoy about your collection. The history, the interesting error types that you collect, the rare and special mint error or variety in your collection, or the thrill of the hunt for the next coin to fill another hole in your set. 

So what are some good ways to keep the fires burning in your passion for collecting error coins? Here are a few ideas to keep coin collecting fun:

1.Join CONECA. Error coin collecting is more fun when you have other like-minded hobbyists to share it with. CONECA is the premier error coin club, and is publication Errorscope as well as the networking that can be done through the events and publication are priceless.

2.Subscribe to some periodicals such as Coin World and Numismatic News. Learning about your collection makes it so much more interesting!

3.Regularly checkout online forums such as the PCGS and NGC forums, and read and participate in discussions on your subjects of interest.

4.Attend coin shows. There's nothing like going to a coin show and seeing the many cases of rare coins on display, and being able to go to the auction (if there is one) at the show and see rare coins in-hand. Also, there will be numerous experts at the show which you can show your coins to if you have a question. They are also great places to buy coins, since you can see the actual coin in hand and access it better than you can online.

5.Connect and develop a good working relationship with a dealer you trust. Having a coin dealer who specializes in what you collect in your corner is a tremendous asset. I can't being to say how many rare mint errors I've found for customers who have given me their want list and who I've worked with for years. Many coins never make it to dealer's "regular" inventory, since they go straight into their customer's hands upon purchase.

6.Build a library of books on your subject of interest. Books are invaluable when it comes to coin collecting, since much of the available information on coins is not found published online. Buy and read books on your area of interest.

7.Take the ANA's correspondence course on mint errors and the minting process. It's an excellent way to learn about error coin and the minting process.

8.Attend the ANA Summer Seminars and take the error coin class. It's well worth the time and expense, and the people you meet you will likely stay friends!

We hope you enjoy your error collection, and if we can be of help, just let us know! jon@sullivannumismatics.com