Starting A Coin Collection Using The Year Of The Dragon Silver Coin

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By Marsha Klein


Coin collecting is a popular hobby all over the world. Whether intended as an investment, as a hobby, or merely as a way to mark an occasion, a special coin can make a wonderful gift. For anyone celebrating the birth of a child, an anniversary, or any other major milestone, the unique Year of the Dragon silver coin is an ideal gift or individual purchase.

Mints in most major countries around the world issue special silver coins several times annually to commemorate historical events, significant dates and important political or cultural figures. The Chinese New Year is one of those occasions often marked worldwide by the release of limited edition coins celebrating that year's zodiac animal. These are considered highly sought-after collectibles amongst hobbyists.

The dragon, a mythical, magical creature legendary in Chinese culture for its beauty, wisdom and strength, is the most popular of all the zodiac creatures. Those born in the year under this sign are believed to share these admirable qualities with the beast. Since the dragon also represents prosperity, a coin minted with its image would make a highly appropriate and cherished gift.

Whether collecting or beginning a collection for someone else, there are a number of key factors to consider before making any purchase. These factors will influence the type and cost of item purchased. They may also determine how the collection will evolve over time.

Consider the purpose of the collection. Perhaps it is intended as an investment for the future, with the hope that it will increase in value. Maybe it's meant to be saved and cashed in for a future purchase, education savings or an inheritance. If monetary value is the primary consideration, an expert should be consulted who understands the finer points of minting quality and date, rarity of production and wear over time. These factors can significantly affect the value of a given piece and the collection as a whole.

Some collections are kept as an historical record, intended as a means of preserving the history, art and culture of a given time and place. They are often carefully maintained and handed down from generation to generation as a family heirloom. For such a collection, quantity may be considered more important than quality. Emphasis is often placed on ensuring that every piece minted in a certain year or from a certain location or marking a certain occasion is collected rather than the rarity or value of the coins themselves.

For others, the collection is simply a hobby. It is often started as a child with a single gift and developed into a lifelong passion. For this type of collector, aesthetics and uniqueness may be the motivating factors for a purchase instead of the appreciable value of the item.

As either an investment, a keepsake, or a gift, a single coin is all it takes to begin a collection. But a tarnished penny found in a pocket won't do. For a special, meaningful piece to start a collection regardless of the collector's motivation the magical Year of the Dragon silver coin is an ideal starting piece.




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