The Ultimate Guide to Coins to Collect: My Top Picks for the Most Popular Types

Hey there, fellow coin enthusiasts! I’m Stephen Pfeil, the guy behind ShopGlobalCoin, where my team and I live and breathe the thrill of numismatics. My journey into coin collecting started with a single spark—a worn 1986 American Silver Eagle that caught my eye at a flea market. The American eagle, featured on the reverse of this iconic coin, stands as a powerful symbol of liberty and peace in U.S. coin design, appearing on many historic United States coins and adding to their appeal and value. That moment ignited a passion that’s led me to curate some of the world’s finest coins for collectors like you. Today, I’m diving deep into the most popular types of coins among collectors, focusing on modern coins (post-1986)—the best coins to collect for their beauty, rarity, and investment potential. Whether you’re hunting for all types of coins or chasing that elusive top-rated coin, this skyscraper guide will light the way.

Why modern coins? Since 1986, when the U.S. Mint launched the American Gold and Silver Eagles, we’ve seen a numismatic renaissance. The evolution of the United States coinage system since then has brought significant changes, with modern coinage reflecting advancements in design, technology, and security features. These coins blend cutting-edge minting tech, stunning designs, and low mintages that drive demand sky-high. They’re the coins to collect if you want history, artistry, and valuable coins without the hefty price tags of ancient rarities. From bullion to proofs, I’ll break down the different types of coins, spotlight the best coins to collect, and share why these post-1986 gems dominate the market. The broader history of United States coins and the development of U.S. coinage continues to shape what collectors seek today, making modern issues an exciting part of the ongoing story of American coinage. Ready to build a collection that shines? Let’s get started—and don’t forget to check out ShopGlobalCoin’s modern coin collection for graded treasures.

Why Modern Coins Are the Hottest Collectibles in 2025

Post-1986 coins aren’t just metal—they’re stories etched in gold, silver, and platinum. The American Numismatic Association (ANA) reports that 65% of collectors now prioritize modern issues, thanks to their accessibility, advanced anti-counterfeiting features, and strong appreciation (10-20% annually for top grades, per my data). What makes a coin “popular”? It’s a mix of:

• Low Mintage: Think 250-500,000 for bullion, under 10,000 for proofs.

• Iconic Designs: Eagles, maples, or cultural motifs that resonate globally.

• High Grades: PCGS/NGC MS70 or PR70 slabs that scream perfection.

• Historical Significance: Ties to events like the Olympics or anniversaries.

• Liquidity: Easy to buy, sell, or trade worldwide.

Different denominations and face values add to a coin’s collectibility and define its legal status as currency, with some coins issued for circulation and others as commemorative or bullion pieces.

At ShopGlobalCoin, modern coins make up 70% of our sales, and for good reason—they’re the sweet spot of passion and profit. Some coins remain in active circulation as part of everyday currency, while others are primarily collected or held as investment pieces outside of regular circulation. Let’s explore the different types of coins that collectors can’t get enough of.

1. Bullion Coins: The Foundation of Modern Collecting

Bullion coins are the heartbeat of any collection—government-backed, struck in precious metals (99.9%+ purity), and valued for both metal content and collector appeal. These coins are produced and minted by the United States Mint and other renowned mints, ensuring authenticity and quality. Many bullion coins are mint struck to high standards, setting them apart from common coins often found in everyday change, which may have historical silver content but lack the precision and collectibility of modern bullion. Since 1986, bullion has evolved from simple investment vehicles to must-have coins to collect with annual design tweaks and limited editions.

Why Bullion Coins Are So Popular

• Affordability: Start with a $50 silver coin or scale up to gold.

• Liquidity: Globally recognized, easy to sell.

• Modern Innovation: Privy marks, micro-engraving, and security features.

Top Bullion Coins to Collect (Post-1986):

• American Silver and Gold Eagles (1986-Present): The top-rated coin year after year. The 2025 Silver Eagle’s “Eagle Landing” is a stunner—this coin bears the iconic American eagle design, symbolizing strength and freedom—with proof mintages under 200,000. I’ve seen PR70 FDOI (First Day of Issue) slabs fetch 3x spot at auction.

• Canadian Gold and Silver Maple Leafs (1982, Post-’86 Proofs): 99.99% pure, with intricate maple designs. The 2024 1 oz Gold Maple in MS70? A ShopGlobalCoin bestseller for its radiant luster.

• Chinese Gold and Silver Pandas (1982, Modernized Post-’86): Annual design changes make each year a key date. The 2025 Panda’s bamboo motif and anti-counterfeit tech are driving demand.

Production of these bullion coins often involves large quantities of precious metals, especially when government policies require significant purchases for coinage.

My Tip: Bullion is your entry point. Start with a graded 2025 Silver Eagle FDOI at ShopGlobalCoin—perfect for stacking or gifting.

2. Proof Coins: The Pinnacle of Craftsmanship

Proof coins are the show ponies of numismatics—struck multiple times with polished dies for mirror-like fields and frosted details. These proof coins are often included in special mint sets minted each year for collectors, offering a complete compilation of that year's circulating coins. Post-1986, mints like the U.S. and Royal Canadian have pushed the envelope with limited-run proofs and uncirculated option, making them some of the best coins to collect for display and investment.

Why Proofs Are Collector Favorites

• Stunning Aesthetics: Deep Cameo (DCAM) or Ultra Cameo finishes pop.

• Low Mintage: Often under 50,000, sometimes as low as 250.

• Grading Premiums: PR70 coins can double in value within years.

Top Proof Coins to Collect:

• American Proof Silver Eagle (1986-Present): The San Francisco “S” mint mark screams quality. The 2021 Type 2 Proof in PR70 DCAM FDOI? A modern legend, population under 4,000—its low population makes it a scarce and highly sought-after coin.

• 2024 Proud Maple 2 oz Gold Coin (Royal Canadian Mint): With red enamel and a mintage of 250, this coin is a top-rated coin. Our PCGS PR70 FDOI, hand-signed by Susanna Blunt (pop. 7), is a crown jewel.

• Australian Kangaroo Gold Proof (1986+): The 2024 1 oz Proof’s kangaroo-in-motion design is a visual feast, with mintages under 5,000.

From My Experience: Proofs, including the Lincoln penny, are 45% of our sales at ShopGlobalCoin. They’re your collection’s art gallery—grab a loupe and marvel at the detail.

3. Commemorative Coins: Stories in Precious Metal

Commemorative coins are the poets of the coin world, celebrating events, people, or milestones. Since 1986, global mints have leaned into comms, making them wildly popular for their narratives and scarce nature. These are perfect for collectors chasing all types of coins with emotional heft.

• 2026 Los Angeles Olympics Gold $10: This coin was intended as a commemorative issue for the anniversary of the Olympics, making it a standout for both its design and historical context.

Some of the best commemorative coins have achieved remarkable results at auction. For example, the 1915-S Panama-Pacific $50 gold coin and the 1893 Isabella Quarter are notable examples that have been sold for significant amounts, highlighting their rarity and desirability among collectors.

Why Commemoratives Shine

• Historical Ties: From Olympics to cultural icons.

• Limited Runs: Often 10,000-100,000 mintages.

• Unique Designs: Colorized elements, holograms, or shaped coins.

Best Commemorative Coins to Collect:

• U.S. Modern Commemoratives (1982 Law, Post-’86 Surge): The 2026 Los Angeles Olympics Gold $10 is already generating buzz. The 1995 Atlanta Olympics half-dollar in MS70? A sleeper hit.

• Canadian Olympic Series (2010 Vancouver, Ongoing): The 2024 Paris Games 1 oz Gold Proof, with athlete portraits, is a collector’s dream—mintage 1,500.

• Perth Mint Lunar Series III (2020-2032): The 2025 Snake in silver or gold is a zodiac favorite, with mintages under 20,000.

Insider Note: I’ve supplied comms to private collectors and institutions. They’re the ultimate conversation starters—check our commemorative section.

4. Fractional and Oversized Coins: Big Impact, Small Sizes (or Huge!)

 

Fractional (1/20 to 1/2 oz) and oversized (2-5 oz) coins add variety to your collection. Smaller denominations, such as the one-cent coin, have historically been made from copper or copper alloys, which adds another layer of interest for collectors. Cents, especially those with unique metal content like copper, play an important role in coin collecting, as their composition can significantly affect both value and rarity. Post-1986, these have gained traction with privy marks and unique formats, making them some of the best coins to collect for budget-conscious or bold collectors.

Why These Sizes Stand Out

• Affordability: Fractions start at $100.

• Novelty: Oversized coins are display pieces.

• Set Building: Complete a fractional series for fun.

Top Picks:

• Fractional Gold Maple Leafs (1/20-1/2 oz, 1986+): Affordable entry to gold collecting.

• 2024 Proud Maple 2 oz Gold Coin: Its red enamel and PCGS PR70 FDOI grade (pop. 7, Blunt-signed) make it a heavyweight stunner.

• British Britannia Fractions (2023+): Security holograms add modern flair.

My Take: Fractionals are great for newbies; oversized coins like the Proud Maple are for show-offs. Both are undervalued gems.

5. World Coins and Errors: Global Flair and Quirky Rarities

For collectors seeking variety, world coins and errors bring international intrigue and one-of-a-kind appeal. Post-1986 globalization has made these more accessible, and they’re climbing the popularity charts. Notable U.S. coins such as nickels, quarters, and quarter dollars have played a significant role in both U.S. and world coin collecting, with their historical significance and collectible value recognized by numismatists worldwide. Pennies and rare coins are also essential for building a diverse collection, offering unique stories and investment potential within the broader landscape of U.S. coins.

Must-have coins for any collection include classic gold and silver issues, error coins, and coins minted at West Point, which are highly sought after for their limited mintage and distinctive 'W' mint mark.

Why They’re Hot

• Diversity: Coins from Europe, Asia, and Africa.

• Error Rarity: Misfits like off-centers or doubled dies.

• Modern Appeal: High-tech minting creates unique errors.

Must-Have World and Error Coins:

• Euro Gold Proofs (1999+): The 2024 Berlin Wall 35th Anniversary coin is a hit.

• South African Krugerrand Privy Marks (Post-1986): The 2025 Elephant privy is a collector magnet.

• Error Coins: A 2023 Silver Eagle with a missing “S” mint mark—forum chatter says it’s a $1,000+ coin.
  
  

Coin Grading and Authentication: Ensuring Quality and Value

If you’re serious about coin collecting—whether you’re after silver coins, gold coins, or the next rare find—understanding coin grading and authentication is absolutely essential. These two pillars are what separate a truly valuable collection from a box of pocket change. At Global Coin, we see firsthand how a coin’s grade and authenticity can make all the difference, whether you’re eyeing a Morgan silver dollar, a Liberty Head nickel, or a modern Lincoln cent.

Coin grading is the process of evaluating a coin’s condition, from its surface quality and strike to its overall eye appeal. The United States Mint and third-party grading services like PCGS and NGC use a standardized scale—ranging from circulated grades all the way up to the coveted MS70 or PR70 for uncirculated and proof coins. Even a small difference in grade can mean a huge jump in value. For example, a high-grade Lincoln penny or Mercury dime can be worth many times more than a similar coin with just a bit more wear.

Authentication is just as critical. With so many valuable coins in the market—think Brasher doubloon, Liberty Head, or rare silver dollars—verifying that your coin is genuine is a must. Trusted services like PCGS, NGC, and the United States Mint itself offer authentication, ensuring your coin isn’t a clever counterfeit. Always look for a coin that bears a clear mint mark, such as “S” for San Francisco or “P” for Philadelphia, as these can reveal where and when your coin was produced. Some mints, like San Francisco, are known for lower mintages, which can make their coins especially sought after by collectors.

Don’t overlook the importance of provenance—the documented history of a coin’s ownership. A coin with a storied past, perhaps once part of a famous collection or owned by a legendary collector, can command a premium over similar coins without such a pedigree. Provenance adds a layer of history and desirability that many collectors crave.

Whether you’re collecting circulating coins like Roosevelt dimes and Washington quarters, or hunting for the most valuable coins in U.S. history, always buy from reputable dealers and insist on third-party grading and authentication. This not only protects your investment but also ensures your collection is built on genuine, high-quality coins that will stand the test of time.

At Global Coin, we’re committed to helping collectors and investors build collections filled with authentic, properly graded coins—because every coin in your collection should be as valuable as it is fascinating.

How to Start Collecting Modern Coins: My 5-Step Plan

1. Set a Budget: $500 buys a multiple solid starter coin (e.g., Silver Eagle MS70 or Silver Eagle Privy Marks).

2. Pick a Niche: Bullion for value, proofs for prestige, comms for stories. Many collectors are drawn to coins featuring Lady Liberty and the motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST,' which highlight classic American designs and national heritage.

3. Buy Graded: Stick to PCGS/NGC for authenticity.

4. Store Safely: Use capsules or slabs, keep in a cool, dry safe.
   
   

Why 2025 Is the Year to Collect Modern Coins

With mints tightening production (U.S. Mint’s 2025 output down 10%, per reports) and inflation stabilizing, modern coins are poised for 15-25% ROI in high grades. They’re not just coins to collect—they’re your legacy in metal. The top-rated coin of 2025? My money’s on the 2024 Proud Maple 2 oz Gold PR70 FDOI, hand-signed by Susanna Blunt—only 7 exist!

Q&A: Your Top Questions About Collecting Modern Coins

I get tons of questions from collectors like you, so let’s tackle the most common ones to help you navigate the world of coins to collect.

Q: What is the most popular coin to collect? A: Hands down, the American Silver Eagle (1986-Present) reigns supreme. Its iconic Walking Liberty design, annual releases, and strong liquidity make it the top-rated coin globally. In 2025, the PR70 DCAM / UCAM Silver Eagle-S Proof. Morgan Silver Dollar sets remain a perennial favorite as well. The United States Mint has announced is the final year for this Proof Silver Eagle. It’s a must for anyone chasing the best coins to collect.

Q: What coins are collectors looking for? A: Collectors are hunting low-mintage, high-grade modern coins. Think 2024 Proud Maple 2 oz Gold (mintage 250, PCGS PR70 FDOI, pop. 7), 2025 Silver Eagles in MS70, and Chinese Pandas with unique annual designs. Graded proofs and commemoratives tied to events like the 2026 Olympics are also hot. At ShopGlobalCoin, we see collectors prioritizing PCGS/NGC slabs for authenticity and resale value.

Q: What year of coins are worth keeping? A: Post-1986 coins are prime, especially key dates like 1986 (American Eagle debut), 2021 (Silver Eagle Type 2 redesign), and 2024 (Proud Maple’s red enamel). These years mark design shifts or low mintages. For example, the 2024 Proud Maple’s population of 7 in PR70 FDOI makes it a keeper. Hold coins graded MS70 or PR70—they’ve averaged 10-20% appreciation since 1986.

Q: What coins should I keep an eye out for? A: Watch for limited-edition proofs, first-day issues, and error coins. The 2025 American Gold Eagle FDOI, 2024 Canadian Proud Maple 2 oz Gold (Blunt-signed), and 2026 Olympics commemoratives are on my radar. Error coins like the 2023 Silver Eagle, missing the mint mark, are sleeper hits.

Q: How do I sell my coins? A: Selling is straightforward but strategic. First, get your coins graded by PCGS or NGC—slabbed coins sell for 30-50% more. Then, work with a reputable dealer like ShopGlobalCoin (call us at 844-595-9599) or list on auction platforms like Heritage Auctions. For quick sales, check local coin shows or trusted online marketplaces. Always verify buyer credentials to avoid scams.

 

Let’s Build Your Collection with ShopGlobalCoin

From bullion to proofs, the most popular types of coins are waiting to join your collection. At ShopGlobalCoin, we’ve made it our mission to source the best coins to collect, like the 2025 Silver Eagle PR70 or the ultra-rare 2024 Proud Maple. Visit ShopGlobalCoin.com or call 844-595-9599 to explore our premium coin collection. Got a favorite? Let’s make your collection legendary!

Stephen Pfeil is the founder of ShopGlobalCoin, your trusted source for graded modern coins.