When I decided I wanted to collect coins, starting was no easy task. There are so many coins based on denomination and origin. After some time, I decided to collect Washington quarters and bought my first coin book and thus began a journey. After a decade My book still has holes but is getting rather full.
When I started my goal was to seek out the highest graded quarters I could find/afford. I figured it was a smart investment as well. If I come across a better coin I can always upgrade. I currently have 131 of the 192 Washington quarters. This has slowed me down because I pass up many decent quarters for just the right one. Some of the more rare coins have forced my to start at a lower grad such as the 1932D.
I prefer to visit local coin shops and avoid on-line purchases so I can visually inspect coins. Too many scams these days.
The Washington quarter (1932 to date) which includes the Bicentenial (1776-1976) had not changed much until the more recent State quarters were introduced.
Prior to the Washington quarter was the Standing Liberty (1916-1930)
Obverse
NOTE: It wasn't until I started this blog that I realized my book does not include a 1931 however after some research they do exist.
Back up a bit further in time and you have the Barber or Liberty Head (1892-1916)
Obverse
Back further we go... From 1838-1891 was the Liberty Seated
Obverse
From 1815-1836 was the Capped Bust which had two varieties. Pictured is variety 2.
Obverse
This is by far my favorite quarter.
The first U.S. Quarter was the Draped Bust from 1796-1807. Although there is a 11 year span I believe they were only minted in 1796 and 1804-1807. Not pictured because I don't have one...yet!
Disclaimer: I am a novice collector and not an authority on coins. I'm just sharing some coins I have personally collected. I obtained the mintage dates and quarter types from the "Official Red Book". Hope you enjoyed them!