When it comes to coin collecting, there are all kinds. Some people focus on particular years that a coin was made, while others focus on certain regions. Maybe you’re interested in coins that come from outside the United States, such as Asian or European coins.

But how do you get started? That’s where we come in. There are over 190 countries currently, and more than that that have existed throughout history, so odds are you’ll never become bored. Keep reading to learn how to begin collecting foreign coins.

• Foreign coins can be ordered easily from a reputable coin company. Just like any other business, do your research before doing business.

• If you want to get your hands on foreign coins, but you don’t have the coin to travel, keep an eye out for coin auctions in your area. Sometimes collections are up for auction because of a death, divorce, or the previous owner simply lost interest.

• The value of foreign coins is tied to the exchange rate, which is why the value can fluctuate. To get the best bargain, buy when the U.S. dollar is strong.

• There have been numerous kinds of currencies through human history. If you have a foreign coin, here’s how to identify it. First, try to figure out what country it hails from. Many coins have the name of the country printed upon it, but not always. Next, figure out what the coin denomination is. This might require some research, since every country has a different name of not just its currency, but the different denominations within it. Finally, find out the date the coin was minted. Most countries use Western dating, so the date should be printed on the coin. If not, a little research will steer you in the right direction.