Have you ever considered beginning a coin collection for a child or grandchild? Most coin collectors collect primarily for themselves, although they might have a vague notion that a certain someone in the family might receive or inherit the coins someday. But what if you want to get a child interested in collecting? Or you'd like to "set aside" something coin-related for the grand-kids? My article about collecting coins for children has some tips on how to get started.

On June 11, 2008, the U.S. Mint announced a new program meant to promote the circulation of Presidential Dollar coins. Customers could purchase the coins directly from the Mint at face value, in lots of $250 or $500 worth, with free shipping. Savvy collectors quickly jumped on this amazing offer, using their 3% to 5% cash-back credit cards to make the purchases, further lowering their costs. Although you couldn't select which Mint the coins came from, (they're all coming from Philadelphia according to reports I've heard and my own experience,) they do come in wrapped rolls similar to the ones the Mint sells at a substantial mark-up (but with a different paper wrapper on them.)

Following numerous reports from collectors that the coins were sold out, I contacted the U.S. Mint to find out how many Presidential Dollars were sold under the Direct Ship Program, and how quickly. Here is the statement I received from the U.S. Mint Office of Public Affairs:

The Circulating $1 Coin Direct Ship Program, which the United States Mint introduced on June 11, 2008, has experienced Read more...