When you were a child, did you ever have a lucky penny or other coin collection?

Back then you knew how exciting it was to find change. With some homework, you could determine where your coins were minted and what they are made of. If you were really lucky, you may have found a collectible coin such as an Indian Head cent, a Buffalo Nickel, or a Mercury Dime.

Today, coins such as the recently minted US state quarters are injecting new life into the hobby of coin collecting. The statehood quarter program has become one of the most popular commemorative coin programs in U.S. history.

This program was met with great enthusiasm when the first quarter honoring Delaware was released into circulation on January 4, 1999. Since that time, over 35 other state coins have been released. Each state quarter features the profile of the nation's first president, George Washington, on the obverse or "heads" side. The reverse, or "tails" side of each coin features artwork celebrating the spirit of the state. For example, the Delaware coin features an image of Caesar Rodney, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a leader in the American Revolution.

According to the United States Mint, over one-hundred million individuals are collecting state quarters to some degree. That trend is expected to continue through 2008, when the last coin of the series, Hawaii, is released into circulation.

For the curious collector who is seeking special, limited issue, collectible coins, the opportunities are endless!

One such collectible coin is the coveted Morgan dollar which was originally widely circulated in the late 19th century. To celebrate the spirit of the American West, this coin was recently reissued in a limited release. The Morgan dollar is just one of hundreds of collectible coins that celebrate America's history and currency. Other examples include coins dedicated to historical monuments like Mount Rushmore and figures such as Sacagawea.

There is the small chance the collectible coin you own could become extremely valuable. The most valuable U.S. coin is the 1933 St. Gaudens $20 Gold Double Eagle. It is one of a kind, and last sold at auction in 2002 for $7,590,020!

While not every coin you collect will be worth millions, you can create a collection you will cherish, with time and research. Many coin collectors collect for the hobby and the chance to share with their loved ones the history and fun of coin collecting.

Most collectors agree; it is more important to collect coins that are of personal interest instead of working to create a collection based solely on value. Collecting coins solely based on value is hard to maintain and is viewed by many as more work than hobby.

If you are digging in your pocket, and wondering if your change includes a valuable piece of American history, you owe it to yourself to investigate the hobby of coin collecting. You don't need to be an expert, or spend lots of money to enjoy the "Hobby of Kings." All you need is curiosity and some time. The change you carry does have a very rich history!

The Internet is full of great resources on collectible coins. From coin collecting books to coin aficionado blogs, there is a lot of great information for both the novice and expert collector. The web can also help you locate local coin collectors, upcoming shows, and clubs so you can share your passion for numismatics with others!

For more information about all kinds of coins including commemorative coins and US state quarters, visit: http://www.shopcsntv.com/