Every so often I love to look at what is going on with pocket change and thought I'd share some finds about what makes this hobby so darn interesting. After a week I collected 21 pennies, 2 nickels, 3 dimes, and 14 quarters (total of 40 coins) and all from everyday transactions like buying a cup of coffee.
I divided the coins into piles, 1 for coins older than 20 years and 1 for coins younger than 20 years and was shocked by the disparity. 18 of the coins were older than 20 years while 22 were younger. And the ones that were 20+ years were actually in decent condition with the exception of two quarters from 1967 & 1969 and a 1940 cent which were worn down to a very good condition. It is hard to believe that many of these coins have been circulating 20, 30, or even 70 years and that is one of the elements that attracts new collectors. The history in your pocket change is absolutely amazing.
Since the bulk of the coins were pennies (21) I thought I'd share some pics on how well good o'l Abe Lincoln has withstood over the years.
First up is a 2011 coin and here we see Abe in all his pride
After 20 years Abe is still looking pretty good, a bit dirty and nicked but not bad
Here is 49 years and still looking mighty fine
At 72 years old Abe is finally showing his age
