Numismatic Research

Numismatic research should stick to the scientific process, for it is how professional research is conducted. Forming hypothesis, conducting research, and collaboration are attributes of academic inquiry. Here are some things to keep in mind when doing numismatic research:

  • Keep an open mind.

  • Be skeptical of definitive claims. Numismatic mysteries are very rarely solved.

  • Use your own judgement! Spend time with your loupe or microscope and venture to form your own opinions.

  • Be constructive in criticism. We are all humans and we all make mistakes. Give people the benefit of the doubt, and gently point out where someone might be mistaken.

  • If you would like to use someone’s photos, ask them first.

  • Never keep someone else’s coins for your own research longer than a couple of weeks.

  • Learning never ends.

  • You never, ever know it all. Especially when it comes to numismatic research!

  • CITE ALL SOURCES! – This is the backbone of academic research. All historical notes from books and websites should be referenced; all photographs must be cited, if you have permission to use them.


Numismatic Research Resources for Flying Eagle and Indian Head Cents

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