The 20-Coin Type Set: Building a Complete US History Collection

A twenty-coin type set captures American monetary history in miniature. By selecting one example of each major design type, you’ll hold coins spanning from the early republic through the modern era—a tangible connection to our nation’s past.

The Classic Twenty

The traditional twenty-coin type set includes the major designs most collectors consider essential. Start with the early cents: a Large Cent (any date from 1793-1857) and a Flying Eagle or Indian Head Cent. Add a Lincoln Cent to complete copper coverage.

For nickels, include a Shield, Liberty Head, Buffalo, and Jefferson. Each design represents a distinct era and artistic approach to this workhorse denomination.

Building the Silver Core

Silver types form the heart of most type sets. For dimes, consider a Seated Liberty, Barber, Mercury, and Roosevelt. Half dimes offer an alternative early silver option. Quarters follow similar progression: Seated Liberty, Barber, Standing Liberty, and Washington.

Half dollars provide perhaps the most beautiful American coin designs. Seated Liberty, Barber, Walking Liberty, Franklin, and Kennedy halves each deserve representation. The Walking Liberty half dollar, in particular, is often called America’s most beautiful coin.

Adding Gold

Gold types elevate any collection but require significant investment. A single gold type—perhaps a Saint-Gaudens double eagle—makes a powerful statement. More ambitious collectors add Indian Head quarter and half eagles, Liberty Head pieces, or even rare gold dollars.

Budget constraints shouldn’t eliminate gold entirely. Lower grades remain available at reasonable prices, and the experience of holding century-old gold coins justifies some stretch in collecting budgets.

Grade Strategies

Type collecting allows flexible grade strategies. Some collectors want uniformly high grades throughout. Others prioritize acquiring all types first, upgrading later. A mixed-grade set including some worn early coins and gem modern issues tells a compelling story of careful, patient acquisition.

Beyond Twenty

Twenty coins is just the beginning. Expanded type sets add design variations, proof examples, or different denominations. Some collectors build parallel sets—one circulated, one uncirculated. The type set framework adapts to any level of commitment you choose.

Start your type set today. Even one coin begins the journey through American numismatic history.