Activities
Rubbing, sorting, diary
First Goal
Find 5 different coins
Golden Rule
Never clean
Safety
Ask an adult before buying
Young Collectors' Corner
A fun introduction to coin collecting for kids – with activities, safety tips, and how to start your very first collection.
First Mission
Find 5 different coins in your pocket change. Write down their dates and animals!
Welcome, Young Collector!
Coin collecting is an exciting hobby that takes you on a journey through history, art, and science. You can find coins in your pocket change, from family, or even while travelling. Let's explore together!
Getting Started
- A magnifying glass
- A notebook
- Coin flips or envelopes (ask an adult to help)
- A reference book or this library
Your First Collection: Pocket Change Safari
Look for these coins in your change:
- R5 (2004–present) – two different metals!
- R2 (2019) – SA25 commemoratives (5 designs)
- Any coin with Mandela (2012–present)
- Any coin with an animal (springbok, elephant, etc.)
How to Handle Coins
- Hold coins by the edges – never touch the front or back.
- Use clean, dry hands.
- Store in special holders, not loose in your pocket.
- Keep them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
- Never clean a coin – cleaning ruins them!
Fun Coin Activities
Make a Coin Rubbing
Place a coin under thin paper and rub gently with a pencil sideways – the design appears!
Start a Coin Diary
Write down each new coin: date, where you found it, why you like it.
Coin Sorting Game
Sort a handful of coins by size, colour, year, animal, or value.
Coin Detective
Use your magnifying glass to find the date, the animal, the words "SOUTH AFRICA".
Coin Words to Know
- Obverse – the front (heads side)
- Reverse – the back (tails side)
- Edge – the side of the coin
- Date – the year it was made
- Mint – where coins are made
- Proof – a special shiny coin
Coin Safety Rules for Kids
- Never clean a coin.
- Always ask an adult before buying coins.
- Be careful online – only buy from trusted sites with a grown‑up.
- Keep your collection in a safe place.
- Have fun and share your hobby with friends!
My First Coin Record
What coin is it? ______________
What year? ______________
Where did I get it? ______________
Why do I like it? ______________
Sources
- Library content adapted for young readers.