Do your research as far as dates and learn where to find the (if any) one letter mint mark on each type coin you have. No mint mark would mean Philadelphia mint. O- New Orleans. S- San Francisco. CC- Carson City. D- Denver after the turn of the century.(20th). Then check the mintage amount on each coin. Anything with a mintage of less than 1000,000 pieces, separate from the rest. Any coins that seem to have no wear or appears to have a natural shine, separate those as well,in a different container.Then comes the grading of those.Research that subject as well.Thats where other people come into the picture.Basic knowledge is key at this point. And I would only show 1 or 2 at a time. ITotally agree with Ringleader. Dont clean any coins no matter how nasty or black they might be. You just never know what you might have that could change your lifestyle , in that collection. Good luck.
