Turning old coins into rings is a cool hobby. It’s a way to recycle history and wear something unique. But not all coins are created equal when it comes to bending and shaping them into jewelry. Some are too hard, some are too brittle, and some just don’t look good when they’re transformed. I’ve tried a bunch of different coins over the years, so I’m sharing my top picks for making awesome coin rings.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Morgan Silver Dollar: Classic, high silver content, great detail.
- Peace Silver Dollar: Similar to Morgan, slightly more modern design.
- Walking Liberty Half Dollar: Beautiful design, good size for rings.
- Kennedy Half Dollar (40% Silver): More affordable silver option, readily available.
- Foreign Silver Coins (e.g., Mexican Silver Peso): Unique designs, often high silver content.
Top 5 Best Coins For Coin Rings
1. Morgan Silver Dollar
The Morgan Silver Dollar is probably the most iconic coin for making rings. These coins were minted from 1878 to 1904, and then again in 1921. They’re 90% silver, which makes them soft enough to work with, and they have a beautiful, detailed design that looks amazing when it’s turned into a ring.
Pros:
- ✅ High silver content (90%) makes it easy to work with.
- ✅ Classic and recognizable design.
- ✅ Holds its value well.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be expensive, especially in good condition.
- ❌ Some designs can be intricate and challenging for beginners.
- ❌ Availability can vary.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a classic, high-quality coin to make a ring, the Morgan Silver Dollar is a great choice, especially if you appreciate its historical significance.
2. Peace Silver Dollar
The Peace Silver Dollar is another popular choice for coin rings. Minted from 1921 to 1935, it features a design that symbolizes peace after World War I. Like the Morgan Dollar, it’s 90% silver, so it’s easy to manipulate into a ring. I personally like the slightly more modern look of the Peace Dollar.
Pros:
- ✅ High silver content (90%) for easy shaping.
- ✅ Beautiful and symbolic design.
- ✅ Readily available compared to some older coins.
Cons:
- ❌ Can still be relatively expensive.
- ❌ The design, while beautiful, might not appeal to everyone.
- ❌ Like Morgans, condition affects price significantly.
Verdict: The Peace Silver Dollar is an excellent alternative to the Morgan Dollar, offering a similar level of quality and a slightly different aesthetic.
3. Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar, minted from 1916 to 1947, is often considered one of the most beautiful US coins ever designed. It features Lady Liberty striding towards the sunrise. Its size and design make it perfect for creating striking rings. I made one for my wife and she loves it.
Pros:
- ✅ Stunning design that translates well to rings.
- ✅ Good size for creating comfortable rings.
- ✅ 90% silver content.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more challenging to find in good condition.
- ❌ The intricate design can be difficult to work with for beginners.
- ❌ Price can be high depending on condition and rarity.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a coin with exceptional visual appeal, the Walking Liberty Half Dollar is an excellent choice, but be prepared for a potentially higher price tag.
4. Kennedy Half Dollar (40% Silver)
The Kennedy Half Dollar, specifically the 40% silver versions minted from 1965 to 1970, offers a more affordable entry point into making silver coin rings. While not as pure as the 90% silver coins, they are still relatively easy to work with and provide a good silver content for the price. These are great for practicing.
Pros:
- ✅ More affordable than 90% silver coins.
- ✅ Readily available.
- ✅ Still contains a decent amount of silver.
Cons:
- ❌ Only 40% silver content.
- ❌ Design is less intricate than older coins.
- ❌ Tarnish more easily than 90% silver coins.
Verdict: The 40% Silver Kennedy Half Dollar is a good option for beginners or those on a budget who still want to work with silver.
5. Foreign Silver Coins (e.g., Mexican Silver Peso)
Don’t overlook foreign silver coins! Coins like the Mexican Silver Peso, or other silver coins from around the world, can offer unique designs and a good silver content. Plus, they can often be found at a lower price than US silver coins. I found a beautiful coin from Chile once that made an incredible ring.
Pros:
- ✅ Often more affordable than US silver coins.
- ✅ Unique and interesting designs.
- ✅ Can be a great way to find high silver content coins.
Cons:
- ❌ Silver content can vary widely, so you need to check.
- ❌ May be harder to identify the silver content.
- ❌ Resale value might be lower than US coins.
Verdict: Exploring foreign silver coins can lead to some truly unique and cost-effective coin ring projects, but research the silver content before you buy.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right coin for a ring involves a few key considerations:
- Silver Content: Higher silver content (90%) generally makes the coin easier to work with and results in a better-looking ring.
- Coin Condition: While you don’t need a pristine, uncirculated coin, avoid coins that are heavily worn or damaged.
- Design: Consider the design of the coin and how it will look when formed into a ring. Some designs are more suitable than others.
- Size: Larger coins generally make larger rings. Think about the desired size of the finished ring.
- Budget: Silver coins can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. Set a budget before you start shopping.
- Reputable Dealers: Buy your coins from reputable coin dealers or online sources to ensure authenticity.
FAQs
Q: What tools do I need to make coin rings?
A: You’ll need a ring stretcher/reducer, a coin ring making kit (usually including a punch and dies), a hammer, and polishing supplies. Safety glasses are also essential.
Q: Can I use any coin to make a ring?
A: While you *can* try, it’s best to use coins with a high silver content or those made of softer metals like copper. Harder metals are difficult to work with and can crack.
Q: How do I clean a coin before making a ring?
A: Gently wash the coin with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the coin’s surface.
Q: Is it legal to make rings out of coins?
A: Generally, yes. It’s legal to deface or alter US currency as long as you’re not intending to use it fraudulently. However, laws may vary in other countries, so check local regulations if you’re using foreign coins.
Q: Where can I buy these coins?
A: Coin shops, antique stores, online marketplaces like eBay, and reputable online coin dealers are all good places to find coins for making rings.
Conclusion
Making coin rings is a rewarding hobby that lets you create unique and personal jewelry. By choosing the right coins and using the proper tools, you can transform ordinary coins into beautiful and wearable pieces of art. Experiment with different coins and designs to find your own style and create rings that you’ll be proud to wear and share.
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