Coins and soccer are, at first glance, two completely different fields. But they also have some points of contact: they share history, symbolism and interesting traditions. One such tradition is the tossing of a coin before the start of a soccer match.
For interested people collecting football-themed coins is a possibility to touch the sporting history that bridges countries, tournaments and generations. And if you are an amateur and just intend to start your first collection of soccer coins, this article will be useful to you. Here you will find interesting facts about soccer coins and rituals, tips for starting your first themed collection, advice on choosing coins and using specialized coin ID app free of charge, so that the process will go smoothly, so your new activity and found collectibles will delight and fascinate you for years to come.
Traditional Pre-Match Coin Toss: Ritual and History
The toss of a coin is a long-standing tradition that determines which team will start a match. The tradition originally appeared in antique times, when coins were used to settle disputes. In soccer lately this gesture took on additional meaning and became part of an official ritual that emphasizes equality and respect for the rules of the game.
An interesting fact is that in some major tournaments (such as the World Cup) specially designed commemorative coins are used. For example, for the 2006 World Cup in Germany, a collector's series was issued with images of the stadiums where the matches took place. These coins have become real gems for collectors.
Superstitions when tossing a coin also play not the least role. Some referees choose a “lucky” coin, which they use for several matches. Players, on the other hand, may believe that a certain side of the coin brings good luck.
More Details about the Soccer Coins
Soccer is more than just a game, it is an activity that bridging millions of people. That is why its popularity is even reflected in numismatics. In regular matches, the referee can use any coin, from the standard local currency to a random coin that happened to be on hand.
Many countries issue commemorative coins dedicated to major soccer events (like World and European Championships, Olympic Games and other iconic tournaments). So these soccer-related coins both immortalize great moments in playing history, as well as become valuable objects for collectors.
Soccer coins attract both sports fans and investors due to their limited mintage, quality design and historical significance. Please refer to the table below to find the bright examples of the soccer-related coins.
Coin | Country | Characteristics | Features |
Commemorative coin for the 2018 FIFA World Cup | Russia | Silver coin with a face value of 3 rubles, dedicated to the FIFA World Cup 2018. | The coin features the official mascot of the tournament, the wolf Zabivaka. This coin was issued in a limited edition (300,000 copies) which makes it popular among collectors. |
Coin for the European Championship 2016 | France | 10 euros in silver with the image of the European Championship trophy (Henri Delaunay Cup). | The mintage of the coin amounted to 500,000 copies. The reverse also depicts stylized elements of a soccer field. |
2020 Olympic Games Coin | Japan | 1000 yen in silver, issued in honor of the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, dedicated to the soccer tournament. | The coin is decorated with the image of balls and Olympic symbols. This coin marks the first Olympics held after the COVID-19 pandemic. |
World Cup 2006 Coin | Germany | Gold coin with a face value of 100 euros, dedicated to the World Cup. | The coin depicts a ball flying over a stadium. The number of issued coins is limited and the coin is considered one of the most beautiful soccer coins in history. |
FIFA 100th Anniversary Coin | Switzerland | A 20 Swiss franc silver coin, issued in honor of the 100th anniversary of FIFA in 2004. | The coin features the dates 1904-2004, the FIFA logo and a stylized soccer ball. It was one of the first coins officially issued by the International Football Federation. |
How to Start Your Fist Themed Collection: Useful Recommendations
Building your own collection is quite a fascinating activity that combines a love of sports, an interest in history and a desire to own unique collectibles. So due to following a few simple steps, you can create your own collection that will become your source of inspiration, as well as a possible investment for the future.
Step 1: Determine the theme of your collection
Before you start collecting coins, decide whether you're interested in tournament commemoratives, country-specific coins, or rare, limited-edition pieces.
- Lifehack: Start with affordable coins, such as commemoratives from recent tournaments. Due to collecting these coins firstly, you will be able to better understand the market and the specifics of collecting.
Step 2: Research the market
Market research is a key step for a successful collector. Visit numismatic websites, auctions, and forums to get an idea of the value and popularity of coins.
- Tip: Use Coin ID Scanner app to quickly identify coins, research their history and even market value.
Step 3: Find reliable sellers
Buy coins only from trusted dealers, specialized websites or reputable auctions. This will protect you from buying fakes and guarantee the authenticity of your purchases.
- Trick: Keep an eye out for discounts and promotions in numismatic stores by subscribing to their mailing list.
Step 4: Organize proper storage
Keeping coins in excellent condition is important for their longevity and preservation of value. Use special albums or coin capsules.
- Lifehack: Store coins in dry places, away from sunlight and high temperatures. Using silica gel will help keep humidity low, and specialized PVC-free storage capsules won't leave a patina or spots on your coins.
Step 5: Join themed groups
Collecting is a joyful hobby, but also an additional opportunity to become part of themed groups and clubs. So, consider participating in forums and exhibitions and make new connections to share your finds and become more informed regarding the theme.
- Tip: Share thoughts and finds with more skilled collectors to learn more about rare specimens and find out new strategies.
Collect a Part of the Legends
Soccer coins - carry a huge charge of emotions. They preserve the echoes of thundering stadiums, the moment of triumph of the winners and epitomize the strength of spirit of the players. Due to collecting them you will keep interesting stories and symbols, bridging generations. And who knows, maybe one day your collection will inspire others, just as great matches inspire plenty of fans around the world.