Every coin has passed through countless hands, carrying whispers of markets, travels, and eras long gone.

Hanging them in frames turns your collection into more than a display, it becomes a mural of time.

The soft gleam of silver beside bronze, the faded patina of old copper, all form a tapestry of history told in circles.

It’s like having fragments of the world’s heartbeat, captured and hanging right on your wall.

Materials Needed

• Shadow box frames (8”×8” or larger, depending on coin quantity)
• Collection of coins (sorted by size, color, or origin)
• Strong adhesive dots or archival-safe glue
• Foam board or fabric
• Ruler and pencil
• Optional: labels for years or countries

Step-by-step Guide

Step 1: Sort your coins by color, size, or region. This will help you decide on an arrangement that feels balanced.

Step 2: Prepare the backing by cutting foam board or fabric to fit your shadow box. A dark background often highlights the metallic colors best.

Step 3: Sketch light grid lines if you prefer even rows, or go for a natural scatter for a more artistic look.

Step 4: Secure each coin with adhesive dots or archival glue. Be careful not to cover important details like engravings.

Step 5: Place the backing into the frame and check that no coins shift when the box is upright.

Step 6: Hang the frames together as a trio or in a larger gallery wall arrangement.

The repetition creates visual rhythm and gives your coins the stage they deserve.

Tips:

I’ve seen collectors use this method to tell stories including one frame for coins from travels, another for inherited ones, and a third for rare finds.

Grouping them this way not only makes the wall visually stunning but also invites conversation about the stories behind each piece.