For coins specifically, I can tell you what I like about them. I collect coins from all across time (literally back to the 7th century BC, when the first coins

For coins specifically, I can tell you what I like about them. I collect coins from all across time (literally back to the 7th century BC, when the first coins were minted), and all over the world. To me, they're tiny little objects of art, pieces of history, and artifacts worthy of study. Adding a new coin to my collection is a reminder that I'm its temporary caretaker. My collection, to me, is like a tiny museum of history, art, metallurgy and economics. Also, I think they're cool, and I like owning cool stuff. I don't think that's exactly what you asked for, but, then, I don't think I actually can explain it in a way that will make a lot of sense to you. It's either you have the collecting impulse, or you don't, I've found. Edit: duh, coins were invented in the 7th century BC, not the 5th century BC.