How does a person with half a mind learn what he needs to navigate this world of numismatics?

My mother told me allot, "I've half a mind to. . . " So, I figured I must have the other half! I've been fascinated with numismatics for most of my life. Although I've never had any collections to speak of, especially a graded one. So here I go embarking on a journey that I hope will not only enrich my mind of the short but interesting history of our coinage, but maybe even enrich my safety deposit box as well. I don't have a clue as to who will end up with these things when I fly of this 3rd rock from the sun, hell, I might be one of those eccentrics who leaves there stuff to a cat or a bird that will live 75 years! We'll see. TSC