In this article, the authors present an analogy that uses coins and graphical analysis to teach kinetics concepts and resolve pseudo-first-order rate constants related to transition-metal complexes ligand-solvent exchange reactions. They describe an activity that is directed to upper-division undergraduate and graduate students. The activity provides opportunity for the assessment of conceptual learning via designed activities. It promotes graphical analysis as well as the integration of mathematical and kinetics concepts. (Contains 2 tables, 3 figures, and 2 notes.)