Coble was born in Greensboro, North Carolina. After high school, he initially attended Appalachian State University, but after a year joined the United States Coast Guard, serving for over 5 years and staying on as a reservist for 22 years. Upon discharging from military service, he attended Guilford College, from which he received a history degree. Coble then moved on to the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill and earned a degree in law.

 

After graduating from college, Coble first worked as an insurance agent. He then spent nearly 20 years as a practicing attorney, and he was also Secretary of Revenue under North Carolina Governor James Holshouser. In 1979, Coble was elected to the state House of Representatives, serving until his election to Congress.

 

Coble was first elected to Congress in 1984.