How do you maintain interest, when you have no one locally that enjoys the hobby as you do?
2ltdjorn
Posts: 2,329 ✭✭✭✭
First, let me say I appreciate the forum, however I have no friends or family that have any interest in collecting coins. How do you maintain your interest ongoing?
I will buy a coin, get excited waiting on the mail. Open package, smile and then off to the SDB.
How to stimulate, or keep interest?
WTB... errors, New Orleans gold, and circulated 20th key date coins!
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Internet and shows.
Fan of the Oxford Comma
CCAC Representative of the General Public
2021 Young Numismatist of the Year
I started assembling a numismatic literature collection in 2007, and use portions of it almost every day.I currently have a chunk of it in a rented storage space. It has kept me interested in numismatics, even when I haven't bought anything in a while. This is important, because not buying anything or not finding another way to actively participate in the hobby will likely lead to you making an exit at some point.
I started with the usual stuff, Red Book, grading guides, then some of the books by major numismatic authors (Bowers, Newman, Breen, Burdette,...). Add auction catalogs (whatever interests you). DVDs too (get these from David Lisot, www.coinvideo.com). You might become interested in numismatic literature as a secondary collecting focus in its own right---this happened to me, and I am collecting 19th-century material related to U.S. numismatics. Reading will teach you many things, beyond market values and mintages, such as design influences, mining influences, metallurgy, coin chemistry, changes in minting technology, politics, domestic and international trade, who the great collectors of the past were, who the influential dealers were, etc. I find the history of numismatics to be almost more interesting that the coins/exonumia themselves.
I will probably sell my coins before I sell my library.
RMR: 'Wer, wenn ich schriee, hörte mich denn aus der Engel Ordnungen?'
CJ: 'No one!' [Ain't no angels in the coin biz]
Local coin club?
Have a Great Day!
Louis
I was thinking this same thing the other day. I dont have the answer. I guess coin collecting is a fairly personal hobby. I try and get some involved at work, but most are just interested at the thought of making money, not building a collection. Like flipping mint products.
I tend to believe the internet is our last bastion of hope to connect and share our treasures with like minded people.
Those that have people locally or family that are enthusiastic about this hobby are truly blessed.
Dead Cat Waltz Exonumia
"Coin collecting for outcasts..."
You have a lot of friends that collect coins right here!
Worry is the interest you pay on a debt you may not owe.
"Paper money eventually returns to its intrinsic value---zero."----Voltaire
"Everything you say should be true, but not everything true should be said."----Voltaire
Friends who share my interest are members of clubs and forums like this one. Some I see at coin shows, along with the many dealers I've become close to. Works for me.
Lance.
internet
Coins for Sale: Both Graded and Ungraded
https://photos.app.goo.gl/oqym2YtcS7ZAZ73D6
Internet, shows, constant research.
This place has a lot to offer.
My YouTube Channel
All of the above, and consider adding photography as a side hobby. Maybe start a freebie (or low cost) website to display some facet of your collection. Otherwise I would just have to say 'internet'. Having an, until recently, mobile lifestyle this was the default. Now I live somewhere there is a local coin club to check out, but haven't yet. I fear I will be disappointed in the people version of B&M.
In addition to the good advice above, try joining one or more local, regional, and / or national coin clubs and organizations that fit your collecting interests. Many have Journals that come out three to six times a year which will give you a "coin fix" when they do.
If you are even somewhat active in the club or organization, you will be able to meet and get to know club members over time through correspondence or in person, depending upon where you live. For example, if you like an article, write a note to the author and let him or her know this. Ask a question. Or better yet, try writing a short article yourself.
I've become friends with the few Numismatists and collectors that live in my area over the last 25-30 years, and get together with a few of them 2-4 times a year for lunch and to "talk coins." Some live somewhat close to me, others are an hour or more away, but it's worth it when we get together. I'm meeting a new coin friend an hour and a half away next week for lunch and a little "show and tell."
I joined the Liberty Seated Collectors Club (LSCC) in 1983. I was a relatively inexperienced collector at this time. I wrote a letter (that's what we did back in 1983-4!) to John McCloskey, LSCC President, offering to pick him up at the airport when he came to Minneapolis for the regional Central States Numismatic Society (CSNS) show, have him look at and critique my collection of Liberty Seated Dollars, and then I would drop him off at his hotel. Much to my surprise he accepted. This was my first larger coin show that I had ever attended.
At the show John introduced me to many collectors, numismatists, authors, etc. I met "Mr. 1873" Harry X. Boosel, Russ Logan (numismatic author and one of the founders of the John Reich Collectors Society (JRCS), and met others at the show on my own. Many of these collectors I met there became friends.
Get involved / enjoy the hobby!
W. David Perkins Numismatics - http://www.davidperkinsrarecoins.com/ - 25+ Years ANA, ANS, NLG, NBS, LM JRCS, LSCC, EAC, TAMS, LM CWTS, CSNS, FUN
It used to be the Registry but now that I can't add BOTH of my NGC or PCGS coins on either side of the street--I am done with that, as my sets are incomplete and don't accurately reflect what I really have.
I do it mostly through the chat boards and with the fellow collectors here. I like to share newps, information, knowledge & ideas and I like the camaraderie.
I like to research coins online and follow market trends.
To a lesser extent; I like shows and clubs.
Sometimes, it’s better to be LUCKY than good. 🍀 🍺👍
My Full Walker Registry Set (1916-1947):
https://www.ngccoin.com/registry/competitive-sets/16292/
If it wasn't for this Foum I'm sure my interest would drop to about zero. I'd still buy and sell but only for profit and not for pleasure. I enjoy reading every thread (usually multiple times) and learn every day from this Forum. You guys/gals are my friends. Family has always nice things to say but really it's to placate Pop. I did a show and tell as a guest at the CCCCofAmerica once and that was not fun (speaking to a crowd). I can't seem to concentrate on coins that I'm looking at at a coin show and made too many mistakes due to lighting, crowds, etc. Just don't buy there anymore. I LOVE THE INTERNET. I can study the pics, ask for more and make, generally, the right decision.
bob:)
Hmmm, I wish there were an internet site or message board or "forum" where people of similar interest in coins can show their coins, view photos of their friends' coins, discuss the current and past issues of the coin hobby, exchange coin research findings and observations and make arrangements to meet up at a show. If only such a place existed...
I spend time going through dealer online inventory and auctions. I go down my list of dealer bookmarks, start at the top, and work my way down on successive days until I reach the end, and start over again. I probably have 50 coins listed as "maybe" on my running list....none of which I will probably ever buy.
Guess it's not REALLY a buy list since I REALLY prefer to buy in person. It's more of a way to keep in touch with what's available, what interests me, what prices are like, and what I like. It's always free to look at varieties and grades online!
No....it's not personal interaction by any means. But as noted, collecting kind of ends up being an individual pursuit for most of us. The opinions and advice of other collectors comes from this forum, more than anywhere else.
Try becoming an Officer of a national collecting specialty organization, an Officer of a state numismatic organization, and Exhibit Chairman of a national show, you won't have time to lose interest. It works for me!
Member ANA, SPMC, SCNA, FUN, CONECA
All good ideas here, but if your interest is fading, don't force it. Find something else that's fun. When the coin fires heat up again, the hobby will still be here.
Before I go to bed, I put my TV on the one hour turn off timer and watch on Mondays, Tuesdays - Coin Vault, Wednesday - Rick Tomaska's US Coin Show, Thursday Coin Vault, Friday, Saturday and Sunday Rick Tomaska's US Coin Show.
Really, you should read like many above have stated.
I've always been in this hobby by myself therefore I am so glad that I found this forum and I appreciate everyone selflessly sharing their knowledge and love of coins.
Successful transactions with : MICHAELDIXON, Manorcourtman, Bochiman, bolivarshagnasty, AUandAG, onlyroosies, chumley, Weiss, jdimmick, BAJJERFAN, gene1978, TJM965, Smittys, GRANDAM, JTHawaii, mainejoe, softparade, derryb, Ricko
Bad transactions with : nobody to date
"Before I go to bed, I put my TV on the one hour turn off timer and watch on Mondays, Tuesdays - Coin Vault, Wednesday - Rick Tomaska's US Coin Show, Thursday Coin Vault, Friday, Saturday and Sunday Rick Tomaska's US Coin Show."
So, are you now collecting stamps, match boxes,...?
RMR: 'Wer, wenn ich schriee, hörte mich denn aus der Engel Ordnungen?'
CJ: 'No one!' [Ain't no angels in the coin biz]
The Internet has been a great way to connect with like-minded collectors you may have not met in person. I agree that finding a club that fits your style is a big boost to maintaining interest.
The ANA Summer seminar is also highly recommended if you want to immerse yourself in numismatics and perhaps find some friends for life...
Pacific Northwest Numismatic Association
I have a few hoodlums I email on a regular basis, we share ebay finds and show off newps. Otherwise I'm in the same boat.
That's cool
I know of no one locally that collects coins, and no shows or coin shops... so basically it is the internet (this forum and another) and my books.... good thing I have more than one hobby
Just not enough time in the day for all I want to do...so never bored. Never really did depend on others for any of my interests... social contacts are nice, but for me, not necessary. Cheers, RickO
I have never had this issue. When I go to a show, it is just me and all those coins.
@hchcoin said, That's cool!
Thanks @chhcoin!
W. David Perkins Numismatics - http://www.davidperkinsrarecoins.com/ - 25+ Years ANA, ANS, NLG, NBS, LM JRCS, LSCC, EAC, TAMS, LM CWTS, CSNS, FUN
Aside from interacting with collectors in person, I get a lot out of the following:
I think personal contacts and coin friends are important. So, we are very lucky to live in the internet age. I've met some very nice people through these message boards and from buying and selling via the internet too. Also, don't overlook the Registries. A lot of people who have sets also include their email so, if you have a specific interest you can contact other collectors that share your specific interest.
When that isn't filling the void, I use coin books to fire up my interest. There are many good books out there and again, find those titles that match your particular interests and it can increase your knowledge which in turn, makes you a better buyer and seller.
Finally, one thing that has really helped me is having a great relationship with an established dealer. Ask around and look through these message boards for testimonials about dealers. Having a good connection with a dealer you trust and like can really do a lot to help your collecting interest. I have a specific dealer that knows exactly what I like and that relationship has done a great deal for keeping me engaged.
I don't think it hurts to have other dealers that you engage with but it is important that you truly feel they have your interest at heart. Nothing is a bigger killer of enthusiasm than getting cheated on a coin buy. So I think it is essential that you chose very carefully.
Finally, look at and enjoy your coins! I like to check out my collection with different magnifications. It is amazing the different features that show up at different magnifications. Find a good halogen lamp for illumination and stay away from bright daylight. Not only is sunlight awful for coins, they tend to look more drab and flawed under bright daylight. I also like to catalog my coins in different ways. This expands perspective. Here are some ideas for different lists:
1) value and condition (a basic list of course)
2) upgrade potential (which coins have the best chance for upgrades)
3) particular features like tone and color, lettering, portrait, fields, obverse grade, reverse grade, overall eye appeal and so on.
When you look at your coins in different ways like this, it can expand your thinking about it, solidify your interest and help your visual grading skills. It can even increase your appreciation and enthusiasm and that is what you wanted!
Good luck and most of all, enjoy!
Join the club my friend. I'm in the same boat. It's MY passion and that's what keeps me going.
Its the fact that few people collect coins is what makes it special. that's the beauty of it, you have something that no one else has or even knows about .
Internet
WOW - besides spending time on the internet and your coins, there are many ways to socialize with other coins friends - i attend local, regional and national coin shows, i attend local and larger coin clubs and get involved with those clubs. become members of a specialized coin society i.e JRCS, Barber Coin club or any other clubs that your interested in or write articles or books about the coins that you specialize or collect. I am finding out that I spend a fair amount of my free or personal time involved with coins and socializing with my coin buddies.