Join A Club

by Michael E. Marotta
© Copyright 1998 by Michael E. Marotta

If you think that collecting and learning about different forms of money is interesting, you aren't alone. People who share your hobby form clubs at the local, state, regional, and national level. They sponsor shows and conventions. If you are not already a member of a coin club, you may find joining one to be a pleasant surprise.

Most people are very social creatures and collectors are no exception. In almost every community, you will find at least one local coin club. In some metropolitan areas, you can find several, including specialty clubs that focus on tokens, ancient coins, or the paper issues of wildcat banks.

Numismatics is a study that encompasses so many different niches that is it not unusual to find a nearby club with a member who has a national reputation for their specialty. They may be the author of books and articles, or they may have been honored time and again for their exhibits or presentations. These people are always willing to help new collectors.

At the national level, clubs exist to serve those interested in Early American Coppers, Standing Liberty Quarters, Paper Money, and Tokens. There are national clubs for collectors of ancient coins, railroad bonds, cancelled checks, and books about numismatics.

The ANA publishes a Club Guide as a service to members. You can also find annual club guides in the numismatic newspapers and magazines. If you have no idea where to begin, ask at your local coin stores. One of them can guide you to a club near you and perhaps suggest a national club to support your interests in a special area of collecting.