
A coin that sparked my imagination...
I got my start collecting coins going through pocket change for the odd Buffalo Nickel, visiting the local coin shop to help along my circulated Lincoln Cent collection, and pouring over pictures and stories of coins I hoped to own someday (you know, the usual story).
Is there a particular coin that first sparked your imagination, and maybe holds a special place in your collection (or your heart)? I'd love to read about it!
A coin that always captured my imagination was the World's Columbian Exposition Half Dollar. I loved the design, with Charles Barber's bust of Christopher Columbus on the obverse, and George T. Morgan's engraving of Columbus's flagship, the Santa Maria, on the reverse. It was minted with the dates 1892 (the year before the Exposition opened) and 1893. A great many of the coins, particularly the 1893 mintage, remained unsold ar fair's end, and were either melted, or released into circulation. (Because many of the coins, especially the 1893, are softly struck, many uncirculated coins are rejected as having wear, which makes it nice to have your high grade MS specimens certified.) Imagine that happening today... Attached is a photo of an XF/AU 1893 in my collection.
It's fun to imagine where the coin has been; was it actually circulated, or was it carried around in the pocket of a proud attendee of the Exposition? This is the kind of stuff that makes coin collecting the world's greatest hobby. I've collected a couple of examples of each date over the years, and it still brings back memories of a coin that seemed so exotic and out of reach to a budding 10 year old numismatist.
Comments
Kepi
Level 6
Great story! I'm a Mercury Dime collector... I just love them! Especially toned ones. Thanks for sharing with us...Nice photo too!
Big Nub Numismatics
Level 5
A beautiful coin, and you make a great point about who carried it, you will never know.
"SUN"
Level 6
The first commemorative coin is always a nice coin to have in a collection. Great story and history that goes with the coin.
Jonas's Coins
Level 5
I recently got one of those from 1863. It is in MA and has some great toning. I payed $30.
Longstrider
Level 6
The usual way it a great way to start collecting. That's why it's usual. I'm a big Peace dollar fan.. Like you, I enjoy looking at them. I even bought a few heavy circulated "pocket pieces' so I can hold them. Grandma and Grandpa got me started with silver peace and Morgan dollar gifts. Thanks.
Mike
Level 7
Good blog I have both of these like you I enjoy them. Good information and mine brings back memories also. Thanks for sharing with us it's something we enjoyment thanks mikem
CoinLady
Level 6
Columbian 50c is an attractive coin. My dream coin was a 1916 Standing Liberty 25c. I did get a 1917 Type I in change, so I came close!