When it comes to collecting coins, knowledge is a very important aspect. The Internet has sprung a fountain of knowledge, but figuring out which parts to drink from is the real key. Joining a numismatic organization can help in gaining some of the knowledge you may wish to have. Many have useful tools, and the information shared among collectors can prove invaluable. There are a host of associations, clubs, and social networks out there to chose from.
The largest organization in the coin industry is the American Numismatic Association. Membership in the ANA is inexpensive, and it even offers a discount to kids. Included in the membership is a monthly magazine. This would be a great ground-floor step to any collector looking to increase their knowledge. Many of the country's top dealers advertise there, exposing a collector to true experts. Also, a large portion of the articles written are done by advanced collectors. This gives the reader access to knowledge that an advanced collector may have. This can be important for sparking interest, discovering rarity, or even finding a price basis for which an item might sell. Just like having a Redbook is important for information, being a member of the ANA can be a vital line to the collecting world.
Coin clubs are another popular form in which collectors can rub elbows with like-minded individuals. Traditional clubs have been changing over the last several decades, though. Many clubs have been shrinking due to the information age progressing. In years past, talking to others locally provided many with most of a collector's new information. Guest speakers and presentations expanded the club's broad-based knowledge, but clubs were usually limited to the dynamics of other local collectors or dealers. Fast forward to the 21st century and the Internet clubs have replaced the traditional meeting hall. PCGS and NGC both have collectors clubs that provide access to others with similar collecting interests. Clubs are not dead, but the dynamics of many have changed. Rather than being resources for information, they are now more of a social network.
The downfall of many coin clubs are that they have just fallen into cliquish gossip sessions. Other clubs get dominated by a dealer who uses the club not as an information platform, but as a marketing network. A few clubs are still purist in their directions, but many no longer have the camaraderie found in the clubs of a generation ago. Choosing a club without an agenda or stigma is harder to do today, but possible.
For collectors, being involved in numismatics is important to further the industry. Not only is knowledge gained, but also a voice can be heard on issues and laws that affect the collecting world. The larger and better managed the organization, the more productive for all involved. If you are looking to delve further into the world of numismatics, joining a club or association is a step on the journey to knowledge. Joining the ANA would be a great first step.
• Allen Rowe is the owner of Northern Nevada Coin in Carson City.