Collectors Gather at L.I. Coin Club

The Long Island Coin Club met Thursday at the as members brought in new coins and pieces from their collections, sharing and discussing with others. 

Each month, there are exhibit topics for the members to focus on during the meetings. For July, the topics included coin jewelry, New Orleans mint, U.S. Half Dollars, and pieces under the letters M and N.  Under the letters category, people brought in medallions, Mardi Gras coins, and pieces from Napoleon.  

“For us it’s more about the story behind the coins than the values," said Emmett, President of the club.

The L.I. Coin Club began in 1952; some of its current members were a part of the club since its first few years. For the club, they concentrate on collecting rather than selling.

The goal of the club is to share knowledge of the coins and their histories. There are many interesting stories for people to find and share while collecting, the members said.

“It’s an opportunity to get together with people with the same hobby," said Jim Grim, a member.

Grim has written two books about collecting; “Long Island Coin Club, Tokens & Medals, Members Medals and a Few Other Things” and “Long Island Tokens & Medals.” They include catalogs of various coins and collectibles, from places such as amusement parks, diners, and vacation spots on Long Island. 

According to Grim, many amateurs find collectible coins in their spare change, but professionals go to coin shops and coin shows to expand on their collections. The value of a coin is its rarity and condition.

Member Amy Herman said she considers herself a female in a male’s business, in which she brings to life. According to Herman, the coins the club focuses on are not just based in the U.S, but also internationally. Her latest interest is coins from the Ancient Rome and Greek period.

 “Coins are something you handle every day,” Herman said. “It’s interesting to know more about them.”