How To Up Your Collecting Game

PCGS - In January of 1933, The Numismatist ran an article entitled "A Double Ideal." Written by Waldo Clifton Moore, a prolific numismatic writer still quoted in numismatic circles today, the article made the case that "anything one can think of, and many things one would never think of, some collector is collecting. Take any subject that has a particular appeal to you; one, perhaps, that has always haunted you with an insistent delight or that you have a great curiosity about." He elaborated on his love of both numismatics and gardening, and concluded by exhorting people to discern their true collecting passions: "if you do not know yours, it will be fun to inquire of yourself and find out."



For a number of years, I heard and read the same advice about coin collecting, whether from dealers, other collectors, or the pages of collecting periodicals. "Buy the book, not the coin," "build strong relationships with dealers," and "join a club," are all common refrains, and for good reason. They are useful, practicable pieces of advice that can enhance both the enjoyment and profitability of collecting, though I'm personally leery of profitability as a primary benchmark for successful collecting.

There aren't any "life hacks" for numismatics, the "tuition cost" that experienced hobbyists and professionals allude to is a real thing, and paying those dues is part and parcel of long-term involvement in the hobby. It is worth understanding that some of the most visible aspects of the hobby do not represent the full range of opportunities for collecting. Generic advice offered about numismatics can be applied to more obscure areas of collecting, but can be applied differently in specific contexts, to broaden horizons. It could be worthwhile to apply that advice in any way that teaches you about the fullest range of material and pursuing numismatic experiences that take you off the beaten track.

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