Western Cape Numismatic Society

Welcome to the most rewarding hobby I know. This hobby can show an investment potential second to none provided you adhere to the basic rules. The young collector must understand that numismatics has certain guidelines that have to be followed. To accumulate any old coin and keep the accumulation in a tin or box neither numismatics nor collecting. The study of manufacture, history and collecting of a coinage is all part of numismatics.

 

Decide first what you would like to collect. Usually the coins of your own country are the most accessible and therefore easiest to assemble. An important factor in your decision is that the pieces must appeal to you personally. Each coin is a careful product of design and manufacture. Unless the series appeals to you personally you will lose interest quickly. You must find the series worth of study as this is part of numismatics.

The cheapest way to collect is to read. Buy an up to date reliable catalogue and study the information contained therein. Please remember that catalogues are only guides to values. Items more often can trade below the prices quoted rather than above.

 

Acquire a quality magnifying glass, small enough to fit ‘into your pocket and not more powerful than 10x magnification.

 

South African coinage starts in 1814 and runs through to date. The mintage figures are small. This varies from Griquatown coinage through to the Transvaal Republican coinage, to the Union of South African and then the Republican series of South Africa. The scope is large and the historical interest tremendous. The designs are attractive, denominations varied and any collector will enjoy studying and collecting any of these pieces.

You must learn how to grade coins. Choice coins are the most desirable. Scratches, rim nicks and bumps detract from the value of coins. Worn coins that are rare or scarce are still desirable. Filler coins which are of poor condition are acceptable in any collection provided you realise that these must be replaced when possible. Your collection will only be as good as you want it to be.

 

Treasure your collection. House it correctly. Albums with plastic pages are used extensively. PVC is used in the manufacture of many of these pages to make them soft. PVC can damage coins particularly if dampness is a problem, say in coastal areas. PVC - free plastic pages are available but expensive. Ordinary paper seed packets have been used successfully for many years and are used extensively by collectors.

 

Record the details of your collection. The origin of the piece, the price paid and anything you find important. Keep your collection and records in separate safe places and always locked away.

The cleaning of coins is a subject all on its own. Coins that have circulated can be washed in soapy water solution. Until you have experience in cleaning of items, leave well alone. Experiment with worthless pieces. Never use an abrasive cleaner and never polish any piece.

 

Diligence pays off. The more you look the more you will find. Make it known that you collect coins. Friends and relations will help you to find specimens. In most homes small accumulations lie around. Ask to look through the pieces. Unwanted pieces can be, sold or traded for what you require.

 

Numismatics is a lifetime hobby. You will lose interest periodically. This must not deter you. You will always return to this fascinating subject. If you collect CHOICE grade coins you will not be sorry. Choice coins are an excellent investment and if you follow sound guidelines you will make money as well as have many hours of enjoyment. Happy collecting.

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Footnote:

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This piece appeared in the 1986 Johannesburg Centenary Numismatic Convention Booklet, and is as relevant today as it was then.