Last updated on May 2nd, 2024 at 03:31 pm
Last Updated on May 2, 2024 Posted by Colonial Acres Coins
Gear up for another informative journey into some of the world’s most notable coin collections and collectors.
In the previous blog post, we explored the extensive collection of Eliasberg, the man widely honoured as the most significant coin collector in history. We admired his possession of rare gems such as the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, the 1804 Draped Bust Dollar, and the 1861 Confederate States Half Dollar, amongst others.
We hopped across continents to check out the luxurious and varied collection of King Farouk of Egypt, who had coins spanning from ancient Greek and Roman currencies to Victorian golden sovereigns in his collection. His relentless pursuit of rare coins, now referred to as “Faroukism,” added a unique flavour to his collection that continues to inspire numismatists worldwide.
In our ongoing exploration of individuals who have turned this fascination into something truly extraordinary, we continue to uncover the stories behind exemplary coin collections.
Part 1 unlocked the vault of two prolific collectors in history. Part 2 dials up the intrigue even further with insights about the American Numismatic Association (ANA) Money Museum, the Harry W. Bass Collection, and even the celebrity coin collectors giving this age-old pastime a modern twist.
The American Numismatic Association (ANA) Money Museum
Located in Colorado Springs, the ANA Money Museum stands as a testament to the ambitions and dedication of numismatists around the world. What began as a modest display of 1,000 ancient pieces has grown into a facility that houses over 250,000 items, including rare coins, medals, and paper money.
Amidst this impressive array, visitors can find the ‘King of American Coins,’ the 1804 silver dollar, which shares a place of honour alongside many other coins of minimal mintage.
The museum’s mission goes beyond preservation; it is committed to educating the public about the cultural, economic, and historical impact of money. Some exciting features include:
Virtual Exhibits: Embracing modern technology, the ANA Money Museum offers virtual exhibits. These online resources allow enthusiasts from around the globe to view high-resolution images and detailed information about fascinating numismatic objects, making the museum’s collection accessible worldwide.
Educational Programs: The museum is not just about displaying coins and currency; it also serves as an educational hub. Through various activities, classes, and exhibits like “The History of Money,” the museum aims to enrich visitors’ knowledge about the science, history, and art behind numismatics.
Special Exhibits: One of the museum’s notable exhibits is “The Medal in America,” which showcases the evolution and significance of medals in American history. This exhibit highlights how medals have been used to commemorate important events, achievements, and figures throughout time.
The ANA Money Museum serves as a beacon for individuals beginning their collecting journeys, a reminder of the deeper narratives contained within every currency that spans our shared human experience.
The Harry W. Bass Collection
The Harry W. Bass Collection, regarded as one of the most comprehensive U.S. gold coin collections, is a remarkable feature of the ANA that showcases an extraordinary range of rare and significant coins, encapsulating the rich history of American numismatics.
The late Harry W. Bass Jr. was not just a collector; he was a man with a unified vision of assembling a collection that spanned over a century of North American coinage. To this end, he embarked on a relentless pursuit of historical items, spending lavishly when required.
His collection, which comprised significant quantities of materials related to money and had many items on display at the ANA Money Museum, is not only impressive for its scope but also for its depth of curation. Some of these items include:
- 1863 Liberty Head Two Cents: One of the earliest examples of the two-cent piece, which has a special place in numismatic history for its role during the Civil War.
- 1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar: An extremely rare specimen, one of only a handful known to exist, representing the pinnacle of collecting American silver coinage.
- Early American Gold Coinage: A comprehensive assortment of gold coins from the early years of the United States Mint, showcasing the evolution of gold as currency.
- Pattern Coins: An extensive series of experimental and trial pieces that were pivotal in the development of U.S. coin designs.
Bass’s meticulous attention to quality and historical relevance ensured a collection that spoke not only of monetary value but of the context of American history and the evolution of coinage. The Harry W. Bass Collection is a benchmark and a source of inspiration for numismatists, a reminder that the value of a collection comes not just from the rarity of its items, but from the stories those items can tell.
Celebrity Coin Collectors
Coin collecting is often seen as a solitary and scholarly pursuit, which is why it’s particularly striking when enthusiasts emerge from the bright lights of celebrity. For some, this hobby is a genuine passion, transcending the lure of their fame and wealth.
Celebrity coin collectors like Wayne Gretzky, Jack Black, Martin Sheen and Nicole Kidman have contributed to reshaping the image of coin collecting—proving that the intrigue of numismatics can captivate minds from any walk of life. Their collections not only bring new enthusiasts into the fold but also remind established collectors that, in the right hands, coins can be both a charming hobby and a preserver of history.
Renowned as one of the greatest hockey players of all time, Wayne Gretzky has a passion for coin collecting that matches his dedication to the ice. Coin World reported that the hockey legend has been collecting coins since the 1990s.
While the specific contents of his collection remain private, it is well-known that Gretzky has appeared on various coins minted by the Royal Canadian Mint over the years, indicating they likely hold a place in his collection.
Wayne Gretzky’s unmistakable influence on hockey is immortalized not just in the record books but also in the form of collectible coins. Here are a few of the Royal Canadian Mint coins featuring this hockey legend:
- 2011 25 Cent Wayne Gretzky coloured coin encased in a card, captures the vibrant spirit of hockey with a vivid painted illustration of Gretzky in action, marking a tribute to his illustrious career and influence on the sport.
- 2011 $200 Wayne & Walter Gretzky 22K Gold Coin is a masterpiece of numismatic art, celebrating not only the legendary status of Wayne Gretzky in the world of hockey but also the profound influence of his father, Walter Gretzky. Struck in 22-karat gold, this coin is a fitting tribute to the Gretzkys, encapsulating the spirit of excellence and the deep familial bonds that helped shape one of the greatest athletes in history. This was also issued as a silver coin featuring a holographic effect.
These coins, struck by the Royal Canadian Mint, not only capture moments from Gretzky’s illustrious career but also serve as cherished items for coin collectors and hockey fans alike.
Nicole Kidman has a fascinating collection of coins dating back to the 4th century BC, with a particular emphasis on collecting Judean coins. These ancient artifacts not only reflect her passion for numismatics but also serve as poignant symbols of the rich and intricate history of the Jewish people, offering a glimpse into the cultural and historical significance of each coin in her possession.
Jack Black, the multifaceted American entertainer known for his roles in acting, comedy, music, and songwriting, harbours a unique passion for numismatics. In a captivating discussion on Conan O’Brien’s show, Black unveiled his distinctive and somewhat provocative coin collection.
Among his treasures is a 1793 1-cent piece adorned with the image of a woman with unseemly flowing locks and a 1913-dated coin that daringly features a nude representation of Abraham Lincoln. This unconventional collection highlights Black’s eclectic tastes and adds an intriguing edge to his numismatic pursuits.
How and Where to Begin Your Coin Collection
If reading about these captivating stories has ignited your numismatic passion, the next step is starting your collection. Here are a few tips to guide you on your coin-collecting adventure:
- Educate Yourself: Before you buy a single coin, immerse yourself in the world of numismatics. Learn about the history of currency, different coin types, and what makes a coin valuable.
- Join a Club: Numismatic clubs and associations are treasure troves of knowledge and resources. They connect you to experienced collectors, provide access to coin shows and auctions, and often offer educational materials that can guide your collection strategy.
- Start Small: Quality over quantity is a good mantra when it comes to coin collecting. Begin with a particular area or era that fascinates you, and gradually expand your collection as you develop a more discerning eye.
- Invest in the Right Tools: Proper storage, handling, and displaying of your coins are essential to preserving their value and condition. Coin albums, protective sleeves, and gloves are examples of some tools you’ll need.
- Connect with Reputable Dealers: Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, building a relationship with a trusted coin dealer is valuable. They can help you find coins, provide appraisals, and ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
Collecting coins is not just a hobby; it’s a legacy – from the historical legacies of kingdoms to personal legacies passed down through generations. Whether you’re into museum-worthy collections or just enjoy unique finds, numismatics lets you discover, learn, and appreciate the world in a tangible, often overlooked, and undeniably beautiful manner.
For all your coin collecting needs, such as supplies, commemorative coins, rare finds, and even paper money from around the world, look no further than Colonial Acres Coins. With our extensive experience and dedication to the craft, we offer a one-stop shop for all your numismatic endeavours.
From the moment you decide to start collecting to the day you admire your fully realized collection, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
