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I enjoy interaction with others that includes discussion on how the numismatic journey began for each. In simple words, hearing the “how I began collecting” stories are fascinating. Everybody has some specific point at which an interest in things numismatic began. For me it was my ninth birthday when my grandfather presented me with nine quite well used United States Silver Dollars.

During my early years of collecting, back in the 1960’s, I joined and attended the Bellaire Coin Club. The first coin show I recall attending was at the old Bellaire gym, which is long since gone. I purchased my first piece of Texas currency back then, a Republic of Texas twenty dollar note with a huge triangular cut out cancel. I also purchased a couple of little worn Fractional notes. The Texas note is still around. The Fractional notes have been gone for years.

At that period in my personal history I began to listen to the “wisdom of the elders” of the hobby, people who were then about the age I am now. There was such knowledge shared as “buy the book before you buy the coin,” and “be sure to join available coin collecting groups.” With this in mind I became part of just about everything in sight; ANA, TNA, SPMC, TPS (philatelic), APS, etc. I also subscribed to a truck load of magazines and collector newspapers. The end result, unfortunately, was that I spent all my January “fun” money on memberships and not on collectibles. After a few years I began to drop the affiliations until I was down to none, the same with the periodicals. For a while I even dropped Banknote Reporter.

Just recently I have been rethinking my priorities. I am still not sold on as many groups, societies, associations and periodicals as before. However, I do realize how important it is to maintain affiliations that help my knowledge and relationships in numismatics to grow. The ones I have joined, such as Greater Houston Coin Club, and once again the Bellaire Coin Club, I will support. I’ve also rejoiced TNA. Having these “up close and personal” has helped me explore the depths of the hobby plus gives me many opportunities to hear the stories and collector passions of others.

My suggestion here is for each of us as collectors to discover the possibilities. I am not going to join every organization in sight, because I cannot do justice to all with my limited time and resources. The same may be true for you. At the least find the few that are of interest, are available, and then join with more than dues only. Especially I encourage you all to continue your affiliation with the Greater Houston Coin Club. Not only “pay your dues,” but commit yourselves to the club in whatever ways you are able. Do your best to be in attendance. Share your story. Volunteer to do a program. Cook a meal for the club. Share a “show and tell” that expresses your passion. Come, find friends, share your interests and rejoice with those who are willing to tell their stories.

The bottom line here: We need each other. In this electronic age we sometimes forget that we need to be together.

See you on Thursday, February 16th, if not before

Regards and God Bless,

Richard