Numismatist

Define Numismatist

Someone who specializes in numismatics - the study of and dealing in rare coins.

What is a numismatist?

A numismatist is someone who studies and is a specialist in rare coins and currencies.

According to Wikipedia, the word origin of "numismatics" is, "of coins"; from Late Latin numismatis, genitive of numisma".

Numismatists are experts in more than just coins.

It is often debated what the scope of numismatics is. The reality is that most numismatists aren't just experts in rare coins; they are also experts in bank notes, foreign currencies, and often jewelry and antiques.

Local vs. world numismatists:

In the United States, you will mostly find numismatists who are experts in coins and currencies that are minted only within the United States. However, there are also coin experts that study coins from around the world, and even coins from ancient times.

What is the difference between a numismatist, a coin dealer and a coin collector?

Generally speaking, anyone who deals in coins is also a numismatist and a collector.

However, it is possible to deal in coins without being either a numismatist or collector. But, most people believe that in order to become a successful coin dealer you must also be an expert numismatist. And of course, the most effective way to start learning numismatics is to start collecting coins. Hence, the three labels tend to all go hand-in-hand. And, anyone who you meet that is serious about coins is most likely a numismatist and a collector.

 

 

 

 

 

Numismatist

Coin Collecting Since Age 4

Ever since I was a wee lad, I would collect coins, rocks and all sorts of things... I have pictures of myself at a very young age, collecting pebbles from the beach and placing them in a cup that my mother was patiently holding. I also will never forget the fascination I would have when my parents would take me to the neighborhood coin shop to browse - it was difficult, though, because my budget to buy rare coins was about $5.00 per visit back then. And naturally, nothing that I purchased was really an investment. Nonetheless, the fascination never died, and in fact it grew with age!

Rare Coin Dealer

As an adult, I significantly ramped up my time and financial investment in rare coin collecting. Once my collection had reached what I felt was critical mass, I decided to setup my own coin dealer business, Powell Coins, and built a shop so customers can buy rare coins online from my rapidly growing inventory.

Go to Powell Coins →