Collecting has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. What began as a simple fascination with coins has evolved into a lifelong passion, encompassing antiques, collectibles, and more. Over the years, I’ve learned that collecting is about more than just accumulating items; it’s about preserving history, cherishing memories, and experiencing the thrill of the hunt. In this blog, I’ll take you through my journey from childhood hobbies to a career steeped in the world of collectibles.
The Spark of Curiosity
Early Beginnings
My journey into collecting began in the most unassuming way—at my father’s gas station. As a young boy working after school and on weekends, I was fascinated by the different coins that passed through our hands. One day, a customer handed me an 1878 silver dollar, sparking my interest in coin collecting.
This small act ignited a curiosity that grew with each passing day. I found myself captivated by the stories these coins told, imagining the hands they had passed through and the history they had witnessed.
Growing the Collection
As I delved deeper into my newfound hobby, I began accumulating coins from various sources—some from customers at the gas station, others from flea markets and antique shops. Each coin added to my collection felt like a new chapter in a book I was writing, filled with history and adventure.
Transitioning to a Lifelong Passion
Expanding Horizons
By the time I was 18, my coin collection had grown significantly. The value of silver soared to over $50 an ounce in 1980, and I sold a portion of my collection for nearly $100,000. This experience showed me that collecting could be both rewarding and profitable, but it also taught me that the value of a collection isn’t just in its monetary worth—it’s in the passion and knowledge behind it.
With this realization, my focus expanded beyond coins. I began exploring other areas of collectibles, from antiques to rare memorabilia. The more I learned, the more I appreciated the depth and diversity of the collecting world.
Turning Passion into Profession
As my expertise grew, so did my reputation. I began buying and selling antiques, collectibles, and bullion, turning my hobby into a thriving business. Conducting estate sales, attending auctions, and managing a roadshow allowed me to share my passion with others and help them uncover their own treasures.
The Thrill of the Hunt
Discovering Hidden Gems
One of the most exciting aspects of collecting is the hunt for hidden gems. Whether it’s an overlooked antique at an estate sale or a rare coin at a flea market, the thrill of discovery never gets old. Each find is a testament to the knowledge and instinct honed over years of collecting.
The hunt is about more than just finding valuable items; it’s about the stories behind them. Every piece has a history, and uncovering that history is part of the joy of collecting.
Building Connections
Collecting has also allowed me to connect with others who share the same passion. Whether it’s fellow collectors, dealers, or enthusiasts at shows and auctions, the community aspect of collecting is incredibly fulfilling. Sharing stories, tips, and experiences creates a network of like-minded individuals who understand the allure of the collecting world.
Lessons Learned
Patience and Perseverance
Collecting has taught me the importance of patience. Finding valuable items often requires hours of searching, researching, and sometimes waiting for the right opportunity. Perseverance is key, as not every hunt will yield a treasure, but the ones that do make the effort worthwhile.
Knowledge is Power
The more you know about what you’re collecting, the better equipped you are to make informed decisions. Understanding the history, rarity, and value of items can turn a casual collector into an expert. Continuous learning has been a cornerstone of my collecting journey, and it’s something I encourage all collectors to embrace.
Passing on the Passion
Sharing with Future Generations
As a father and grandfather, I’ve found immense joy in sharing my passion for collecting with my family. Teaching my children and grandchildren about the history and value of collectibles is a way to pass down not just knowledge but also a sense of appreciation for the past.
Collecting is a bridge between generations, a way to connect through shared interests and stories. It’s a legacy I’m proud to leave behind, knowing that the treasures I’ve gathered will continue to be cherished.
Inspiring New Collectors
Through my work in estate sales and the collectibles community, I’ve had the privilege of inspiring new collectors. Seeing someone discover the joy of collecting for the first time reminds me of my own beginnings and reaffirms why I continue to pursue this passion.
Conclusion
Collecting has been more than just a hobby; it’s been a journey filled with discovery, learning, and connection. From my early days of collecting coins at my father’s gas station to running a successful business centered around antiques and collectibles, the evolution of my passion has been a rewarding adventure.
Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned collector, remember that the true value of collecting lies in the stories, history, and joy it brings. Embrace the journey, cherish the finds, and share the passion with others—it’s a pursuit that enriches both the collector and the world around them.