Alt text: A coin club hosting a group discussion in a public space
Of the 195 countries worldwide, the United Nations recognizes 180 official currencies. Of course, those are just the actively circulating currencies. When considering ancient currencies, the list increases even further. With so many different denominations and nationalities to track, it is no wonder that joining coin collecting clubs is a popular choice among numismatists. Joining a coin club can help collectors network, further their knowledge, and provide valuable advice to others. Find out the top coin collecting clubs and their areas of expertise below.
Choosing the Right Coin Club
There is a vast array of options when it comes to joining a coin club. To get the most out of a club experience, it is best to understand what features are most valuable. Some collectors may prefer the flexibility of an online club, a club that prioritizes events and gatherings, or a club with a specialty currency focus. Collectors may consider joining more than one club to see which group best aligns with their collecting interests.
Top National & Regional Coin Clubs
Let’s take the guesswork out and explore both the top national and regional coin clubs:
American Numismatic Association (ANA)
No list of coin collecting clubs would be complete without the ANA. With over 25,000 members, this coin club membership offers an eLearning academy, virtual museum exhibits, a year-long subscription to their magazine, access to their seminars & auctions, free admission to the National Money Show, and more. If finding a club with members from across the nation and extensive access to events and shows is important, joining the ANA would be an excellent choice.
Colonial Coin Collectors Club (C4)
Founded in 1993, C4 focuses on colonial-era coins. Membership in this coin club grants users an extensive library of resources, a quarterly newsletter, and access to their annual convention. This group aims to further the study and knowledge of historic coins through study groups and presentations.
Early American Coppers (EAC)
This is one of the ideal coin collecting clubs to join for collectors specializing in early U.S. copper coins. Access to this club promotes networking with others in the same specialty, access to their official journal, private Facebook pages, and a dedicated convention for American coppers.
Token and Medal Society (TAMS)
For collectors focusing on tokens and medals rather than coins, the TAMS may be the ideal club to join. This non-profit organization, established in 1960, promotes research and education around medals, badges, and tokens. They host an annual meeting at the ANA’s World’s Fair of Money.
Chicago Coin Club
Looking a bit more locally, the Chicago Coin Club has been operating for over 100 years. They offer in-person meetings once a month in downtown to further numismatic education and discussion. Collectors can also stay up to date through their monthly newsletter. For collectors interested but not in the area, the Chicago Coin Club also offers online options.
Florida United Numismatists (FUN)
The Florida United Numismatists club is perhaps best known for its annual coin convention. However, they also host a variety of other activities and gatherings such as monthly meetings, seminars, club events, and even a sub-group dedicated to young collectors. This club often partners with the ANA to make the most of their events.
For collectors wishing to start at the truly local level, the ANA provides an extensive directory of clubs in each state and major city.
Top Online Exclusive Coin Collecting Clubs
PCGS Message Boards
For collectors looking to test the waters of joining a coin club, the PCGS Message Boards are a good place to start. The PCGS is an industry-trusted coin authenticator that hosts discussion boards for collectors to trade advice and pose questions. While there are several sub-boards, we recommend beginning with the U.S. coin board.
The American Coin Club (Facebook)
Facebook Groups are another option with no membership fees and a casual environment. This private group with over 7,000 members promotes collecting advice and discussions only between collectors.
Making the Most of Your Resources
Joining a coin club is a great way to improve the collecting experience for beginners and seasoned veterans alike. Additionally, numismatists can find a variety of other resources, such as our extensive collecting blog at ModernCoinMart.
On the hunt for your next coin? ModernCoinMart makes the hunt easier by providing a variety of search methods, including by mint, nationality, and metal type.
