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THROUGH THE NUMISMATIC GLASS: NUMISMATICS IS A PEOPLE HOBBY

By Dr THOMAS F FITZGERALD

Unfortunately, when we talk about the hobby of collecting coins, medals, currency and exonumia, we usually speak of coin grades, rarity, auctions counterfeiting and the value of our collections. However, this writer believes the people who participate in the hobby are more important than the coins, currency and their values. In fact, without people there would be no hobby!

Yes, this is a hobby first and foremost of people. Perhaps Ed Fulwider, the former die setter at the San Francisco Mint, said it best. I remember as if it were only yesterday, listening to a tearful Ed after the theft of his precious coin collection. The loss of his life’s collection was deep and hurtful. He stood before us and told us he probably could not start over again as it would be too hard. Ed Fulwider said “Henceforth, I will be the collector of friends who collect coins.” Mr Fulwider gathered one of the largest collections of numismatic friends in California!

It has been my privilege and good fortune to know and admire so many of these hobbyists over the past fifty years. This writer recently wrote a series of articles recounting the fifty-year history of the C S N A. With the writing of each year, wonderful memories of these folks came to mind. The members of our coin clubs, many of whom are deceased, will continue to live through their many contributions, their friendship and the heritage they bestowed on our state organization.

It would be unwise and impossible to name them all. There were so many and we wouldn’t want to overlook any one of them. However, what they all had in common was their willingness to help, to encourage others, and to give generously of their time to make this hobby more enjoyable for all. They will continue to live in our memories by their accomplishments and our hobby is better because of their efforts.

Recently, we lost several very special members: Al Baber was a particularly important member of the C S N A, serving in many offices and capacities. Yet, he will be best remembered for what a grand gentleman and friend he was to all of us who are involved in this hobby. Aren’t we lucky we were able to know and appreciate him?

Charles Kappen was so important in the growth and development of the state organization, particularly its publications. What would the C S N A be without his contributions? Yet, this writer will always remember him as a good friend; one who shared the club’s history along with encouragement and plaudits in his many welcome letters.

All were stunned to hear of the sudden death of our advertising director, Ron Lund. What a loss to his family and to all of us. This writer had known Ron for a relatively short time. Many times, telephone calls to his lovely wife Theresa, were answered by Ron. He always made these calls a delight. When we met, his smile, good humor and his friendliness matched the image he conveyed over the phone. How lucky we were to have Ron Lund for much too short a time! He brought sunshine, enthusiasm and dedication to our collecting activities. The C S N A , the numismatic hobby and this writer have been blessed because of his efforts and his support. Ron, you will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

So the next time you become frustrated with some aspect of the hobby, just think back to the many friends, great meetings, fun at the coin shows and the joy of sharing your interests with so many wonderful people. Truly, this is a hobby of people who collect things!