I am currently "on a break" from buying coins. I have my eye on another prize right now, and I am conserving funds. So during the break, I plan on reading more on coins, learning a lot more, and selling off a few. So the question is have others taken breaks, and been able to keep the interest strong? When you re-entered into the market, did you have a new or different approach to the hobby? In short, was the break any benefit to you.? Just wondering......
I haven't taken a break in the last two decades, but I know scores of others who have taken time off. Most have come back to the hobby within two years and the majority of those came back within about six months. My observations are that the break typically recharged their batteries, but also that if one takes a break that they are more likely to take another break in the future.
Much like Tom, I haven't taken a break either but I do know scores of folks who have. If you feel the need to do so Mike, then by all means do so. I've found that others who have taken the 'vacation' return renewed and refreshed.........
Thanks, hopefully the break is only going to be on the buying side of things. I am going to try to stay fully engaged, except for the cash outlay part. I haven't purchased a coin since Nov I think except for a ten dollar War Nickel. The part I am missing the most is imaging the Newps
Hey Mike, glad you're taking a break from the hobby. I ended up taking 4 months off last year and it was exactly what I needed. Not only did it refresh my perspective on my collecting direction, but I was able to appreciate numismatics a lot more because of it. However long it may be, be sure to stay in tough with us here. Best of luck to you!
Thanks Koo, I am actually going to try to spend more time on CT, as long as interest level stays strong. Hopefully it does without new purchases. Mike
I have taken breaks before, some voluntary some involuntary. I find what Tom described, batteries recharged. Usually though i find my interests slightly altered when coming back.
Hows a six year break... other than putting away a few commemoratives (from my pocket change), I didn't buy a single coin (or ounce of silver) for six years... I started back when silver hit $49 to sell... waited a bit and finally restarted nearly a year ago, during March Break.
Just came back from a break this morning (no joke). I think I took off maybe 2-3 months? I just woke up this morning and thought "It's time." dramatic movie style . Anyway, it's helped me organise my collection a little more in that free time and I feel like I have a new sense of direction. Anyone remember me?
I have taken a couple of breaks lasting about 6-9 months. After that the itch to collect comes back. I think the refresh is always good. I guess the important thing to remember is it is only a temporary burnout. The worst thing to do is sell everything, thinking you are done; only to find when the interest revives you have to have to start from scratch again.
YES! I have never heard of a collector who sells everything and then comes back later and doesn't regret that decision. That is why, even though I do not collect US coins any more, I have never sold them. Well, that reason, and I am a hoarder......
