An internet friend of mine wrote the following blog on another numismatic website. I echo his sentiment. I believe everyone's opinion is important and vital. Sprinkled with humor is also a welcomed trait. However, that being said, condescending, or mean spirited remarks offer no value to information. Collecting is in the eye of the beholder, whether it is sports memorabilia, comic books, stamps, or in our common denominator, coin collecting. If a coin makes one happy, then it is a desirable coin. We should nurture our GREAT Hobby with one another in lieu of ridiculing, or sniping. Constructive criticism is needed and necessary, however pompous, self promoting, degrading entries should be left at the door. if you disagree with an entry, then "agree to disagree." It worked for Reagan and Gorbachev, it can work for Cointalk, too! P.S. I do not know if Ron's Blog was pertaining to this site, but he DOES make some points! Steve I like to see educated and well informed people communicating politely on topics that pertain to numismatics. Many other sites often have too many people either boasting or degrading others. Many do not even bother to establish any profile, never provide any insight and often provide outdated opinions or misinformation. I don't mind it when someone interjects an opinion, but when they can not back up their answer or reply with any substantial reference, then I tend to question the response. We all know grading is quite subjective but there is a standardization system for the purpose of grading and is used as a guideline. I have often seen some on other sites insist they know more then anyone else simply because they have collected for years. We have all used restrooms for years, are we all experienced plumbers? I mean no disrespect to long time collectors, and there are some who have devoted a long time to a specific variety, but how many collect all varieties of coins. I find it humorous at times when some one posts a pic and asks for a grade and we all know that the results will vary. When asked by someone to give an estimate from a photo, I simply reply, it is unfair to try and grade a coin unless one sees it in person, photos do not lend justice to the coin. As to sites regarding sales of coins, well that could take a while to discuss. Some are great and others leave a lot to be desired. Main point I look for is ease of navigation, quality of products and reputation.
