I collect coins gem cameo proof and SMS coins from 1964 - 1972. Generally, when I buy proof sets, it is because I want one or two coins in the set. I'll break them out of the set for my collection, then spend the rest. A lot of people have no clue these kinds of things exist. I get to talk to folks about coins and such, and it helps to promote coin collecting, too. In the short term, I guess I am losing a little money by spending these pieces, but the entertainment value is high. Anybody else?
I commend you sir. I have a few older threads out there concerning this topic. I routinely give away circ coins as tips at the local banks and restaurants. Currently, I have been passing out Roman coins and Widow's mites. Many worn Morgan and Peace dollars are spread through the mid-atlantic courtesy of this dealer. I love the look on the face when they see a Half Cent or Three Cent coin. The shock value is worth the effort. One suggestion, get yourself some small address labels and put your name or local coin club on the label and attach it to a 2x2. Give the coin with a little promotional content.
Some earlier threads: http://cointalk.org/showthread.php?t=817 http://cointalk.org/showthread.php?t=1113&highlight=pocket+pieces http://cointalk.org/showthread.php?t=1125&highlight=pocket+pieces http://cointalk.org/showthread.php?t=1095&highlight=pocket+pieces
I put a few mint set singles in circulation since many of them aren't worth the trouble of trying to sell or the postage. Every once in a while someone will notice that I'm spending old uncirculated coins. They really stand out to the people who watch their change. Even if they don't get found for a few years they'll still stand out.
These may not be old but today I got four 1979 - P Susan Bs at the bank. I would say they are AU+/BU. I have gotten some before but this are really nice.
In order to help pay for some coin purchases, I had to deposit a nice run of 1995 ten dollar bills (the old style with the small portrait). They were very nice crisp uncirculated with consecutive serial numbers. With them were 50 1976 two dollar bills, nice but from circulation, and a 1974 $100 bill. I had to convince the bank teller that these were not really that special.
Coins do not have to be particularly old to inspire a person to become a collector. SBA dollars are a really great tip, as they are seldom encountered.
Thanks! I looked at these threads and there is a lot of neat stuff. I tried to be a dealer, sort of, but I love my coins too much. Can't bear to part with the nice pieces, unless someone really turns my head with a super offer. I do carry a Gallery Mint replica of a 1796 $1 to show folks. Great conversation starter. I've had this piece in my pocket for about 8 years, and it looks better every year. Even dealers at coin shows are startled to see me drag it out of my pocket for an opinion. I've attached a couple photos of this pocket piece. Since it is not a real coin, it might not be appropriate in this forum, so you can remove the pics if you feel obliged to do that. But, it is a bit spooky to see how nice the replicas look.
Would never delete a pic of a coin. Even a copy. I use replica's as tips also. If you read the thread about the Palm Beach coin show, you will see how I spend my free time shocking the passersby with these replica's.
