Back in the fall I decided that a whole new interest had become paramount in my pursuits. That one is a lot more philanthropic, and a lot more directly enjoyable than the numismatic hobby I have engaged in since I was about 8-9 years old. I have decided gradually to let the all of my various collections of numismatic materiel, coins, banknotes, tokens, ancients, moderns etc. I have had some varied degrees of interests from fellow collectors, and they have ranged from very interested in items I have and forthright with fair offers, to those that have been almost insulting with ridiculous fire sale type offers. Now instead of offering stuff to the general public, unless I personally know the person with a specific want, the rest of the materiel I have will be auctioned through Stacks, Goldbergs and Heritage. The one that I heard from initiated contact through this very forum. I am ashamed of them, for coming to this forum to chase down something they wanted, and hoped to snag for an insulting offer. What a hobby, it truly amazes one, the participants range from great to nasty.
That sort of describes just about everything in life. Good luck with your decision. It sounds like you put a lot of thought into it, so I'm sure it is the right one for you.
Scottishmoney: Interesting. I remember a summer or two ago, talking with a young woman in her twenties about how she'd like to spend her life. . . and her saying it would be great to simply be a philanthropist. Looks like you found another way to do good with money.
Not to throw another log on the fire, but you're going to find this is true in everything you do, philantropy included. Hope you find some relative firm ground no matter where you go. Guy~
Yes, and it is rather extensive. Some stuff has been going here and there. But now I am just going to auction the rest of it.
I agree with you, and believe me, my new pursuit is fraught with problems but there are greater rewards that you let drive you.
I hope things go well ! Very best wishes. :thumb: By the reference to "philanthropy", I presume you're donating the proceeds. I found that requires more research than coin collecting !
Droppin like flies, Well.. I didn't really get a chance to know you, but it was nice being in your presence. Take care, have fun in your next pursuit.. Also... at least keep ONE coin.. so much for.... lol, Also, Keep this it is so nice!:
No, not donating per say, I am looking into either starting or becoming a part of a non profit organisation. I don't need to donate for tax deductions, and I do not believe in tax deductions for that either. Otherwise I would have an enormous outstanding tax credit more so than the one I currently have. Philanthropy should be more about the value you get out of it, by the goodwill and betterment of humanity more than a tax deduction. Okay, I am not a Vanderbilt or a Rockefeller.
It goes. The only things I am keeping are things that have been in my family for a long time, an early 2 cent piece etc. At first I thought I might keep my Scottish coin collection, I have several pieces that are close to being unique - but nothing about it is sentimental in anyway. Only stuff that grandparents gave me etc. The 2 cent piece I refer to one of my grandfathers had had for almost 80 years when he gave it to me when I was a child. It was special to him because his brother gave it to him ca. 1897 when he had his finger amputated by a corn shucking machine. He was touched by the gift and kept it until he gave it to me. It is worth more to me than all the gold nobles, AU 1795 lettered edge large cents, etc.
wow. best of luck with your decision. i have thought of joining a not for profit also but not stopping my collection
Sorry to hear about your decision! But i certainly respect it Its too bad your collection is a 'few' leagues above my own lol you have an expansive and exquisite collection of some very nice coins/currency! It would be great to add some of your collection to mine. I hope your new persuit bring you the fullfillment you are looking for.
