Coin show offers top dollar event

To most students, "valuable" coins are the ones they find in their pockets and couch cushions that can be used to buy pizza. This weekend offers an opportunity to view a wider variety of rare, valuable coins and other currency.\nThe Bloomington Coin Show will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. tomorrow at the Bloomington Convention Center, located at 302 S. College Ave. Admission is free.\nThis event is sponsored by the Bloomington Coin Club, which has held the show for the last 12 years. Club President Steve Ball said there will be 34 dealer tables, including coin dealers from all over Indiana, as well as from other parts of the Midwest. Prizes will also be given away throughout the day.\n"Ten dollars will be given away to someone every hour and the money can be used to buy coins at the tables," said Ball. "We will also sell raffle tickets for the chance to win one of 25 coins. The most valuable prize is a $10 gold piece that is over a hundred years old."\nIn addition to these coins, Ball said the new nickel will be on display. The U.S. Mint has issued nickels that are redesigned to commemorate the bicentennial anniversary of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. This is the first time the nickel has been redesigned since 1938. In addition to American coins, foreign coins will be displayed, including ones from ancient Rome and Greece.\nFormer club Vice President Kenny Hall is excited for the vast assortment.\n"This is a nice opportunity for locals to see some wares from out of town," said Hall. "These are coins that people might not get to see, otherwise."\nRare coins hold much fascination for those who see them. Club member Mort Atkins said part of the reason he collects coins is to connect with the past.\n"There is a lot of history that comes with collecting coins," Atkins said. "When you hold a coin from ancient Rome, you wonder about all of the other people who have handled that coin."\nClub members agree the coin show will be the perfect opportunity for novice coin collectors to learn about this hobby and receive advice to help them. Atkins said attendees should come prepared with a list of coins and a book showing how much each coin should be worth. Dealers will also answer questions.\n"When it comes to collecting coins, there is no question that is too dumb," said Hall. "Dealers have heard them all."\nWhen purchasing coins, Ball suggested buying coins which are in the best condition affordable. He also said it is important to not clean the coins, since they are more valuable in their present condition.\nFor more information on coin collecting, the Bloomington Coin Club donates books on the subject to the Monroe County Public Library. The club meets the third Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Arlington Methodist Church, located at 1820 W. Arlington Rd. \n-- Contact staff writer Jorie Slodki at jslodki@indiana.edu.