Exploring Exonumia: My Numismatic Journey Through Tokens and Medals

Ever since I started collecting, exonumia has had a special pull on me—those fascinating numismatic items that aren’t coins, like tokens, medals, and more. Over the last few months, I’ve been exploring this world and turning up some incredible pieces that offer a real window into history and collecting. From counterstamps to commemorative medals, every piece has a story to tell, and I can’t wait to share what I’ve found along with some practical tips for fellow collectors.

The Varied World of Exonumia: What I’ve Found

Exonumia covers so many different kinds of items, each with its own appeal. In my travels through flea markets, coin shows, and online auctions, I’ve run into several types that really show off the creativity and history in our hobby:

• Tokens and Storecards: Take Civil War-era storecards, for example. They’re like tiny ads and are perfect for digging into local history. I remember one with such intricate designs that you could almost feel the bustle of commerce from that time.
• Medals and Commemoratives: Historical medals have a way of grabbing your attention. I’ve been especially drawn to pieces like a French medal from 1776 and a stunning commemorative for the Brooklyn Bridge. That Brooklyn piece features a winged man, which I think honors the workers or engineers—adding a whole layer of story to the medal.
• Counterstamps and Encased Coins: Counterstamps—where a design is stamped over an existing coin or token—fascinate me. I’ve spotted subtle die variations in some, like differences between the front and back, that can hint at rarity. And encased coins? They’re some of the coolest exonumia around because they’re two-in-one—think casino chips or souvenirs that hold a coin inside.
• Unconventional Items: Don’t forget the quirky stuff! Wooden “coin club” nickels and even copper sheets from old mines are part of exonumia. I love these for their unique materials and the stories they carry—perfect for collectors who like to think outside the metal box.

Hands-On Collecting Tips

From my experience, collecting exonumia takes a sharp eye and a bit of know-how. Here are a few things I’ve picked up that might help you enjoy the hobby even more:

• Condition and Grading: Because exonumia doesn’t have the same grading standards as coins, I always check surfaces carefully for wear, scratches, or corrosion. For medals and tokens, sharp details and an original patina are what I look for. Condition really matters—especially on rarer pieces like 1800s temperance medals, where top condition can mean a big jump in value.
• Market Observations: Rarity is a big deal. Take counterstamps: ones with unique designs or a juicy backstory can fetch higher prices. I’ve noticed encased coins and casino chips heating up lately, so it pays to watch auction trends. And always, always check authenticity. Sure, a well-made fake can be interesting in its own right, but you don’t want to overpay—so stick with trusted sources.
• Historical Context Matters: The history behind a piece can add so much. When I researched that Brooklyn Bridge medal, it made me appreciate it even more—and sometimes, that history can reveal hidden value. My advice? Hit the books—numismatic references and online databases are gold for digging up a piece’s story.
• Start Small and Build: Start with what’s easy on the wallet, like tokens or wooden nickels. They’re affordable and everywhere. Then, as you get the hang of it, you can branch out into more specialized areas—maybe building a themed collection of counterstamps, for instance.

My Favorites and Advice for Newcomers

Of all the exonumia I’ve handled, counterstamps really stole my heart—I was blown away by the sheer variety, with some collections running into the hundreds. If you’re just starting out, I’d say join a local club or an online group. It’s a great way to share finds and learn the ropes. And remember: handle your pieces with care to keep them in good shape, and snap some photos to record the details. In the end, exonumia isn’t just about what it’s worth—it’s a doorway into history and art that makes collecting so rewarding.