Let’s See My Exonumia Treasures!

Exonumia has fascinated me for years—those coin-like pieces that aren’t official money but tell amazing stories through tokens, medals, and other treasures. Lately, I’ve been exploring all sorts of these items, and it’s only deepened my love for this corner of numismatics. I’d love to share some favorite finds and thoughts from my collection.

The Exonumia That Have Graced My Collection

From counterstamps to casino chips, the variety out there is simply stunning. I’ve handled tokens where counterstamps add whole new layers of history, especially when you spot subtle die differences between the front and back—these tiny variations can transform an ordinary piece into something special. Encased coins remain a personal favorite; they’re endlessly cool little time capsules. Other standouts in my tray include:

• French jetons from 1776, offering a peek into European commerce
• Civil War storecard tokens whispering tales from America’s past
• 1879 temperance medals championing social causes
• Wooden coin club nickels—quirky and full of character
• Industrial artifacts like Anaconda mine copper sheets, showing the raw materials behind our coins

Even reproductions can hold charm if they’ve got a good story behind them.

What I’ve Noticed in the Exonumia World

Collecting interest keeps growing, with encased coins and counterstamps leading the charge. Die varieties make all the difference—a small mark can turn a common token into a prize. Historical medals like that Brooklyn Bridge piece with its winged worker (possibly honoring those who died during construction) really capture hearts with their stories. Casino chips and wooden nickels make great starter pieces, but always verify authenticity with trusted dealers or references.

Handling and Preserving Your Pieces

Condition matters most when evaluating exonumia. Check for wear, counterstamp clarity, and surface details. On tokens, examine edges and lettering carefully—fading affects value. To keep pieces safe: handle by the edges to avoid skin oils, use acid-free holders, and keep a loupe handy to spot fine details. When browsing online, always view enlarged images to catch what thumbnails miss. And do your homework—I regularly check references to avoid costly mistakes.

Standout Pieces and Their Stories

Some exonumia speaks louder than others. That Brooklyn Bridge medal isn’t just about engineering—it’s a tribute to human sacrifice. Industrial pieces like mine copper connect numismatics to precious metals collecting. And well-documented counterstamps show how these items evolved through time. Each piece, whether rare or common, adds texture to our understanding of history.

Exonumia has brought such joy to my collecting journey. If you’re curious, start with what grabs your eye and enjoy the thrill of the hunt—these little treasures have so much to share.