The World of Exonumia: Collecting Tokens, Medals, and Other Non-Currency Coins
Exonumia is a term used to describe a category of coin-like objects that are not considered legal currency. These include tokens, medals, badges, and other commemorative items. While not recognized as currency, they still hold value for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts alike.
The History of Exonumia
The earliest known exonumia dates back to ancient Rome, where soldiers were given bronze discs as a reward for their service. These discs, known as tesserae, were used as tokens to purchase goods and services. Similar tokens were also used during the medieval period as a form of payment in place of coins.
The production of modern exonumia began in the 18th century with the rise of industrialization. As businesses and corporations grew, they began to create their own tokens as a form of advertising or as a way to pay employees. These tokens were often made of brass, copper, or other inexpensive metals and featured the name and logo of the company.
Exonumia also includes medals and commemorative coins. These are often created to celebrate a specific event, such as a historic battle, the inauguration of a president, or the opening of a new building. They are typically made of precious metals, such as gold or silver, and feature intricate designs and engravings.
The Types of Exonumia
There are many different types of exonumia, each with its own unique characteristics and history. Some of the most popular types include:
- Tokens: These are small, flat objects that resemble coins but are not legal currency. They are often used as a form of payment in place of cash, or as a way to commemorate a specific event or location. Examples include transit tokens, arcade tokens, and trade tokens.
- Medals: Medals are commemorative objects that are often awarded as a prize or given as a gift. They can be made of various metals, such as gold, silver, bronze, or copper, and are typically engraved with a design or message. Examples include military medals, Olympic medals, and academic medals.
- Badges: Badges are typically made of metal or plastic and are worn as a form of identification or as a symbol of affiliation. They are often used by organizations such as law enforcement, the military, or sports teams. Examples include police badges, military badges, and sports team badges.
The Value of Exonumia
While exonumia may not have any legal tender value, many pieces hold significant value for collectors and enthusiasts. The value of exonumia is determined by a variety of factors, including rarity, condition, and historical significance.
Some exonumia pieces may be worth only a few dollars, while others can fetch thousands or even millions of dollars at auction. For example, a rare 1792 Birch cent, which is a type of commemorative medal produced by the United States Mint, sold for over $1.1 million in 2015.
Collecting Exonumia
Collecting exonumia can be a fascinating and rewarding hobby. There are many different types and styles of exonumia to choose from, and collectors often specialize in a specific area or time period.
One of the benefits of collecting exonumia is that it is often more affordable than collecting traditional coins or other types of collectibles. However, it is important to do research and buy from reputable dealers to ensure that you are getting authentic pieces at fair prices.
One way to start collecting exonumia is to attend coin shows or conventions. These events often feature dealers who specialize in exonumia and can offer valuable insight and advice. Online marketplaces such as eBay and Etsy can also be a great source for buying and selling exonumia.
When collecting exonumia, it is important to keep the items in good condition. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and handle them carefully to avoid damaging the surface or engraving. Many collectors also keep their pieces in protective cases or display them in a frame or album.
The Future of Exonumia
As long as people continue to value history, art, and unique collectibles, the world of exonumia will continue to thrive. While the production of tokens and medals may not be as prevalent as it once was, the value of these items as historical artifacts and collectibles is only increasing.
As technology continues to evolve, there may even be new forms of exonumia created, such as digital tokens or virtual medals. These new forms of exonumia may hold just as much value and significance as their physical counterparts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable compared to other collectibles Wide variety of items to collect Hold historical and artistic significance Can increase in value over time | May not have legal tender value May be difficult to determine authenticity and value Can be damaged if not stored and handled properly |
In conclusion, collecting exonumia can be a fascinating and rewarding hobby for anyone interested in history, art, and unique collectibles. From tokens and medals to other non-currency coins, there is a wide variety of items to collect, each with its own story and significance. While exonumia may not have legal tender value, these items can hold historical and artistic significance that can make them highly valuable to collectors. Additionally, collecting exonumia can be more affordable than collecting traditional coins or other types of collectibles, making it a great hobby for people of all budgets.
When collecting exonumia, it is important to do research, buy from reputable dealers, and take care to store and handle the items properly. With proper care and attention, these unique collectibles can be enjoyed and appreciated for generations to come.
