Elgin coin show reaches out to next generation of collectors

The Elgin Coin Club's Spring Show is mostly an veteran affair, drawing seasoned collectors on the hunt for specific coins to Moose Lodge 799 in Elgin.

But mindful of the hobby's future, show organizers awarded each child who visited the event Sunday a club "dollar" coupon to buy a coin from a member.

"We are always looking for new members," said club President David Starling, adding that it's important to pass the hobby on to new, younger collectors.

"Some guys are in it for the money but a collector has a story to go along with the coins," he said.

Most collectors start with wheat pennies that were first produced in 1909, and can sell for thousands of dollars depending on the condition, Starling said.

More than 25 members were buying, selling and appraising coins throughout the day.

The club hosts two public shows a year, with the next scheduled for Oct. 26.