-
1 month ago | 
readingroom.money.org | Ken Bressett |Caleb Noel
What makes people believe that carrying a lucky coin, a rabbit’s foot, or any other amulet will bring them good luck? Indeed, no evidence would lead anyone to trust in such a thing. Yet, scores of everyday people continue to believe and hope that their special talisman will ensure their good fortune. On the other hand, there are certain things that people believe must be avoided to guard their safety or help them dodge bad luck.
-
2 months ago | 
readingroom.money.org | Ken Bressett |Caleb Noel
In today’s fast-paced world of business transactions, serious coin collectors, dealers, and investors realize the necessity of having communication methods that all parties can understand and rely upon. Over the years, the most crucial element of that need has morphed into what today’s collectors might call specialized coin grading (essentially the province of several professional services).
-
Jan 9, 2025 | 
readingroom.money.org | Ken Bressett |Caleb Noel
Collectors of ancient coins know of Egypt’s Queen Arsinöe Philadelphus, who ruled the ancient land for many years. She has long been a favorite subject of mine because of her wisdom and exceptional place in history. While she was not the first or only woman to have been granted the title of king, she is clearly outstanding among the very few to have earned the title.
-
Nov 22, 2024 | 
readingroom.money.org | Ken Bressett |Caleb Noel
Among the many strange kinds of money items that collectors seek are the elusive coins and scrip made for people suffering from the age-old disease known as leprosy to use. Today, the healthcare field refers to this malady as Hansen’s disease. However, the dread lingers on in the minds of many who fear the possibility of contagion. Leprosy has affected humans for thousands of years. It is an infectious disease that can damage the skin, eyes, respiratory tract, and nervous system.
-
Sep 12, 2024 | 
readingroom.money.org | Ken Bressett |Caleb Noel
Sometimes, being in the right place at the right time can lead to an unexpected numismatic adventure. I often think of that whenever I see one of those unusual 1955 U.S. cents with a doubled date. They are not just modern curiosities of exceptional value—they have a background history that may be unknown to many of today’s collectors. My mind drifts back to 1955 when I was a member of a southern Massachusetts coin club and eager to learn all about U.S. coinage.
-
Aug 13, 2024 | 
readingroom.money.org | Ken Bressett |Caleb Noel
Wherever coin collectors gather, someone is bound to ask—or be asked—that classic curious question: “What do you collect?” It’s a good way to get better acquainted with a new club member or someone you meet at a coin show. It’s also a subject that does not seem intrusive or private. In fact, it’s often the beginning of an enjoyable conversation and sometimes leads to a new friendship.
-
Jun 10, 2024 | 
readingroom.money.org | Ken Bressett |Caleb Noel
They say that only two things in life are certain: death and taxes. This seems accurate, but there is a lot of living to do in between, and seeking new adventures should be on the list. Visiting colorful New York antique shops is one of my quests and has always intrigued me. On one occasion, I chanced upon a dried and musty old vellum document that caught my attention even though I had no real knowledge of what it might be. Its Gothic cursive script was the only clue that it was most likely British.
-
May 10, 2024 | 
readingroom.money.org | Ken Bressett |Caleb Noel
While it may be difficult to believe, some of our most popular coins hold a special secret: They may have been made from metal that originally came from some distant planet! Nickel and gold, for instance, are not indigenous to our world. They could only have been brought here in meteorites through some accidental celestial upheaval. Nickel, as a coinage metal, is one of those unusual elements that deserves special attention.
-
Apr 10, 2024 | 
readingroom.money.org | Ken Bressett |Caleb Noel
It’s a well-known fact that challenging, entertaining, and engaging hobbies have the power to make us happier and healthier. Perhaps equally beneficial is that some become financially rewarding or lead to a new lifestyle or avocation. Scientists say people who have hobbies are not just filling time—they may also be extending their lifespan, boosting their energy level, minimizing stress, increasing their creativity, and living a more rewarding life. There is no question about this.
-
Mar 11, 2024 | 
readingroom.money.org | Ken Bressett |Caleb Noel
Enjoy the first column in Ken Bressett’s new “Money Musings” series for free! Full Reading Room access is available to members only. To become a member, click the link below. For centuries, the primary goal of the legendary alchemists was to find a way to make gold from base metals such as lead, iron, or copper. The Philosopher’s Stone of the Wise—as their magic potion was called—was said to confer the ability to create gold, prolong life, and cure all diseases.
