The Camp Jordan Arena in East Ridge was a bank robber’s dream Saturday, with stacks of gold and silver coins as far as the eye could see.
About 200 dealers from across the country displayed their treasures – including first edition Mickey Mantle baseball cards, gold jewelry and pristine $1,000 bills – at the Tennessee State Numismatic Society’s annual Coin and Currency Convention. The event attracted more than 1,400 people on Friday and Saturday, said organizer Gayle Pike, and more are expected today.
“They can buy, sell and trade,” she said. “We have dealers buying scrap gold and silver and silver bullion coins, gold coins. We also have a smattering of jewelry with pieces made out of precious metals.”
For many of the coin collectors, the hobby is a family affair. Tyler Abel of Silver Towne L.P., a coin dealer based out of Indiana, said he began collecting coins as a child and was inspired by his grandfather, who started the business.
Mr. Abel said Silver Towne has been coming to the Numismatic Society’s coin show for more than 50 years and is one of the largest dealers at the convention. He said coin collecting isn’t just a hobby for him, it’s a way to make a living.