Since its founding in 1955 by Chester L. Krause, Coins magazine, originally named Coin Press, has occupied an esteemed position in the American numismatic landscape. Its evolution over the years, from a Wisconsin-based publication to part of F+W Media—until its recent acquisition by Active Interest Media's Home Group—mirrors the changing scenery of numismatic journalism. The dedication within its pages has provided countless collectors, from the novice to the seasoned enthusiast, with a window into the vast realm of coin collecting and valuation.
Since its founding in 1955 by Chester L. Krause, Coins magazine, originally named Coin Press, has occupied an esteemed position in the American numismatic landscape. Its evolution over the years, from a Wisconsin-based publication to part of F+W Media—until its recent acquisition by Active Interest Media's Home Group—mirrors the changing scenery of numismatic journalism. The dedication within its pages has provided countless collectors, from the novice to the seasoned enthusiast, with a window into the vast realm of coin collecting and valuation.
The Journey of Coins Magazine
The magazine's origins trace back to the small town of Iola, Wisconsin, where it began gaining a passionate following. At its core, Coins magazine has always catered to the curiosity and zeal of numismatists by offering a broad array of engaging topics. Covering coin and paper money collecting, investment advice, historical insights, and collecting tips, the publication has consistently proved itself as an essential resource.
Valuation Insights
A central offering that solidified the magazine’s authority was its detailed coin value listings. By assessing the worth of an extensive range of coinage—from the half cent to modern issues and special releases like commemoratives and proof sets—Coins magazine has been vital for hobbyists looking to appraise and expand their personal collections thoughtfully.
Regular Columns and Features
The magazine featured staple columns such as "Market Watch," guiding investors by tracking the fluctuating values of precious metals, and the "Bargain Collector," which spotlighted excellent value opportunities for the shrewd collector. Additionally, reviews of the latest numismatic literature kept readers at the forefront of the numismatic wisdom and fostered a robust culture of literary appreciation and learning.
Focus on Coin Series
Each issue of Coins magazine has offered deep dives into various coin series, such as the intricate designs of Barber dimes or the Susan B. Anthony dollar’s story. These features served as a structured educational journey, enhancing collectors' understanding of each coin's background and its place within the greater numismatic narrative.
The End of an Era
Regrettably, Coins magazine declared the conclusion of its publication run, with the final issue arriving in June 2023. The numismatic community has embraced this news with a sense of mourning, recognizing the end of an era where the magazine was a monthly highlight for many.
The Lasting Impact
As the magazine reaches its final chapter, the numismatic community reflects on the rich legacy left behind—an inheritance of shared knowledge, memories, and the collective passion kindled across generations of readers. The magazine may be ceasing its print journey, but its influence will continue to resonate within the heart of the coin collecting fraternity.
In a changing world, the essence of coin collecting remains perennial, and in part, we owe gratitude to the diligent documentation and guidance provided by Coins magazine. Although no longer a physical presence, the spirit it fostered within the numismatic community will persist, as will the appreciation for the lessons and insights offered throughout its tenure.
To all the numismatists—whether you've been with us since the debut issue or you've recently discovered the joy of collecting—remember the profound role Coins magazine has played. Its mission to educate and inspire collectors will endure, not just as a fond memory but as a foundational contribution to the numismatic world.
Information for this article was gathered from the following source.