The numismatic scene in the Greater Chicago area is vibrant and diverse, catering to both seasoned collectors and newcomers interested in coins, currency, and other collectible items. The city offers a diverse range of opportunities for coin collectors, from organizations and clubs to coin shows and specialty shops.
Numismatics enjoys a prominent place in Chicago’s cultural landscape. The city’s diverse population and historical significance have contributed to a thriving community of coin collectors and enthusiasts.
Chicago Coin Shows
World’s Fair of Money
- Organized by the American Numismatic Association (ANA), this annual event is one of the biggest numismatic conventions globally. It features hundreds of dealers, auctions, and educational seminars.
- The next World’s Fair of Money will occur on August 6 – 10, 2024 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018.
West Suburban Coin & Collectibles Expo
- Held every second Sunday each month at the Operating Engineers Local 150 Union Hall in Countryside, Illinois. The Suburban Coin & Collectibles Expo is the Chicago areas only monthly recurring show. Featuring more than 10,000 square feet of floor space and up to 85 dealers selling a variety of US coins, world coins and other numismatics, along with precious metals, bullion, silver and gold coins.
- Upcoming Dates: August 11, 2024 & September 8, 2024.
Illinois Numismatic Association Coin Show
- The Illinois Numismatic Association (ILNA) was established in 1959 to promote numismatics in the state. The group hosts an annual coin show. This year’s show will be held at the Tinley Park Convention Center.
- Upcoming Dates: September 5-7, 2024.
Northwest Coin Club Fall MONEY Show
- The MONEY Show is held twice per year at the Heritage Center in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota. Coin dealers from around the country will be in attendance. NWCC Fall MONEY Show
- Upcoming Dates: October 11, 12 & 13, 2024.
Dealers at coin shows offer a wide range of coins, including ancient coins, world coins, and modern issues. New collectors can find everything from affordable starter coins to rare and valuable pieces.
Large coin shows and expos often feature educational seminars and workshops on topics such as coin grading, authentication, historical insights, and investment strategies. These sessions are beneficial for new collectors looking to deepen their knowledge.
Whether you are building a collection or investing in precious metals, coin shows provide valuable resources and connections in the numismatic and investment communities.
Chicago Coin Shops and Numismatic Resources
Chicago is home to several well-known coin shops and resources that cater to collectors:
Coin Shops and Dealers
- Harlan J. Berk, Ltd.:
- Location: Located in downtown Chicago, Harkan J. Berk is one of the premier destinations for numismatists. They offer a vast selection of ancient, world, and U.S. coins.
- Services: Besides buying and selling coins, they provide appraisals and numismatic consulting services.
- Chicago Coin Company:
- Specialties: The Chicago Coin Company is a long established shop known for their wide variety of U.S. and world coins, as well as precious metals. They also deal in paper currency and offer appraisal services.
- Morton Grove Coins & Collectibles:
- Offerings: Morton Grove Coins & Collectibles is located in Morton Grove, Illinois shop offers a range of rare pieces from a variety of currencies, plus silver & gold jewelry & bullion coins, with a focus on personalized service and education for collectors.
Chicago Coin Club:
- Meetings and Events: The Chicago Coin Club, established in 1919, is one of the oldest and most active numismatic clubs in the country. They hold regular meetings, which often feature guest speakers, auctions, and educational programs.
Chicago Public Library:
- Collections: The Harold Washington Library Center has a robust collection of numismatic literature and resources, providing a valuable resource for research and education.
Illinois Numismatic Association (ILNA):
- Activities: ILNA organizes coin shows, educational programs, and offers scholarships for young collectors. They play a significant role in promoting numismatics throughout Illinois.
- Annual Convention: ILNA hosts an annual convention, attracting collectors and dealers from across the region.
Northwest Coin Club:
- Meetings: Founded in 1934, the Northwest Coin Club hosts regular meetings featuring presentations, show-and-tell sessions, and auctions. The club is active in organizing local shows and educational events. Past presentations have included History and Review of Civil War Tokens by Michael Dohmen.
- Upcoming meetings – August 8, 2024, September 12, 2024 & October 10, 2024. The NWCC Fall MONEY Show is scheduled for October 11, 12 & 13, 2024.
