Coin-collecting unites generations as society celebrates its 60th

TONY Alsop’s eyes light up when he talks about Geelong’s rich numismatic history.

Coins, paper money and specially designed medals have served as an avenue to international and local history for Alsop who can roll out one story after another.

The former president of 20 years and member of about 40 years is the glue of the Geelong Numismatic Society, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary tomorrow (Saturday, February 22) as part of the Western Money Fair Geelong.

The event will feature Australian and international coins, banknotes, stamps and postal numismatic covers as well as accessories, collectibles and valuations.

There will also be a book sale and craft trade with entry $2.

“It’s a wonderful thing because we learn so much about history that we probably don’t learn in schools now,” Alsop, 84, said.

“We’ve had our highs and lows. In the early days, we had 40 to 50 members and then we dropped down to probably 10.

“Then we made a conscious effort to go out and recruit people and especially younger people and females, so we’re not an old man’s club, which is very important.”

There are about 40 members, ranging from a couple of teenagers to those in their 80s.

So what keeps the young members interested in a world where card payment is increasingly being favoured over cash and coins?

“Well, probably the advent of the colour $2 coins,” Alsop said.

“It’s something they collect for $2 each and then they get the bug and they build on it and eventually get away from that and get into real numismatics.”

The Geelong Numismatic Society meets on the fourth Friday of each month to exchange ideas and information and are glad to welcome visitors and new members.

The Western Money Fair Geelong will be held at Belmont Uniting Church from 10am to 3pm.