rare coins | Nashua Coins and Collectibles

2019 Updates

Gary Galbo American coins, certified coins, coin dealers, Nashua Coins & Collectibles March 5, 2019March 5, 2019American coins, Coin Dealer, rare coins

Since the beginning of 2019 Gary and I have become responsible for writing the blog content. Should you have any suggestions on topics you would like covered, please don’t hesitate to email laurie@nashuacoins.com and we will work on it if possible.

There is also a new auction bidding app that can be utilized by anyone, anywhere via a cell phone, tablet or computer. We can truthfully say we have an app for that! Give us a call or stop by and we can provide you with more information.

Starting very soon, Nashua Coins and Collectibles will be carrying books from local area authors which will be a great addition to our shop. The books are all mysteries which we hope will be welcomed by many of our customers! Stay in touch with us for more details!

And finally to bring you up to date on the area coin show schedule, Nashua Coins will be present at the shows coming up as follows:

3/17 at the Nashua, NH at the Holiday Inn

3/24 at Devens, MA in the Spring Hill Suites Marriott

And in April, on the 19^th and 20^th at the NH Coin Expo in Manchester, NH at the Radisson

Image result for calendar march april 2019

The Best Features of Small Cents Auctions App

Nashua Coins, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, Small Cents Auctions November 14, 2018November 15, 2018Nashua Coins & Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, Small Cents Auctions

Modern technology really is amazing. Nowadays, smartphones allow easy access to nearly anything you need. For numismatics, this is a valuable research tool. You can find rare coins like never before. Small Cents Auctions, a subsidiary of Nashua Coins & Collectibles, understands that this evolution in technology marks a shift in how auctions are done. The Small Cents Auctions app, available for Apple and Android, has everything you need in an app.

Upcoming and Past Auction Dates

The homepage of the Small Cents Auctions app has a list of upcoming auction dates. With the listings right in front of you, it’s impossible to miss a chance to bid on pieces for your collection. Every time you click the icon, you’re in the know. Plus, they keep track of past auctions too. That way if you do participate, you’ll have a go to place to find when you made purchases.

Consign an Item

Once you’ve created an account, even more features become available. If you have rare coins, stamps or other eligible items you’d like to consign, this app can help. There’s a tab on the app that allows you to send in your valuables for review. Once they’re worth is estimated, they can be put up for auction.

Watched Lots

Another great feature of the app is the Watched Lot function. You can keep an eye on different items and keep them all in one convenient tab. That way when you’re ready to make your bids, you don’t have to go searching. Everything is in one convenient location.

My Bids/Past Bids

The Small Cents Auctions app also allows you to keep track of your bids both present and past. This can help with budgeting and prioritizing which consigns you’re invested in. That way you can watch live as you bid and outbid and decide if going higher is worthwhile for your rare coins.

Technology is something else. With advancements in science, auctions can happen right on your smartphone. The Small Cents Auctions app is a dream for numismatics and collectors of rare coins and stamps. Grab the app on iOS, Android or web. For more information, contact Nashua Coins at 603-718-1018 or visit us online!

Get to Know Nashua and Give Back

American coins, certified coins, Nashua Coins, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, rare coins October 14, 2018October 24, 2018American coins, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, rare coins

One of the most welcoming and beloved aspects of Nashua is the abundance of small restaurants and stores downtown. It gives you a feeling of home to be able to walk around and see all the mom and pop shops thriving. However, the downtown didn’t always look like this. Laurie Galbo of Nashua Coins & Collectibles remembers the changes the city has made over the years. While her business specializes in rare and American coins, Laurie has always loved to give back to the city. This season is your chance to not only remember what you love about Nashua but give back to the city. Laurie has created a calendar available on their website and in the shop, with a portion of the proceeds going straight to PAL.

See Nashua Old and New

Learning the history of coins and other merchandise sparked Laurie’s fascination with the past. The focus of the calendar is Nashua. Laurie went around the city herself to collect photographs of some of the most memorable features unique to Nashua. The mill buildings, murals, and statues of downtown have a history all their own that Laurie explored. She set these photos of Nashua today against their counterparts of the past. This calendar shows you exactly how far the city has come over the past century. You’ll be amazed that the landmarks you know and love haven’t always been what you expect.

PAL

A major portion of the proceeds goes to the Police Athletic League, or PAL for short. This organization focuses on helping kids in the community. Each year, PAL does this with Tactical Christmas. Tactical Christmas is an event where the police, task force, and tactical teams go out dressed in gear to deliver presents with Santa Claus. This event promotes the Christmas Spirit while delivering gifts to families who may not be able to afford them otherwise.

If you love the city you live in, give back to it. Laurie Galbo may work hard at Nashua Coins & Collectibles, but her passions are PAL and this city. For more information on the calendars, contact Nashua Coins at 603-718-1018 or visit them online!

Tips for the Coin Show Circuit

coin expert, coin store, Nashua Coins, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins August 23, 2018American coins, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins

All coin collectors one day hope to make it to a coin show. Whether it’s a small scale show for the day or a weekend event with a couple of hundred vendors, it’s exciting. Not only do you get to meet people who share your passion, but you get to see rare coins you never knew existed. When it comes to your first coin show, it can get overwhelming. Here are some tips and tricks for making the most of the coin show circuit!

Know Your Money

This doesn’t just apply to knowing your coin collection. You should always keep your budget in mind. This means know how much you’d be willing to spend to grow your collection and how much you’re going to ask for if you are selling. Always be sure to have cash on you. While some vendors may be credit and debit accessible, many will not be.

Keep It Comfortable

Of course, you want to dress respectably to show you know what you’re talking about. You should. Still, keep in mind that it’s going to be a long day. You’re going to spend most of that time on your feet. Make sure that your clothes are neat but comfortable. Your shoes should give you enough support to make it through the day.

Know the Floor

Knowing the floor starts before you even get to the coin show. Prepare yourself by finding out which vendors and coins are going to be there. This may not be necessary for smaller coin shows, but at larger coin shows you won’t have time to see everything. Know what you want to look at! Once there, find where those coins and vendors are located so you can work smarter and not harder. If you prepare accordingly, you may even have spare time to visit vendors you didn’t expect!

Bring Your Tools

You would never purchase a coin without inspecting it first. You should go one step further and bring your own tools so you know the quality of the inspection. Of course, vendors wouldn’t intentionally try to scam anybody. Still, if their tools get used and dirty throughout the day, using your own is a definite way to give a thorough inspection. This comes in handy with rare coins.

The coin show circuit is here to bring numismatic enthusiasts together to display and sell their goods. The larger the coin show, the more overwhelming it can get. If you follow these tips and tricks, you’ll be a pro. You can see rare coins to your heart’s delight and maybe make some connections. For more on American and rare coins, contact Nashua Coins and Collectibles today or visit them online!

Four Ways To Make Coins Appraisal A Success

American coins, American Eagle coins, antique collection, coin store, coins appraisal, mint products, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, silver dollars June 26, 2018June 26, 2018American coins, American Eagle coins, antique collection, coin store, coins appraisal, mint products, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, silver dollars

Finding rare coins is exciting. You feel like you’ve opened up a brand new world of possibilities, and you can’t wait to find out how much your coins are worth. The next step, naturally, is to get your coins appraised by a professional. If you’ve never been to a session before, you should prepare by bearing these tips in mind. These steps ensure that your coins appraisal is successful. Nashua Coins is always happy to answer any questions you may have!

1.) Ensure the condition of the coin(s)

If an item gets damaged, there is no way that its value will remain intact or that it will increase over time. When they’re not getting evaluated, it’s best to ask professionals like ours for tips to ensure that they stay in the best condition possible. We’ll provide honest advice. It always works better than going DIY.

2.) Go to a professional

Don’t waste your time with people who don’t know the actual market value of any rare coins you have in your possession. You only want to go to people who know what they’re doing and can get you the most value for your products. Luckily, Nashua Coins & Collectibles has professionals on hand who know what they’re talking about and are happy to share that information. You’ll get the most out of your experience when you visit us.

3.) Think of questions you may have

Especially if you’ve never been to a coin shop before and are new to the world of coins appraisal, you probably have some questions about the process. Even if a problem seems to be inconsequential, you can gain plenty of information if you take the time to ask. We’re not here to judge. We’ll happily answer questions you have about the process so that you feel comfortable.

4.) Have realistic expectations

It’s tempting to buy into the myth that nearly all old antiques and coins are worth lots of money. Sure, there are highly valuable items that are just waiting to get appraised. However, not every old product will yield a fortune. We love giving people the good news about their coins. Still, it’s best to maintain realistic expectations, so you don’t feel too disappointed if your profit margin is low.

Nashua Coins & Collectibles is happy to talk to our customers about coins appraisal, so feel free to give us a call at (855)-287-2216 and see what we can do for you today!

Some Terms For The Numismatist

American coins, American Eagle coins, antique collection, coin store, coins appraisal, mint products, Nashua Coins, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, silver dollars May 15, 2018May 15, 2018American coins, American Eagle coins, antique collection, coin store, coins appraisal, mint products, Nashua Coins, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, silver dollars

Entering the world of coin collecting is an exciting and intense experience. With so many collectible American coins or foreign currencies, there is plenty for a new Numismatist to look out for to know what they want to collect. After all, the collecting is for you at the end of the day. You want to be proud of your collection. When you first start collecting coins, it can be complicated to know where to start. Do you just happen to find the coins, buy them, sell any that you have?

While some of those questions are best figured out in person with the help of our shop dogs, we can start you off with the basics. Knowing terms that you will hear the farther into coin collection you go will be a huge step to completing your first collection. The Fun Times Guide had a fantastic guide for the top terms that you should know. We agreed with them. So, without further ado, some 10-coin collector terms they listed that you should be aware of when you start collecting!

Numismatist
- When you start collecting coins, you are a Numismatist. The extent of what counts as a real collector is up for debate in the community, but as far as we are concerned, if you collect, you are a Numismatist! Congratulations.

Coin grading
- The actual act of evaluating American coins. The process figures out the state of the currency’s preservation ultimately based on the lack of/amount of wear that the coin has.

Brilliant Uncirculated
- BU for short, this is a standard grade for coins. It pretty much means that the coin has no wear with “good to superb surfaces.” So, if you have a perfect coin, you have a BU coin.

Redbook
- Instead of a little black book, Numismatists have the little red book. The book is called A Guide Book of United States Coins by Kenneth Bressett and R.S. Yeoman. In circulation since 1947, the book is republished every year with updates and contains valuable information like price lists, coin information, and color photos of the coins that you can encounter when collecting American coins.

Third-Party Graders
- This one is pretty self-explanatory. These are the companies or firms that you will send you coins to so they can be evaluated and graded.

Slabbed Coin
- In a hard, sonically sealed and tamper-evident holder, Slabbed coins are coins that have been graded and authenticated by a third-party grader.

Cull Coin
- These are the coins that can save you money when you start collecting. These coins are just coins that don’t necessarily meet the “standards” of the coins that a majority of collectors are seeking.

Eye appeal
- The aesthetics of the coin are worth a bit. If the surface quality of the coin is good, then it has excellent eye appeal regardless of the grade.

Novelty Coin
- These are the legal tender coins that are altered to be “commemorative” coins. Usually made in honor of presidents, these coins feature images of presidents like Kennedy and Obama, as well as Sacagawea.

Proof Coins
- These coins are manufactured with polished coin blanks and struck with specially prepared dyes for the coin. It is how the coin gets made, not a grade.

With these terms under your belt, you are sure to be on your way to becoming an expert Numismatist and find rare American coins. When you are ready to start your next conversation about coin collecting, stop into Nashua Coins and Collectibles today on Main Street in Nashua or give us a call at (603)-718-1018.

The Henning Nickel

Gary Galbo American coins, American Eagle coins, antique collection, coin store, coins appraisal, mint products, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, silver dollars April 16, 2018June 7, 2024American coins, American Eagle coins, antique collection, coin store, coins appraisal, mint products, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, silver dollars

The beginning

In 1954, collectors in the New Jersey/ New York area began reporting 1944 nickels turning up in circulation. Missing the “P” mint mark on the back and the lack of wartime 35% silver composition. These have been referred to as the “Henning” nickel, these counterfeits made by Francis Leroy Henning of Erial, New Jersey. The FBI quickly caught on in 1954, It is estimated that more than 100,000 of these put into circulation in 1954-55. Also, the coins weighed 5.4 grams compared to 5-5.1 grams for authentic coins.

The consequences

The legend is that Henning dumped 200,000 to 400,000 counterfeit in creeks and rivers in New Jersey when the Feds sought him. The counterfeits are made of 80% nickel with some steel and other elements. One of the mysteries associated with the issue is why did he make them. Considering that given the materials and work involved, it was not economically beneficial. In fact, he probably lost money on them. Henning was also purported to have produced counterfeits dated 1939, 1946, 1947, and 1953. He had a previous arrest for counterfeiting $5 bills. When caught, Henning was sentenced to 3 years in jail and fined $5,000.00 for his counterfeit American coins.

To learn more about historic American coins and also see our coin collection, visit Nashua Coins & Collectibles. If you have any questions about our business or what we have to offer, give us a call at 603 718-1018

2009 Lincoln Cent Designs and Penny News: 2009 Lincoln Pennies and Bicentennial Coins

American coins, American Eagle coins, antique collection, coin store, coins appraisal, mint products, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, silver dollars March 14, 2018March 14, 2018American coins, American Eagle coins, antique collection, coin store, coins appraisal, mint products, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, silver dollars

In 2009, the United States Mint struck four different pennies and two silver dollars in celebration of the life and legacy of one of America’s greatest leaders, Abraham Lincoln. 2009 Lincoln pennies commemorate the bicentennial birth of President Lincoln and the 100th anniversary of the Lincoln cent.

While the obverse or heads side of these American coins have remained unchanged, new reverse designs beautifully portray facets of Lincoln’s life. The first, second and third cents have already launched into circulation. Here are small images and links to each of the four new American coins designs:

2009 Lincoln Cents
Lincoln Cent Birthplace #1	Lincoln Cent Formative Years #2	Lincoln Cent Professional Life #3	Lincoln Cent Presidency #4

Abraham Lincoln was born February 12, 1809, in Hodgenville, Kentucky. In 1909 the Congress passed a bill to change the design of the penny from the Indian head design to commemorate the 100^th anniversary of the birth of one of the greatest leaders in United States history, Abraham Lincoln. We’ve had Lincoln pennies ever since. The longest running coinage series of all US coins.

#1 Lincoln’s Birth

The first design of 2009 shows the Log Cabin where Lincoln was born, in Hodgenville, Kentucky.

#2 Lincoln’s Formative Years

The second design of 2009 shows Lincoln reading a book while taking a break from splitting logs for firewood. Lincoln grew up and spent his formative years in Indiana where he studied law and eventually became a lawyer.

#3 Lincoln’s Professional Life

The third design shows Lincoln in Illinois where he first became elected to the United States Senate.

#4 The Presidency

The fourth design shows the new White House in Washington DC, which was completed during Lincolns first term as president.

For rare American coins and other collectibles, visit Nashua Coins & Collectibles. Give us a call at (603)-718-1018 and see what we can do for you today!

Our Coin Store’s Experience at the Chocolate Stroll

American coins, American Eagle coins, antique collection, coin store, coins appraisal, mint products, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, silver dollars February 14, 2018February 14, 2018American coins, American Eagle coins, antique collection, coin store, coins appraisal, mint products, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, silver dollars

2018 Nashua Chocolate Stroll: One for the Books!

While February is often cold and harsh to deal with for New Englanders, it brings one thing to downtown Nashua we are all happy to celebrate: Nashua Chocolate Stroll. For those not in the know, it’s an event where shoppers can indulge in complimentary chocolate treats from noon until 5 P.M. It’s an opportunity for shops in the area to show off all they have to offer. Our coin store was no exception. We had a great time this year!

During the day, we provided raffles for our customers. A couple of thrilled winners got prizes they’re sure to enjoy for as long as they have them. Plenty of customers visited our shop. We were busy all day and could barely stand still. Not that we want to, of course. We always encourage people to visit our coin store whether it’s a busy day or a day when we could use some customer interaction.

As the day went on, we received positive feedback from customers and neighboring businesses alike. That was one of the best parts. For us, connecting with those around us remains critical. We always wish to make an impact on those who want to visit Nashua Coins and Collectibles or build their coin collection. Whether they were looking for new coins or wanted to find a fascinating antique, there’s no doubt that customers were happy during the Chocolate Stroll.

Looking Toward The Future

2018 marked the third year the Nashua Chocolate Stroll occurred. We are looking forward to all of the opportunities future strolls can provide for our business and city. We only hope to grow and expand our customer base as we continue to deliver quality products that people return to time and time again. It’s nice to have a laid-back, connective event during a time of the year that could use a little bit of cheer and warmth.

Whether you just visited us during 2018’s stroll or are a regular, we’re happy to help you find coins and antiques you’ll love. Our coin store’s selection is second-to-none. We encourage hobbyists and casual collectors alike to come to our business and learn more about us. If you have any questions about what we have in stock or what we could provide you, please give us a call at (855)-287-2216. See what we can do for you today.

The Champagne Brothers’ Vintage Violin

Gary Galbo American coins, American Eagle coins, antique collection, coin store, coins appraisal, mint products, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, silver dollars January 22, 2018June 7, 2024American coins, American Eagle coins, antique collection, coin store, coins appraisal, mint products, Nashua Coins & Collectibles, Nashua Coins and Collectibles, rare coin auctions, rare coins, silver dollars

Quite some time ago we purchased a vintage, handmade violin made by the Champagne brothers of Worcester, Mass in the early 1940’s. The Champagne brothers, twins, who built violins by hand. Laurie went online trying to research the family and located a grandson in Chelmsford. It turns out he had been searching for one of his grandfather’s violins for years to no avail. There was only one surviving instrument in his family that one of his aunts had inherited.

antique collection

To add to it all, his young son had just recently taken up the violin in school, also. Mr. Champagne became excited about the find and wanted to see it. He came into our store. When he saw the instrument in our antique collection, he couldn’t believe his good fortune.

We made sure to lovingly care for the violin and kept it in pristine condition also. There was a case as nd it included an extra bow with replacement strings. Just a beautiful piece. We sold him the violin for less than half of the real value because the story deserved a reward.

We have been able to restore the instrument to the family for them to share this piece of family history for generations to come. As soon as Jeff Champagne returned home, he sent us a picture of he and his children with the violin. There smiles all around. A real feel-good tale for all of us at Nashua Coins and Collectibles!

This is the review we got praising our antique collection from every possible site after this happened!

Nashua Coins and Collectibles made my year! I know most people would say made my day but this goes way beyond that. I got a surprise note from Laurie telling me that she had received a precious family heirloom, a violin made by my grandfather and his brother in 1953. I had been seeking an instrument made by them for as long as I had known that they had made violins and this was a complete shock because honestly, I didn’t think it was possible, given they probably only made a dozen in total. I was blown away!

Laurie sent me pictures of this priceless treasure, #8 of a dozen or so instrument created from scratch by these master craftsmen. It was in mint condition and looked like it had never been played. It had been in a case in a closet and was probably unused for decades.

Our Mission

She told me that she wanted to get it back to it’s rightful owner, that was her only motivation. I feel so blessed to have been given the opportunity by Laurie and will be forever grateful for her reaching out to me and selling me this treasure at a fraction of it’s value.

She gives me hope in humanity. Thank you, Laurie Hayes Galbo, for being part of what I consider a miracle. And also for letting me learn about this noble craft, something my grandfather dedicated himself to.

I have had the violin fully restored, and it plays like a dream. It is my most prized possession. As a result of this occurrence, I have learned so much more about my grandfather Floyde and his twin brother, Benjamin, who made these amazing instruments while Benjamin was hospitalized in Plymouth County Hospital in MA, for TB. He passed away within months of completing this instrument.

The Search

I received a copy of St. Thomas’s Summa Theological from my aunt, who is the one who introduced me to the revelation that somewhere out there there are violins that my gf and brother created. This book was given to my grandfather by Benjamin’s widow when Ben passed away in 1953. She had the only other known violin, #11. She also sent me articles from the Plymouth County Hospital Newspaper and Worcester Telegram and Gazette from 1964 about the violin shop my gf ran out of his basement on Gate St in Worcester.

These two fine craftsmen had a love and passion in pursuing excellence in this noble craft that leaps out of their letters and newspaper articles, speaking to me from the past. These documents that are found after being reunited with this instrument have given me a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of relatives that I never had the pleasure of meeting in person, but I am so familiar with the fruits of their lives, my family.

Another happy customer!

I feel like I know them and have seen into their kind and creative souls. It means so much being able to learn to play violin on an instrument made by them. My children now have the chance to grow up knowing more about their family’s history and the people that laid the foundation for our lives today.

Thank you, Laurie and team, for making my year!

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