Coin collectors gather to purchase, sell, learn

McALLEN — Raul Gonzalez sees a nugget of history in every coin.

“There’s so much artistry,” Gonzalez said as he carefully picked up one of his favorites. “A lot of people don’t realize the symbolism in them.”

Since the early 1960s when his aunt gave him and his brother their first penny folder, the retired band director has saved, traded and sold pieces to add to a mounting collection.

Now a full-time coin dealer, Gonzalez meets with other members of the Hidalgo Coin Club at the Portmann Printing Plaza every Saturday afternoon to display, sell and talk about coins. A hot topic this month is the 22nd Annual Coin and Collectible Show, which will welcome 35 collectors from outside the Rio Grande Valley.

Gonzalez is also excited about the Hidalgo Youth Coin Club, a new organization for young people ages 10 to 19. The former educator plans to teach young numismatists — people who study or collect money, coins or metals — how to properly decipher symbols and historical references stamped on currency.

One of Gonzalez’s favorite pieces for sale is a silver medallion minted in Mexico City commemorating the opening of Spain’s southeastern railroad. Gonzalez said 200,000 of the coins were minted in 1950, but then half were melted down to create Mexico’s 1968 Olympic coin.

“It’s been named one of the most beautiful coins in the world,” he said, explaining that many old coins are often melted down when a new design is created.

Fred Rangel says he visits Portmann for a chance to meet up with friends who share his hobby. The retired U.S. Border Patrol agent and experienced coin collector has been visiting the printing shop on Saturdays for the past few months.

“I come for the deranged camaraderie,” Rangel said with a chuckle. “To communicate with other coin collectors.”

Rangel said he appreciates the weekend sessions because he enjoys chatting with other reputable collectors.

“Too many people in the Valley are losing their coins to less than reputable dealers,” Rangel said. “It’s not like that here.”

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Ana Ley covers law enforcement and general assignments for The Monitor. She can be reached at (956) 683-4428.