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Joseph Ford is an 18-year-old dealer who operates a coin shop in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Courtesy of Joseph Ford.
By Joseph Ford - August 8, 2024
Original link: https://www.pcgs.com/news/18-year-old-goes-from-coin-collector-to-shop-owner
How does an 18-year-old collector end up owning his own coin shop? Let me share my journey from my first accidental numismatic discovery to becoming a young entrepreneur in the world of numismatics…
It all started somewhat disastrously when I was in kindergarten. I had taken a Confederate $10 note from my dad’s desk to school for show and tell, not realizing the historical treasure I had stuffed into my pocket. After the note accidentally went through the wash, my dad discovered its fragments. Surprised and curious, he asked me about the note, which led me to reveal my secret stash — a tackle box filled with assorted coins I had gathered. Rather than scolding me, my dad was intrigued by my interest in coins. This new curiosity led us to an antique shop where I began collecting Lincoln Wheat Cents, Buffalo Nickels, and a variety of small silver coins, igniting my lifelong passion for numismatics.
As I grew, so did my collection, nurtured by the change my grandma saved for me and my own relentless curiosity. This passion for coins eventually led my dad and I to explore opening a coin shop in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, all while I was still deepening my numismatic knowledge and expertise.
Two years ago, our shop became a reality, transforming my hobby into a flourishing business. Our shop, JP Ford Coin and Currency, is a hub for enthusiasts of all ages, where I handle everything from inventory management to customer relations. I take special pride in guiding young collectors, offering them a variety of affordable coins, and even letting them hold more valuable pieces to inspire their dreams.
The following year, seeking to enhance our business further, I attended the American Numismatic Association's Summer Seminar and took the “Business of Being a Coin Dealer” class. The insights I gained there not only boosted my confidence, but also significantly improved our shop operations.
What truly sets our shop apart isn’t just the transactions we handle but the community we've built. Being the youngest-ever vice-president of the Myrtle Beach Coin Club, I've focused on fostering a welcoming environment for all enthusiasts, especially the youth. We are exploring ways to bring back the Myrtle Beach Coin Show, aiming to include local schools, and provide goody bags of coins to spark interest among young collectors.
As a young coin shop owner, I believe that my journey demonstrates that with passion, guidance, and a bit of entrepreneurial spirit, anyone can turn their hobby into a successful career. As I prepare to dedicate even more time to the shop after graduating from high school, I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that will help us grow, possibly into a bigger location as demand increases.
So, to every young numismatist reading this, remember: the path may be unpredictable, but it is always paved with opportunities. My story began with a mistake and a handful of coins, and now, here I am – the proud 18-year-old owner of a successful coin shop. If I can do it, so can you. Keep collecting, keep dreaming, and let's keep the legacy of numismatics vibrant for generations to come! |
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发表于 2024-8-9 10:11:04
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