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Coin collector club welcomes new members in Highland

By Aileen Wingblad • STAFF WRITER • April 1, 2010

Coins aren't just spare change for Chuck Sharpe.

They're a window into history.

There's something to be learned from them, said Sharpe, who chairs the Huron Valley Numismatic Association. _ Lots of interesting things. And it's fun, too._

Sharpe was a kindergartner during the World War II years when his interest in numismatics the study and collection of coins and currency began. While visiting the corner store near his home, the young Sharpe had asked the owner to change his nickel for five pennies to put in the gum ball machine. He was surprised and confused when the owner handed him five white pennies.

I thought they were dimes, he said.

That evening, his father explained that the coins were indeed pennies. But they were made of steel because of wartime needs for copper, to be used for ammunition and other equipment.

Sharpe's hobby was born.

That's what kicked it all off for me, he said.

Over the years, he's kept up with numismatics an interest he shares with his wife, Darlene, as well as a group of other local residents who make up the Huron Valley Numismatic Society. Sharpe said they want to spread the word on what a great pastime coin study and collecting can be, and invite folks to try out a meeting or two and consider joining. The group gets together on the second Wednesday of each month at the Highland Adult Activity Center, 7-9 p.m