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Elongated Coins what are they and how can you collect them
Elongated coins are coins that have been flattened, stretched and imprinted with a new design with the purpose of creating a commemorative or souvenir token. The collecting of elongated coins is a branch of numismatics. Elongated coins can also be categorized as exonumia.
The first elongated coins in the United States were created at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, Illinois held in 1893. The earliest elongated coin designer is Charles Damm, who created the design for the elongated coins available at the 1901 Pan American Exposition in Buffalo, New York.
Modern elongated coins are created by inserting a standard coin into a commercial rolling mill consisting of two steel rollers pressed against each other that exert up to 22 tons of pressure. One of the rollers - called the "die" - is engraved with a special design that imprints a new image into the metal as the coin passes through it. Private engravers make special-issue elongated coins to commemorate historical events, personal landmarks, or other events that merit celebration.
One may start collecting elongated coins by checking the location databases on the internet which has lists of elongated collectors and groups. Many collectors also prefer to trade with other collectors to expand their collection. Telling to friends, co-workers and family about the hobby is also advantageous. These acquaintances may not always remember which pennies are the right ones, but they generally always remember the reminder.
The easiest way to collect is to purchase elongated coins. There are some long time collectors who have a cache of elongated coins that they make available at very reasonable prices. Tracking online auctions - like eBay - for elongated coins is another option. Also, coin shows are held all over the country and are great ways to learn about Numismatics and to meet new people with similar interests.
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