Numismatic fairs, clubs and communities in Bulgaria
Where collectors meet – clubs, fairs, online groups – and how to get involved
BulgarianCoins editorial team 2 min read
Coin collecting can be a solitary hobby. But you learn the most when you talk with other collectors. Here is where to find them.
Numismatic societies and clubs
In Sofia and many other towns there are numismatic societies and clubs. They organise:
- Regular meetings – usually weekly or monthly.
- Lectures and presentations – on history, grading, counterfeits.
- Swaps and sales between members.
- Exhibitions – sometimes together with museums.
Some societies are entered in a register kept by the Minister of Culture and can identify coins owned by their members. See Cultural property: when a coin must be registered.
How to find a club: ask at the regional history museum or search online for “numismatic society” and the name of the town.
Fairs and antique markets
The big cities have markets for antiques and collectibles where coins are also sold. There you can find cheap coins to start with and look at many coins in person.
Be careful: replicas are sold at markets too. Bring your tools – at least a loupe and a small scale. See Chinese replicas and The most counterfeited Bulgarian coins.
Collector meetings and shows
Collector meetings and shows are held periodically – sometimes jointly for coins, banknotes, stamps and medals. Follow the news – we publish information about important events.
Online groups and forums
Social networks and numismatic forums bring together thousands of collectors. There you can:
- Ask about a coin and get an opinion.
- Learn about new issues and counterfeits.
- Buy and sell.
Be careful: online groups are also a place for scams. See How not to be scammed online.
Collector etiquette
- Hold coins by the edge and only with permission.
- Do not clean other people’s coins and do not give advice on cleaning valuable coins.
- Be honest when swapping and selling.
- Share knowledge – beginners too have things to teach the experienced.
- Respect the law – do not buy or sell coins from illegal excavations. See Treasure hunting and metal detecting.
Why get involved
| Benefit | How |
|---|---|
| Knowledge | lectures, conversations, experience |
| Protection from counterfeits | the opinion of experienced collectors |
| Better prices | swapping and buying from collectors |
| Friendships | a shared hobby |
| Motivation | to complete a series |
The Bulgarian Coin Exchange
BulgarianCoins does not trade in coins. Soon we will launch the Bulgarian Coin Exchange – a place where collectors will be able to sell their coins at auction under clear rules.
In short
Find a club, visit a fair, join a group. Collecting with other people is more interesting, safer and more rewarding. See also Numismatic museums and exhibitions.
