Q. David Bowers: Cycles of the US Rare Coin Market 1900 to Date
Q. David Bowers for
When one thinks of boom and bust cycles, the word “investment” usually comes to mind. A broader view is to consider popularity. Various series wax and wane in demand, and different factors in the market can take precedence at different times. One of the great things about numismatics is that it seems that there is always something rising in value, even as prices and demand for other series may go down.
As one considers the booms and quiet periods of the coin market from the turn of the 20th century to the present, it becomes apparent that the strongest times reflected peaks in interest and enthusiasm of collectors. This is logical, of course. The more people seeking coins, the more dynamic the market will be.