Discover The Whidbey Island Coin Show Coupeville, WA—free admission to buy, sell, trade, and appraise coins at the scenic Pacific Rim Institute this May.
Introduction to The Whidbey Island Coin Show Coupeville, WA
Origins and Vision of the Show
Profiles of Organizers: Zachary Hale & Noel Pangilinan
Venue Spotlight: Pacific Rim Institute of Environmental Stewardship
What You’ll Find: Dealers, Exhibits, and Appraisals
Educational Programming and Demonstrations
Buying, Selling, Trading: Tips for First-Timers
Numismatic Highlights: Rare Finds and Bullion Bars
Local Context: Coupeville & Whidbey Island Attractions
Logistics: Getting There, Parking, and Amenities
Community and Networking Opportunities
Why This Show Matters: Numismatics Meets Conservation
Conclusion: Seize the Opportunity
FAQ
Introduction to The Whidbey Island Coin Show Coupeville, WA
Nestled in the rolling prairies of central Whidbey Island, the inaugural Whidbey Island Coin Show invites both seasoned collectors and curious newcomers to explore the world of numismatics. Scheduled for May 30–31, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, this free event spans two full days of buying, selling, trading, and educational opportunities at the Pacific Rim Institute of Environmental Stewardship in Coupeville, WA.
With over a dozen local and mainland dealers confirmed, attendees will have access to a diverse array of coins, currency, and bullion, alongside free, on-site appraisals conducted by experienced numismatists .
Origins and Vision of the Show
The concept for the Whidbey Island Coin Show arose from annual conversations between two avid collectors—Zachary Hale and Noel Pangilinan—both of whom have served long naval careers at Whidbey Island Naval Air Station . Their aim: to foster a tight-knit community of numismatists on Whidbey Island, making the hobby more accessible to local residents and drawing enthusiasts from Puget Sound and beyond.
Profiles of Organizers: Zachary Hale & Noel Pangilinan
- Zachary Hale: A petty officer with 14 years at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Hale has built an extensive collection of silver art bars featuring pop-culture motifs alongside traditional coinage.
- Noel Pangilinan: A retired chief petty officer, Pangilinan brings decades of experience in coin appraisal and dealer networking, ensuring the show features reputable exhibitors.
Together, they have rented the Pacific Rim Institute facility (rentals at $75/table to cover costs) and secured insurance, guaranteeing a well-organized, safe environment for exhibitors and attendees alike.
Venue Spotlight: Pacific Rim Institute of Environmental Stewardship
Located at 180 Parker Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239, the Pacific Rim Institute (PRI) is a 501(c)(3) educational and restoration center set on 175 acres of prairie, oak savanna, and forest . PRI’s mission—to engage science, culture, and community for ecological restoration—adds a unique dimension; as you peruse rare coins, you’ll also be immersed in the region’s endangered-prairie restoration efforts.
PRI offers:
- Lecture halls and rental facilities adaptable for exhibits
- On-site trails showcasing camas, golden paintbrush, and other native flora
- A greenhouse and native plant center, underscoring the link between conservation and community events.
What You’ll Find: Dealers, Exhibits, and Appraisals
Attendees can expect:
- Dealer Tables: Over a dozen dealers offering U.S. and world coins, paper money, and bullion.
- Free Appraisals: Certified appraisers on hand to provide market valuations for up to three items per guest, while supplies last.
- Exhibits: Themed displays—such as “Presidential Dollars Through Time” and “Art Bars & Medals”—highlight the art and history behind numismatic items.
Educational Programming and Demonstrations
Building on PRI’s educational focus, the show features:
- Intro to Numismatics: A beginner’s workshop covering grading, authenticity checks, and storage solutions.
- Bullion Basics: Insights into gold and silver investment bars, including how to verify weight and purity.
- Conservation Talks: Short presentations on the synergy between preserving natural heritage and collecting physical artifacts of history.
Buying, Selling, Trading: Tips for First-Timers
For those new to coin shows:
- Set a Budget: Decide beforehand how much you’ll spend on purchases versus appraisals.
- Bring Essentials: A loupe (10× magnification), gloves, and envelopes for transporting purchases.
- Do Your Homework: Research wholesale spot prices for silver and gold to negotiate bullion deals.
- Network: Build relationships with dealers for future show discounts and private sales.
Numismatic Highlights: Rare Finds and Bullion Bars
Keep an eye out for:
- 1944 Rajiv Gandhi 1 Rupee Commemorative: A rare Indian issue sought by global collectors.
- Morgan & Peace Dollars: Key dates such as 1893-S Morgan and high-grade Peace dollars.
- Silver Art Bars: Unique bars depicting cultural icons—Hale’s personal specialty—often struck in .999 fine silver.
Local Context: Coupeville & Whidbey Island Attractions
Coupeville, county seat of Island County, is a historic town (pop. 1,942) on Penn Cove, part of Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve . Nearby attractions:
- Ebey’s Landing: Scenic trails along a National Historical Reserve coastline.
- Penn Cove Mussel Farm: World-renowned mussels grown in the bay.
- Downtown Coupeville: Quaint shops, art galleries, and waterfront dining.
Whidbey Island’s unique microclimate (rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains) offers mild, stable weather for outdoor exploration .
Logistics: Getting There, Parking, and Amenities
- Driving: Accessible via State Route 20; the Institute provides free parking for 150+ cars.
- Ferry Access: Clinton–Mukilteo and Coupeville–Port Townsend ferry routes serve the island.
- Amenities: On-site concession stand, restrooms, and a PRI gift shop selling native-plant seedlings.
Community and Networking Opportunities
Beyond transactions, the show fosters:
- Collector Meetups: Scheduled “coffee & coins” morning mixers.
- Dealer Panels: Roundtables on market trends and investment strategies.
- Youth Corner: A dedicated table with free “starter kits” for under-18 participants.
Why This Show Matters: Numismatics Meets Conservation
By partnering with PRI, the coin show emphasizes stewardship—both of ecological and cultural heritage. As you collect pieces of history, your attendance supports Prairie restoration and community education programs PRI.
Conclusion
The Whidbey Island Coin Show Coupeville, WA is more than a marketplace; it’s a convergence of history, community, and conservation. Whether you’re chasing rare mint errors or seeking to learn the basics, this free event at the Pacific Rim Institute promises something for everyone. Mark May 30–31 on your calendar and prepare for a weekend of discovery on Whidbey Island.
FAQ
Q: What are the dates and hours of the show?
A: May 30–31, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day .
Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, admission is free for all attendees.
Q: Where exactly is the event held?
A: Pacific Rim Institute of Environmental Stewardship, 180 Parker Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239.
Q: Who can exhibit or rent a table?
A: Any collector or dealer; table rental is $75 to cover venue and insurance costs.
Q: Are appraisals really free?
A: Yes—up to three items per person, while appraisal supplies last .
Q: Can I bring my children? Are there youth activities?
A: Absolutely—there’s a Youth Corner with free starter kits for young collectors.
Q: How do I contact the organizers?
A: Email info@whidbeyislandcoinshow.com or call (312) 857-4253, attention Zach Hale .
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