The (other) things we collect

levkov

Do Zenith boxes qualify as "other"?

chanbar

Did you get the watches that came with the boxes too?!

Edward53

Another of our finds from the same general location. We knew it wasn't English but couldn't identify it and my Dad's label in the box reads "Dutch? 12th cent." At the time we dismissed it as worn and not very interesting. Now, a quick image search for [hammered silver coin sheaf arrows] reveals that in fact it's a coin of Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain, possibly a reale. That's the same Queen Isabella who sponsored Columbus, the Spanish sailor who ran across something or other, I forget what.

jimmyd13

The real should have quartered coat of arms on the obverse. The bunched arrows are Isabella's device. As for the obverse of your coin, obviously it's worn, but has similarity to the half real: https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/record/id/616588

jimmyd13

Here's a few of my medieval silvers:

tyrantlizardrex

Following on from today's Time 4A Pint Podcast, in which @neilfrancis talks a lot about collecting things, other than watches, I was interested to hear what else people collect.

One of my things is Chirashi, small, high grade flyers that are handed out around film releases in Japan.

These are the kind of things that get thrown away... so for older films, harder to snag.

A few fun ones:

So, what, other than watches, do people here collect?

Respectfully, can we please keep this thread free of guns.

Wryfox

Sand. From Kathmandu to Cabo San Lucas. From the fjords of Norway to the tip of Argentina. From Perth Australia to Maui Hawaii. From Alaska to South Africa. Almost 100 locations so far.

How did this happen, you may (or may not) ask?

I have always enjoyed finding something unique from each place I traveled (mostly business). I hate souvenirs and manufactured goods, and nearly all natural items are not allowed due to universal customs restrictions on such things. But one day I brought home a bag of sand, and customs didn't say a peep, although they were curious why.....so I told them it was the only natural thing that didn't appear in the list of restrictions, and they agreed (its not dirt, plant, animal, insect, liquid, etc). Ever since then I have endeavored to find a bit of sand when I travel, which is available almost anywhere in the world if you know where to look.

I have never once been rejected at security or any customs in 25yrs.

Note: sand is impenetrable to security screens, so I always keep it in carry ons, because checked bag security will mess up your luggage trying to figure out why they can't see through that part of your bag. I get held up about 50% of the time going through personal security, and I tell them the same story each time (I have carried a copy of customs regulations with me for 20 years.). They feel the bag, sometimes run their fingers in it, then look at me funny, and let me pass on.

I always thought I was a bit odd to do this and didn't tell anyone for many years, then I let it slip in conversation a few years ago. They were fascinated. Turns out, no matter where I go, its a great conversation starter. "Hello, I'm in town on business for a few days. I collect sand, do you know where I could find some?" Usually starts a great discussion of the natural characteristics of the area i'm visiting.

My favorite by a long shot is Coronado Beach, San Diego. Beautiful, pure, clean, and feels great. Perfection.

eugeneandresson

👍 Any chance of a pic? My better half collects rocks from all over the world (have added a few to her collection myself)...got them lying all over the place...

Wryfox

They are all in bags in storage boxes. My wife is trying to figure out a way top display them all, without risk of mixing or potential damage if mishandled. She wants a coffee table with a glass top and compartments underneath to place a sample of each. Its a good idea but haven't found a coffee table like that anywhere.

Rocks are good but believe it or not I have had trouble with rocks and gave them up and stuck to sand. There are places in the world where they don't want you to take rocks. Not a contamination issue like most Customs are born from, but as a cultural issue. Egypt, greece, turkey, +most middle east countries (maybe others) may consider the rocks to be cultural items, particularly if they look at all like marble or carved or colored stone. Depending on political temperature they can be confiscated if you don't have paperwork (which of course you won't). Sand is never a problem.

LouS

This thread is the most soothing browse in many a moon. Why?