Exonumia is a term that was coined (no pun intended) by a man named Russell Rulau in 1960. The term refers to a collection of coin-like objects that aren't currency related. For instance, an exonumist might collect wooden nickels, subway tokens, badges, medallions, and even credit cards. The British refer to exonumia as 'paranumismia,' the prefix 'para' suggesting something beyond the mere collection of coins.

What's fun about exonumia is that there are far more coin-like objects than coins in circulation. Collecting, organizing, and evaluating these objects of course requires dedication and skill. Yet coin-like object collecting is far more of a 'hobbyist's hobby' than currency related coin collection, and it requires a regular interaction with an international group of like-minded collectors.

Exonumists tend to focus on particular types of objects, such as tags for commemorative coins. By limiting their collections, they can focus more intensely on collecting whole sets and networking with their usually scrappy and savvy compatriots. Bus tokens and casino chips are very popular collectors items. Since these chips can be exchanged for money at any time, however, they're difficult to get a hold of.

Token collectors sometimes put up websites or work with local affiliates to entice a remote local population to donate its tokens. Sadly, forgeries are very common, thanks in large part to the lack of regulation. Thus, if you're seriously thinking of getting into exonumia, make sure to get any and all high-priced items or bulk collections evaluated by a professional before you pay top dollar.