As 2008 draws to a close, it only seems natural to reflect upon the events that have brought you to today.

Christmas is coming and I have visions of sparkling gold and silver coins dancing within my head. The haves and the wants; the gems and the duds. How far have I come, and where will this lead?

On the financial front we've all be part of the Beast. A roller coaster with predominently breath-taking drops followed by brittle ascents, only to be dropped again. Gold has seen $1000 ounce, but has settled back to the $750 range. With all the turmoil in the financial world, yes, I've ridden the ride and don't like it! However, one part of the investment world seems to hold its ground regardless of what Wall Street may be doing. The wonderful world of numismatics. We've draw many newcomers to the hobby via way of investment. Yet as collectors, are we any different? I know I've picked off many great deals from those who have had to sell their gems.

Earlier in the year I too sold off about 80% of my United States collection, and with that decision, changed my financial future and the way I now live and invest. Cash and Lay-A-Way are my only friends now. Yes, I divorced my long time partner Credit. I've fallen several times, but after several months, I have the best outlook and finally have regained control over each dollar I have.

Growth within my collection now narrowed to focus upon Canada and Great Britain. Canada has remained in the modern realm while Great Britain spans the centuries. Additions have included Maple leaves of gold and silver from Canada and from pennies to sovereigns from Great Britain.

From Canada, highlights include my Canadian Silver one ounce Maple Leaf set taking the top slot for 2008. What most don't realize, is this has been a five year accomplishment. To end the year, I haven't started the registry set, but I've picked up the entire 1997 SP set from cent to $2.00 in SP69.

Great Britain opened up this year, only about three weeks ago for Registry sets, so now you can see some of what I've been assembling. Since this area is new, I currently hold the top slot in all my sets except one. I look forward to seeing others have, as well as the friendly competition for the yearly icon. Great Britain has added the most gems as well as my biggest disappointment for the grading aspect. Last year I'd purchased a stunning 1820 George III Shilling that would easily grade 66-67. It's bright, unimpaired to the eye, 4x and 10x showed the beauty. Sent it to PCGS, only to receive it back in a body bag! Had I access to 20x or greater, the faintest of cleaning came through. I look at it as a waste of grading money, but the coin is still stunning on its own! Gems added include the 1902 and 1906 Maundy sets of Edward VII, and an upgrade to my 1787 George III Shilling with Hearts. I'm including the pictures of the 1787 and you be the judge. I say MS64-66, and regardless, I love the obverse rainbow!

Thanks for visiting my journal. I welcome any comments or suggestions. Have a very Merry Christmas, and may 2009 be better for us all!