Welcome to my simple web page. I keep it simple because I am still learning on how to write better html programs. Part of it also because my friend told me to KISS (keep it simple "sayang" ( a Malay word for someone you love). By the way, my name is Badrul Hisham. I have a passion for coins and banknotes, especially rare ones. Through these beautifully minted coins and exquisitely designed paper money one can learn about art, history, geography, economics and other aspects of life.
Rare coins and banknotes be it old or new are worthy for private collection. It also serves as an investment instrument and a trading commodity for a trader. At the moment, I consider myself as a collector /investor. Afterall, these rare and collectable items are appreciating by the years.
As long as there are people like me out there, there will always be demand for numismatic materials and Economics 101 tells us that if demand outnumber supply, the market valuation will manifest itself.Coincidentally, I received a mail today from a rare coin dealer who is also a correspondent from the US.The report reads : "Rare coins have outperformed the Dow Jones, The S&P 500, Gold Bullion, Silver Bullion & Most Other Financial Markets. It says USD1,000 investment in high quality US rare coins purchased in 1970 would have an average current market value of USD54,630 today "( June 98).
Coin and banknotes collecting is just one of my hobbies to enrich my life. Personally, I come from a Finance, Investment and Banking background having been in the field for the past 8 years right after graduating from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, USA. I'm now involved in venture capital activities and investment syndication work in Malaysia.
I started collecting Malay archipelago coins since 1989. Ironically, I bought my first coin in the United States (Istudied there ) , a small Acehnese Kingdom Gold Coin piece used circa 1297-1400 (I have yet to determine the exact era, but have a fairly good idea of its origin by refering to my dear Encyclopedia of Coins for Malaysia, Brunei & Singapore 1400 to 1976 by Saran Singh (PNM) and published by Malaysia Numismatic Society).
I develop the interest since I was a child but coming from an average income family, I cannot afford to start a collection. Now, with the blessing of God Almighty, I am able to make a small collection. My wife, Ros, has been very supportive. I also hope to past on this hobby to my son, Afif. I personnaly hope that the tradition will continue and flourish in the family.
Somewhere down the family tree to be, my great grand children maybe, would be very fortunate to be in possession of these numismatic items. Although I may not be financially benefitting from this hobby, I have a strong feeling that my great grand children will benefit from it. And knowing that is a reward in itself.
So I hope that there will be more people out there who has the same interest and that I would like to exchange ideas and learn from you about coin and banknotes collecting and sourcing. I also welcome any inquiries about my little collection.
Get your own Free Home Page