Coin show in Post Falls to benefit Toys for Tots

By BRIAN WALKER

Staff Writer

POST FALLS — Emil Torp has a different view than most when it comes to knowing the value of a penny.

They're not all bad, the Post Falls man and Coeur d'Alene Coin Club president said.

He sold a 1943 silver penny for $4,000.

What made the penny so valuable was that it is a mistake.

"It was struck on a dime planchet," he said.

A magnet can pick up regular pennies and most of the silver-colored ones from 1943. But it didn't grab that one because it was silver instead of steel.

Torp said copper was needed for the war that year so the production of copper pennies was temporarily suspended.

Similar coin stories will be shared by vendors during the club's Coin and Jewelry Holiday Show at Red Lion Templin's hotel, 414 E. First Ave., Post Falls on Friday from noon to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is free with a new toy that will benefit the Pappy Boyington Detachment of the Marine Corps Reserve's Toys for Tots Drive. If a toy is not donated, admission is $2.

Door prizes will be given every hour. There will also be $1 raffle tickets for chances to win a 1927 double-eagle gold coin valued at $1,300, a $300 certificate to Tim's Special Cut Meats and 2017 1-ounce silver eagle coins.

"If you have something you believe is valuable, bring it in and speak with a coin dealer," Torp said. "You may not know what the coin even is until someone has a chance to look at it."

Coins and books will be available to purchase.

"It's just before the holidays, so this is an opportunity to shop," Torp said.

There will be at least 17 dealers at the show, which will also include gift vendors who make everything from candles to custom pens. Vendor space is still available.

For more information, call Torp at 208-773-8710.