© 2024 Connecticut Public

FCC Public Inspection Files:
WEDH · WEDN · WEDW · WEDY · WNPR
WPKT · WRLI-FM · WEDW-FM · Public Files Contact
ATSC 3.0 FAQ
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Every Coin and Stamp Tells a Story

In 2013, over 1,000 gold coins were found by a couple walking their dog on their property in Sierra Nevada, California. A rainstorm exposed the rusted can holding the gold coins. They soon found additional rusted cans, all holding gold coins dating from 1847 to 1894. The face value of the coins was just under $28,000. Today's market value is about $10 million.

Like most coins, the Saddle Ridge Hoardoffers more than financial reward. They offer important clues to that period in history, when miners looking for wealth during the Gold Rush of 1849 flooded the California landscape.

Theories on the origins of the hoard have included wild stories of bank heists, Jesse James, and as the loot stashed by a well-known stagecoach robber. Who would have guessed such adventure concealed in one small coin? 

What's the story behind those coins in your pocket? For that matter, what's the story behind that stamp on your junk mail? Yep, we talk about stamp collecting, too!

GUESTS:

Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter.

Colin McEnroe, Chion Wolf, and Greg Hill contributed to this show.

Betsy started as an intern at WNPR in 2011 after earning a Master's Degree in American and Museum Studies from Trinity College. She served as the Senior Producer for 'The Colin McEnroe Show' for several years before stepping down in 2021 and returning to her previous career as a registered nurse. She still produces shows with Colin and the team when her schedule allows.

Stand up for civility

This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.

Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play.

Related Content