“I think generally we tend to overlook coinage as a “historic” object, as it’s something we deal with every day – you don’t really realise how much history is behind them!”

 - Lina Fitzjames

Think coins and stamps, think old and dusty…it’s an unfair assumption these days, but it’s an image the world of “numismatics” (the study of coinage) and “philately” (the study of postage) still struggles to shake. So, we were thrilled to have the opportunity to speak with some of the new vanguardstepping into the field, including the incredibly knowledgeable, passionate and sweetly modest Lina Fitzjames, Junior Numismatist at Baldwin’s Auction House. Situated centrally at 399 Strand, live auctions in a range of departments are held here throughout the year, from coins and stamps to militaria and trading cards, but you can also pop into the showroom any day to explore and purchase from their collection. But how did Lina get to working here, and what does it really entail?

How did you begin your journey? Can you pick out one element in your younger life that may have inspired you to pursue a life in auctions?

I was your typical history-obsessed child, which definitely had a bearing on my career choices! I remember being very organised and careful with my belongings, and I liked everything to have its own place, so the idea of “looking after” history was really appealing to me.

And in particular numismatics?

I think generally we tend to overlook coinage as a “historic” object, as it’s something we deal with every day – you don’t really realise how much history is behind them! I love being able to hold a coin from one hundred, one thousand, even two thousand years ago in my hands. It really transports you back in time, thinking about how many people have held that same object – it makes the past feel so much closer.

Can you tell us a little about the trajectory you took to get where you are today? Was it a traditional arc for the industry?

It took me a few years to work out exactly what I wanted to do once I left college, and I started university on a completely different course (computer animation!). I didn’t really know if a career in history was attainable, and there weren’t many opportunities in my hometown. Luckily at university I realised there were so many options in the heritage industry. I do sometimes wonder how my trajectory would have changed if I’d started earlier, but I’m really happy with where I am now. I think it goes to show that it’s never too late to change your mind.

Numismatics seems to be a varied field…is that an area which you would say is your specialism…or, is there an area which particularly excites you?

For me, I’ve always been interested in the medieval era as a whole, but since joining Baldwin’s I’ve really gained an appreciation for Anglo-Saxon coinage, especially from the early-to-mid period. The minting of coinage was not yet regulated, so moneyers had a lot of freedom in their designs, resulting in some really stunning types that almost feel like they could have been made today!

What part of your job do you enjoy most (and, if you would like to answer, least)?

Definitely cataloguing – there are so many different types and varieties to keep in mind, especially with older coins. I find the research aspect of the job really fun. I also help out a lot with our Instagram account, @baldwinscoins, which allows me to delve deeper into some really interesting coins for our followers.

Do you collect yourself?

I started off as a collector! My grandfather has been collecting since the 1970s so I spent a lot of my childhood looking through his collection. One of his prized coins was a 1797 “cartwheel” twopence, which I also coveted (and now own many of!). I wouldn’t say I collect anything specific, however, just whatever interests me (and is within my budget!).

If you could own any coin or token in the world, what would you choose?

I really love the idea of “polytemporal” objects, which have meanings and context within different time periods – so any coins with countermarks, test cuts, or chop marks are definitely high up on my wish list. I’d love to own a coin from the Gonzaga collection. It’s a collection of Ancient Roman coins, originally collected during the beginning of the 15thCentury, and stamped with a Gonzaga eagle during the 17thCentury. It’s amazing to think there’s so much history connected with one tiny coin!

What is your favourite museum or gallery in the world and why?

I’d have to say the Mary Rose Museum, of course – how often do you get to see a Tudor warship in the flesh?! The sheer amount of artefacts that were brought up from over 400 years in the Solent and their state of preservation is breathtaking - it really gives you an unparalleled glimpse into life in the Tudor Age.

If you weren’t working in the industry you are now, what might you see yourself doing?

I’ve always been a creative person, so I think I’d probably pivot towards something in arts or design, or something where I can write - I could definitely see myself writing a book one day.

And a quick fire 5:

Any upcoming projects of note that you can discuss (or particular professional events you are particularly excited about)?

We’re sponsoring and attending this year’s Coinex, which is one of the biggest events in the numismatic calendar, which is very exciting (especially as it will be my first time attending!). We also have another token sale on October 7th, following the success of the Deane Collection last year, and another militaria sale on September 24th which should prove popular!

What have been the most rewarding moments of your career thus far?

Being lucky enough to work in this industry and do what I love every day! It’s been my aspiration to work with coins since university, so being able to make it this far has really been a “pinch-me” moment. 

What’s the best advice you have ever received?

With regards to the heritage industry, being able to be competent in a range of other responsibilities outside of the role you’re hoping to go into. Heritage is such a competitive sector, and in a lot of smaller roles you need to be an all-rounder. I was able to gain a lot of varied experiences during my time at university which prepared me for my first job in the sector, and even now at Baldwin’s I really enjoy helping out with other departments when I can. 

Who are you outside of the ‘office’?

After a long break I’ve recently gotten back into art, so I spend a lot of my downtime trying to improve. I’m quite new to London, too, so I love to explore and find new places to watch the world go by. 

What do you love about London?

Being surrounded by so much history! Our offices at the Strand are a five-minute walk from so many landmarks - Cleopatra’s Needle, Trafalgar Square, and the National Gallery, to name a few. How many people can say they can go and see a Da Vinci on their lunch break? 

For more information on Baldwin’s and their upcoming auctions, visit www.baldwins.co