Reprinted from the 10-18-04 Havana Journal (www.havanajournal.com). The article is provided by member Greg Robinson.

The business of dealing in collectibles in Cuba has spawned a money making movement like no other on the island. Every Saturday morning, one can visit what is called El Club Numismatico, usually hosted in Playa, an upper scale section of Havana. Organizers of the club charge an admission fee of ten cents to Cubans, and $1.00 US to non Cuban citizens.

Once inside, one can visit the small flea market type tables Cuban dealers have set up. Some even sell small items on the floor of the venue. Each dealer is charged a set up fee by the organizers of the club. A buyer can find all kinds of vintage and highly desirable items at the dealer’s tables, varying from Cuban and American baseball cards to costume jewelry.

If it’s collectible, chances are you may find what you are looking for at the club, or at the seller’s home. Rare books, bank notes, rare Cuban and American coins, documents, glassware, ceramics, bisque dolls, etc. are for sale. If one doesn’t find what is wanted, one of the dealers will most likely know where to find it, and will point you in the right direction for a modest fee or commission of the sale.”

EDITORS NOTE: The entire article can be found at the referenced website.