JAMES WINSTON FAIRFIELD (1930-2017)

JAMES WINSTON FAIRFIELD
FORT WAYNE, INDIANA
AUGUST 11, 1930 TO AUGUST 26, 2017

Jim discovered his affinity for coins while accompanying his mother on a shopping trip in the mid-1940's at a mezzanine level coin store in a local department store. He completed his first collection, large cents within one year with wages from a neighborhood bakery at age 15. Large cents remained his lifetime favorite series. Dedication to the Army during Korean Conflict and beginning a new life with his beloved wife, Helen were his main focus during the early 1950's.

Jim's interest for coins was rekindled in 1956. He and like-minded friends formed the Old Fort Coin Club, and Jim became member #7. In 1958, he joined the A.N.A. and held life member #627. Jim continued to work tirelessly assisting in the formation of other clubs in Indiana and Ohio. Finally, Jim was a founding member of the Indiana Numismatic Association in 1959, holding membership #12.

Throughout the late 1950's and 1960's, Jim traveled to shows buying and selling. In 1969, Jim purchased “Art Coins” in downtown Fort Wayne. It became a family business with his mother, Dorothy and his son, Jim, Jr., working at the store.

From the 1970's to 2000's, the father/son team operated bourse tables at all the major shows. Jim had a quick smile, maybe a joke, and always fresh coins. In 1980, the downtown Fort Wayne urban renewal, and the creation of a Bank building prompted Jim to move the coin shop to a suburban location. At the East State Street location, Art Coins became Fairfield Rare Coins. Jim then joined the PNG in 1981. In 1989, Fairfield Rare Coins moved to its current location on Clinton Street. Worldwide travel was important and enjoyed by Jim and Helen, but foremost Jim was a family man. His whole family is proud of what a great family leader and numismatist he was.

At age 87, a week prior to his passing, Jim was working in the store on buffalo nickels and currency doing what he loved. He passed surrounded by his 7 children, 22 grandchildren and wife Helen of 66 years. A Christian celebration and U.S. military ceremony were held in honor of him at his lifelong church, Concordia Lutheran Church.

Gary Adkins writes:

Ken Hallenbeck of Colorado Springs, CO writes:

To read Fairfield's online obituary, see:
In Memory of James W. Fairfield (http://hockemeyer-miller.tributes.com/dignitymemorial/obituary/James-W.-Fairfield-105133096)

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