Dear Friends of TOREX,

I am writing to you today with a very personal and significant announcement.

After over 30 years and 90 shows, I have decided to retire from my operational duties at the TOREX Coin Show at the end of this year. My final show was held on October 25th and 26th, 2025.

It has been an incredible honour to serve the Canadian numismatic community, especially since becoming the Owner and Show Organizer in 2000.

I invite you to read my full farewell letter below, where I reflect on my tenure, recognize the people who made TOREX a success, and share a few photos from my last show.

Thank you once again for your loyalty and support over the decades.

Sincerely,

Brian R. Smith
Owner and Show Organizer, TOREX Coin Show

A Personal Farewell from Brian Smith at TOREX

Dear Friends, Valued Dealers, and Loyal TOREX Patrons,

With a mixture of profound gratitude and a touch of melancholy, I am writing to announce my official retirement at the close of this year.

The TOREX Coin Show held on October 25th and 26th, 2025, was my last show. This marks the end of an incredible journey that spanned over 30 years and more than 90 shows with this wonderful community.

Celebrating a Canadian Numismatic Institution

When TOREX was officially founded in 1962, no one could have predicted the longevity and impact it would have. As of 2025, the show celebrated its 63rd year, making it Canada's oldest and longest-running commercial coin show.

My personal history with this institution began in 1994, where I was fortunate to be coached by my mother, a significant numismatist and leading expert in counterfeit detection.

In the year 2000, I took on the role of Owner and Show Organizer, acquiring the show from her. It has been the honour of a lifetime to shepherd this event and continue the legacy she helped establish. Though she passed away in January 2012, her spirit and high standards have always guided me.

Since 2000, maintaining the show's consistent presence has been my focus, leading us through several well-known Toronto venues over the years, including The Primrose Hotel, The Novotel, The Radisson Admiral Hotel, The Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel, The Hyatt Regency on King, and finally, The Crowne Plaza Toronto Airport Hotel.

At the age of 61, the time has come to embrace retirement. While I am stepping away, the memories and relationships forged within the halls of TOREX will remain with me always.

Recognizing Decades of Support

Running a show of this caliber for so many years requires the dedication and commitment of many extraordinary people.

I am incredibly thankful for the generous and continuous support we have received. My sincere appreciation goes out to:

• The Heart of the Show: The TOREX Dealers & Collectors—your enthusiasm, loyalty, and passion for the hobby were the true driving force.

• Essential Contributors: The Crowne Plaza Toronto Airport Hotel (our current home), John Domonkos and Target Security, Andrew Fiutek, and PackP.

• Numismatic Organizations: The RCNA, CAND, and CTCCC.

• Valued Show Suppliers: Enterprise Truck Rentals.

• Past TOREX Leadership: I also wish to specifically acknowledge the hard work of all past owners and directors who built this show's incredible foundation: James E. Charlton, Albert Rosen, John Kone, Frank Rose, Peter Findlay, Al Bliman, Ingrid K. Smith, and William K. Cross.

You all helped make TOREX a reliable, rewarding, and consistent part of the Canadian numismatic calendar.