National Rarities' April Employee Spotlight
Spring has sprung, and so has our love for our team members!
We cherish the start of each month and being able to showcase our hardworking, dedicated staff. Our devoted customers deserve to know our team on a personal level, especially the people who are responsible for the success of our thriving business.
Our April Employee Spotlight is none other than Ryan Johnson-Moyneur, our Estate Specialist/Photographer, GIA AJP. Ryan’s motto is, “Each day is a new opportunity to learn and educate. It is always a pleasure working with our customers to determine the true value of their family heirlooms and treasures!”
Join us in congratulating our employee of the month, Ryan:
Q1: Describe a brief history of yourself and your relevant training
I have always had an interest in antiques and collectibles. My first collection started when my grandfather presented me with the coins that he had picked up during his service in the US Navy, which lasted from World War II to the Vietnam War. My own collection grew to include US coins and currency from many more countries. I also enjoy breweriana, such as advertising crates and bottles. I have previously sold antiques and collectibles on Etsy as well as worked in the estate sale business for a few years before joining National Rarities in 2018.
Q2: What does a typical day look like for you at National Rarities?
When not traveling for our estate buying events, I work in the photography department. This involves cleaning/prepping jewelry and watches, capturing high-quality images, and editing the photographs. The final images are then used to assist in selling these items so that their new owners can be used and enjoy them.
Q3: What is your favorite thing about working at National Rarities?
My favorite part of working at National Rarities is being able to connect with history via some of the items that are acquired on our estate buying trips. From historical documents to rare and desirable ephemera, to objects that have been to outer space, we never know what we might see next.
Q4: What is your favorite piece you have sold? What is your favorite piece that is for sale now?
One of my favorite pieces that we have sold recently is an 1850 $1 gold coin produced at the Dahlonega Mint. From 1838 to 1861, the Dahlogena Mint operated in Dahlonega, Georgia, and produced only gold coins. During the Civil War, the South captured this mint and was not reopened until the conclusion of the war. The combination of the production of a small coin at this mint combined with a short operation time results in highly desirable coins for collectors.
My favorite piece we have for sale now is our Art Deco platinum ring featuring a 1.4-carat old European cut diamond flanked by two round rubies. This is a piece that has a classic style and would ensure compliments if worn on any occasion.
https://www.nationalrarities.com/catalog/antique/e274/
There truly isn’t anyone like Ryan! We appreciate all his hard work and commitment to National Rarities. Thank you for continuing to support our business and helping us take everything to the next level!
We are beyond lucky to have Ryan and our team of "rarities" at National Rarities.
Stay tuned for our next National Rarities Employee Spotlight in May!