William ‘Bill’ English — A pillar of Ontario numismatics (1923–2026)

William “Bill” English, one of Ontario’s most respected and enduring numismatists – and considered an icon by many within the hobby – died Jan. 14, 2026, at age 102.

A lifelong collector, mentor and error specialist, English was a central figure in organized numismatics in Ontario for more than six decades.

Born Feb. 4, 1923, English was just shy of celebrating his 103rd birthday.

English played a key role in the formation of the Waterloo Coin Society in 1959, serving as its inaugural president from 1959 to 1960 and returning to the role again in 1970. His contributions to the club were later recognized when he was named Life Member No. 2.

He was also among the small group of collectors who helped establish the Ontario Numismatic Association in 1962. English served as ONA president from 1967 to 1969 and held the distinction of being Charter Member No. 2 and Life Member No. 3.

English remained active in both organizations until his death and could regularly be found attending regional events such as the Cambridge and Paris coin shows, where he continued to engage with fellow collectors. English continued to attend Waterloo and Brantford coin club meetings through the fall of 2025 and remained active on the coin show circuit into the spring of 2025, driven by his enthusiasm for the hobby and time spent with fellow collectors.

Widely respected for his knowledge and generosity, English was regarded as a mentor by generations of Ontario collectors, particularly for his expertise in error coins. His steady presence at meetings and shows made him a familiar and approachable figure within the hobby.

In recent years, English was publicly honoured for his lasting contributions. In 2022, he was featured on the Ontario Numismatic Association’s 60th anniversary convention medal, with the association describing him as “an amazing ambassador of numismatics.” In 2023, the Waterloo Coin Society honoured him by featuring his image on a souvenir treasury note issued by the club.

English was also celebrated publicly on several milestone occasions. In February 2023, the ONA and his family hosted a celebration of his 100th birthday in conjunction with the Paris Coin Show in Paris, Ont. In March 2024, he was the guest of honour at the Waterloo Coin Society’s 65th anniversary celebration, where members recognized his foundational role and continued engagement with the club.

English’s legacy endures in the organizations he helped build, the collectors he mentored and the strong sense of community he championed throughout his life in numismatics.

Further details, including funeral arrangements and tributes from across the numismatic community, will be published as they become available.