http://www.encasedcollectorsinternational....sed%20Coins.htm

The correct link should be:

http://www.encasedcollectorsinternational.org/

Encased Collectors International, ECI, was founded in 2004 after the Associated Collectors of Encased folded. Membership is currently 465 with members from 13 countries and 48 States in the USA. Membership is dues free and open all "honorable folk who collect and trade in encased coins."

Interesting. I came across my first encased coin in Baltimore. A dealer gave an well worn and dented but encased 1817 cent to me. I've got it in my wallet. I think its a great pocket piece.