A week ago I got a call from my local club (Trenton Numismatic Club) president asking me what my presentation was to be that evening. This was his way of informing me that I was the guest speaker in a few hours...

Every time I talk at coin clubs, the topic is always related to colonial numismatics. Being asked a few hours before the meeting and having no time to prepare, I decided to talk about forming a numismatic library. The only books I had to share were colonial in nature. But the talk was well received and if anyone should be inspired to purchase a book, I'll consider the talk a success.

I have always been astonished that collectors will spend thousands on their coins but will not invest $50 for a book! I fail to see their logic. Hobby enjoyment is increased a hundred fold when you can learn the history about what you're collecting. Also, the informed collector is more likely to make wise purchases.

I showed the club an original Crosby and an original Maris - books that would normally be purchased by bibliophiles as they are collectible in their own right. Then I showed the modern reprints, which were just as good to use for learning, and a lot less expensive. I hope that some of those collectors will have been inspired to start or add to their libraries, but even if they don't, I had a good time that evening and didn't catch anyone snoring.