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About Us The Numismatic Bibliomania Society is a non-profit association devoted to the study and enjoyment of numismatic literature. For more information please see our web site at coinbooks.org Subscriptions Those wishing to become new E-Sylum subscribers can go to the following web page Subscribe You may Unsubscribe Here Membership There is a membership application available on the web site Membership Application To join, print the application and return it with your check to the address printed on the application. Print/Digital membership is $40 to addresses in the U.S., and $60 elsewhere. A digital-only membership is available for $25. For those without web access, write to: Jeff Dickerson, Treasurer Numismatic Bibliomania Society P. O. Box 578, Weatherford, TX 76086 Asylum For Asylum mailing address changes and other membership questions, contact Jeff at this email address: treasurer@coinbooks.org Submissions To submit items for publication in The E-Sylum, write to the Editor at this address: whomren@gmail.com BUY THE BOOK BEFORE THE COIN Sale Calendar Watch here for updates!

 

Content presented in The E-Sylum is not necessarily researched or independently fact-checked, and views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the Numismatic Bibliomania Society.

WAYNE'S WORDS: THE E-SYLUM AUGUST 17, 2025

New subscribers this week include: Dr. Fernando Fuentes, courtesy Roberto Jovel; and Cameron and Daniel Scheirer, courtesy of Bruce Perdue. Welcome aboard! We now have 7,088 subscribers.

Thank you for reading The E-Sylum. If you enjoy it, please send me the email addresses of friends you think may enjoy it as well and I'll send them a subscription. Contact me at whomren@gmail.com anytime regarding your subscription, or questions, comments or suggestions about our content.

This week we open with events at this week's ANA convention, two new books, updates from the Newman Numismatic Portal, and an amazing numismatic discovery.

Other topics this week include American Silver Eagles, the first ANA convention, fractional currency, the 1804 dollar, notes from readers, the Osborne Mint, tons of auction previews, elephants on ancient coins, and the new maker of the Kennedy Center Honors.

To learn more about the Guide Book of U.S. Coins, errors on Salvadorian coinage, U.S. Congressman Mike Castle, James A. Stack, Sr., Fred Douglas, the Louis Braille commemorative dollar, "The Numismatic Bookie", the Father Flanagan's Boys Home Sale, the Higgins Museum, the ANA "Lamp of Knowledge", the State of Louisiana Medal, the State Department Life Saving Medal, and Clearing House scrip, read on. Have a great week, everyone!

Wayne Homren
Editor, The E-Sylum

 

KOLBE & FANNING AT 2025 ANA WORLD'S FAIR OF MONEY

David Fanning writes:

NBS EVENTS AT 2025 ANA WORLD'S FAIR OF MONEY

Jeff Garrett
speaks on the Guide Book of U.S. Coins

One of the best-selling books of all time of any genre, the ubiquitous "Red Book" has been informing U.S. coin collectors since the first edition was published in 1947.

Now in its 78th edition, the Guide Book of U.S. Coins has become collectible itself, with the earliest editions especially prized. Jeff Garrett, Guide Book Senior Editor, will speak on the challenges of keeping this foundational reference accessible and authoritative at the same time.

 

Len Augsburger
speaks on the 1992 M. N. Daycius Caper

In 1992, American bibliophiles received a one-page flyer in the mail that advertised a numismatic literature sale to be held April 1, 1992 in Fort Worth, TX, at "1204 Magnolia," which just happened to be the former address of the coin dealer B. Max Mehl. The announcement hinted the material was of great value and that the cataloger was not completely familiar with the significance of the items.

Since 1992, the identity of the hoaxster has been the subject of much speculation. Recently, new information has come to light that finally identifies the perpetrator of the "M. N. Daycius Caper." This came to us completely unsolicited, and not in response to any investigation on our part. All shall be revealed at the NBS Symposium.

Each year at the ANA World's Fair of Money, the Numismatic Bibliomania Society conducts a charity auction to raise funds for the organization. All items sold are donated to the NBS by members and 100% of the proceeds go to the NBS treasury.

Absentee bids due by close of day Thursday, August 21
Absentee bids should be sent to David Fanning at df@numislit.com by the end of Thursday, August 21.

The sale will take place on Friday, August 22 as part of the NBS General Meeting, to be held in Room 203 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Please read the terms of sale before bidding.

Thank you for your support of the NBS!

To see the Benefit Auction Catalogue:
https://mcusercontent.com/5c68a72f4948c463818f613c2/files/38ae55da-f801-cff7-5491-0b20cda9d35c/NBS_Auction.pdf

 

Email your photos and stories from the ANA World's Fair of Money to asylum@coinbooks.org by September 1 for inclusion in our next issue.

 

NEW BOOK: AMERICAN SILVER EAGLES 5TH EDITION

American Silver Eagles: A Guide to the U.S. Silver Bullion Coin Program
By: John M. Mercanti and David J. Ryder

Whitman proudly announces the highly anticipated release of fifth edition of American Silver Eagles: A Guide to the U.S. Silver Bullion Coin Program. This fully revised edition comes just in time ahead of the 40th anniversary of the iconic Silver Eagle and kicks off a broader celebration of coauthor John Mercanti's remarkable 50-year career as a visionary artist, designer, and numismatist.

Since its introduction in 1986, the American Silver Eagle has become the most collected silver bullion coin in the world, with more than 673 million struck to date. In this new edition, coauthors John M. Mercanti, 12th Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, and David J. Ryder, the 34th and 39th Director of the Mint, team up to offer unparalleled insight into the coin's history, production, and enduring popularity.

"John Mercanti and David Ryder each bring a wealth of experience and expertise in numismatics," said John Feigenbaum, President and CEO of Whitman Brands. "But it's their connected history, personal relationship, and collaboration that elevate this already best-selling book to an entirely new level!"

Fresh Insight

This deluxe fifth edition introduces readers to:

• A new Foreword by David Ryder
• History of the U.S. Bullion Coin Program
• In-depth coverage of the Type II redesign and the stunning Flying Eagle reverse
• Updated mintage figures, specs, and visual galleries
• Expanded coin-by-coin analysis covering 2021–2025 releases
• An illustrated appendix cataloging John Mercanti's prolific design portfolio
• A new section covering how to collect Silver Eagles

Program in Review

Launched in 1986 under the American Eagle Coin Program and authorized by the Liberty Coin Act of 1985, the American Silver Eagle quickly became a cornerstone of the global bullion market. Each coin contains one troy ounce of .999 fine silver and originally featured Adolph A. Weinman's classic Walking Liberty design on the obverse, paired with John Mercanti's heraldic eagle on the reverse. In 2021, the reverse was updated to showcase a striking flying eagle design by artist Emily Damstra. While produced primarily as bullion for investors, Silver Eagles also carry legal tender status and have gained significant popularity among collectors for their artistry, symbolism, and enduring market presence. Today, they remain one of the most widely traded and collected silver coins in the world.

"Silver Eagles are not just coins—they are national symbols of artistry, commerce, and trust," said Mike Schneider, Director of Partnerships and Collaborations at Asset Marketing Services, LLC. "This updated guide is the definitive roadmap to a beloved American legacy."

Notable releases covered in this edition

• 2023-W Proof (West Point) — open-mintage release.
• 2024-Star Privy Uncirculated — unique bullion coin with collector appeal.
• 2025 Uncirculated W — updated design/security rollout.
• 2025 250th Anniversary Military Proofs — especially the Army privy, highly collectible.

Limited Collector's Edition Now Available Exclusively at govmint.com

Don't miss your chance to own American Silver Eagles: A Guide to the U.S. Silver Bullion Coin Program, a landmark tribute to America's most beloved silver coin and the two men whose careers helped shape its legacy, and the perfect gift for silver enthusiasts and coin collectors of all levels —now available for pre-launch purchase in a special Collector's Edition at govmint.com.

Published by Whitman®, the most trusted name in numismatic literature, American Silver Eagles will be available for purchase in both large (8.5x11) and small (6x9) formats at Whitman.com, govmint.com, Amazon, Whitman's Ebay Store, Walmart.com, and bookstores, hobby shops, and other authorized retailers nationwide September 2025.

Meet the Authors

Now retired, John M. Mercanti was the U.S. Mint's 12th Chief Engraver. A giant in the numismatic world, Mercanti has produced more coin and medal designs than any person in U.S. Mint history, including the iconic Heraldic Eagle design that appeared on Silver Eagles released from 1986 to 2021.

David J. Ryder is an official GOVMINT ambassador and served as 34th and 39th Director of the U.S. Mint from 1992 to 1993 and from 2018 to 2021. He was named by Coin World as one of its "Most Influential People in Numismatics."

Title: American Silver Eagles: A Guide to the U.S. Silver Bullion Coin Program
Authors: John M. Mercanti, David J. Ryder
ISBN: 9780794853969
Format: Hardcover
Dimensions: 8.5x11 inches
Pages: 264
Retail: $49.95 USD
whitman.com

For more information, or to order, see:
American Silver Eagles: A Guide to the U.S. Silver Bullion Coin Program (https://www.govmint.com/american-silver-eagles-5th-edition)
American Silver Eagles: A Guide to the U.S. Silver Bullion Coin Program (https://whitman.com/american-silver-eagles-a-guide-to-the-u-s-bullion-coin-program-5th-edition-8-5x-11/)

 

NEW BOOK: SALVADORAN COINS WITH ERRORS

Roberto Jovel writes:

 

The parameters for numismatic collecting are very heterogeneous. We cannot say that there is one right way to collect; rather, it depends more on the tastes and possibilities of each collector. One avenue for coin collecting has been the search for pieces in the best possible state of preservation. This has recently led to the adoption of the certification system introduced by the collecting community in the United States of America, based on a numerical-adjective classification system that classifies and encapsulates coins according to their state of preservation and certifies their authenticity. For several years now, this system has begun to be applied to coins from different parts of the world, sparking a race among collectors to obtain those pieces with the highest classifications.

While the perfection of a coin is desirable, imperfection is also a matter of collecting. Here, too, the United States has played a vital role in the study and classification of so-called "errors," which brings us to the importance of understanding the different stages of coin manufacturing and the minting processes at different times and in different minting houses.

In Central America, this interest in the study of errors is relatively recent, as collecting them was not necessarily based on an established classification for our particular coins. Although we have had important works on the history of our coins for over half a century, manuals or catalogs of errors are very recent.

In the case of El Salvador, the task of publishing a study of coin errors has been undertaken by the prominent Central American numismatic researcher Roberto Jovel and the young and experienced numismatist Leonel Barillas, under the title "Salvadoran Coins with Errors." Jovel and Barillas, with the support of Ricardo Recinos, Iván Zelaya, and Alejandro Safie, conducted an exhaustive search for Salvadoran coin specimens with errors from various collections and the internet, supported by error classifications for coins from both the United States and other parts of the world. This allowed them to develop the classification based on the circumstances of the different stages of the manufacturing process: during the manufacture of the blank, during the manufacture of the die, and during the minting process.

In this book, each of the coins identified with errors is duly identified, described, and referenced, including the mint where the error occurred.

This allows us to understand the most common errors by mint. The work also includes a chapter on "Some Special Cases," which examines some coins that may appear to contain errors, but whose historical circumstances, conducted by the authors, explain the reasons for the differences.

This book-catalog of errors represents a well-crafted study that demonstrates the authors' extensive knowledge of Salvadoran coins. It is a pioneering work for El Salvador that will provide collectors with a well-reasoned manual for identifying and classifying the country's errors, learning more about coin manufacturing processes, and expanding their knowledge of numismatic history. It is a must-have reference and should be included in every numismatic library, not only for collectors of Salvadoran coins but also for Central American ones.

Dr. Manuel Benito Chacón Hidalgo
Curator, Numismatic Museum of Costa Rica

Roberto adds:

 

MICHAEL N. CASTLE (1939-2025)

Michael N. Castle, widely known as a dedicated public servant who brought a bipartisan, common-sense approach to policy-making, died on Thursday, August 14, 2025 in Wilmington, Delaware following a long illness.

Governor Castle was a two-term Delaware Governor from 1985 to 1992. He served as Delaware's lone Member of Congress from 1993 to 2011, making him the longest-serving U.S. Representative in the state's history. He was Lt. Governor of Delaware from 1981 to 1985 and a member of the Delaware General Assembly, serving in both the State House of Representatives and in the State Senate from 1966 to 1976. He also served as Deputy Attorney General.

Congressman Mike Castle was a founding member of the Republican Main Street Partnership, a leading organization for centrist Republicans, and worked in a bipartisan manner to help move people from welfare to work, support fiscally responsible government, improve public education, and protect the community. He served on the House Committee on Financial Services, Committee on Education and Workforce and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.

Mike helped shape the Welfare Reform Act of 1996 by increasing childcare funding and Medicaid coverage for those moving from welfare to work. A supporter of conservative fiscal policies, Mike was lead sponsor of successful legislation that gave the President Line-Item Veto Authority to veto individual items in spending bills, and he helped drive the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 to successful passage.

Mike helped write and pass No Child Left Behind legislation to improve public schools by increasing resources and flexibility for schools and teachers in return for more accountability to ensure all children are learning. He wrote the law that created the 50 State Quarters Program widely recognized as the most innovative circulating coin program in our nation's history. He was a co-sponsor in the successful passage of The Brady Bill which required a 5-day waiting period for the purchase of a gun and the implementation of computerized instant background checks.

Mike loved the outdoors and, at the age of ten, began attending summer camps in Maine at Camp Medomak, where he went on to become a camp counselor. He was an avid fan of the Phillies, Flyers, Sixers, Eagles, and the University of Delaware Fightin' Blue Hens.

He enjoyed small town parades around Delaware on July 4th and especially on Halloween. Following in the footsteps of his predecessor, Governor Pete du Pont, who dressed up as Dracula, Mike enjoyed dressing up as Frankenstein for the families who visited the Governor's House and for parades in each county. Mike was a voracious reader, devouring newspapers, periodicals, fiction and non-fiction books. After a quick glance at the front page, he would bury himself in the sports section. As a child he was often caught by his parents reading by flashlight under the covers late at night.

Governor Castle was born in Wilmington, Delaware, on July 2, 1939. His parents were James Manderson Castle, Jr., and Louisa Johnston (nee Bache). His fifth great-grandfathers were Founding Fathers Benjamin Franklin and Daniel Carroll. He was a graduate of Tower Hill School, and he earned a BS degree in economics from Hamilton College and a JD degree from the Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C.

Governor Castle is survived by his wife of over 33 years, Jane DiSabatino, many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

To read the complete article, see:
Michael N. Castle (https://www.delawareonline.com/obituaries/pdov1255467)

Howard Berlin writes:

NEWMAN PORTAL: THE FIRST ANA CONVENTION

The First ANA Convention

This week thousands of attendees will descend on Oklahoma City, where a numismatic cornucopia awaits, replete with social gatherings, formal presentations, auction lot viewing, and a several-hundred dealer bourse. The first ANA convention, held October 7-8, 1891, at the Commercial Hotel in Chicago, was a considerably calmer affair.

Coverage of the event in the Numismatist was sparse. The October 1891 Numismatist reminded readers to send in their voting proxy cards and noted that the editor would be encamped at the Commercial Hotel in Chicago (Lake & Dearborn Streets) between October 1 and 7. The November issue contained no related news, as the editor indicated the issue went to press on September 30. There was no December issue that year, and the January 1892 issue mentions the convention only in passing.

Another periodical, Plain Talk, contained a bit more information. At the time, the ANA did not have its own official publication; this came later. In any case, Plain Talk reported 31 attendees, representing over half the membership at the time. The convention was completely focused on organizational matters, with the ANA constitution and by-laws formally adopted. Plain Talk makes no mention of commercial activity, except to say that board member J. A. Heckelman "showed his patent exchange trays," possibly a reference to a coin holder.

Link to The Numismatist on Newman Portal:
https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/publisherdetail/550647

Link to Plain Talk on Newman Portal:
https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/publisherdetail/543571

VIDEO: COLLECTING FRACTIONAL CURRENCY

Coinage for commerce virtually disappeared during the Civil War as no one wanted to spend the money they had and the mints were unable to keep up production. A series of paper money notes were issued in denominations from three cents to 50 cents. Hear the story and see examples of these notes that continued into the 1870's and are some of the most affordable examples of early United States paper money. David Stitely is a collector and researcher who speaks at coin clubs and has a serious collector of these notes. Speaker(s): David Stitely.

To watch the complete video, see:
Collecting Fractional Currency (https://youtu.be/zeOlLfATaA4)
Collecting Fractional Currency (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/560422)

 

STACKS BOWERS: UNPUBLISHED 1804 DOLLAR

For every numismatist alive today, there was never a time when there wasn't 15 known 1804 dollars. The numbers have been carved in stone: eight known Class I dollars, a single overstruck Class II in the National Numismatic Collection, and six known Class III dollars, of which three are permanently impounded.

When Stack's Bowers Galleries sells highlights from the James A. Stack, Sr. Collection this coming December, a 16th known specimen will find its first new home since Stack's passing in 1951. Graded PCGS Proof-65 (CAC)(CMQ), it is far and away the finest of the Class III examples in private hands. It is also the only 1804 dollar of any type to have received CAC or CMQ approval. No Class III 1804 dollar has sold at auction since our offering of the Berg-Garrett-Pogue example in March 2020, and no 1804 dollar of any kind has sold since August 2021, when we sold the finest known Class I 1804 dollar, the Childs-Pogue specimen, for a world record price for the issue of $7.68 million.

James A. Stack, Sr. aggressively worked to acquire connoisseur quality rare coins during the era he collected, from the late 1930s until his passing in 1951. Though he had a residence on Long Island, Mr. Stack (no relation to the founders of our firm) spent most of his time working in Manhattan and living in a Midtown apartment. He made the best of his ready access to Stack's store, first on 6th Avenue and later on West 46th Street, purchasing superb examples of rare U.S. coins of every composition and era.

While the man himself has remained a somewhat obscure character despite his numismatic importance, his collection is well known to those who collect the finest. Stack's has sold portions of the collection over the years, including important quarters and halves in 1975, and a wide variety of important material offered in several sales in the 1980s and 1990s.

No American coin has been more thoroughly researched and published than the 1804 dollar, including book-length studies by legendary numismatists Eric P. Newman and Kenneth E. Bressett (The Fantastic 1804 Dollar, 1962) and Q. David Bowers (The Rare Silver Dollars Dated 1804 and the Exciting Adventures of Edmund Roberts, 1999). Despite a battery of articles, catalogue descriptions, and more, no numismatic expert had any indication of the James A. Stack, Sr. coin until the piece was consigned to Stack's Bowers Galleries for auction.

"Every professional numismatist has received innumerable wishful phone calls about 1804 dollars over the course of their career, and every single one has been easy to dismiss," noted Stack's Bowers Galleries Director of Numismatic Americana John Kraljevich. "This piece took us all by surprise. It carries its own credentials with all the distinctive striking details we would expect of an 1804 Class III but all of the eye appeal we associate with the best of the Class I dollars."

Stack's Bowers Galleries Executive Vice President Vicken Yegparian added "the James A. Stack, Sr. name has long been associated with the very finest coins, and past offerings have been highlights of our firm's 90 years of auction sales. While this coin is a surprise to us all, no one is surprised that Mr. Stack would have owned a coin like this — or that he would have done so quietly."

Research on the coin continues, along with a fine PCGS EF-45 (CAC)(CMQ) 1794 dollar, a PCGS MS-64 (CAC)(CMQ) 1795 Flowing Hair dollar, and other important early American rarities to be offered from the James A. Stack, Sr. Collection. The 1804 and other early dollars will be joined by a phenomenal array of double eagles for the first auction of the James A. Stack, Sr. Collection on December 9, 2025 in Griffin Studios.

Highlights from the collection, including the 1804 dollar, will be on display at the American Numismatic Association's World's Fair of Money from August 19-23, 2025, as well as at other shows in the future.

Please visit https://stacksbowers.com/the-james-a-stack-sr-collection/ or contact Vicken Yegparian (vy@stacksbowers.com) for additional information about the James A. Stack, Sr. Collection.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
https://www.coinbooks.org/v20/esylum_v20n04a12.html (https://www.coinbooks.org/v20/esylum_v20n04a12.html)

MORE ON THE JAMES STACK JR. 1804 DOLLAR

Where James A. Stack Sr. acquired it is a mystery that may never be solved - but for more than 70 years, one of the rarest coins in American history sat quietly in his family's collection.

Stack, a prominent New York banker and one of the most discerning coin collectors of the 20th century, began building his collection in the late 1930s with a bold goal: to assemble the most complete and highest-quality cabinet of U.S. coins possible.

He pored over landmark sales, forged relationships with top dealers, and handpicked pieces not just for rarity, but for their pristine condition and impeccable provenance.

By the time of his death in 1951, Stack's holdings spanned everything from early American copper to spectacular gold issues, along with rarities in U.S. paper money, ancient coins, and world currency.

His collection included some of the greatest trophies in American numismatics - an 1802 half dime, an 1894-S dime, an 1838-O half dollar, the 1815 half eagle, and the finest known 1870-S silver dollar.

Even the notorious 1933 double eagle once sat in his albums before being surrendered to the Secret Service, leaving behind only his wry note: 'Secret Service has mine.'

One of his most elusive prizes - an 1804 silver dollar known as the 'King of American Coins' - has remained hidden since the 1940s. Just 16 examples are known to exist, and this one is considered the finest of the so-called 'Class III' type in private hands.

It will be seen publicly for the first time next week at the American Numismatic Association's World's Fair of Money in Oklahoma City before going under the hammer on December 9, where it's expected to fetch up to $5 million.

John Kraljevich, numismatic historian with Stack's Bowers Galleries, which is handling the sale told Daily Mail: 'It certainly has the upshot of making some people who thought they knew everything about everything, or at least everything about this coin, second guess.

'There's always another collection sitting in grandpa's closet. That's why we do what we do - the joy of discovery and the hunt for hidden treasure.'

Despite its date, no silver dollars were actually struck in 1804. 'None of the silver dollars made in 1804 were actually dated 1804,' Kraljevich explains.

'In 1834 they wanted diplomatic gifts for heads of state, so they made new dies and put 1804 on them.'

Those first pieces went to rulers such as the King of Siam and the Sultan of Muscat - instantly making them rarities.

Later, in the late 1860s and early 1870s, Mint employees struck a few more off the books for collectors. This newly surfaced piece is one of those so-called 'Class III' examples.

Where Stack Sr. acquired the coin remains a mystery.

'We have no backstory,' says Kraljevich. 'The collector bought this between the late 1930s and 1951 in New York… where it was sourced before that is anybody's guess.'

Kraljevich believes the coin's pristine state and fresh-to-market appeal could drive bidding sky-high.

'We're thinking probably four to five million… but anything could happen. People love new discoveries and stories of hidden treasure. You get two wealthy individuals who decide they just have to have it, and records will be set.'

To read the complete article, see:
The 'King of American Coins' is found in 'grandpa's closet' after 70 years... and is set to fetch $5million (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/yourmoney/article-14994417/king-american-coins-grandpas-closet-millions-auction.html)

WHAT THOSE PAPER MONEY DOODADS ARE CALLED

Gene Hessler writes:

Peter Huntoon writes:

Jeffry Johnson writes:

Jeffry adds:

Loren Gatch writes:

Raiden Honaker writes:

Lee Lofthus writes:

Jim Simek writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: AUGUST 10, 2025 : What Are These Paper Money Doodads Called? (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n32a12.html)

MORE ON AUTHORS ON COINS AND MEDALS

Marie Gibbs writes:

Rob Luton writes:

David Luftig writes:

Ken Bressett writes:

Ira Rezak writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
AUTHORS ON COINS AND MEDALS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n32a15.html)

 

LOUIS BRAILLE COMMEMORATIVE MEMORIES

I am excited to share a personal story with E-Sylum readers about the Louis Braille Commemorative Silver Dollar and my involvement with the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Expo during its launch.

In November 2008, the National Federation of the Blind partnered with Whitman to promote the upcoming Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollar, issued by the U.S. Mint in 2009. This coin was a remarkable tribute to Louis Braille, the inventor of the Braille system, on the 200th anniversary of his birth. What made this commemorative so special was its inclusion of embossed Braille script, making it a readable Braille coin—much like the 2003 Alabama State Quarter, which featured Helen Keller's name in Braille.

At that time, I was serving as the general manager of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Expo. Together with my bourse manager, David Zielinski, we had the privilege of working closely with John G. Paré, Jr. and the leadership of the National Federation of the Blind. We visited their headquarters to better understand their mission, the significance of Braille literacy, and to help bring this coin to the Baltimore Whitman Coin & Collectibles Expo.

The NFB's Braille Readers Are Leaders campaign was a landmark fundraising effort, aiming to raise $8 million for Braille literacy programs through sales of the silver dollar and matching donations. The November 2008 Baltimore show prominently featured the coin's design and hosted a dedicated NFB booth where visitors could experience Braille reading demonstrations and learn about the importance of Braille literacy.

I fondly remember the excitement and dedication surrounding the coin's launch — from the large posters welcoming visitors to the enthusiasm of collectors and NFB volunteers alike. The Whitman team was proud to support this initiative, and later, Whitman published a special Philadelphia Expo edition of the 2010 Red Book, with proceeds benefiting the NFB's literacy programs.

Looking back, it was a deeply rewarding experience to be part of this meaningful collaboration that honored Louis Braille's legacy and helped advance literacy for the blind community. I'm pleased to see The E-Sylum featuring the video by John Paré and hope readers will appreciate the story behind this commemorative coin.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
VIDEO: LOUIS BRAILLE COMMEMORATIVE COIN (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n32a07.html)

NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: AUGUST 17, 2025

"The Numismatic Bookie" Closes Shop
NBS Historian Joel Orosz writes:

Coin Envelope Provenance Found

Regarding the mystery envelope Clark Davis asked about last week, Rod Widok writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: AUGUST 10, 2025 : Coin Envelope Provenance Sought (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n32a12.html)

Auction Photo Identified

Regarding Tony Terranova's auction photo, Joey Lamonte writes:

Keith Davignon writes:

Tony Terranova writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: AUGUST 10, 2025 : When people actually went to coin auctions (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n32a12.html)

Steve Feller Visits the Higgins Museum
Steve Feller writes:

To plan a visit to the Higgins Museum, see:
https://thehigginsmuseum.org/

Tompkins Bust Quarter Collection Offered
Steve Tompkins writes:

 

OSBORNE MINT ANA COIN STRIKING CEREMONY

Osborne Mint in Cincinnati hosted a striking ceremony on July 23rd for the 2025 ANA Show Eagle coin, celebrating history, artistry, and numismatic tradition. This marks the second release in the acclaimed ANA Show Eagle series, which debuted at the 2024 World's Fair of Money.

The event gathered an impressive roster of industry leaders and honored guests, including acclaimed designer Joel Iskowitz, American Numismatic Association President Tom Uram, Osborne Mint executives, and other dignitaries. Attendees were welcomed with light snacks and refreshments before embarking on a guided tour of Osborne Mint, offering an inside look at America's oldest private mint and its historic production process.

Iskowitz, the artist behind both the 2024 and 2025 ANA Show Eagle coins, brought even more significance to the event. Widely regarded as one of the most celebrated names in coin design, he is known for blending historical depth with artistic excellence. After training at the School of Visual Arts and working at the Franklin Mint, he joined the U.S. Mint's Artistic Infusion Program in 2005. His work has since appeared on over 50 coins and medals, including the America the Beautiful Quarters and Presidential Dollars. Iskowitz also designed several Congressional Gold Medals and a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II for British Commonwealth coinage. His initials appear on the coin.

The day's highlight was the striking ceremony led by industry expert Chang Bullock, founder and President of Minted Assets. Guests in attendance witnessed 12 one-ounce silver coins being struck live on Osborne Mint's brand-new Sack and Kielsselbach MPP-250 hydraulic press. World-renowned mints across the globe rely on the Sack and Kiesselbach MPP-250 hydraulic press for its unmatched precision and consistency in producing high-quality numismatic coins. Osborne Mint proudly welcomed this state-of-the-art piece of equipment to enhance their existing capabilities in crafting silver and gold numismatics and collectibles with exceptional detail and artistry.

The 2025 ANA Show Eagle honors Oklahoma City, host of this year's World's Fair of Money, featuring James Earle Fraser's iconic End of the Trail statue. A powerful symbol of Native American endurance and cultural heritage, the piece shares a historical connection with Fraser's beloved Buffalo Nickel, both of which are modeled after Chief John Big Tree.

The coin's reverse pairs the End of the Trail with a soaring eagle, connecting it to the ANA Show Eagle series and celebrating the resilience of Native American culture. Fraser's profile is included alongside the design, grounding the piece in its artistic roots.

The obverse features Nomisma, the classical Greek personification of money, holding the Oklahoma State quarter, which serves as this year's official ANA show logo. In a unique tribute to the quarter's designer, Susan Gamble's name replaces the date on this coin. The phrase E Pluribus Unum crowns the design, honoring both the nation's motto and the passion that unites collectors at the World's Fair of Money each year.

The Ascension Island backed coins are minted in both gold and silver. The gold coin, with a denomination of $100, is crafted from 1 oz of 99.99% pure gold and is limited to just 100 pieces. The silver coin, with a $5 denomination, is struck from 1 oz of 99.9% pure silver and limited to 500 pieces.

Following last year's debut coin featuring Chicago's Cloud Gate sculpture, demand for the 2025 ANA Show Eagle is already high. Collectors and history enthusiasts will find it a meaningful tribute to Oklahoma's cultural legacy and the enduring art of coinage.

To read the complete article, see:
Osborne Mint Hosts Striking Ceremony for 2025 ANA Show Eagle Coin (https://www.recorderonline.com/news/national_news/osborne-mint-hosts-striking-ceremony-for-2025-ana-show-eagle-coin/article_740ed2f8-20c3-5c28-8106-493b62a2b5e3.html)

For more information on The Osborne Mint, see:
The Osborne Mint (https://www.osbornemint.com/)

For more information about the ANA Show Eagle series, see:
Ascension. New Gold and Silver Coins Highlight Upcoming Numismatic Event (https://www.greysheet.com/news/story/ascension-new-gold-and-silver-coins-highlight-upcoming-numismatic-event)

To read the earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
FREE WFOM COINS IN OKLAHOMA CITY (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n30a12.html)
JEFF GARRETT VISITS THE OSBORNE MINT (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n32a13.html)

VOCABULARY TERM: RIM/EDGE JUNCTURE

Rim/edge Juncture. The point where the horizontal plane of the face of a struck piece meets the vertical plane of the edge. This point is most angular in proof coinage with a sharp 90° angle. In production run struck pieces it may exhibit a slightly rounded or bevel corner since the metal does not flow to that exact point. If the planchet is oversize, or there is too much pressure exerted by the dies, then metal will flow out at this point (it is the only place for it to go). This anomaly will create a burr or flash (also called a wire edge in America or knife edge in England). Continued striking with this problem would probably break the collar or the die. The closest word to the concept of rim/edge juncture is the architectural term arris, the sharp edge where two surfaces come together (but either surface may be curved, not necessarily one surface flat like coins and medals).

In 1961 an English numismatist made a study of the rim/edge juncture of British 12-sided (dodecagonal) three-pence pieces of 1937-52. He found that what was once "sharp" with a full rim/edge juncture changed to "rounded" edges (during WWII but gradually returned to sharp edges by 1950). This was explained as the breaking of the collar at one of the 12 corners in the collar due to lower quality steel for dies available in wartime. When high quality steel became available (1948) this problem was eliminated (but old collars were used for the two-year period until they too became unserviceable).

To read the complete entry on the Newman Numismatic Portal, see:
Vocabulary Term: Rim/Edge Juncture (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/dictionarydetail/516662)

BOOKS ON COINS, MEDALS AND TOKENS

As discussed last week, authors appear frequently on coins and medals. The same is not true for books. The medal shown last week with the cover of the "Red Book" may be unique in showing the title of a book on a medal. Books, when shown, represent a generic book or a book logo rather than a specific book.

Books on Coins

The 2000 Library of Congress Dollar features an unusual flying book. This was produced in a regular finish and proof finish.

The 2003 Alabama State Quarter obverse shows Helen Keller with a book in her lap. The illustration is not so much a book as a person reading a book. Available in UNC and Proof.

The 2009 Louis Braille Bicentennial silver dollar has a bookshelf on the reverse, Again, there is a person reading a book. Available in UNC and Proof.

Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty appears on many coins. She may be described as holding a book in her left hand, but this is not correct. The object is actually a tablet so these are not books on coins.

 

American Numismatic Association

The ANA logo has been the "Lamp of Knowledge" placed on a book. This appears on many of the ANA medals. The design has changed over the years. On the more recent versions the book is so abstract it might not be recognized as a book.

There are many other stock award medals with books and lamps sold without an inscription that can be engraved for presentation.

Books on Store cards
While these may be thought to be tokens, they lack a stated value.

R. C. Barcley of Norfolk, Virginia, issued a bookseller store card with an open book in the center. This was issued about 1851.

C. C. Cleaves of Memphis, Tennessee, issued a bookseller store card. The reverse shows a small stack of books. Unlike the others, this has books that look like books. The store was in business around 1852.

The George Kolbe Patrick Mint token, shown in The E-Sylum on July 20, is also a bookseller token that does not have a redemption value.

Books on Medals
The John Newbery Medal is awarded by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), The bronze medal was designed by Rene Paul Chamberlian. The National Book Award is presented by the National Book Foundation. The illustration is more of a logo than an actual book.

 

Bibles on Medals
The Bible is a specific book with the title appearing on the medal. Several medals struck at The U. S. Mint feature Bibles.

The Ulysses S. Grant Indian Peace Medal (Julian IP-42) has part of a "Holy Bible" showing on the reverse behind a globe.

The Iowa College School Medal (Julian SC-25) has a "Holy Bible" and cross on the front.

The Pennsylvania First District School Medal (Julian SC-34) has an open "Holy Bible" on the front.

There are many stock medals with a Bible and cross that may be engraved for presentation.

Books on tokens
I was unable to think of a book on a token in my collection. I was also unable to find an image on the internet. I suspect that I have missed things but also suspect that images of books on tokens are unusual.

Collecting Books on Coins and Medals
I suspect that attempting to collect examples of books on coins and medals would be challenging and frustrating. Do you want books that look like books, or will you accept book logos? Do you want medals struck for a purpose, or will you accept stock medals engraved for presentation. I suspect the book award medals do not appear frequently on the secondary market.

I would be interested to hear from any collector who has had success forming a collection.

I thought this article was finished and I moved on to the next. I found a medal in my collection that illustrated an author, books and a library. The black in the image is a proof surface. I know what this is but offer it to our readers to identify.

 

To read the Token Catalog entry, see:
https://tokencatalog.com/token_record_forms.php?action=DisplayTokenRecord&td_id=457743&inventory_id=487669&attribution_id=470727 (https://tokencatalog.com/token_record_forms.php?action=DisplayTokenRecord&td_id=457743&inventory_id=487669&attribution_id=470727)

To read the earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
LITERARY DEPOT LOGO (https://www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v07n09a08.html)
NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: AUGUST 3, 2025 : Authors, Books or Libraries on Coins, Etc. (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n31a12.html)
AUTHORS ON COINS AND MEDALS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n32a15.html)

STACK'S BOWERS: SUMMER GLOBAL SHOWCASE AUCTION

1624 Maurice Prince of Orange, Dutch Victory in Brazil Medal. By Jan Van Bylaer. Betts-22, Van Loon II:155, Forrer I:317, Medallic Illustrations 91. Silver. MS-61 (PCGS). 67.9 mm. 68.3 grams. Obv: Bust of Maurice of Orange in rich brocaded tunic and ruff 3/4 right, script legend lists titles as Prince of Orange, Count of Nassau, Governor (Stadholder) of the United Provinces. Ornate border presents Arms of the seven provinces, clasped hands with arrows. Rev: Crowned oval Arms of Orange-Nassau within the British Order of the Garter, dynastic motto Ie Maintiendray (I shall Maintain) below. Although Betts stated that this medal commemorated Dutch victories in both Peru and Brazil, Christopher R. McDowell (2022) has corrected this to show that it was issued to commemorate the successful attack on São Salvador da Bahia, Brazil's Portuguese capital, by Admiral Willekens on May 8, 1624.

To read the complete item description, see:
1624 Maurice Prince of Orange, Dutch Victory in Brazil Medal. By Jan Van Bylaer. Betts-22, Van Loon II:155, Forrer I:317, Medallic Illustrations 91. Silver. MS-61 (PCGS). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1KQ2XT/1624-maurice-prince-of-orange-dutch-victory-in-brazil-medal-by-jan-van-bylaer-betts-22-van-loon-ii155-forrer-i317-medallic-illus)

1773 Carib War Medal. Betts-529. Silver, cast, with joined rim and loop. Choice About Uncirculated. 55.0 mm, 69.5 mm from top of loop to base. 1142.5 grains. An impressive example of this historic rarity, a relic of a West Indian conflict between indigenous people and British soldiers, many of whom would later serve in the American Revolution. This medal was issued locally in the West Indies, on the island of Saint Vincent, to troops engaged in putting down an uprising of the native / creole Caribs in late 1772 and early 1773. The medal was authorized by the Legislative Assembly of the Island of Saint Vincent, making it a true West Indian medal rather than an English one. Its production method - cast, not struck - underscores this distinction. The Carib War engaged the native Caribs, a creole population of indigenous and African descent, against the English in a classic battle between colonizers and the colonized. The population of Saint Vincent exploded after the island's 1762 conquest in the Seven Years (French and Indian) War, and the new arrivals all expected to find land to establish sugar plantations. Their entitlement forced English authorities into traditionally native lands, and the natives fought back. Five months of guerrilla warfare against superior numbers of better outfitted troops ended with a treaty and a promise of "firm and lasting peace and friendship." These words, for those who know the history of North American Anglo-native relations (or the medals attendant to them), may sound familiar

Provenance: From the John D. Miner Collection. Earlier from Sotheby's sale of March 1989, lot 257; our (Bowers and Merena's) Collections of Phillip Flannagan, et. al. sale, November 2001, lot 5265.

To read the complete item description, see:
1773 Carib War Medal. Betts-529. Silver, cast, with joined rim and loop. Choice About Uncirculated. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1KQ304/1773-carib-war-medal-betts-529-silver-cast-with-joined-rim-and-loop-choice-about-uncirculated)

"1781" (1783) Libertas Americana Medal. Original. Paris Mint. By Augustin Dupre. Betts-615, Adams-Bentley 15. Silver. MS-62 (PCGS). 47.5 mm. 817.7 grains. No other medal in the canon of American numismatics is invested with so much history and importance as the Libertas Americana medal. It followed the declaration of American independence, whose date is placed in the obverse legend, and the support of France in the American cause. The two greatest American victories, that of Gates at Saratoga and Washington at Yorktown, are referenced with dates in the reverse exergue. The British armies defeated on those dates, Burgoyne's force at Saratoga and that of Cornwallis at Yorktown, are incorporated into the reverse allegory as the snakes strangled by Hercules in his crib. In that allegory, France is depicted as Minerva, defending the infant from the lioness, Great Britain, whose tail curls between her hind legs. The obverse design influenced many of the depictions of Liberty that would come from the first United States Mint, directly inspiring the Liberty Cap design found on copper half cents and cents in the 1790s. Dozens, perhaps hundreds, of later American medals and tokens used the design, from privately issued business cards to the United States Mint's 1945 Assay Commission medal. Its image was featured on contemporary engravings and textiles, and examples could be found in the 18th century in the collections of Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, John Adams, and more. No founding father is as closely associated with the medal, of course, as Benjamin Franklin. The medal was his brainchild and pet project, and every specimen that survives traces its provenance to him.

Provenance: From the John D. Miner Collection.

To read the complete item description, see:
"1781" (1783) Libertas Americana Medal. Original. Paris Mint. By Augustin Dupre. Betts-615, Adams-Bentley 15. Silver. MS-62 (PCGS). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1KQ32F/1781-1783-libertas-americana-medal-original-paris-mint-by-augustin-dupre-betts-615-adams-bentley-15-silver-ms-62-pcgs)

Undated (1847) State of Louisiana Medal to Major General Zachary Taylor. Julian MI-25. Silver. MS-62 (PCGS). 76.4 m. 3031.6 grains. A really nice specimen of this classic American medal, one struck to mark the efforts of Louisiana's favorite son, Major General Zachary Taylor, in the Mexican-American War. Produced in antebellum New Orleans through contract with the firm of H[orace] E. Baldwin & Co., silversmiths, the dies were created by America's most famed medallist of the period - Charles Cushing Wright - with the design assistance of New Yorker Peter Paul Duggan, an historian and professor of drawing at New York's Free Academy. The same design team accomplished the Washington Allston medal struck by the Mint in this era. The military scene on the reverse is reminiscent of the finest work of Dupre or Furst and is glorious in its fine detail. It is unclear if H.E. Baldwin & Co. had the means to strike such a substantial medal themselves or subcontracted its actual coining.

Provenance: From the John D. Miner Collection. Earlier from our (Stack's) 1991 Fixed Price List, lot 31.

To read the complete item description, see:
Undated (1847) State of Louisiana Medal to Major General Zachary Taylor. Julian MI-25. Silver. MS-62 (PCGS). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1KQ33O/undated-1847-state-of-louisiana-medal-to-major-general-zachary-taylor-julian-mi-25-silver-ms-62-pcgs)

"1776" (ca. 1851) Declaration of Independence Medal. By Charles Cushing Wright. Musante GW-181, Baker-53. Struck Bronze. MS-65 (PCGS). 90.8 mm. 5678.3 grains. The details of this medal make it clear why many consider it Charles Cushing Wright's greatest achievement. The obverse bust, taken from Houdon, is expressive and beautifully rendered in high relief. The reverse depiction of the presentation of the Declaration of Independence, after Trumbull's monumental canvas accomplished ca. 1817 for the U.S. Capitol, is remarkably detailed down to the individual faces and other attributes. A thin die crack on that side, from near the center through John Adams' head and Benjamin Franklin's wrist, undoubtedly contributed to the rarity of the medal today, yet the dies survived and were kept by Wright through his lifetime. They were sold in Thomas Elder's December 1913 sale. The lot included the obverse and reverse dies, the secondary reverse featuring the harbor scene and 18 lines of text, an obverse portrait hub and collar. All five items were in Wright's own custom fitted box. Most collectors will have to make do with one of the occasionally seen electrotype copies, which are desirable enough ("Admirable" and "quite deceptive" in Baker's words) to make them fairly valuable, but few will ever be able to own one of these extraordinary medals. As noted previously, we are aware of nine solid bronze specimens, as offered here. They tend to only appear when truly landmark collections are sold.

Provenance: From the John D. Miner Collection. Earlier from F.C.C. Boyd; our (Stack's) sale of the John J. Ford, Jr. Collection, Part II, May 2004, lot 56.

To read the complete item description, see:
"1776" (ca. 1851) Declaration of Independence Medal. By Charles Cushing Wright. Musante GW-181, Baker-53. Struck Bronze. MS-65 (PCGS). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1KQ3ED/1776-ca-1851-declaration-of-independence-medal-by-charles-cushing-wright-musante-gw-181-baker-53-struck-bronze-ms-65-pcgs)

1945 Franklin Delano Roosevelt Fourth Inaugural Medal. Dusterberg-OIM 11G45, MacNeil-FDR 1945-1, Levine-FDR 1945-1. Gold. MS-65 (NGC). 45 mm. 100.88 grams. In the presidential election of November 7, 1944, Democrat Franklin Delano Roosevelt was elected to an unprecedented fourth term in a strong victory over Republican candidate Thomas E. Dewey. Out of 531 votes in the Electoral College, the president secured 432 votes against Dewey's 99. Roosevelt carried 36 out of the 48 states in the Union, and received 25,612,916 popular votes as opposed to 22,017,929 for Dewey. With World War II going well for the Allies at the time, Roosevelt remained popular despite rumors of ill health and Dewey's campaigning against the New Deal.

Ultimately President Roosevelt requested that the Mint strike five gold examples of the 1945 inaugural medal to take with him to these historic meetings. These special medals were paid for by the State Department. The Yalta Conference was held in the Crimea from February 4 to 11, 1945, and was the second of the so-called "Big Three" meetings of the Allied leaders during World War II. With the defeat of Hitler's Third Reich assured, even though delayed into 1945, the Yalta Conference addressed the postwar reorganization of Germany and Europe. On February 10, at the hosting Livadia Palace, President Roosevelt presented four of these gold medals to British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union Joseph Stalin, Britain's Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Anthony Eden, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Soviet Union Vyacheslav Molotov.

The whereabouts of the five gold medals that President Roosevelt distributed at Yalta and Great Bitter Lake are unknown. According to Jimmy Hayes, several years ago Joe Levine was offered a gold example allegedly connected to one of the Yalta Conference recipients, but he was never able to obtain photographs or otherwise prove the medal's existence or authenticity; perhaps needless to write, the proposed transaction never occurred. It is unknown whether all the five gold medals handed out by President Roosevelt at Yalta and Great Bitter Lake still exist. The whereabouts and continued existence of the gold medal obtained by Ambassador Davies in 1945 are also unknown.

This leaves the gold example acquired by Mint Director Nellie Tayloe Ross in her capacity as a member of the Inaugural Medal Committee. It is the medal offered here, which represents the first ever public appearance or offering for a gold 1945 Franklin Delano Roosevelt fourth inaugural medal. Joe Levine longingly hoped for its arrival to market when he wrote in his 1981 reference Collectors Guide to Presidential Inaugural Medals and Memorabilia:

Provenance: From the Collection of Nellie Tayloe Ross, Director of the U.S. Mint, 1933-1953.

To read the complete item description, see:
1945 Franklin Delano Roosevelt Fourth Inaugural Medal. Dusterberg-OIM 11G45, MacNeil-FDR 1945-1, Levine-FDR 1945-1. Gold. MS-65 (NGC). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1KQ3HL/1945-franklin-delano-roosevelt-fourth-inaugural-medal-dusterberg-oim-11g45-macneil-fdr-1945-1-levine-fdr-1945-1-gold-ms-65-ngc)

1863 State Department Life Saving Medal. By Salathiel Ellis, after Emmanuel Leutze. Julian LS-1. Silver. Very Choice Mint State. 66.8 mm, 5.2 mm at the rims. 1787.5 grains. At the height of the Civil War, a shipload of cotton from Union-held New Orleans left for England, captained by a Swedish immigrant who had brought the first shipload of food to New Orleans at the end of a crushing blockade. When Captain John Anderson's barque Pamelia Flood capsized and broke up in a gale in the Irish Sea, William Griffith saved his life.

Captain Anderson, back in the United States and grateful for his rescue, suggested to the American government that Griffith was due recognition for his heroism. Beginning with the arrival of a new set of dies at the Philadelphia Mint in May 1860, the United States Department of State had a new way to recognize foreign nationals who showed heroism in saving the lives of American seamen: a substantial and beautiful medal, designed by Emmanuel Leutze, the artist who painted the famous depiction of Washington Crossing the Delaware.

On behalf of a grateful nation, President Abraham Lincoln gave Griffith this medal. Today, it appears to be one of just three known survivors in silver, along with three awarded examples in gold.

To read the complete item description, see:
1863 State Department Life Saving Medal. By Salathiel Ellis, after Emmanuel Leutze. Julian LS-1. Silver. Very Choice Mint State. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1KQ3XG/1863-state-department-life-saving-medal-by-salathiel-ellis-after-emmanuel-leutze-julian-ls-1-silver-very-choice-mint-state)

1901 Pan-American Exposition at Buffalo, N.Y. Award Medal. By Hermon A. MacNeil. L-TM103. Sterling Silver. Awarded to Bela Lyon Pratt. Specimen-64 (PCGS). With Original Case. 64 mm. Obverse (mounted as the reverse in the PCGS holder) tablet inscribed to the recipient BELA L. PRATT. Fine satin surfaces are generally light silver gray, but with warm steel and olive highlights nestled in the protected areas around and among the design elements. Said design elements are boldly rendered, and the surfaces are free of all but light, wispy handling marks that are easily overlooked at most viewing angles. A handsome example of this popular medal designed by Hermon MacNeil, who later designed the Standing Liberty quarter. The original case with considerable fading, scuffing and some chipping to the leather exterior, cream plush interior frayed at hinge. The case is complete, however, with a functional clasp. (Total: 1 medal; 1 case)

Provenance: Displayed at the Slater Memorial Museum at Norwich Free Academy in Norwich, Connecticut from October 15, 2017 through January 15, 2018, as part of the exhibit "Bela Lyon Pratt: Sculptor of Monument."

To read the complete item description, see:
1901 Pan-American Exposition at Buffalo, N.Y. Award Medal. By Hermon A. MacNeil. L-TM103. Sterling Silver. Awarded to Bela Lyon Pratt. Specimen-64 (PCGS). With Original Case. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1KQ3Z2/1901-pan-american-exposition-at-buffalo-ny-award-medal-by-hermon-a-macneil-l-tm103-sterling-silver-awarded-to-bela-lyon-pratt-s)

1867 New York State Agricultural Society Award Medal. Harkness Ny-392, Julian AM-61. Gold. Specimen. Unc Details--Tooled (PCGS). 53 mm. 66.70 grams, .999 fine, 2.147 troy ounces AGW. Central reverse inscribed to the recipient AWARDED / TO / WALCOTT & CAMPBELL. / FOR / FIRST PREMIUM / HERD AYRSHIRE CATTLE / AT BUFFALO, with date 1867 inscribed below wreath. Julian reports that the United States Mint did not receive the dies (two pairs) for this type until 1885, so the present example must be one of those specimens that the author states were struck prior to 1870 at private mints. Indeed, the dies for this type were prepared in the 1840s by William Joseph Taylor in Birmingham, England, using designs supplied by Francis Rotch, Esq., in fulfillment of an order placed by the Society. The latter received the dies, as well as the first medals struck, in 1845.

To read the complete item description, see:
1867 New York State Agricultural Society Award Medal. Harkness Ny-392, Julian AM-61. Gold. Specimen. Unc Details--Tooled (PCGS). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1KQ4FC/1867-new-york-state-agricultural-society-award-medal-harkness-ny-392-julian-am-61-gold-specimen-unc-details-tooled-pcgs)

NEW YORK. New York. Undated (ca. mid-1890s) Congregation Shaar Hashomayim Medal. Silver. Very Fine. 34 mm. 27.187 grams, Sigma tested .999 fine, 419.56 grains ASW. Obv: Multi-line inscription CONGREGATION / SHAAR HASHOMAJIM / REV RAPHAEL BENJAMIN MA / MINISTER / NEW YORK / FIFTEENTH STREET TEMPLE. Rev: Wreath with CONFIRMANT in center, traces of date 189 still visible below (last digit very faint and cannot be positively identified, but what appears to be traces of a 3, 5, or 6 most likely). Previously awarded with engraving mostly effaced from above the word CONFIRMANT, though vestiges of the original name can be seen. Wear is otherwise quite even on both sides, with rich gray patina in the fields.

A likely unique piece of numismatic Judaica, this piece is seemingly unpublished, and after exhaustive searches in Daniel Freidenberg's books, and in William Rosenblum and NASCA auctions, which were known for numismatic Judaica, no listing for this type has been found. Further illustrating its importance in the field of numismatic Judaica, when the German numismatic auction firm of Fritz Rudolf Kuenker sold Dr. Walter Kemlein's collection, who had an extensive collection of synagogue medals, the earliest example from America was dated 1916. An example of this type was also missing from the Ira Rezak's display Jewry Reflected, Refracted, and Recorded on Medals, an exhibition at the Center for Jewish History in New York.

To read the complete item description, see:
NEW YORK. New York. Undated (ca. mid-1890s) Congregation Shaar Hashomayim Medal. Silver. Very Fine. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1KQ4GH/new-york-new-york-undated-ca-mid-1890s-congregation-shaar-hashomayim-medal-silver-very-fine)

NEW YORK. New York 1825 John Rathbone & Francis B. Fitch, Castle Garden Pass. Rulau-E NY 654. White Metal. AU-55 (NGC). 49 mm x 25 mm, oval. XRF tested 1.8% silver, 4.5 % copper, 6.5% lead, 74.2% tin. The name of the Castle Garden member engraved in the field beneath the reverse ribbon is D.D. BRADFORD, which is preceded and followed by simple engraved flourishes. To the right of the ribbon are the lightly engraved initials DB. There is no membership number, as is the case with most surviving examples of the type. The engraving of the member name is faint and less skilled than that of the Rulau plate specimen. This specimen was new to the census when we first offered it in 2013, as the name is not listed in the roster of examples published by Rulau in the 4th edition of his Standard Catalog of U.S. Tokens.

Provenance: From our sale of the John J. Ford, Jr. Collection, Part XXIII, August 2013, lot 22061.

To read the complete item description, see:
NEW YORK. New York 1825 John Rathbone & Francis B. Fitch, Castle Garden Pass. Rulau-E NY 654. White Metal. AU-55 (NGC). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1KQ4H1/new-york-new-york-1825-john-rathbone-francis-b-fitch-castle-garden-pass-rulau-e-ny-654-white-metal-au-55-ngc)

California Gold Panner Hobo Nickel. By Steve Campbell. Quality of Work: Superior. Host coin: undated Philadelphia Mint Type II. Accompanied by The Original Hobo Nickel Society submission form and Photo Certification, dated October 20 and 23, 2006, and signed by Bill Fivaz and Stephen P. Alpert. A modern carving.

Provenance: From the Candace D. Kagin Collection of Hobo Nickels. Earlier from the Original Hobo Nickel Society's Auction 15, lot 74.

To read the complete item description, see:
California Gold Panner Hobo Nickel. By Steve Campbell. Quality of Work: Superior. Host coin: undated Philadelphia Mint Type II. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1KQ51N/california-gold-panner-hobo-nickel-by-steve-campbell-quality-of-work-superior-host-coin-undated-philadelphia-mint-type-ii)

ARCHIVES INTERNATIONAL SALE 105

France......, & St. Pierre et Miquelon, ND (1950-60) to 1978. Lot of 13 Issued Banknotes. Includes: Saint Pierre et Miquelon - French Administration, ND (1950-60), 5 Francs, P-22; ND (1950-60), 10 Francs, P-23; Banque de France, 1927, 10 Francs, P-73d; 1940, 50 Francs, P-85b; 1952-53, 100 Francs, P-128d (4) and P-128e; 1968, 5 Francs, P-146b; 1965, 10 Francs, P-147a; 1978, 100 Francs, P-149f (2). Notes range from VF to AU condition. (13). Sold "AS IS" no returns accepted.

To read the complete item description, see:
France......, & St. Pierre et Miquelon, ND (1950-60) to 1978. Lot of 13 Issued Banknotes. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/France-St-Pierre-et-Miquelon-French-and-Colonial-France-Issued-Banknotes-ND-1950-60-to-1978_i57566613)

Hartford, Connecticut, 1782. Lot of 3 Tax Pay Orders Issued by the Pay-Table Office, Black print with black handwriting and signatures. All are signed by William Moseley and Oliver Wolcott. William Moseley (1755-1824) later would serve in the Connecticut state senate. Oliver Wolcott Jr. (1760-1833), who was the second United States Secretary of the Treasury, a judge of the United States Circuit Court for the Second Circuit, and the 24th Governor of Connecticut. The Pay-Table (also known as the Committee of Four) managed Connecticut's military finances during the Revolutionary War. Financing the Revolution laid a heavy burden upon each colony, especially those which balked at levying taxes. In order to meet immediate needs, such as wages, the colonies relied upon wealthy revolutionists, foreign loans, and taxes and gifts from abroad. Issuing notes such as these was only a temporary solution. All are in VF condition. (3). Sold "AS IS" no returns accepted.

To read the complete item description, see:
Hartford, Connecticut, 1782. Lot of 3 Tax Pay Orders Issued by the Pay-Table Office, Black print with black handwriting and signatures. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/CT-Connecticut-Pay-Table-Office-1782-Tax-Warrant-Trio_i57566650)

Various States....., 1815-1911. Lot of 6 Notes, Includes: Obsolete U.S. banknotes, advertising currency, and a duplicate foreign bank draft. 1815, Bank of Troy, 12 Cent Note; ND (1850s), 50 Cents, Sabey Advertising Note, PCGS graded Very Fine 35 Apparent with comment " 'Lookalike' Mounted"; 1952, C. P. Ives, Private Banker 75 Cent Remainder Note, LGC graded Very Fine 30 with comment "Small Rust Spots"; 1954, Merchants and Mechanics Bank $1 Banknote; 1877, National Butchers & Drovers Bank, $25 I/U Check with imprinted revenue; 1911, Merchants National Bank $900 bank draft. Items range from Good to Fine+ condition. (6). Sold "AS IS" no returns accepted.

To read the complete item description, see:
Various States....., 1815-1911. Lot of 6 Notes, Includes: Obsolete U.S. banknotes, advertising currency, and a duplicate foreign bank draft. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/Obsolete-Banknote-and-Advertising-Note-Assortment-1815-to-1911_i57566657)

Richmond, Virginia, 1864. $10, P-68 (6) T-68 SL#69, Issued Banknote Group. Black on red underprint with Artillery horseman pulling cannon at center with portrait of M.T. Hunter at lower right, Back is blue with TEN printed at center, Notes range from Fine to VF condition. (6). Sold "AS IS" no returns accepted.

To read the complete item description, see:
Richmond, Virginia, 1864. $10, P-68 (6) T-68 SL#69, Issued Banknote Group. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/VA-C-S-A-10-T-68-February-17-1864-Group-of-6-Issued-Banknotes_i57566659)

Chicago, Illinois, 1934. $10, Series of 1934C, Fr.# 2008GW Wide (GD Block) Sequential Issued Banknote Pair. Julian | Snyder Signatures, Small green seals at right, S/Ns G22322922D pp L and G22322923D pp G, Both are PMG graded - One is Gem Unc 64 EPQ and the other is Gem Unc 65 EPQ. (2).

To read the complete item description, see:
Chicago, Illinois, 1934. $10, Series of 1934C, Fr.# 2008GW Wide (GD Block) Sequential Issued Banknote Pair. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/IL-U-S-F-R-N-10-Series-1934C-Fr-2008GW-Sequential-Issued-Banknote-Pair_i57566675)

Erie, PA. Erie Clearing House, 1933. $1 Depression Era Bearer Scrip Notes (2). Unc to CU condition.

To read the complete item description, see:
Erie, PA. Erie Clearing House, 1933. $1 Depression Era Bearer Scrip Notes (2). (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/PA-Erie-Clearing-House-1933-U-U-1-Depression-Era-Bearer-Scrip-Notes-2_i57566682)

Lot of 9 Trade Cards. Includes Heinz Peanut Butter; Vacuum Harness Oil ; W,A, Wheatley, Oyster packer; Buffalo Scale; "Smoke Buckeye Tobacco; 3 examples of Venebles' Tablets; Grover Cleveland political card; and, one other political Ad piece, F to XF condition. (9). Sold "AS IS" no returns accepted.

To read the complete item description, see:
Lot of 9 Trade Cards. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/U-S-Trade-Card-Advertising-Cards-ca-1880-1890s_i57566686)

Military Autographs...., Lot of 3 Signatures from General Douglas MacArthur. Legendary commander of Allied forces in the Pacific during WWII and Supreme Commander in postwar Japan, thanks Col. Theodore B. Hacker for the birthday wishes; Fleet Admiral C.W. Nimitz, a senior figure in the United States Navy; Chaplain George L. Zorn, who served as Deputy Chaplain under General George S. Patton in the famed Third Army during World War II. XF to AU condition. (3). Sold "AS IS" no returns accepted.

To read the complete item description, see:
Military Autographs...., Lot of 3 Signatures from General Douglas MacArthur. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/Military-Notable-Autographs-on-Signed-Envelopes-and-Letters-ca-1943-to-1955_i57566690)

Lot of 4 items. This group features Equifax Inc., a leading consumer credit reporting agency, orange specimen; Bell & Howell Holdings Company, a diversified manufacturer and service company, red specimen; American Eagle Group, Inc., an insurance and financial services provider, blue specimen; Cole National Corporation, a specialty retailer and optical services provider, pink specimen. All are face-only with blank reverses. Printed by the American Bank Note Company. Overall condition is Very Fine to Uncirculated.

To read the complete item description, see:
Lot of 4 items. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/Finance-and-Business-Proof-Progress-Proof-Stock-Certificate-Collection-ca-1980-to-2000_i57566788)

Oregon, Specimen $1000 Consolidated Registered 1st Mortgage 5% Gold Bond (Missing the coupons). Green border. Native American Indian "Progress" vignette viewing railroads and cities on top and allegorical "Liberty" holding spear and shield on bottom. Red specimen overprints, POC's and "00000" serial numbers. XF condition. Only listed as a specimen in Cox, no issued examples known and 1 of 3 found in the American Bank Note Archives in 2002. This is the only one available.

To read the complete item description, see:
Oregon, Specimen $1000 Consolidated Registered 1st Mortgage 5% Gold Bond (Missing the coupons). (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/OR-Oregon-Short-Line-Railroad-Co-1897-Specimen-Registered-Gold-Bond_i57566908)

 

HERITAGE: PEH FAMILY COLLECTION TREASURES

An exceedingly rare Pattern that offers a peek into the implementation of the Ducaton as a denomination of United East India Company coinage is among the top offerings of an elite collection that will be featured in Heritage's ANA World & Ancient Coins Platinum Session and Signature® Auction August 27-29.

The Dutch Colony. United East India Company (VOC) gold Proof Pattern Ducaton 1728 PR63 NGC is one of more than 300 lots in the auction from the Peh Family Collection, Part II. The first part of the collection helped lead Heritage's June 18-20 HKINF World Coins Platinum Session and Signature® Auction to nearly $11.9 million.

"The Peh Family Collection is one of the elite numismatic assemblages in the world, and this 1728 Proof Pattern Ducaton in gold is indicative of the advanced quality and strong eye of the collector," says Kyle Johnson, Managing Director of World & Ancient Coins at Heritage Auctions. "Also known as the ‘Silver Rider,' the Ducaton was conceived in the Seven Provinces in 1659, and the design with the horse and rider became synonymous with Dutch power in the colonial era. Not only is this coin beautiful, it also is exceedingly rare: the one offered in this auction is one of just two examples known to the grading services for this date-type."

Another standout from the Peh Family Collection is one of the most celebrated types in World numismatics and a design that forever cemented the legacy of engraver William Wyon: the Victoria gold Proof "Una and the Lion" 5 Pounds 1839 PR61 Ultra Cameo NGC. It is believed that about 400 original strikings were produced for Victoria's delayed coronation Proof Set of 1839, but popular demand soon outstripped that initial figure, prompting the Royal Mint to produce to-order examples for almost 50 years until 1886. To this day, Wyon's iconic imagery, depicting the youthful Queen in the guise of Una from Edmund Spencer's "The Faerie Queen," continues to be revived, most recently with the Royal Mint's Great Engraver's series.

Another assemblage featured in the auction is The Eternal Collection, Part II, a 120-lot trove of some of the most prized and impeccably preserved examples of each distinctive type ever seen. Among the highlights in the collection is an exceptionally rare Republic silver Proof Pattern 8 Reales 1827 Go-WW PR64 Cameo NGC. Following Mexico's independence, the Anglo-Mexican Mint Association took over production at the mint in Guanajuato in 1825 and outsourced the engraving to Wyon in London. The pattern pieces likely were struck in London using the state-of-the-art steam powered presses. The example offered in this auction is the only example associated with the Guanajuato mint that has surfaced at a major auction house in recent years.

From the same collection comes an Estados Unidos silver Proof Essai "Caballito" Peso 1909 PR66 Cameo NGC that was commissioned by Porfirio Diaz to mark the centenary of the Mexican War of Independence and assigned to Charles Pillet in Paris, who completed the work for the 50 Centavos and Peso denominations. Earning the nickname "caballito" ("little horse"), Pillet's design has become a favorite among collectors as the type marked a distinct shift in style in Mexican coinage, eschewing the usual indicators of mint location, fineness and assayer initials. Uncirculated examples of business strikes are hotly contested, while patterns and off-metal strikes are considered holy grail pieces among specialists, with few struck and even fewer reaching the market.

A third prominent collection in the auction is the 128-lot Gatsby Collection of South African Coinage, Part II, the highlights of which include a Republic gold Proof 6 Pence 1897 PR63 Cameo NGC, which is a significant offering of a remarkable South African issue, unparalleled in its singularity, and unseen within the marketplace for nearly a decade. Once a part of the collection of Royle Baldwin for nearly 70 years until the batch was certified by NGC in 2006, this beauty was sold at Heritage in January 2015 for $329,000.

Also from the Gatsby Collection is a unique George V bronze Matte Proof Pattern Sovereign 1928-SA PR64 Brown NGC. This remarkable coin will appeal to collectors of Sovereigns, Patterns, the coinage of George V or simply seekers of most rare and prestigious pieces. This coin is one of a kind, and sold at Heritage in 2012 for $184,000.

The collections in the auction are extraordinary, but do not include all of the auction's top offerings. Among the others:

One of the top ancient coins in the auction is a Pertinax (1 January-28 March AD 193). AV aureus NGC Gem MS 5/5 - 5/5, Fine Style that is one of the finest-quality Pertinax aurei in existence.

An unquestioned Pattern rarity of British numismatics, a George V gold Proof Pattern Crown 1935 PR64+ Ultra Cameo NGC is one of just 28 gold Proof Pattern strikes, of which 25 were made available to the public to purchase at £25 each; the remainder were consigned to museums. The Royal Mint opened a ballot from which 25 of the reported 1,329 applicants would be selected to purchase one of these coins, the value of which rose immediately after distribution when attempts were made to corner a number of pieces.

Another top ancient coin in the auction is a SICILY. Syracuse. Dionysius I (405-367 BC). AR decadrachm (35mm, 41.83 gm, 10h). NGC Choice XF 4/5 - 3/5, Fine Style. Syracuse, the foremost Greek city in Sicily, had produced coins of exceptional beauty for nearly a century when, ca. 415 BC, engravers began signing their coin dies. Chief among these were the master engravers Kimon and Euainetos, whose large silver decadrachms seemed to capture the spirit of the artistic and intellectual revolution then sweeping the Greek world. The decadrachm of Euainetos became a widely-copied archetype for Greek coinage, and the master engraver's head of Arethusa remains a paradigm of cool, classical beauty today.

Images and information about all lots in the auction can be found at HA.com/3125.

GADOURY NOIR NUMISMATIC RARITIES

Numismatic Rarities at Gadoury Noir

4 October 2025
Gadoury Auctions
Monaco, Hôtel Le Méridien

Gadoury Auctions has established two auction series in recent years: the blue catalogue presents entire collections, while the black catalogue features numismatic highlights from antiquity to the present day, sourced from various collectors. And this catalogue is indeed full of highlights. Main focal points are on antiquity, France and Italy as well as Casa Savoia. But there are also many noteworthy pieces from other fields. The auction will take place in Monaco on 4 October 2025. On the previous day, the coins and medals offered in the blue catalogue will be auctioned off by collection. A separate auction preview has been published for the blue catalogue.

The auction opens with a good four hundred lots of ancient coins. Among them are a number of exceedingly rare gold pieces, both from Greek and Roman periods. These include an extremely rare gold eighth stater of Pyrrhos from Taranto, an extremely rare gold hemi drachm of the magistrate Polianthes from Cyrene, some gold coins of the Auxumites, and of course the many perfect aurei in the Roman section. Examples include a perfect aureus of the young Marcus Aurelius, issued by his adoptive father Antoninus Pius, and an aureus of Constantius Chlorus, showing Heracles bringing down the Ceryneian Hind on the reverse. This about uncirculated piece is so rare that even the standard work by Calicó had to resort to a drawing for illustration. This aureus is part of a series of aurei and argentei from the early Tetrarchy, including numerous pieces with extremely rare reverses. But do not be fooled by all the gold. You will also find perfect denarii and an abundance of interesting bronze coins with exquisite patina that are sure to enrich any collection.

Following a very interesting series of coins from the early Middle Ages, including some pieces from the Migration Period, the auction continues with world coins and medals, starting with issues from Monaco. Whatever you collect, take a look at the catalogues: there are interesting lots from many countries, including some that can rarely be found in auction sales. As an example, we present an actual rarity: Ras Tafari Makonnen – better known in the West as Haile Selassie – awarded the order offered by Gadoury in multiple lot No. 1488 to the mechanic an pilot Fernand Picaper. Picaper was one of the first three members with whom Haile Selassie established his new air force from 1930 onwards, which is probably the reason why he was honoured. The multiple lot also includes two wearable medals, which are probably also from his estate. They commemorate the Ethiopian Air Force and the tenth anniversary of Haile Selassie's coronation.

This piece is probably one of the most interesting rarities in the history of French coinage. The coin was struck with a hammer in the old Paris mint between 29 October 1640 and 23 January 1641. It testifies to the fierce resistance of journeymen minters to the introduction of the screw press. They feared that these machines would render their previously indispensable hand-striking skills obsolete. In fact, little training was required to operate the screw press. Nevertheless, the results were superior, and so the new double louis d'or pieces were produced exclusively with the screw press following a few hand-struck patterns.

Two extremely rare specimens of outstanding condition dominate the French section. One was minted in gold under Napoleon for representation purposes with the dies of the 1807 5-franc piece. A little reminder: this remarkable year saw the conclusion of the Peace of Tilsit, which sealed peace with Russia and the subjugation of Prussia. The exact dating of the second pattern is unclear. It was either minted at the beginning or the end of Charles X's reign. There are only three specimens of this spectacular pattern. According to PCGS, the one offered at Gadoury is the best known piece of all the specimens graded by PCGS.

Following its defeat in the Franco-Prussian War, France had to pay Germany 5 billion francs in the form of 1,450 tons of gold. This included a significant proportion of the 10,460 100-franc coins minted in 1870. Since almost the entire batch was melted down to create the first Prussian coins of the German Empire, only a few specimens have survived to this day. PCGS and NGC only know four other specimens of extremely fine quality.

This heavy gold coin with a weight of more than 80 g was probably minted to be used as a diplomatic gift. Given the coin's size, it would have been possible to use the dies of the double scudo for this. The coin is a perfect example of the many rarities Gadoury is offering from Italy in this year's auction sale.

To conclude this auction preview, let us take a look at Russia. 41 lots are on offer, including a 10-rouble piece of Tsarina Elizabeth from 1756 in extraordinary condition, as well as a medal of merit of the Imperial Russian Geographical Society, founded in St. Petersburg in 1845. The society initiated, organised and financed a series of important expeditions to systematically map the northern Urals, Siberia and Mongolia. Since 1899, the society has awarded the Semjonow Medal annually to outstanding scientists who have rendered exceptional service to the geographical mapping and description of Russia.

Please take note of our other auction preview presenting four collections that were catalogued as ensembles.

You can order the catalogue at Gadoury Auctions, 57, rue Grimaldi, 98000 Monaco; phone: +377 93 25 12 96; fax: +377 93 50 13 39; email: contact@gadoury.com.

You can find the catalogue online at auction.gadoury.com and www.numisbids.com. Of course, it is also possible to bid live on your computer at home via www.biddr.ch!

To view Gadoury's website, please see:
https://www.gadoury.com/en/auction

WAYNE'S NUMISMATIC DIARY: AUGUST 17, 2025

Tuesday August 12 brought the monthly meeting of my Northern Virginia numismatic social group, Nummis Nova. We were meeting a week early to avoid a conflict with this week's American Numismatic Association convention, and because our host was Julian Leidman of Maryland, we met at one of his favorite restaurants, Jerry's Seafood in Bowie, MD. Since it's summer and a long drive for our Virginia regulars, we had a smaller turnout. But it was nice to have a group small enough where we could see and converse with everyone present. It was also nice to have a private room.

I arrived early, shortly after 6pm. Soon Jon Radel arrived and they seated us early. We had a good chat before others entered the room - Roger Burdette, John "JK" Kravjevich and Julian himself. Julian had a large purple shiner around his right eye, and I shied away from taking group photos. When we were done teasing Julian for "pinching the wrong woman's bottom", he told us he'd been to the same restaurant a few nights earlier and taken a spill on the way out. Ouch! Luckily he didn't break anything, but that black eye will take a while to heal.

When our food came JK took this photo of my dinner - Jerry's specialty, the Crab Bomb.

Wayne's Books
I brought along a couple of new books. Well, the first one, Quarterama isn't new, but it's new to my library. If it looks familiar I'd brought a softcovered one to last month's meeting. I upgraded to the hardbound version. It's a nicely done combination album/book with a compilation of stories behind the 50 State Quarter series.

The second one is Peter Jones' new book on Greek coinage. See the earlier article (linked below) for more information. It's a thorough work that I expect will sell well.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NEW BOOK: GREEK COIN ART (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n31a03.html)

Maryland 1780 Tenth Dollar
The next two items were brought by John. The first is a very rare Maryland colonial note from the Eric P. Newman collection - an October 17, 1780 bill for one tenth of a dollar.

Fred. Douglas Medal
John also brought this unusual medal. I remarked that I'd "never seen a 'Fred Douglas' medal before." The name of Frederick Douglas is rarely shortened to "Fred". I'd never seen this particular medal, either.

Pop Quiz: What's in Your Pocket?
The small turnout and the half-empty table inspired me to declare a pop quiz - I asked everyone to show us their pocket change. Not surprisingly, not even numismatists carry a lot of change - not all of us anyway. But everyone had folding money, so we changed the rules.

So I guess my usual vendors (and vending machines) are well stocked with the latest products of the U.S. Mint. I also do still use cash fairly often. John and I appreciated the composition of the new Maria Tallchief quarter design and we passed one around the room.

Jon's Euros were unexpected, as was the paper clip. But nothing would surprise me with this group, not even Conder tokens or potty dollars.

Coin Talk
Conversation around the table naturally revolved around the newly announced Class III 1804 Dollar. John had seen it and confirmed that it's such high grade that as once described, it "looks still warm from the coin press." And no, it's not a product of Daniel Carr's Midnight Mint.

I reminded John of a conversation we'd had over dinner at a Baltimore show a few years back. I'd wondered if he thought there were many great collections or rarities that hadn't already been brought to the numismatic marketplace - had all the treasures been found? He said no - the world's a big place and finds are still out there for the finding. He was right, although at the time I don't think either of us dreamed of another 1804 dollar.

Another discussion topic was the gold 1945 FDR Inaugural Medal struck for the historic Yalta Conference. The one offered by Stack's Bowers (see the article elsewhere in this issue) is from the collection of Mint Director Nellie Tayloe Ross. The whereabouts of the gold medals that President Roosevelt distributed at Yalta to Winston Churchill, Anthony Eden, Joseph Stalin, and Vyacheslav Molotov are unknown. I asked, "Does Putin have any gold teeth?"

Another topic of conversation was a new purchase of mine, pictured here - a U.S. Treasury Department employee notebook. It was on its way to me Tuesday and scheduled to arrive yesterday. Tracking its progress thru the U.S. Postal Service I see it travelled from California to Jersey City but then somehow got diverted to North Carolina - not exactly the shortest route to Northern Virginia. So it's not here yet. When and if it arrives we'll have more to discuss in a future issue, so stay tuned.

It was another great evening of dinner, conversation and numismatic fellowship. 'Til next time.

 

NGC ANCIENTS: ELEPHANTS

World Elephant Day is celebrated August 12 to bring attention to the plight of elephants. All three of the world's elephant species — the African bush elephant, the African forest elephant and the Asian elephant — are endangered.

Elephants have always been well-known for their strength and grace, but in ancient times they also were prized for their value in battle. Various Greek, Roman and Carthaginian coins feature elephants, with the following being excellent examples.

Following Alexander's death at the age of 32, his kingdom was divided among his lieutenants. This gold stater was struck under one of Alexander's generals, Ptolemy I (323-282 B.C.), founder of the Ptolemaic Kingdom based in Egypt. The reverse shows a chariot drawn by elephants.

Another one of Alexander's generals, Seleucus I (312-281 B.C.), founded the Seleucid Kingdom, which stretched from the Aegean Sea to India. This silver tetradrachm, struck late in his reign, shows a chariot of four elephants fancifully adorned with horns, as well as tusks. An Indian ally provided Seleucus with hundreds of war elephants and riders, which were of great value in the Battle of Ipsus in 301 B.C.

This silver square drachm struck for the Bactrian king Apollodotus I (c.180-160 B.C.) shows an elephant wearing a belt and a bull. The inscription on the obverse is Greek and on the reverse is Kharosthi, an ancient Indian script.

This base-metal coin was issued for the Bactrian king Menander I (c.165-130 B.C.). It shows the head of elephant adorned with a bell, opposite the club of Heracles. Menander ruled an area that included much of modern-day Pakistan and was a patron of Greco-Buddhism.

Rome's victory over Carthage in the Second and Third Punic Wars allowed it to dominate most of the Mediterranean by the time this silver denarius was struck in 125 B.C. Issued by C. Caecilius Metellus Caprarius, it shows Roma on the obverse and Victory crowning Jupiter, who drives a biga of elephants on the reverse.

The most famous of all ‘elephant' coins is the silver denarius of Julius Caesar (died 44 B.C.), which he issued in 49 or 48 B.C. at a military mint traveling with him. At the time, Caesar had just begun Caesar's civil war, in which he fought his rival, Pompey.

This base-metal coin was issued ca. 60-46 B.C. by Juba I, king of the North African kingdom of Numidia, who fought on the Pompeian side during the civil war. Juba and Metellus Pius Scipio opposed Julius Caesar in North Africa but were on the losing side of the Battle of Thapsus in 46 B.C., the last large-scale use of war elephants in the West. Seeing their cause as hopeless, Juba and Metellus Scipio are both recorded as choosing honorable deaths a short time later.

This billon tetradrachm struck in Egypt late in the reign of Emperor Nero (A.D. 54-68) shows a draped bust of a woman, representing the city of Alexandria, wearing an elephant headdress.

This base-metal sestertius produced soon after the death of Emperor Vespasian (A.D. 69-79) in A.D. 79 offers him a dignified send-off. It shows the deified emperor holding Victory while being drawn by a quadriga of elephants with riders.

Vespasian's son and successor, the emperor Titus (A.D. 79-81), issued this gold aureus in A.D. 80, shortly after becoming emperor. The size and shape of the tusks appear to identify the elephant here as an African one.

This base-metal "as" coin issued under Emperor Antoninus Pius (A.D. 138-161) shows an elephant. It is inscribed MVNIFICENTIA AVG COS III and was issued in celebration of games held for Rome's 900th anniversary.

This billon nummus issued at the mint of Carthage for the rebel-emperor Maxentius (A.D. 307-312) shows the personification of Africa. The figure wears an elephant headdress and holds a tusk. The ivory of elephant tusks was highly valued in Roman times, and its attraction long outlasted antiquity. International ivory trade was finally banned in 1989 in an effort to prevent elephants from going extinct.

To read the complete article, see:
NGC Ancients: Elephants (https://www.ngccoin.com/news/article/14333/ancient-coins-elephants/)

TIFFANY TO REDESIGN KENNEDY CENTER HONORS

For more than 47 years, a D.C.-area family has made the medals for the Kennedy Center Honors — gold-plated medallions outfitted with satin ribbons in rainbow colors and presented to luminaries including Al Pacino, Johnny Cash, Oprah Winfrey, Bruce Springsteen and the Grateful Dead.

James Baturin, an 86-year-old retired marking device manufacturer, said he, his wife, Mila, and their two kids assembled more than 255 awards — mostly from the kitchen countertop of their home in Bethesda, Maryland — since the Kennedy Center Honors began in 1978.

That relationship abruptly ended earlier this month, just days before President Donald Trump announced the first class of Kennedy Center honorees under his leadership of the arts complex, which will go to glam metal band Kiss, Broadway and West End star Michael Crawford, country music legend George Strait, actor Sylvester Stallone and singer Gloria Gaynor.

In a letter reviewed by The Washington Post, the Kennedy Center thanked the Baturins for their partnership and craftsmanship and said that the center would move in a different direction. "As the Kennedy Center looks toward the future and embarks on a new chapter, we will be transitioning to a new partnership for the creation of the Honors medallions," according to the letter, which was dated Aug. 6 and signed by Matthew Winer, then-senior director of Broadcast Media & Special Programs.

The letter did not elaborate on a new vision or vendor for the awards. As The Post reported Tuesday, the center has contacted the jeweler Tiffany & Company to redesign the medallion, which hasn't changed since it was designed for the first honors by New York artist Ivan Chermayeff. It is unclear what changes the center hopes to make to the medallions; Tiffany & Company and the Kennedy Center did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Each year, the Kennedy Center names five individuals or groups to honor for their lifelong contributions to the arts in a multiday event that concludes with a ceremony where fellow artists toast them with speeches, songs, videos and performances. The simple, elegant medallions presented to honorees include a necklace of rainbow ribbons decorated in the front by three 22.5-karat gold plates over top-grade engravers brass. One is inscribed with the words "Kennedy Center Honor," one with the date of the ceremony and one with the name of its respective honoree.

The medallion's rainbow ribbon is often mistaken for representing LGBTQ+ pride. Indeed, the rainbow flag debuted at the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade in 1978. But in the case of the medallion, the colors are meant to represent the "spectrum of many skills within the performing arts. Singing, dancing, and so on," designer Chermayeff told The Post in 2008.

They're hefty pieces of jewelry that stand out on a black tuxedo or dress, which Chermayeff said was intentional.

"They are a sizable thing, instead of a coin that sits on a desk," he said in 2008. "So they have a presence for the people who receive them."

Chermayeff, who died in 2017, also created the logotype for the Smithsonian Institution and the Library of Congress logo, which combined a book and flag.

To read the complete article, see:
Kennedy Center drops family that made Honors medallions for 47 years (https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/2025/08/15/kennedy-center-honors-medallions-change/)

See also:
Kennedy Center drops family that made Honors medallions for 47 years (https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/articles/kennedy-center-drops-family-made-230647780.html)

LOOSE CHANGE: AUGUST 17, 2025

1,400-year-old Coin Jar Found in Vietnam
The ancient city of Adrianopolis was an important ecclesiastical administrative center, and several famous religious figures were born or lived here, making Adrianopolis an extremely popular pilgrimage site.

And while excavating in the ancient city of Hadrianopolis, experts from Karabük University unexpectedly found a strange object.

These are ten coins estimated to be around 1,400 years old, contained in an earthenware jar. The coins date back to the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Constans II.

Perhaps this was not a treasure trove intentionally hidden or buried, but more like a local family's piggy bank.

To read the complete article, see:
Archaeologists puzzled after finding 1,400-year-old coin jar (https://www.vietnam.vn/en/tim-thay-chiec-binh-tien-le-1-400-nam-tuoi-gioi-khao-co-boi-roi)

Buying Books and Never Reading Them

It's often said that "there's probably a German word" for unusual situations that are difficult to express in English, but sometimes there's actually a Japanese word instead. Tsundoku, for example, describes the act of buying books and never reading them. Many bibliophiles can surely relate. Doku can be used in Japanese as a verb that means "reading," and tsun comes from tsumu, which means "to pile up." According to University of London Japanese studies professor Andrew Gerstle, the word appears to have been coined in 1879 in a satirical reference to a teacher who didn't read the many books he owned. Despite that, the term — which can also refer to the piles of books themselves — doesn't carry a particularly negative connotation in Japan.

To read the complete article, see:
The Japanese word "tsundoku" describes the act of buying books and never reading them. (https://interestingfacts.com/fact/the-japanese-word-tsundoku-describes-the-act-of-buying-books-and-never-reading-them/)

ABOUT THIS ISSUE: AUGUST 17, 2025

Wayne Homren
Wayne Homren is the founding editor of The E-Sylum and a consultant for the Newman Numismatic Portal. His collecting interests at various times included U.S. Encased Postage Stamps, merchant counterstamps, Pittsburgh Obsolete paper money, Civil War tokens and scrip, Carnegie Hero Medals, charge coins and numismatic literature. He also collects and has given presentations on the work of Money Artist J.S.G. Boggs. In the non-numismatic world he's worked in artificial intelligence, data science, and as a Program Manager for the U.S. Department of Defense.

Garrett Ziss
Garrett Ziss is a numismatic collector and researcher, with a focus on American paper money and early U.S. silver and copper coins. He is also a part-time U.S. coin cataloger for Heritage Auctions. Garrett assists Editor Wayne Homren by editing and formatting a selection of articles and images each week. When he's not engaged in numismatics, Garrett is pursuing a Master's Degree in Quantitative Economics at the University of Pittsburgh.

Pete Smith
Numismatic researcher and author Pete Smith of Minnesota has written about early American coppers, Vermont coinage, numismatic literature, tokens and medals, the history of the U.S. Mint and much more. Author of American Numismatic Biographies, he contributes original articles to The E-Sylum often highlighting interesting figures in American numismatic history.

Greg Bennick
Greg Bennick (www.gregbennick.com) is a keynote speaker and long time coin collector with a focus on major mint error coins and US counterstamps. He is on the board of both CONECA and TAMS and enjoys having in-depth conversations with prominent numismatists from all areas of the hobby. Have ideas for other interviewees? Contact him anytime on the web or via instagram @minterrors.

John Nebel
Numismatist, photographer, and ANS Board member and Fellow John Nebel of Boulder, CO helped the ANA and other clubs like NBS get online in the early days of the internet, hosting websites gratis through his Computer Systems Design Co. To this day he hosts some 50 ANA member club sites along with our coinbooks.org site, making the club and our E-Sylum archive available to collectors and researchers worldwide.

Bruce Perdue
Encased coinage collector (encasedcoins.info) Bruce Perdue of Aurora, Illinois has been the volunteer NBS webmaster from its early days and works each week to add the latest E-Sylum issue to our archive and send out the email announcement.