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 02/28/2026 - Kolbe & Fanning - George F. Kolbe Anniversary Auction 04/25/2026 Workman's Book Sale 8

 

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 FEBRUARY 22, 2026

New subscribers this week include: Dan Rice, courtesy Nathan Markowitz; Gary Forgue, President of the Michigan Huron Coin Club, courtesy Steve Starlust; and Fox Besch. Welcome aboard! We now have 6,703 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 a new Asylum issue, two numismatic literature sales, two new books, a periodical, updates from the Newman Numismatic Portal, and more.

Other topics this week include Italian "Miniassegni" scrip notes, chopmarked coins, 1888 views on the 1804 Dollar, collectible pocket mirrors, fixed price and auction offerings, Olympic medal values and where winners store them, and a lesson from Bob Evans on why you should pay attention in algebra and trigonometry class.

To learn more about Edwin L. Hobart's suppressed Denver Mint booklet, William E. Du Bois's 1846 Pledges of History, the new Mega Red X, U.S. paper money errors, the 1923 National Sculpture Society Exhibition, finding the wreck of the SS Central America, the Charles I Crown, and numismatic nepo babies, read on. Have a great week, everyone!

Wayne Homren
Editor, The E-Sylum

 

ASYLUM SPRING 2026 ISSUE PUBLISHED

Welcome to The Asylum's Spring 2026 digital edition.

In this issue:

• "'Glitters of Gold': Edwin L. Hobart's Suppressed Denver Mint Booklet" By Roger W. Burdette
• "My Spark Book: An Illustrated History of U.S. Commemorative Coinage by Don Taxay" By Mike Costanzo
• "Eric Newman and the Case of the London Forgeries" By Julia Casey
• "Book Review: Siege Notes of the World: 1793-1913 by Lawrence Korchnak, Ph.D." Reviewed by Greg Bennick

Message from the President
By Len Augsburger

Welcome to the winter issue of The Asylum, and many thanks to Maria Fanning for her quarterly coordination of our print journal. The precious metals market is currently drawing the attention of our numismatic brethren, and anything I write on that subject is sure to be out of date by the time you read this. Fortunately, our libraries have little or no "melt value," although Google estimates the cost of page-edge gilding at about $100 per volume, a figure much higher than I would have expected. To those whose libraries abound with such volumes (not mine!) this is a good thing to keep in mind.

Preparations for the 2026 ANA convention in Pittsburgh are underway, and we will have more announcements to make as we go forward. The convention is a bit later this year, and our traditional fundraiser sale will be held on Friday, August 28. As always, we welcome donations, especially those items valued at $100 and up, and you may contact either myself or David Fanning to arrange shipping. Offerings of numismatic literature are necessary to sustain the hobby, and, while we are always tuned into the latest sales of our dealer members, this represents another way to support the club and provide interesting opportunities for your fellow members at the same time.

In the meantime, enjoy your books, and I hope to see you in Pittsburgh or perhaps at one of the regional shows in the spring.

The ANA discounts the NBS's organization membership $5 for every NBS member that is also a member of the ANA. Please send the NBS Treasurer your ANA Member Number at treasurer@coinbooks.org so we can update the ANA's records.

NBS Membership Renewal Time!

Please renew your membership in the NBS to continue receiving The Asylum. Go to coinbooks.org to pay by PayPal or download a membership form today. Your current expiration date is printed to the right of your name on your subscription envelope, which should be arriving soon.

KOLBE & FANNING SALE 176 MORE HIGHLIGHTS

The 50th anniversary auction of Kolbe & Fanning Numismatic Booksellers is being held on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The sale celebrates the 50th anniversary of the first mail-bid sale held by our founder, George Frederick Kolbe, on February 28, 1976. The sale features a wide array of rare and out-of-print works on ancient, world and U.S. numismatics, including a selection of works from Kolbe's personal library.

Some highlights of the sale include:

Lot 2: one of the most attractive antiquarian works of the first half of the 18th century illustrating Roman portrait coins, the 1736 Periodus Historica of Franz Wenzel Anton von Adlersfeld

Lot 34: a complete set of the preferred 1828 revised edition of Joseph Hilarius Eckhel's foundational eight-volume Doctrina Numorum Veterum

Lot 140: a finely bound set of Émile Pierre Norbert Dewamin's three-volume 1893–1899 Cent ans de numismatique française, one of only 250 sets issued, from the George F. Kolbe Library

Lot 305: an attractive copy of S.H. & H. Chapman's 1906 catalogue of the Harlan P. Smith collection, in the original binding and with 14 fine photographic plates

Lot 155: a very rare early printing of the 1840 Fortsas catalogue, perhaps the most famous hoax book auction, from the Julia Parker Wightman Library and later in the Kolbe Library

Lot 333: an 1875 first edition copy of Sylvester Sage Crosby's Early Coins of America, in a Nova Constellatio binding specially prepared for the author, from the Syd Martin Library

Lot 353: a bound volume of eight American auction catalogues of the 1880s, six of which feature photographically printed plates, from the library of Carl Würtzbach

Lot 338: William E. Du Bois's very rare 1846 Pledges of History, the earliest account of the holdings of the U.S. Mint Cabinet, ex the George F. Kolbe Library

Lot 342: the special plated hardcover edition of Tom Elder's important 1908 catalogue of the Peter Gschwend collection, with 17 photographic plates, from the Harry W. Bass Library

Lot 416: an extremely rare circular offering a reward of $2500 for coins stolen from the collection of Waldo C. Newcomer, with an inventory of the coins taken in the burglary.

LANG NUMISMATIC LITERATURE AUCTION 10

Please note: our 10th auction of numismatic literature will take place on February 24, 2026, on Auex. With 1.278 lots, we would like to draw your attention to the following highlights in particular:

The auction catalogs include not only numerous catalogs from the duplicates of the BCD library, but also personal copies belonging to the respective auctioneers. Lot 1022 is particularly noteworthy. The original Gnecchi collection iThe auction catalogs include not only numerous catalogs from the duplicates of the BCD library, but also personal copies belonging to the respective auctioneers. Lot 1022 is particularly noteworthy. The original Gnecchi collection is rarely offered for sale, but as a personal copy belonging to the auctioneer "Hamburger," it is a truly unique item. It contains not only the hammer prices and results, but also information on rival bidders and bidders present. This makes this lot a significant source of information. Other hand copies are lot numbers 1028 (Ford and Leeds collections), No. 1030 (Ebner collection, Württemberg) and No. 1203 (collections of a South German collector and Sallmann).

This auction also includes several series (including complete sets) of magazines. The Revue Numismatique is offered as a complete set from 1866 to 1996 in 99 magnificent half-leather bindings. A similar set was auctioned at Fritz Rudolf Künker GmbH & Co KG in 2020 for €24.000. The Blätter für Münzfreunde (Leaves for Coin Lovers) is also going under the hammer complete in modern half-leather bindings.

In the Medieval and Modern Times category, the focus is on Eastern European works from the Jordan Library and magnificently bound works on French numismatics. ou will also find a wide range of bibliophile works and, as usual, ancient numismatics.

You are welcome to submit advance bids via Biddr, Sixbid, and Numisbids. The auction will take place on Auex.de. Please register in good time.

We wish you every success and are happy to answer any questions you may have!

For more information, or to bid, see:
Katalog - Auktion 10 - Numismatische Literatur (https://auktionen.numismatisches-antiquariat.de/de-de/auctions/lots?$page=1&$maxpagesize=20&$sortby=lot_number&$sortdir=asc&cat_id=107)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
LANG NUMISMATIC LITERATURE AUCTION 10 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n06a03.html)

NEW BOOK: TENTH EDITION MEGA RED X

Whitman Brands™, a leading full-service provider of data, media, and product distribution for the numismatics and collectibles marketplace, proudly announces the return of the legendary Mega Red: A Guide Book of United States Coins, Deluxe Edition in an all-new tenth edition—bolder and more powerful than ever.

Mega Red X delivers the most comprehensive and fully updated U.S. coin catalog available today. This supersized companion to the Official Red Book® features more coins, more varieties, deeper pricing, and fresh research—including a landmark special feature covering more than 130 years of $5 Half Eagle gold coins (1795–1929).

Building on the legacy of R.S. Yeoman, Q. David Bowers, and Kenneth Bressett—and energized by current editors John Feigenbaum and Jeff Garrett, alongside more than 90 leading experts—Mega Red X spans the full spectrum of American coinage, from colonial issues to the latest United States Mint releases.

"Whether you're building a collection, researching a rarity, or pricing for today's market, Mega Red X is one of the most important catalogs ever published on United States coins," said John Feigenbaum, President and Chief Executive Officer of Whitman Brands. "This tenth edition reflects the collaboration of dozens of contributors and the most current data available anywhere in print."

With more than 18,000 listings of coins, tokens, medals, sets, and related collectibles; over 100,000 market values in up to 13 collectible grades powered by Greysheet®; a streamlined, collector-friendly design; and more than 1,000 pages of authoritative content, Mega Red X sets a new benchmark in numismatic reference.

New highlights include featured chapters and essays by Jeff Garrett, Beth Deisher, and Paul Gilkes; cross-references to major variety attribution systems; expanded coverage of patterns, significant varieties, misstrikes, and error coins; upcoming U.S. Semiquincentennial coinage; and enhanced integration with Greysheet Identification (GSID) catalog numbers.

Editor Jeff Garrett added, "This tenth edition represents a true team effort and a major step forward for advanced collectors. We've expanded the depth of pricing, strengthened our research, and added important specialty coverage—especially in areas like Half Eagles, varieties, and modern issues. Mega Red X is designed not just to inform, but to help collectors make smarter decisions in today's marketplace."

The Tenth Edition Brings Collectors:

• More than 18,000 coins, tokens, medals, sets, and related collectibles
• Over 100,000 values in up to 13 collectible grades, plus more than 1,100 auction records
• Thousands of full-color images
• CPG® Retail pricing and GSID numbers linking seamlessly to the Greysheet catalog
• Expanded study of $5 Half Eagle gold coins (1795–1929)
• Updated U.S. Mint data and the latest numismatic discoveries
• Featured chapters including "History of Coins in America, 1607 to Date," the "2026 Market Report" by Jeff Garrett, and "Chinese Counterfeits" by Beth Deisher
• Cross-references to established variety systems (Cohen, Sheldon, Newcomb, Logan & McCloskey, Overton, VAM, Fivaz-Stanton, and others)
• Increased coverage of patterns, significant varieties, misstrikes, and error coins
• Special essays on David W. Rittenhouse and U.S. Semiquincentennial coinage
• And much more

Published by Whitman®, the most trusted name in numismatic literature, Mega Red: A Guide Book of United States Coins, Deluxe Edition is available in both softcover and limited edition-numbered leatherette hardcover formats at Whitman.com, Whitman's Ebay Store, Amazon, and Walmart.com, and bookstores, hobby shops, and other retailers nationwide.

A limited quantity of the 500 numbered hardcover editions will be available for signature at the Whitman Expos™ Spring Baltimore Expo on March 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. ET.

Release Date: February 3, 2026
Editors: John Feigenbaum, Jeff Garrett
Formats: Softcover / Limited Edition Numbered Hardcover
ISBNs: 9780794850647 / 9780794855734
Retail Price: $69.95 / $99.95
https://whitman.com/mega-red-a-guide-book-of-united-states-coins-deluxe-edition/

Recent/Upcoming Whitman Releases:

• The Enigmatic Lincoln Cents of 1922 (DeLorey)
• United States Paper Money, 9ed (Red Book Series #29)
• When Coins Were King (Moran)
• Morgan Dollars, 8ed (Red Book Series #1)
• Double Eagle Gold Coins, 2ed (Red Book Series #2)
• Lincoln Cents, 5ed (Red Book Series #9)
• 100 Greatest United States Paper Currency, 2ed
• Ancient Greek, Roman, & Byzantine Coins (Berk)
• Half Eagle Gold Coins, 1ed (Red Book Series #30)

For more information about upcoming releases, as well as numismatic folders, albums, and supplies, visit whitman.com.

For more information, or to order, see:
Mega Red: A Guide Book of United States Coins, Deluxe 10th Edition (Softcover) (https://whitman.com/mega-red-a-guide-book-of-united-states-coins-deluxe-edition/)

 

NEW BOOK: CATALOGUE OF ITALIAN MINIASSEGNI

Massimo Palermo:
I Miniassigni –
Come non li avete mai visti

The Miniassigni –
Like you've never seen them before

Nomisma spa, Serravalle, 2022
Hardcover, 17 x 24 cm,
522 pages, full color throughout.
ISBN: 978-88-943358-4-2

Price: 70 EUR
Contact: https://www.nomismaweb.com/en/

These coins were issued by many Italian banks in the 1970s as a substitute for small change. At that time, Italy suffered from an acute shortage of coins due to a lack of minting capacity. Anyone who has ever vacationed in Italy when the lire was still the currency knows that 1000 lire was roughly equivalent to one Deutsche Mark.

Coins were actually indispensable as change and for smaller purchases.

The coin shortage actually led to the population hoarding coins, thus exacerbating the scarcity. Instead of change in the form of coins, people were often given sweets or adhesive bandages. This prompted many Italian banks to issue small-denomination banknotes, the "miniassegni."

The author has presented an impressive catalog of these small-denomination banknotes, meticulously documenting in words and pictures an interesting chapter of Italian monetary history that has often been neglected. The catalog, written in Italian, includes, after a comprehensive introduction, not only the regular issues from numerous banks and treasuries but also forgeries, unissued notes, samples, and much more.

Current valuations were given in euros.

The catalogue was published by the company Nomisma spa in the Republic of San Marino, which also organizes collector auctions and offers coins and specialist literature.

Interested parties should order the catalogue directly via the bookshop on the website:
https://nomisma.bidinside.com/en/scat/6/numismatic-books/1/.

To read the complete article, see:
Katalog zu den italienischen "Miniassegni" (https://www.geldscheine-online.com/post/katalog-zu-den-italienischen-miniassegni)

PERIODICAL: CHOPMARK NEWS DECEMBER 2025

Chopmark News
Vol. 26, Issue 2 | December 2025

From the Editor

New Members

Meet our Members:
Nick Ostroy

Coins from the Nick Ostroy Collection

Coins from Our Members' Collections

Chop Marks on Trade Dollars: Should We Avoid this Damage or Embrace it as Part of the Coin's Journey?
By: C. Maisano

Organized Chaos - Chopmarks on Foreign Coins By: S. Tai

Recent Chopmark Books
By: C. Gullberg

Blood Money
By: E. Brothers

From Reddit
By: T. Leverage

The Interview — Akinbuko Kuroda

Obituary: R. Waddell

This is the second issue of 2025 and we have several very interesting articles for you.

First we meet member Nick Ostroy. Nick is a neighbor of Taylor Leverage and has several very interesting coins featured in this issue.

The Coins for Our Members' Collections is focused on the US trade dollar this issue. I asked for submissions and it seems like a lot of you collect this coin so I'm devoting this issue to it exclusively.

Dave Lombardo spotted an article from Greysheet which they have generously given us permission to reprint about everyone's favorite coin—the US trade dollar!

I'm finally printing an article that Stephan Tai sent me some time ago. Stephen, who lives in Taiwan, has discovered facts allowing us to better understand the chop-marking patterns of the shroffs of Shanghai/Fujien and Soochow.

Your editor has written a modest article on the current state of books devoted to chopmarks.

On page 80 we are reprinting the Eric Brothers article Blood Money, from the ANA's The Numismatist maga zine. It's a fascinating read.

We also have three pages of coins from Taylor Leverage's Reddit page. This is just a taste of Taylor's work and I urge all members to join the ChopmarkedCoins sub-Reddit.

Finally, I had the pleasure to interview Prof. Akinbuko Kuroda, who happens to be a visiting professor in Taipei. He has written extensively in monetary economic history and is very familiar with the coins used in the chopmark period.

I will be interviewing Ed Murphy in early 2026 so if you have questions for Ed please email them to me.

Colin Gullberg editor

For more information, write to:
chopmarknews@gmail.com

NNP ADDS 2026 FUN PRESENTATION VIDEOS

FUN Convention Presentation Videos on Newman Portal

Courtesy of Steve Martin, Florida United Numismatists (FUN) board member, NNP has added videos from the educational program presentations delivered at the recent January convention. Sessions from the January event include Bianca Bart speaking on paper money errors, Bill Jones speaking on U.S. half eagles, David Harper with his ever-popular "numismatic predictions" for the coming year, and others. This year's winter FUN convention felt like a gathering of the entire U.S. collector community - but for those who couldn't make the trip, these videos are now available to enjoy.

Link to 2026 FUN videos on NNP:
https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/multimediadetail/549321?Year=2026

VIDEO: WHO ARE THE EAC "BOYS OF '94?"

Hear the story of the people who collect Sheldon varieties of 1794 large cents and how it was formed. Chuck was a founding member and emphasizes that membership is open to all.

Speaker: Chuck Heck, member, Early American Coppers. Interviewer: David Lisot, CoinTelevision.com. Running time: 1:53. From the 2016 EAC convention.

To watch the complete video, see:
Who Are the EAC "Boys of '94?" (https://youtu.be/DQXoo9YSmZ4)
Who Are the EAC "Boys of '94?" (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/540250)

 

NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: FEBRUARY 22, 2026

How Opium Funded The British Empire
Anil Bohora writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
Opium Inc. How A Global Drug Trade Funded The British Empire (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58941231-opium-inc-how-a-global-drug-trade-funded-the-british-empire)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
THE TRADE DOLLAR'S LINK TO OPIUM TRAFFICKING (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n07a21.html)

Reflections from Cairo
Jeff Burke writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
1978 CAMP DAVID ACCORDS PEACE MEMORIAL (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n07a26.html)

Canadian Pocket Mirror Cards
Eric Jensen writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NUMISMATIST MIRRORS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n07a17.html)

Dick Johnson's 1923 National Sculpture Society Exhibition Catalog
Harry Waterson writes:

To bid on the Richard Jewell Olympic Medals Collection, see:
https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/auctions/3-1QGEHH/february-2026-world-collectors-choice-online-auction-session-4-world-coins-part-2-india-to-mixed-lots-featuring-selections-from-richard-jewell-olympic-medals-collection-kings-norton-mint-collection-lots-79001-79835?sort=lot_number&limit=96&search=olym+jewell

2026 National Money Show Exhibits

Paul Hybert writes:

1888 VIEWS OF THE 1804 DOLLAR

In February 1888, a correspondent from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch traveled to New York City and interviewed a group of coin dealers about the state of the hobby. Previously in the E-Sylum, I wrote about how Harlan Page Smith used this opportunity to elaborate on how he obtained his prized 1822 Half Eagle. The transcription below is from the first part of the Post-Dispatch article, in which, at lunch, the group discussed the known facts and gossip concerning the legendary 1804 dollars.

As will be seen below, most of the information provided to the reporter about 1804 dollars comes from Richard Cogan (1845-1939), the eldest son of a clan of children born to the grand and most estimable dealer, Edward Cogan (1803-1884). Though perhaps we are all to be considered children of this "Father of Coin Collecting."

In 1884, Richard Cogan may have been working in numismatics and cataloguing auctions with his brother George out of 408 State Street, Brooklyn. The Cogan family, including George ("Clerk") and Richard ("Clerk in store") with Richard's wife and young son, is all living at this address in the 1880 census. The head of the household is Edward Cogan, "Retired from business." However, only George Cogan's name appears in the 1880s Bangs auction catalogs.

By 1900, Richard Cogan would be a widowed bookkeeper with three children, living in Orange, New Jersey. There are just a handful of entries for Richard Cogan listed within the Newman Numismatic Portal, but in February 1888, he was one of the stars of the Post-Dispatch's article, and he had a lot to say about 1804 dollars.

This image is ChatGPT's depiction of the scene in the New York City restaurant in 1888. Note that I couldn't quite clearly describe the window lettering so that the AI could understand what I wanted. Attempts to fix these errors made ChatGPT even more confused! To the point that I was given a one-hour timeout from asking for any more images. Be that as it may, this image reminds me how much I look forward to seeing the latest from Nummis Nova!

Joel Orosz adds:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
HARLAN SMITH'S 1822 HALF EAGLE (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n06a19.html)

SUMMER SEMINAR MILITARY NUMISMATICS SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarships Available for ANA's Summer Seminar 2026 WWII Military Numismatics Class

Interested in attending the WWII Military Numismatics class taught by Fred Schwan and Joseph Boling? Held the 2nd week of ANA's famed Summer Seminar, from June 27- July 2, 2026, this class will be educational and fun! Below is a summary of the class.

Allied military franc notes were secretly printed in the United States for the D-Day invasion of France, shipped to England, and paid to the troops mere hours before the assault. To hold one is to touch another time—history in your hands! Vast numbers of military and emergency issues were produced during World War II, and their study is fascinating. The issues are remarkably diverse in purpose, use, design, and production. Most were paper, but coins were also created. United States military payment certificates, Allied military currency, and Japanese invasion money are covered in- depth. Axis issues in Europe are included. Most of these series pose many questions and mysteries, making for studies that range from introductory discussions to cutting edge research.

Costs covered: The award of a scholarship carries a maximum value of $1360 (USD.) Early registration (ends 28 March) is strongly encouraged; after that the cost goes up $50 (not covered by the scholarship). This scholarship pays for tuition for the class, a room in Loomis Dormitory (single occupancy) for five nights (Saturday to Wednesday), all of your meals, and free airport shuttles picking up and returning Seminar students to the Colorado Springs airport. The scholarship does not cover transportation to and from Colorado Springs or airport shuttles from/to Denver. Anyone awarded a scholarship will be required to join the ANA at individual expense if not already a member. A one-year basic membership is $35 with an online magazine ($55 to receive the magazine by mail).

Also available: the same scholarship offer can be used to attend Boling's course in detecting worldwide counterfeit paper money in week 1 (June 20-25).

Submitting an application: To apply for a scholarship please submit the following information to Military Numismatists Scholarship, c/o Kathy Freeland, PO Box 195, Mayville MI 48744 USA, or ksfdaf@sbcglobal.net:

• Name, address, phone number, email address
• Numismatic clubs in which you participate (include leadership positions held)
• Significant numismatic exhibits you have placed (and awards)
• Significant numismatic writing you have published (and awards)
• What is your interest in military numismatics?
• What do you hope to gain from attending this seminar?
• Describe contributions you can make to the success of the class.

For more information on the 2026 ANA Summer Seminar, see:
https://www.money.org/summer-seminar/

VOCABULARY TERM: SHEFFIELD PLATE

Sheffield Plate. An early form of silver bonded to copper by fusion, then rolled to desired thickness. While the process was invented by Thomas Boulsover about 1743, it was generally replaced by electroplating about 1850. Electroplating did not require the rolling, as the object could be completely fabricated in base metal then silverplated. Rolled gold is similar to the process of Sheffield plate and is still made to this day, but the modern technology of clad metals has surpassed all early forms of bonding by fusion.

To read the complete entry on the Newman Numismatic Portal, see:
Sheffield Plate (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/dictionarydetail/516743)

COLLECTIBLE POCKET MIRRORS

There are thousands of collectible pocket mirrors and perhaps a hundred ways to collect them. Some people collect items that fit a theme like American Indians, transportation, saloons, cigars or pretty women. Some may collect items from their city, state or region. Mirrors overlap into other collectible areas. Examples are mirrors from political campaigns, world's fairs and Coke.

I did an eBay search on February 19, 2026, for "advertising pocket mirror" and got more than 4400 listings. I suspect fewer than 5% would be considered numismatic.

If the mirror says "GOOD FOR 10 CENTS IN TRADE" it has a stated value and qualifies like metal "GOOD FOR" tokens. If it states GOOD FOR ONE DRINK" it also qualifies as a "GOOD FOR" trade token. Average costs to merchants was six cents.

Celluloid is considered the first plastic. It is produced from nitrocellulose treated with camphor. The celluloid is the clear layer over a printed image and a metal shell. This is considered the front. It is crimped over a glass mirror for the back.

Celluloid mirrors were popular from the 1890's up to Prohibition. Whitehead & Hoag of Newark, New Jersey, patented the first use of celluloid / paper / steel pinbacks and pocket mirrors in 1901.These are the mirrors that command the highest prices. Thank to Alan Weinberg for his comments about celluloid mirrors.

This is a typical good-for trade mirror. I picked this example because it is from Minnesota. This little girl gets around. She appears on dozens of similar mirrors.

Aurora is a small town north of Duluth

CARL ERICKSON'S, AURORA, MINN.

 

This is an example of a birthstone theme mirror popular with jewelry stores but also used for many other businesses. The central image of a child is somewhat unusual.

E. J. MARTIN. TARYTOWN, N. Y.

 

Any mirror with the word "Saloon" on it automatically increases its interest and value. The young woman pictured is much younger than many women in these mirrors.

R. McGEER, VALENTINE, NEBRASKA

 

While all saloon mirrors are good, saloon mirrors from western states are even better. I have driven through New Castle, Wyoming, after a hundred miles without a gas station.

PETE ALMANETTO, NEW CASTLE, WYO.

 

Another saloon mirror to introduce the concept of risqué mirrors. This a very mild example. There were many non-numismatic mirrors that feature Victorian nudes or boudoir photos.

COURT HOUSE SALOON, SAN ANDREAS, CAL.

 

Hal V. Dunn compiled a book Catalog of Western Good For Trade Mirrors.(1995)

The photos for the covers of Dunn's book were taken by Jack Collins in Alan Weinberg's kitchen. It was published by Paul Koppenhaver and Koppenhaver Press in 1995.

The Celluloid era included mirrors that were generally given away as advertising and promotional items. Promoters recognized the market and produced later mirrors for sale to collectors. Although some continue to be advertised as celluloid, the plastic was more likely to be acrylic.

I like this mirror because it reminds me of an AVA horsecar mirror. It does not look like it is a hundred years old. Research indicates the Nashville Flea Market was started in 1969.

Here is another clue to age. On February 19, 2026, this item is available on eBay at a "Buy it Now" price of $9.99. I did not buy it.

 

Many images have been reproduced with modern materials. Among the popular themes are Coke and portraits of attractive women. These may be deceptive for inexperienced collectors. If a mirror does not look like it is a hundred years old, it probably is not.

Coins encased in aluminum frames are normal. Coins encased within steel advertising mirrors are special. Mirrors with Indian Head cents are quite desirable. With an aluminum frame, original coins can be replaced to enhance value. Attempting to replace a coin in a mirror would likely cause severe damage.

A high grade 1902 Indian Head Cent as an encased mirror. If the coin was removed from the frame, it would likely show damage to the rim. It is worth more within the encasement.

The C. G. Braxmar Company, New York, 1902.
Diameter 1.75 inches.

 

Encased 1910 Lincoln cent in an oval frame

Shulman Standard System
Size: 1.75 x 3 inches

They were located in Buffalo, New York.

 

Encased 1946 Lincoln Cent. Other banks also issued encased coin mirrors.

Ridgewood Savings Bank
Diameter 2.25 inches

Originally in Queens, New York. In 2026 they have 36 branches across the state.

 

In the 1930's, encased coin mirrors were produced to promote political campaigns. These would represent a sub-set as a collecting field.

Encased coin mirrors have been produced into the twenty-first century.

When printed on an 8.5 x 11 page, the images are actual size. When viewed on an electronic device, the images may be as large or as small as the viewer wishes.

The February 15, 2026, issue of The E-Sylum had my article on Numismatist Mirrors. These are a subset of collectible pocket mirrors issued since 1973 for coin dealers, collectors and clubs.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NUMISMATIST MIRRORS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n07a17.html)

TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 12.1

Three of us comprised the core of the Project's early "Home Office" in Columbus. Project founder Tommy Thompson and I were joined by Tommy's friend from high school, Barry Schatz. Barry was our communicator, writing Tommy's letters to his investment partners, and assuming the role of a second company spokesperson. Tommy's thoughts didn't always coalesce into words understandable to "normal people." So, Barry translated Tommy for the investors and the wider world. Often, I had to translate Tommy for Barry, the scientific and engineering jargon and concepts being nebulous or obscure, and sometimes fanciful.

Here are the three of us, on the bridge of our ship a few years later, in 1989.

Tommy cajoled a neighborhood acquaintance to rent us spare space in his home. Jim was an attorney and a bachelor, and he had too much room in his sprawling, Victorian near-mansion on gentrifying Neil Avenue in Columbus. His house was well-appointed, with oaken interior frames, moldings, and mantlepieces, an appropriate setting for Tommy to host two or three investors at a time in the front room, in which we fashioned a sort of a business parlor. Jim gave us lots of space, although eventually friction developed between Tommy and him. I established my office in the second-floor front room, with a picture window overlooking the tree-lined avenue.

I would receive faxes from the ship, usually daily. Much of the communication had to do with coordinating supplies with Bob Hodgdon, our onshore logistics guy. Hodgdon and I were "the Bobs." We became known as Log Bob and Info Bob (the first of several nicknames given to me over the past 4 decades.) There were major issues with the initial supplies. Hodgdon was dealing with offshore issues on a coast with no offshore industry except fishing.

This was not Bob Hodgdon's first rodeo. He was a WWII veteran, serving in the wartime Merchant Marine, on Liberty Ships supplying the European theater. Multiple times, convoys in which he served were attacked by U-boats. In the 50's, he was part of a team using sophisticated Zeiss telescopes (acquired from the Germans during the post-surrender occupation) to track the flights of ICBM tests in the Pacific atolls. Later, in 1974, he served in some logistical capacity during the Howard-Hughes-backed, top-secret, CIA recovery of the sunken Russian nuclear submarine K-129 from the extremely deep Pacific seabed, over 17,000 feet deep.

This operation is legendary in deep-sea circles. It was also incredibly expensive, hundreds of millions of dollars, billions in today's dollars, backed at least partially by Hughes's fathomless pockets. But it was an amazing Cold-War intelligence coup. Secrecy had been absolute! It was a "mining test" for deep-sea manganese nodules, and the cover story worked. The Russians never found out we had their sub until well after the operation. In my experience, Bob wouldn't talk about it, except to say that they should never have talked about it.

He was perfect for our own top-secret project. He knew every place to acquire everything the expedition might need, from technical gizmos to watermelons. His demeanor was congenial, like somebody's affable old grandfather, a role he also enjoyed.

Our search plan had been guided by thorough historical research and sophisticated math. Encompassed within the highest probability area (essentially the "bullseye") the survey had imaged an anomaly that looked very much like a sidewheel steamship. Transoceanic sidewheel steamships were a product of only a 30-year period, and only three had sunk in deep water, far off the southeast US coast: the Evening Star (a hurricane in October 1866,) the Daniel Webster (the same storm,) and the Central America, nine years earlier.

The SeaMARC 1A sonar could switch from tracks covering 5,000 meter swaths to higher resolution passes of 1000m or 500m, without retrieving the fish to the ship to adjust the electronics.

This saved a lot of time, since the fish trailed the survey vessel by 3 miles or so when under broad-swath survey operations. When they detected a large anomaly, almost certain to be a shipwreck, inside the bullseye of our map, it called for a closer look, and they performed several passes from multiple directions near the target, to image it from as many angles as possible. One image of this shipwreck was astonishing, and seductive. It showed the "sonic shadow of a sidewheel," cast upon the seabed next to the shipwreck.

In 1987, we visited this site with eager anticipation. Our hopes were dashed almost immediately when we saw the previously promising shipwreck with good visual cameras, instead of just sonar images and a couple passes with an unwieldy camera sled. "Ground truthing" the sonar operators call it, and they envied us our opportunity to compare the pictures they made with sonar to what was really there.

But, once we arrived at the site, we found that our proposed dream treasure shipwreck was apparently a burned-out hulk, with the hull's walls collapsed in such a way as to cast that tantalizing sonic shadow looking so much like a sidewheel. What about the two "masts" that seemed to corroborate the identification of the shipwreck as the Central America? Well, this was another illusion, a long line of anchor chain that trailed out of the middle of the wreck, extending out into the surrounding seabed, and then looping back to the stern.

Tommy, Barry and I huddled to consider our next moves, just as another survey vessel appeared on the horizon. We watched the drama unfold in slow-motion as a nautical pas de deux ensued. We plotted our own position (latitude and longitude,) as well as the range and bearing of the new visitor. Within an hour, this revealed quickly that the mystery vessel was proceeding in a straight line with its speed at around 3 knots. There is no reason for a ship to be doing this in this part of the ocean, unless it is conducting a towed survey. No question about it.

Rivals were looking for the Central America!

To read the complete article, see:
Treasure Talk: Episode 12 Part 1 – Identifying The Shipwreck (https://finestknown.com/treasure-talk-episode-12-part-1-chaos-and-opulence/)

For the complete series, see:
Category Archives: Treasure Talk with Bob Evans (https://finestknown.com/treasure-talk-with-bob-evans/)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n12a12.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 2.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n13a17.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 2.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n14a15.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 3.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n15a16.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 3.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n17a16.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 4.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n18a13.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 4.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n19a20.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 5.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n22a13.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 5.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n23a16.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 6.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n27a14.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 6.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n30a21.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 7.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n32a16.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 7.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n40a15.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 8 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n42a21.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 9 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n49a19.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 10.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n51a17.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 10.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n01a09.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 11 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n04a13.html)

TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 12.2

Our experience in 1987, using the prototype version of Nemo as a towed camera sled, had taught us that pinpointing the exact location of anomalies imaged by the SeaMARC 1A sonar fish towed miles behind the mothership is no simple matter, even if the mothership has precise navigation records. Fortunately, the high-resolution pass that had imaged Site FA had also imaged another fairly nearby anomaly on both that pass and a second reciprocal pass in the opposite direction. The sonar operators apparently had dismissed the importance of the "large geological feature" while focusing on a much smaller and brighter object. But, their chasing of this ultimately unimportant feature gave me additional, comparative numbers allowing me to calculate the "layback" much more accurately. Combining the course of the mothership with the winch-wrap counts and the bathymetry (depth contours,) gave me enough to tell how far the sonar fish was tracking behind the Pine River, and so we had a good estimate of where we thought we would find Site Foxtrot Alpha.

Tommy had Alan Scott check my math. I didn't mind. Alan, our key electrical engineer, C++ programmer, etc., had much better math chops than I did, fluency with calculus and all that. But the current problem was survey stuff, triangles and angles and numbers, algebra and trigonometry, part and parcel of my academic study and professional practice as a geologist. I presented my plot and figures to Alan, and he concurred with my numbers. We drew up a trackline, a path along the bottom over which we would tow Nemo a few meters above the bottom, while we learned the ground truth about Site FA.

It is my distinct impression, reflecting on my years at sea, working on the SSCA site, that the best weather occurs during hurricane season. The calms between the storms can yield smooth, glassy seas.

Of course, the storms can be monsters. We were ready at last to proceed to the FA test site. And then the weather turned nasty.

By evening of the 6th, we were in a full gale. John Patton, the First Mate reported southwesterly seas 15 to 22 feet, with winds of 25 to 35 knots, higher in the squalls. Looking back on this week a long time ago, I must say that it may have been one of the most profound philosophical trials of my life. Somehow, I had invested almost all my hopes in Foxtrot Alpha, which experts had called a geological feature, a pile of rocks that was throwing one last thing in our way. I thought about how we were in a storm looking for a ship lost in those same waters. I waited, and read Melville. Finally, the seas calmed. On September 11, on the very first track we hit the mark. The math I had checked with Alan Scott was spot on.

We passed over an enormous paddlewheel frame, the one architectural feature that shouted, "S.S. Central America!" to the six of us sitting in the control room. Whoops and laughter and exclamations of "You know what THAT is!" filled the room.

And yet, although we were 99% confident that we had found the SSCA, I still harbored a small sliver of doubt. What about those shipwrecks lost the October 1866 hurricane, the Evening Star and the Daniel Webster? They were both sidewheel steamers that sank well off the southeast US coast.

The massive engines would provide an answer. Both the Evening Star and the Daniel Webster were powered by enormous "walking beam" engines. Such engines have one giant cylinder propelled upward by steam pressure, then venting at the top of the stroke. This thrust pushes one end of a mammoth teeter-totter (the walking beam) that rocks on a central fulcrum. The other end of the see-saw is connected to the crank that turns a foot-and-a-half-diameter shaft connected to the paddlewheels on either side of the ship.

The SSCA's engine were a different configuration, two inclined cylinders, each with a 65-inch bore and a 10-foot stroke. Our initial pass over the paddlewheel prompted us to circle back for a closer scrutiny of the engines and other parts of this "large geological feature," now transforming into our dream treasure shipwreck. We saw that the starboard paddle wheel had disengaged from the rest of the drive train, along with a length of the shaft now jutting upward from the spokes lying flat on the seabed, topped by an offset that was part of the "crankshaft" of the steamship.

In between the two paddlewheels we found two sets of inclined cylinders with crossheads and linkages, their forms now murky and mineralized within an enormous mound, hundreds of tons of rust.

This was enough for me. We saw the kind of engines expected only on the SSCA, and I shared this analysis with Tommy. He seemed surprised that I was even checking such details, because we had seen the paddlewheel! My scientific skepticism apparently was not welcome at that celebratory moment. There should be no question about it; I was excited. I remember it as one of the greatest days of my professional life. My hunch about the "geological feature" had proven true! And my math had been correct! Since I spent four months at sea on the wrong shipwrecks the previous year, I just didn't lose my mind, and my objectivity. My reservations had been justified. Now, I was certain we had found the S.S. Central America.

The 1988 version of Nemo was a step up from the 1987 model. Nemo had acquired a new manipulator, a hand with which to grab artifacts and other objects. Testing our manipulator, with flexible fingers, reaching for a bottle, we accidentally scraped half a liter of sediment, in which I found gold dust. (See Treasure Talk Episode 9)

We already knew we had found the SSCA, but we were looking for flashier proof, and Tommy felt a piece of gold the size of a grain of salt was not worth announcing to the investment partners; not the return they were awaiting.

During photographic surveys we found a bell inside the main shipwreck, up near the bow. We dropped a measuring stick nearby to get an idea of its size. My calculations yielded 24 inches wide at the lower flange, unusually large. John Doering, the crane operator and assistant photographer thought it had to be smaller. 24 inches was huge for a ship bell. John thought it was 12 or 14 inches. How could we recover it? Maybe it had the ship's name.

This recovery would be very heavy. We could see that there was an inscription on the bell, but we couldn't read all of it. We could all see that the bell was very large, and I wondered aloud if it was even going to fit in our 2-foot basket slot.

The S.S. Central America has many stories to tell, but it hasn't given up secrets easily. And, if the personification of ships is female, she wouldn't give us her name!

We had coal, paddlewheels, the right engines, even gold dust, and now the giant bronze bell inscribed: "MORGAN IRON WORKS NEW YORK 1853"

Morgan Iron Works had built and installed the engines as the SSCA was being built.

Full confirmation. Proof beyond doubt of any kind. We had found the S.S. Central America.

On the dive following this discovery by photograph, we landed next to the pile, dusted away some of the sediment with a forward mounted thruster, and were the first to see the magnificence of the greatest lost treasure in United States history, now found.

Thousands of mint-state 1857-S double eagles erased all questions or concerns about the shipwreck's identity.

Still, she didn't give us her name.

The Elusive Name:

In 2014, we found the cast iron purser's safe lying 28 meters outside the portside timbers of the main shipwreck. In Treasure Talk 6: Part 2, I covered the recovery of the ship's money, including almost 9,000 dimes, from a parcel on the lower shelf of that safe. Other parcels inside the safe were passenger consignments, containing a wonderfully diverse suite of US and foreign gold and silver coins, as well as many bags of gold dust.

In a top compartment we found a bundled, blackened, externally gooey, bundle of what appeared to be paper. It was sent to a qualified laboratory, Northeast Document Center, to see what could be saved.

It was revealed to be the purser's bundle of ticket receipts.

But Purser William Hull also had the outbound receipts from New York to Panama in the bundle.

There, emblazoned in black ink across the top line, we finally saw the ship's name:

"UNITED STATES MAIL STEAMSHIP CENTRAL AMERICA"

I remember being startled when the conservation lab revealed the nature of these bundled documents. Just to finally see the name in print was such a jolt, a quarter century after we first saw the paddlewheel.

To read the complete article, see:
Treasure Talk: Episode 12 Part 2 – Have we found the S.S. Central America? (https://finestknown.com/treasure-talk-episode-12-part-2-have-we-found-the-s-s-central-america/)

For the complete series, see:
Category Archives: Treasure Talk with Bob Evans (https://finestknown.com/treasure-talk-with-bob-evans/)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n12a12.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 2.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n13a17.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 2.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n14a15.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 3.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n15a16.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 3.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n17a16.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 4.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n18a13.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 4.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n19a20.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 5.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n22a13.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 5.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n23a16.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 6.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n27a14.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 6.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n30a21.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 7.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n32a16.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 7.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n40a15.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 8 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n42a21.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 9 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n49a19.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 10.1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n51a17.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 10.2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n01a09.html)
TREASURE TALK WITH BOB EVANS, EPISODE 11 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n04a13.html)

ATLAS NUMISMATICS SELECTIONS: FEBRUARY 22, 2026

1084996 | ROMAN IMPERIAL. SYRIA. Antioch. Nero. (Emperor, 54-68 AD). Struck 63 AD. AR Tetradrachm. NGC AU? (About Uncirculated ?) Strike 5/5 Surface 4/5. 25mm. 15.32gm. NEPON KAISAP-SEBASTOS. Laureate bust of Nero wearing aegis, right ETOYS-BIP•I (dates). Eagle standing facing on thunderbolt, head right, tail left, wings spread; palm branch in right field. RPC 4189; Prieur 89.

Dated Regnal Year 10 and Year 112 of the Caesarean Era (AD 63/4). Given the star designation by NGC for exceptional eye appeal.

Ex Numismatic Fine Arts XVIII (March 1987) Lot 444.

To read the complete item description, see:
1084996 | ROMAN IMPERIAL. SYRIA. Antioch. (https://atlasnumismatics.com/1084996/)

1084610 | ROMAN IMPERIAL. Vespasian. (Emperor, 69-79 AD). Struck 69-79 AD. AV Aureus. NGC Ch. XF (Choice Extremely Fine) Strike 5/5 Surface 4/5. Lugdunum. 20mm. 7.33gm. IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG TR P. Head of Vespasian, laureate, right COS ITER-TR POT. Neptune standing left, right foot resting on prow, dolphin right in outstretched right hand, grounded scepter in left. RIC II.1, 1108; Calicó 611.

Ex Santamaria Auction Collezioni Marchese Roberto Venturi - Ginori, Dott. Ing. Comm. Pietro Gariazzo. Monete Greche e Romane., January 1938 Lot 369; reportedly Ex. Trivulzio family Collection, acquired between 1745 and 1769 by Don Carlo Trivulzio (1715-1789, his manuscript catalogue no. XXVI-3), sold en-bloc in 1935 to Pietro Accorsi (1891-1982), by whom supposedly resold en-bloc to Pietro Antonio Gariazzo (1866-1943). . Housed in an NGC holder noting the Twelve Caesars.

To read the complete item description, see:
1084610 | ROMAN IMPERIAL. (https://atlasnumismatics.com/1084610/)

1085902 | AUSTRIAN STATES. Salzburg. Paris von Lodron. (Prince-Archbishop, 1619-1653). 1628 AV 8 Ducats. NGC MS61. 27.77gm. ECCLES • METROP • SALISB : DEDICATVR 25. SEPT : APARIDE • ARCHIE. Cathedral divides date with saints at sides in inner circle, arms below S : S : RVPERT • VS • ET • VIRGILIVS • PATRONI • TRANSFERVNTVR • 24. SEPT. Reliquary carried by eight bishops, two angels below reliquary in inner circle. KM 130; Zöttl 1252; Fr.-731.

Ex Salton Collection - Künker Auction 362 (22 March 2022) Lot 1441G. Includes original collector's envelope.

To read the complete item description, see:
1085902 | AUSTRIAN STATES. Salzburg. (https://atlasnumismatics.com/1085902/)

1085488 | FRANCE. Jean II Le Bon. (King, 1350-1364). (1350-64) AV Mouton d'Or. NGC MS64. 4.72gm. Lamb and cruciform staff with flying banner Floriated cross in quadrilobe, fleurs de lis in angles. Friedberg 280; Duplessy 291; Ciani 354.

To read the complete item description, see:
1085488 | FRANCE. (https://atlasnumismatics.com/1085488/)

1083802 | GERMAN STATES. Paderborn. Sede Vacante. 1761 AR Medal. PCGS MS63. By J. Thiebaud. 43.56mm. 29.10gm. Saint Liborius with a crosier and Charlemagne with a sword together holding a model of the cathedral, surrounded by the coats of arms of 12 canons Three shields in a triangular formation, surrounded by the coats of arms of ten canons with their names. Schwede 278; Zepernick 243.

To read the complete item description, see:
1083802 | GERMAN STATES. Paderborn. Sede Vacante. 1761 AR Medal. PCGS MS63. (https://atlasnumismatics.com/1083802/)

1086319 | GREAT BRITAIN. England. Charles I. (King, 1625-1649). (1633-38) ND-(portcullis) AR Crown. NGC MS63. Tower (London) mint. 29.92gm. King on horseback riding to left; wearing crown and holding sword upright Plumes surmount ornate quartered oval shield of arms. SCBC-2759.

Superb choice mint state with a lovely cabinet patina and an excellent provenance. One of the finest surviving examples of the type. In our opinion of significantly finer technical grade than the Geoffrey Cope example of SCBC-2758 (realized CHF 70,000 hammer or approximately $94,500 with the buyer's premium on 8 May 2024); that piece had a stronger strike but hairlined fields.

Ex Spink Coin Auction, No. 70 (1989) Lot 84; Ex Dr. E. Burstal, Glendining & Co. (15 May 1968) Lot 256; Ex John G. Brooker Collection - Coins of Charles I, SCBI 33 No. 253.

To read the complete item description, see:
1086319 | GREAT BRITAIN. England. (https://atlasnumismatics.com/1086319/)

1085867 | GREAT BRITAIN. Victoria. (Queen, 1837-1901). 1859 Nickel-Bronze Pattern Farthing. NGC PR66? RD (Red) Cameo. VICTORIA D:G: BRITANNIAR: REG: F:D. Young head with double fillet; rose beneath within "cartwheel" border ONE FARTHING * MDCCCLIX *. Britannia seated within beaded circle. Freeman 731 (R-19, 2-5 known); BMC Peck 2023.

Ex Michael J. Freeman Collection, Christies (23 October 1984) Lot 214. (M. J. Freeman, author of The Bronze Coinage of Great Britain) .

To read the complete item description, see:
1085867 | GREAT BRITAIN. (https://atlasnumismatics.com/1085867/)

1085716 | HAITI. Henri Christophe. (King of North Haiti, 1811-1820). 1811 // AN 8 AR Pattern Crown. PCGS MS62. HENRICUS DEI GRATIA HAITI REX. Laureate armored bust right DEUS. CAUSA. ATQUE GLADIUS MEUS. Crowned shield with rising phoenix. KM X-11.

Rare original issue, distinguishable from the estrikes by the reverse die cracks that runs through L'AN 8 as well as several other portions of the legend.

To read the complete item description, see:
1085716 | HAITI. (https://atlasnumismatics.com/1085716/)

1085728 | JAPAN. (1860-62) AV Oban. PCGS MS62. Edo (Tokyo). 134.5mm x 80mm. 112.51gm. Crenulations with vertical calligraphic inscription in ink; four circular flower-stamps (or hanaoshi) composed of 5-3 pattern paulownia seals (????? or Maru ni go-san kiri) Three stamps running down the middle with three smaller stamps to the lower left, (?) (?) (?); . C 24a.1; JNDA 09-11.

Hammered Coinage. Handmade horizontal crenulations. Along the spine, Yoshiuki, inscription by Goto Noriyuki, Gensho, 1860-1862, 1st year of the Man'en era - 2nd year of the Bunkyu era (1860-1862), Ko 6. Three stamps running down the middle with three smaller stamps to the lower left, (?) (?) (?)

Housed in an oversized holder and includes JNDA Certifiction (No. 74169).

To read the complete item description, see:
1085728 | JAPAN. (https://atlasnumismatics.com/1085728/)

Updates to their online inventory are issued monthly.

For more information and to sign up for the firm's monthly newsletter, visit:
atlasnumismatics.com.

 

NUMISMAGRAM MEDAL SELECTIONS: FEBRUARY 22, 2026

103272 | SWITZERLAND. Frauenfeld. Silver Shooting Medal. Issued 1890. Commemorating the federal shooting festival in Frauenfeld in Thurgau, from 20–30 July (45mm, 38.49 g, 12h). By Hughes Bovy in Geneva.

HEIL DIR HELVETIA, personification of Helvetia standing left, head right, holding a sword and shield; Frauenfeld Castle in the background to the left; to right, personification of Thurgau seated left, resting hand upon a garnished cantonal coat-of-arms // EIDGENÖSSISCHES SCHÜTZENFEST IN FRAUENFELD / JULI 1890, civic coat-of-arms over laurel and oak branches, and rifles crossed in saltire. Richter 1250b.

PCGS SP-62. Deeply mirrored and very vibrantly toned, with great contrast between fields and devices; seemingly a bit conservatively assessed and, as such, a premium quality piece at this near-choice designation.

The shooting festivals—in this sense, at the federal level—are considered one of the most important events in Swiss life, having played a historic role in the establishment of the Swiss state and serving as a vital connection to the nation's past. The first federal shooting festival was held in Aarau in 1824, and subsequent festivals were then held every few years, with numerous cities rotating as host. Since 1985, these festivals have been held at a fixed point every five years, the most recent having been held in July 2021 in Luzern (originally scheduled for 2020, but delayed due to the global pandemic).

To read the complete item description, see:
103272 | SWITZERLAND. Frauenfeld. Silver Shooting Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103272)

103251 | GERMANY. Gordon Bennett Cup silver Award Medal. Issued 1904 for the 342-mile race near Bad Homburg vor der Höhe (33mm, 16.98 g, 12h). By Emil Döpler for L. C. Lauer in Nürnberg.

WILHELM • II • DEUTSCHER KAISER KÖNIG VON PREUSSEN •, bust of Wilhelm left; in background, rising sun over cityscape of Bad Homburg // Date above DAC monogram (Deutscher Automobilclub); Genius, holding torch, driving antique automobile right; to left, Victory standing right at back of auto. Edge: SILBER 0,990.

Wurzbach 9694. PCGS MS-63. Steely gray surfaces, with some deeper hues nearer the peripheries along with a charming matte nature throughout. Great early automotive type. Compare to a similar, though somewhat inferior example in Künker eLive 88 (21 July 2025), which realized a total of $449 after the buyer's fee.

The 1904 Gordon Bennett Cup, formally styled as the V Coupe Internationale, was an automobile race run on 17 June 1904 around the Taunus mountain range north of Frankfurt. As the 1903 race winner was from Germany, the privilege of hosting the 1904 race fell to that country, with Kaiser Wilhelm II suggesting this mountain range. The course, nearly 80 miles in length, hosted four laps, with the eventually winner—Léon Théry of France—beating a field of 17 other drivers hailing from six countries, all with an 11 minute margin of victory.

To read the complete item description, see:
103251 | GERMANY. Gordon Bennett Cup silver Award Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103251)

103410 | UNITED STATES & GERMANY. America's Peace Terms cast bronze Medal. Dated 1918. "Wilsons Botschaft, Die 14 Punkte"—on the occasion of President Wilson's "Fourteen Points" speech before a joint session of Congress (58mm, 78.99 g, 12h). By Karl Goetz in München.

WILSON'S BOTSCHAFT, half-length figure of Woodrow Wilson reaching over globe, pointing to tablet inscribed with fourteen points // WELTFRIEDENS PROGRAMM (world peace program), eagle with wings spread, grasping in claws a tablet inscribed with four additional points; scales behind, five orbs of fire raining from above. Edge: Plain.

Kienast 203; Klose –; Art of Devastation p. 276, fig. 71. Choice Mint State. Warm brown surfaces, with some glossiness in the fields.

On 8 January 1918, Woodrow Wilson delivered a speech to Congress in which he outlined his Fourteen Points, a post-war plan for peace in Europe. Allies widely distributed copies of the speech behind German lines to encourage Germany to surrender, with the expectation that fair terms would be reached. The terms of surrender ultimately changed, however, and called for crushing penalties that shocked Germans and inspired Goetz to create this satirical medal.

To read the complete item description, see:
103410 | UNITED STATES & GERMANY. America's Peace Terms cast bronze Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103410)

103470 | GERMANY. Avian silver Prize Medal. Engraved 1936. For Meritorious Achievements Presented by the Canary Breeders' Association in Gera (35mm, 15.77 g, 12h). By Otto Oertel in Berlin.

FÜR VERDIENSTVOLLE LEISTUNGEN, canary standing right upon nest in which rests another canary facing left // Garlanded oak wreath containing engraving in four lines: "Zum 50-jähr / Jubiläum / des K. Z. V. Gera / 1936." : + OSTERLANDISCHER KANARIENZÜCHTER–VERBAND / ZEITZ / 1929 / A.–KL. Edge: SILBER 990; loop removed from top. Choice Mint State. Highly vibrant and deeply toned an enticing iridescence.

The practice of breeding and keeping birds––known as aviculture––has been a long-standing hobby of bird enthusiasts, with the Avicultural Society of America being founded in 1927. In Europe, however, the organized practice dates back even further, with numerous local and regional clubs––especially in Germany––dedicated to the pursuit in the 19th century. Similar to kennel clubs, these groups would organize competitions in which a participant's flock could be judged against their peers, with the top finishers receiving prize medals for their bird(s). These medals were sometimes struck in different metals in order to distinguish placement, while other times the ranking may be indicated in the text. To add a further degree of personalization, some were engraved in order to convey the specific chapter which hosted the competition and/or the recipient of the prize. These medals also presented their designer with an excellent chance to showcase their avian artistry, as few aspects of numismatics display birds as the prime subject and in such detail.

To read the complete item description, see:
103470 | GERMANY. Avian silver Prize Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103470)

103320 | HUNGARY. Prof. Dr. Kettesy Aladár bronze Medal. Issued 1973. Commemorating the 80th birthday of the ophthalmologist (86mm, 455.9 g, 12h). By Madarassy Walter.

PROF DR KETTESY ALADÁR 80 ÉVES, bare head left // Ophthalmologist, in surgical gown and mask, operating on draped patient lying supine to left; to upper left, an assistant holds a light over the field. Edge: Plain.

Galst & van Alfen I.132 (this piece illustrated and on the cover); Huszár & Varannai 356; Györffy 32. Essentially as made. Enticing brown surfaces, with deeper hues in the recesses and lighter hints upon the higher points. A very powerful type that serves as the cover medal to Galst & van Alfen's Ophthalmologia Optica & Visio in Nummis, with this particular piece being the example illustrated.

Ex Jay M. Galst Collection.

Ex Dr. Ira Rezak Collection.

The following is the brief biography presented in Galst & van Alfen: "Kettesy's surname was originally Kreiker, which he changed to one more Hungarian and less German in order to pursue a public career. For decades he was the director of the Eye Clinic of the Medical University of Debrecen, a position he accepted after study with both Imre Josef and von Blaskovics Laszlo, with whom he wrote a major textbook on ophthalmology. His role in Hungarian ophthalmology was also enhanced by the development of his chart, still used today, for testing in refraction."

To read the complete item description, see:
103320 | HUNGARY. Prof. Dr. Kettesy Aladár bronze Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103320)

HERITAGE: SEATED LIBERTY SHOWCASE

1837 H10C No Stars, Small Date (Flat Top 1) AU50+ PCGS. The Plus designation on this piece is certainly intriguing, though I do wonder if the PCGS graders deemed this piece finer than the typical AU50 because of the wear level or because of the toning. In both areas, the coin is exceptional. It also represents the highly sought after No Stars design type, which is my personal favorite Seated Liberty design variation. The collector seeking a simple but attractive type coin need look no further.

To read the complete item description, see:
1837 H10C No Stars, Small Date (Flat Top 1) AU50+ PCGS. (https://coins.ha.com/itm/seated-half-dimes/1837-h10c-no-stars-small-date-flat-top-1-au50-pcgs-pcgs-population-54-in-50-1-in-50-383-finer-12-25-cdn-/a/60516-53002.s?ctrack=200071&type=bodylink-3b-coinus-picks-60516-Liberty-tem021826)

1876 20C XF45 PCGS. The 1876 twenty cent is one of the less often seen issues in the twenty cent series, though it remains collectible in most grades. The current coin is a lovely Choice XF example, and one that will serve as an excellent collector-grade type coin while representing a more elusive date. It seems there is a lot of demand for nice twenty cent type coins. If you want your collection to stand out a little more without breaking the bank, a Choice XF 1876 coin like this may be the ideal option.

To read the complete item description, see:
1876 20C XF45 PCGS. (https://coins.ha.com/itm/twenty-cent-pieces/1876-20c-xf45-pcgs-pcgs-population-98-in-45-599-finer-12-25-cdn-550-whsle-bid-for-ngc-pcgs-xf45-mintage-14-/a/60516-53077.s?ctrack=200071&type=bodylink-3b-coinus-picks-60516-Liberty-tem021826)

1844 25C XF45 PCGS. I have long held the pre-1853 With Drapery Seated quarters in high regard for their scarcity in attractive circulated grades. These coins are exceptionally elusive, far more so than most values would suggest. This 1844 represents one of the more often seen issues in this part of the series, but almost never is a nice XF example seen with such beautiful patina and problem-free surfaces. This is the sort of coin the novice may overlook but the advanced specialist will recognize for the scarce coin it is.

To read the complete item description, see:
1844 25C XF45 PCGS. (https://coins.ha.com/itm/seated-quarters/1844-25c-xf45-pcgs-pcgs-population-19-in-45-77-finer-11-25-cdn-215-whsle-bid-for-ngc-pcgs-xf45-mintage-421-/a/60516-53085.s?ctrack=200071&type=bodylink-3b-coinus-picks-60516-Liberty-tem021826)

1849-O 25C Good 4 PCGS. CAC. The 1849-O is an enigmatic key date in the series with an unrecorded mintage and an enticingly small survivorship. Any example, even impaired pieces, will command a premium to the right collector, while precious few coins carry CAC endorsement. The current coin will no doubt capture many collectors' eyes. It is a problem-free, honest Good 4 coin with attractive old-silver patina and CAC approval. It's easy to look in awe upon high-grade rarities, but exemplary collector coins like this are as rare. I consider this one of the best pieces in this auction.

To read the complete item description, see:
1849-O 25C Good 4 PCGS. CAC. (https://coins.ha.com/itm/seated-quarters/1849-o-25c-good-4-pcgs-cac-pcgs-population-13-in-4-104-finer-cac-2-in-4-16-finer-11-25-cdn-1-150-whsle-b/a/60516-53089.s?ctrack=200071&type=bodylink-3b-coinus-picks-60516-Liberty-tem021826)

1869 $1 XF40 PCGS. CAC. A nice, problem-free With Motto Seated dollar type coin can often be more difficult to find than one might expect considering how many of the Philadelphia issues of this era are considered common dates. The problem comes because the Seated dollar series is heavily affected by cleaning, environmental impairments, and even generous grading. When a problem-free coin does appear, the eye appeal often leaves much to be desired. Pick any Seated dollar date, and there will be merely a handful of coins on the market with CAC endorsement. In my experience, CAC-approved coins tend to be more attractive than those not stickered, as is the case with the current coin. It is a well detailed 1869 dollar with uniform, natural stone-gray patina and that lovely old-silver look.

To read the complete item description, see:
1869 $1 XF40 PCGS. CAC. (https://coins.ha.com/itm/seated-dollars/1869-1-xf40-pcgs-cac-pcgs-population-35-in-40-189-finer-cac-1-in-40-23-finer-11-25-cdn-800-whsle-bid-fo/a/60516-53220.s?ctrack=200071&type=bodylink-3b-coinus-picks-60516-Liberty-tem021826)

KUENKER AUCTION SALES 438-441, PART TWO

German States

You will find coins from the German States spread across three catalogs:

• Gold coins and medals in Künker 439,

• Silver coins and medals with the Dr. Wolfgang Kümpfel Collection of Saxony, Coburg and Gotha in Künker 441,

• as well as Württemberg rarities from the Gaiser Collection in Künker 440.

And these are just a few highlights on the subject of the German States.

In this auction preview, we present just a few of the many outstanding pieces. From Prussia, for instance, there is an award medal of the Leopoldinisch-Carolinische Akademie that was presented to Professor Adolf Fick in 1893 (No. 2380). Adolf Fick was arguably the most important physiologist of the 19th century. He worked both mathematically and experimentally, breaking new ground in medical research. Even today, cardiologists are familiar with the "Fick principle" and physicists with "Fick's laws of diffusion". His importance to the development of modern medicine is demonstrated by the fact that his Wikipedia article is available in 33 languages.

A Nuremberg gold medal (No. 2458) commemorates a key event in monetary history during the Thirty Years' War. On 15 May 1624, a "Probationstag" – a meeting to test coins – was held in Regensburg. At this gathering, the three southwestern German imperial circles of Swabia, Franconia and Bavaria agreed on a new, fixed exchange rate between small coins and coins of stable value, such as talers and ducats. This brought an end to the devastating period of currency instability during the financial crisis called "Kipper und Wipper" in the south of the empire, which had caused lasting damage to trade due to the unpredictable and poor quality of the currency. The fact that the three major imperial cities of Augsburg, Regensburg and Nuremberg guaranteed compliance with the convention – at least within their territories – can be considered a significant diplomatic achievement.

The unsigned medal commemorating this event is now believed to be the work of Christian Maler, who took over his father's workshop in Nuremberg in 1603. There is evidence that he worked there at least until 1625/27. Incidentally, in 1613, he was granted an imperial privilege to protect all his medal designs from imitation.

Those interested in bracteates will find a wide selection in auction 441, covering all areas of the German States. These bracteates come from the Jürgen and Erika Schmidt Collection. They are characterized by their quality and artistic caliber. It is clear how carefully the collector couple selected the pieces. They succeeded in acquiring numerous rarities. These include a bracteate from Quedlinburg Abbey by Abbess Beatrix II von Winzenburg (No. 4350), who was one of the most powerful women in the high medieval German church hierarchy. She was responsible for founding several monasteries. Aware of her power, she is depicted in full regalia: enthroned on a folding chair, as was customary for official occasions, she holds an open book and a crosier as the insignia of her office. This bracteate is also one of the rare specimens that bear a clearly visible legend.

Finally, we would like to mention the magnificent reichstaler of Augustus the Strong depicting the Polish Order of the White Eagle (No. 4464). It was founded in 1705 to reward Augustus' supporters who helped him regain the throne. The unusual inscription "Restaurator Ordinis Aquilae Polonicae" (= Restorer of the Order of the Polish Eagle) is related to the fact that Augustus claimed to have revived an order of King Wladyslaws I that did not actually exist. This allowed him to circumvent the Polish nobility's resistance to the new award.

A Large Series of Löser Issues

Once again, the Künker auction house has the pleasure of offering a large series of lösers from Brunswick. They include an extremely rare 1614 specimen of 10 reichstalers, minted on behalf of Frederick Ulrich in Goslar or Zellerfeld. Also on offer is a löser of 2 reichstalers commemorating the death of Augustus the Younger, as well as a löser of 4 reichstalers minted under Frederick in Clausthal in 1639.

The Dr. Wolfgang Kümpfel Collection – Saxe-Coburg-Gotha

60 lots from the Ernestine branches in Coburg and Gotha will be auctioned on the afternoon of 19 March 2026. They are from the collection of Dr. Wolfgang Kümpfel, a chemist and an enthusiastic supporter of his hometown of Gotha. He was fascinated by its history and inspired by its former status as a ducal residence, as so many reminders of its former glory have been preserved in the castle. This is why the collector prioritized historical importance and attractive designs when selecting his pieces. A good example of this is a 1680 taler commemorating the construction of Friedrichswerth Castle (not to be confused with Friedenstein Castle in Gotha), or the 1692 ducat created on behalf of Frederick II of Saxe-Gotha-Altenburg to mark his homage in Gotha. We know that the prince received 45 specimens of this issue, totaling 115 pieces, to give as gifts to princely visitors at the homage ceremony.

The Heinz-Falk Gaiser Collection: Württemberg, Part 3

This brings us to the third and final auction of Württemberg coins from the Heinz-Falk Gaiser Collection. The sale comprises 153 lots from the period from 1797 to 1918. Once again, there are numerous rarities in exceptional quality to be discovered, which will delight not only collectors of Württemberg coinage. These include the extremely rare Frederick d'ors of 1810 bearing the title of king, the so-called Königstaler (king's taler) of 1806, and the very rare 1809 konventionstaler in exceptional condition. And all those interested in coins from the German Empire should not forget to take a look at the Gaiser Collection: it includes 13 exceptionally well-preserved pieces from this period.

German Coins Minted After 1871

And this brings us to the German Empire: of course, Künker is offering a comprehensive selection of coins minted after 1871, i.e., coins from the German Empire and the Weimar Republic. Many of these pieces are from the Jürgen and Erika Schmidt Collection, including an interesting selection of FDC fractional pieces and numerous Proof coins of the Weimar Republic.

Another exceptional highlight is a small but sweet series of patterns of imperial silver coins.

Coins from the Habsburg Empire from the Dr. Herbert Wenzel Collection, Among Others

This auction also features an extensive portion of the spectacular collection of Kommerzialrat Dr. Herbert Wenzel from Vienna. These coins from the Habsburg Empire are distinguished by their rarity and exceptional quality. We would like to mention here a previously unknown multiple issue of Matthias with a weight of 8 ducats, minted in Vienna in 1609 (No. 2264), as well as a wearable gold medal of 40 ducats created in 1711 to commemorate the arrival of Emperor Charles VI for his coronation in Frankfurt (No. 2287). This piece is likely to be unique.

Another noteworthy piece is the quadruple representative taler of 1629, minted on behalf of Ferdinand III in Prague (No. 4757). 19th-century numismatists attempted to explain this magnificent issue as being related to the emperor's recovery from smallpox, which seems rather unlikely. A much more realistic explanation is that it was used as a diplomatic gift at the Regensburg Electors' assembly. At that time, Ferdinand II was attempting to secure the election of his son as king. He failed because the Spanish Habsburgs required military support in the Netherlands. Thus, in order to obtain the support of the imperial princes, the King had to do without the princes' promise to elect his son as king and even had to sacrifice Wallenstein, who was very unpopular with the electors.

To conclude our brief exploration of the Habsburg Empire, let us examine a 1790 konventionstaler minted in Vienna for Hungary (No. 4896). This interesting piece is unusual in its condition. It is a perfectly preserved first strike from particularly fresh dies, showing every detail of the design.

To order a catalog contact Künker, Nobbenburger Straße 4a, 49076 Osnabrück; phone: +49 541 / 962020; fax: +49 541 / 9620222; or via e-mail: service@kuenker.de. You can access the auction catalogs online at www.kuenker.de. If you want to submit your bid from your computer at home, please remember to register for this service in good time.

WAYNE'S NUMISMATIC DIARY: FEBRUARY 22, 2026

On Tuesday, February 17 I headed out from home for the monthly dinner meeting of my Northern Virginia numismatic social group Nummis Nova. Our host was Steve Bishop, who'd chosen the Southeast Impression restaurant in Fairfax. It was the first day of the 2026 Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year). The place was packed and we were the only non-Asians in the building. They put us in a room at the back. The food was marvelous - good pick, Steve!

I was the first to arrive and was quickly joined by Robert Hoppensteadt. The table filled quickly and we had to squeeze in another chair. Julian Leidman arrived and sat between us at the head of the table. Other attendees were Steve, Mike Packard, Erik Douglas, Jon Radel, and my guests Kellen Hoard and Fox Besch. Fox is a fellow student with Kellen at George Washington University who studies archeology and has an interest in British coinage.

I took a couple exterior shots at the end of the evening. That's Julian inside the door waiting for Erik to bring their car around.

Why use silverware when you can use goldenware?

See the article by Julia Casey elsewhere in this issue about a group of numismatists gathering in New York City. She used ChatGPT to reimagine our February 2026 dinner as if it had taken place in 1888.

Wayne's Books
I usually bring along some numismatic literature and just had two items this time - a copy of the new Robert Powers book on 1794 cents and the latest Kolbe & Fanning sale catalog.

To read the earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
NEW BOOK: A YEAR IN COPPER: THE 1794 LARGE CENT (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n03a02.html)
KOLBE & FANNING SALE 176 ANNOUNCED (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n06a02.html)
KOLBE & FANNING SALE 176 HIGHLIGHTS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n07a02.html)

Caracalla Medallion
Robert Hoppensteadt passed around this rare and seldom-seen Roman Medallion of Caracalla. He kindly provided the images and a description based on a 2009 CNG catalogue (auction 81 lot 792 - not this specific coin) with "a few minor changes to include the Berk and Harmer Rooke provenance, RPC info and details specific to the coin". Thanks.

PHRYGIA, Laodicea ad Lycum. Caracalla. AD 198-217. Æ Medallion - 43mm 49 g. L. Aelius Pigres, Asiarch. Struck AD 214-217. Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right / ? AI? ?IGPHC ACIAPX G ANETHKEN, • ?AO?IK?ON/N?OKOPON in exergue, emperor standing right on steps of distyle temple, holding wreath in right hand; on either side, pair of togate figures raising hand in acclamation; behind, troops standing, holding shields and spears; all within precinct enclosure, seen from aerial perspective; enclosure entrance composed of six columns; figure of Hygieia, holding serpent, standing in outer intercolumnations; uncertain figures (Pigres and spouse?) standing facing in central intercolumnation. Von Aulock, Phrygiens -; SNG München -; SNG Leypold -; SNG von Aulock -; BMC 227 (same rev. die); Friedlaender and von Sallet 876; SGI 2592 (same dies) RPC V.2 unnasigned right now one of 12 most in museums. VF, brown surfaces. An attractive architectural type and extremely rare. ex Berk and Harmer Rooke auction 25 1986.

This medallion commemorates an otherwise unknown address of the emperor Caracalla to the leading citizens of Laodicea during that emperor's advance across Asia Minor to meet the Persians. This issue appears to have been struck as a personal dedication of the Asiarch, as evidenced by the reverse legend.

Steve's Type Coins
Here are a couple of the nice U.S. type coins Steve Bishop brought to show.

Julian and Erik gave Kellen and Fox a ride back to campus afterwards. Another great evening of numismatic fellowship.

Key West Side Trip
The next morning my wife dropped me off at Dulles Airport and I hopped on a flight to Key West where I met up with NBS President Len Augsburger and his wife Debra. On Friday we were joined by numismatic literature dealers (and Asylum Editor) David and Maria Fanning. We had a great time catching up, socializing, dining and doing some touristy things. Here are some photos including the closest things to numismatics I came across.

Cash is still king at Harpoon Harry's Diner and more than one dollar-decorated bar.

Pennies were no good at this bakery, but the Turtle Museum was still pressing them. Coin jewelry was also on offer.

Bibliophiles would appreciate the prints on display at the Audubon House museum.

Adjacent to the house museum is a shop selling Audubon bird prints. I asked the proprietor if she was aware of the long-lost Audubon Grouse print from his early days as a banknote engraver. She wasn't - I gave her some keywords and she looked up the article about Eric Newman's discovery.

To read the complete article, see:
Discovered! The First Engraving of an Audubon Bird (https://dvoc.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Cassinia_74-75_Discovered-The-First-Engraving-of-an-Audubon-Bird.pdf)

 

SHIPWRECK COINS WEREN'T ALWAYS SO DESIRABLE

Twenty of the ships managed to ride out the storm that day and the next, but eight were lost, including the Atocha and her sister ship, the Santa Margarita. Those two were swept into the Florida Keys, where the Santa Margarita ran aground and wrecked on the reefs. The Atocha was overcome by waves and sunk in deeper water. Of the 265 lives onboard, only five survived.

Spanish salvage efforts recovered most of the Santa Margarita's treasure over the next decade by sending enslaved people down in brass diving bells, killing many of them in the process and writing off their lives as business expenses. But the vast treasures in the Atocha remained out of reach, 55 feet below the surface, for the next 350 years.

It wasn't until 1973 that any of the Atocha's cargo was recovered, when a small crew led by Mel Fisher and his company, Treasure Salvors, pulled up three silver bars that were unmistakably matched to the Atocha's manifest. His company continued searching for years, recovering scattered artifacts and gold bars until finally discovering the mother lode in 1985: piles of silver bars and chests full of coins, emeralds, and more worth an estimated $450 million, making it the most valuable shipwreck in history — at least for the next 30 years. Its worth would be dwarfed by the 2015 discovery off the coast of Colombia of the Spanish galleon San José, which sank in 1708 with cargo valued today at $17 billion or more — almost all of which remains on the ocean floor as Indigenous groups, Spain, Colombia, and American treasure hunters fight over it in courts.

Today, coins from the Atocha and other shipwrecks can command premium prices from collectors intrigued by the history of these recovered treasures. On February 23, Heritage presents an auction dedicated entirely to coins and other treasures recovered from the sea. In Spotlight: Shipwreck & Treasure Featuring Selections from the Salvager Collection World Coins Showcase Auction, lots range from a 3.22-carat emerald salvaged from the Atocha to a silver ingot weighing more than 74 pounds to coins recovered from the Golden Fleece, which sank in the northern Caribbean. Aside from gems and precious metals, salvage operations often find fascinating items of historic interest, such as an astrolabe from the Golden Fleece and ceramic cups and saucers from a 1752 wreck in South China.

But shipwreck coins weren't always so desirable. In fact, until fairly recently, the opposite was the case, says Heritage Auctions Numismatist Thomas Ribeiro. "Until about a decade ago, a shipwreck coin was a damaged coin," he says. "No one wanted to collect them because they were considered to be diminished in value just like if they had a hole or a scratch on them. Around 2010, people started to understand their historical importance."

Historically significant treasures from shipwrecks include coins and bullion from Spanish, British, French, Dutch, and other fleets stretching back hundreds of years. The 1715 Treasure Fleet, which comprises 11 Spanish ships and some 1,500 sailors lost in a hurricane along the east coast of Florida on July 31 of that year after setting off from Havana for Spain, is also heavily represented in the shipwreck coin market. Common coins from the Atocha and the 1715 Fleet and other Spanish wrecks include 8 Reales, or "pieces of eight" in the lingo of pirate movies, some in the form of cobs, crude irregularly shaped coins that were hand-struck in the New World. Precious metals, coins, and other valuables are also recovered from more modern ships, such as silver from World War I and II cargo vessels sunk by German submarines.

Most shipwreck coins on the market today originate from salvage operations in the 1970s and '80s, Ribeiro says, as there were fewer regulations on keeping recovered artifacts. The legal ownership of salvaged cargo varies depending on relevant laws in the state, territory, or nation where it is found, and the matter becomes more complicated for valuables recovered in international waters or spread over multiple jurisdictions.

To read the complete article, see:
Deep Value (https://intelligentcollector.com/deep-value/)

WHEN AUSTRALIA ADOPTED THE DOLLAR

It was a jingle that became firmly stuck in the minds of people across Australia.

In come the dollars, and in come the cents.

To replace the pounds and the shillings and the pence.

Set to the tune of Click Go the Shears, the earworm was sung by animated cartoon character Dollar Bill to educate the public about the transition from imperial to decimal currency.

The changeover, dubbed C-Day, happened 60 years ago on February 14, 1966.

It was a major logistical operation but an important economic decision for Australia.

Most of the world had already switched to decimal currency and the old system of shillings and pence was overly complicated.

To make the transition to decimalisation as smooth as possible, an enormous publicity and education campaign flooded all forms of media for the two years prior.

A public competition was held to name the new currency.

"Some of them were very creative and very Australian, like the Kanga or the Roo," Royal Australian Mint CEO Emily Martin said.

Other options, including the Austral, Oz and Dinkum were floated.

"The government actually announced that they would call the new currency the Royal, but there was massive public backlash about that, so eventually they settled on the dollar," Ms Martin said.

Cash registers, petrol pumps, vending machines and even public toilets had to be converted to accept the new currency.

Banks experienced a rush in the lead-up to the changeover as people exchanged their pounds for dollars.

"On the day, we did hear stories of people being very curious about these new coins, a bit suspicious that perhaps shopkeepers might be ripping them off or changing the prices," Ms Martin said.

"But very quickly, within a matter of months, Australians had adapted to the new currency.

"It is actually considered one of the most successful implementations of a huge changeover in Australia's history and many other countries actually looked at what we did."

To read the complete article, see:
Remember Dollar Bill? It's been 60 years since Australia made the big change to decimal currency (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-02-14/australia-marks-60-years-since-switching-to-decimal-currency/106328652)

HAYM SALOMON AND GEORGE WASHINGTON MEDAL

In August 1781, the Continental Army trapped Lieutenant General Charles Cornwallis in the Virginia coastal town of Yorktown. George Washington and the main army, and Count de Rochambeau with his French army, decided to march from the Hudson Highlands to Yorktown and deliver the final blow. But Washington's war chest was completely empty, as was that of Congress. Without food, uniforms and supplies, Washington's troops were close to mutiny. Washington determined that he needed at least $20,000 to finance the campaign. When he was told that no funds and no credit were available, Washington said: "Send for Haym Salomon." Salomon raised $20,000, and with that money, Washington conducted the Yorktown campaign, which proved to be the final battle of the Revolution.

Those urgent words, along with George Washington riding his favorite horse Nelson, are on the reverse of the new Jewish-American Hall of Fame medal that features an imagined portrait of Haym Salomon, "Financer to the American Revolution," and his signature on the obverse. Between August 1781 and April 1784, Haym Salomon's name appears in Robert Morris's diary at least 75 times, often with entries saying "I sent for Haym Salomon."

In the early 1770's, Haym Salomon left his family in Poland and arrived in New York on the eve of the Revolution. His command of German made him welcome to the Hessian forces, which he served as a supplier of goods. When the British suspected him of spying, Salomon was arrested and confined to prison for a time. Salomon's command of several languages enabled him to serve as a broker to the French officials in Philadelphia. Salomon prospered and was able to be financially helpful to a number of public figures, such as Thomas Jefferson and James Madison.

When Haym Salomon died prematurely in January 1785, he held about $650,000 (over 20 million dollars today) largely in depreciated certificates of indebtedness and continental currency — all virtually worthless. The Pennsylvania Packet wrote "He was remarkable for his skill and integrity in his profession and for his generous and humane deportment."

This is the 19th medal created by award-winning sculptor Eugene Daub in the long-running series that was launched in 1969. The large 3 ¼ inch bonded bronze limited edition (99 maximum) high relief Haym Salomon medal is available for a contribution of $195 to the nonprofit Jewish-American Hall of Fame by calling 818-225-1348. Mention The E-Sylum and take a 10% discount.

AMSA AMERICAN MEDALS OF THE YEAR

Geer Steyn and Eva-Maria Wohn tied for the 2024 medal of the year. It is the first time since the inception of the AMY that a tie has been declared.

Geer Steyn was awarded first place for his evocative medal Van Pallandt in honor of Charlotte Dorothée van Pallandt (9-04-1898 to 30-04-1997). "The portrait medal is based on my admiration for her work and my personal meetings with her," Geer stated, describing the obverse. "She is looking downwards to find the expression of her introvert character, but with an open mind. An elderly lady with a very determined royal appearance." He describes the reverse as, "Modelling an echo of a monument she had created in 1968 of Queen Wilhelmina, who had lived in exile in London during WWII. I included no feet, only a base, and I deliberately did not close the surrounding of the background to emphasize the expression of a freestanding figure in the public space. Her name and birth and death date finish the four edges of the medal."

Geer describes his medals as "sculptural, created directly in clay by hand and colored by shoe polish. It is the organization of volumes that gives meaning and finally evokes the resemblance with the subject. The right volume on the right spot." The medal is available in terracotta and bronze from the artist. Geersteyn@gmail.com.

Eva-Maria Wohn was awarded first place for her medal, Xi Jumping. "I started this political series soon after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. It was a way to share my outrage and my deep fear that the world would not support Ukraine's brave struggle. The Ukraine medal led me to explore a series of medals where I could use satire or mockery on the obverse and show the resulting consequences and suffering on the reverse. In this medal Xi is jumping from his cruel subjugation of Hong Kong to his next conquest, the vulnerable island of Taiwan. The reverse shows the strangling of the peace dove as representative of the threat to an all too fragile world peace.

Eva describes this medal as one in a long series. "The fifth in this series, following medals on Putin, Kim Jong Un, and Trump, is in process. There is, unfortunately, an inexhaustible supply of injustices in the world, but art is one of the most powerful tools of protest. An irreverent editorial cartoon, a war poster, a meme, or a medal that you can hold in your hand can spark social change; it has sparked social change. And if you doubt the power of art, consider the very rich, unbroken history of authoritarian governments muzzling artists."

The medal is available in bronze directly from the artist. Emwohn@gmail.com

About the artists:

You can see more of Geer's work at https://www.geersteyn.nl, or @geersteyn. His newest annual medal is The Dog.

You can see more of Eva's work at https://evamariawohn.com, or @evamariawohn. Her latest medals are Rocket Man and KREMINAL.

For more information on the American Medallic Sculpture Association, see:
https://amsamedals.org/

JIMMY CARTER GOLD INAUGURAL MEDAL OFFERED

Official Presidential inaugural medal by Julian Hoke Harris, minted by The Franklin Mint, one of four produced in this oversized (70 mm diameter) format, weight 466 grams (over 14 oz. T. actual gold), edge marked 24kt (XRF tests closer to 23kt, a second analysis read 98.6% fineness), serial numbered "1", presented to President Carter by the Inaugural Committee; with original box

Provenance: The Estate of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter

Note: The Franklin Mint commissioned a Georgian, Julian H. Harris, to produce the obverse design of the medal. An initial draft featured the President's full name: James Earl Carter. In the end, the committee preferred the more universally known, "Jimmy."

The artist had considered showing the President with a wide, toothy smile. Ultimately, deciding instead to portray Carter deep in thought. Harris did not design the reverse of the medal, that was done by staff at the Franklin Mint.

A census of four medals in this size and composition follows: serial #1 produced for The President and offered here, along with three others for Vice President Walter Mondale (serial #2), Inaugural Committee Chair Vicki Rogers, and Inaugural Committee Chair Bardyl R. Tirana.

One of the original four minted reposes in the Smithsonian, a gift of James F. Dicke, who was himself a collector of Presidential inaugural medals. It is unclear which serial number is represented by the Dicke/Smithsonian example.

To read the complete article, see:
Unique Presidential Inaugural Proof 24kt Gold Medal, Jimmy Carter Provenance (https://live.brunkauctions.com/online-auctions/brunk/unique-presidential-inaugural-proof-24kt-gold-medal-jimmy-carter-provenance-8570019)

WHAT'S THE RESALE VALUE OF AN OLYMPIC MEDAL?

The medals athletes win during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan could be far more valuable than in past games because of soaring gold and silver prices.

Olympic gold medals are no longer made of solid gold. The last time a pure gold medal was awarded was at the 1912 Summer Olympic Games in Stockholm, Sweden, Bobby Eaton, an Olympics memorabilia expert at Boston-based RR Auction, told CBS News. Now, the International Olympic Committee only requires that gold medals consist of at least 92.5% silver, according to IOC guidelines.

Olympic gold medals today are composed of 500 grams of silver plated with six grams of pure gold. Silver medals contain 500 grams of silver and no gold plating. Bronze medals are solid bronze.

At current precious metal prices and based solely on the mineral contents, the so-called "melt value" of an Olympic gold medal is around $2,500.

Gold prices soared to record highs last month, surpassing $5,000 for the first time, as investors flocked to the precious metal to hedge against risks stemming from geopolitical uncertainty and rising global debt. A decade ago, gold traded for between $1,200 and $1,300 per ounce.

Athletes who sold medals
Of course, Olympic medals typically have a far greater financial value because of their historical significance and collectability. If an athlete were to try to sell their medal soon after the games, they could fetch between $50,000 and $80,000, Eaton told CBS News.

"There is a discrepancy between the melt value and actual collectible value," he said.

While most Olympic athletes hold on to their hard-earned medals, some prize winners resell them for prices that can reflect their prestige and significance. In 2013, one of four gold medals won by U.S. track and field athlete Jesse Owens at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin was auctioned for $1.47 million — a record for an Olympic medal, according to SCP Auctions, which handled the sale.

Greg Louganis, the famed American diver who won a total of five gold medals and one silver medal at the 1976, 1984 and 1988 Olympics, also parted ways with three of his five medals. In 2025, his Seoul 1988 Summer Olympics gold medal for 10-meter platform diving sold for over $200,000, according to RR Auction, which handled the sale.

To read the complete article, see:
How much gold is in an Olympic gold medal, and how much is it worth? (https://www.cbsnews.com/news/winter-olympics-2026-gold-medal-prices/)

WHERE MANY OLYMPIANS KEEP THEIR MEDALS

Olympic medals are among the most coveted prizes in sports. Athletes can spend decades in their pursuit, and only the greatest in the world succeed.

So it might be surprising to learn that after the sweat and tears, the triumph and glory, so many of these treasures tend to end up in the same unremarkable place: a sock drawer.

"My parents wanted me to get a safe for it, but that sounded ridiculous," said Alex Hall, 27, a slopestyle skier, who stores his hard-won gold medal from the 2022 Games beneath a pile of socks and thermal underwear. "It hasn't seen sunlight in a long time," added Mr. Hall, who now needs to find space for the silver medal he won last week.

Mikaela Shiffrin, one of the greatest Alpine skiers of all time and the owner of three Olympic medals, is a sock drawer person. So is Ryan Lochte, whose 12 medals make him the second most decorated male swimmer in the history of the Games. The IKEA dresser drawer where Christopher Mazdzer keeps his 2018 silver medal holds not only assorted hosiery but also other important possessions like belts and ties.

Olympians claiming medals in Italy this week can hardly imagine letting them out of their sight. Danny O'Shea, an American figure skater, laughed when asked where he would keep the gold he won on Sunday in the team event.

"Around my neck for as long as possible," he said.

But as time passes, this attachment can mellow into something resembling nonchalance.

"Every Olympian's childhood dream was standing up there and getting a medal hung around their necks," said Chris Fogt, who won a silver medal in bobsledding at the 2014 Games. "But after you get it, and you get a little older, it's almost like the journey was more important."

If an Olympian's shimmering laurel is not tucked among socks, it might rest inside a desk or among assorted junk. Valerie Fleming, a former bobsledder, keeps her silver medal from 2006 in a drawer in her kitchen, or in her night stand. Mr. Fogt is a night stand user, too.

Explanations for these unglamorous storage solutions include accessibility, laziness and basic modesty. Many Olympians have neither the desire nor the means to set up the sorts of trophy rooms or shrines to themselves often seen in the homes of richer, more famous professional athletes.

"I'm just not like a showy, flashy type of person," said Matt Antoine, a skeleton racer who has squirreled away his bronze medal from the 2014 Olympics in a sock drawer in his closet.

His medal does have a custom pouch, made by his mother, which represents an upgrade from its previous encasement: an actual sock.

In that, he was not alone. Others who keep medals inside socks include Oksana Masters, a Paralympian with 19 medals, and Jack Wallace, a two-time gold medalist in Paralympic hockey.

To read the complete article, see:
You'd Be Surprised to See Where Many Olympians Keep Their Medals (https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/15/world/europe/olympic-medals-sock-drawers.html)

OLYMPIC MEDALS FALLING OFF THEIR RIBBONS

Woo! Snap! Clang!

That's the sound of an Olympic medal detaching from its ribbon and plummeting to the floor as its proud new owner jumps in celebration, and it has become an unwelcome addition to the Milan-Cortina Games amid the cheers and national anthems. Multiple athletes have shared stories of their medals breaking off their ribbons shortly after receiving them — sometimes mid-celebration.

Olympic organizers are scrambling to find out what the problem is.

"We are going to pay particular attention to the medals, and obviously this is something we want to be perfect when the medal is handed over because this is one of the most important moments for the athletes," Andrea Francisi, the chief games operation officer for these Olympics, said when asked about the broken medals at a news conference on Monday.

From social media footage and athletes' comments, it seems that jumping for joy may be at least partly behind the medal malfunctions.

Breezy Johnson, the American Alpine ski racer who won gold in the women's downhill on Sunday, told reporters that her medal fell off the ribbon while she was hopping up and down while celebrating her win.

The damage wasn't too bad, she added: "It's not, like, crazy broken. But, a little broken."

It was the first Olympic medal for Johnson, 30, who did not win one in the 2018 Pyeonchang Games and missed the 2022 Beijing Games with an injury.

Johnson wasn't the only athlete whose jubilation proved too much for the medals. In a video posted on social media by the German biathlon team, which won bronze in the mixed relay on Sunday, a medal falls off Justus Strelow's ribbon while he celebrates with his fellow athletes. "Are they not meant to be celebrated?" the caption read.

Alysa Liu, the American figure skater, had the same issue. In a video on Instagram, she holds up the ribbon in one hand and her — detached — gold medal in the other. "My medal don't need the ribbon," she wrote.

To read the complete article, see:
Olympic P.S.A.: Do Not Jump for Joy While Wearing Your Medal (https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/09/sports/olympics-medals-broken-breezy-johnson.html)

ABOUT THIS ISSUE: FEBRUARY 22, 2026

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.