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 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 MARCH 8, 2026

New subscribers this week include: Michael Pierce, courtesy Paul Hybert; and Jaul Pellissery of Dubai, UAE. Welcome aboard! We now have 6,654 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 two new books, a review, a periodical, a collector obituary, updates from the Newman Numismatic Portal, notes from readers, and more.

Other topics this week include the Fort Capron payroll hoard, ancient tokens, Adolph Hess catalogs, dealer Charles Brainard, fixed price and auction selections, my numismatic diary, a Russian gold hoard find, and the Royal Mint.

To learn more about British and Irish Tradesmen's tokens, a James II Gold Touch Piece, the 1893 Columbian Exposition, the numismatics of Agatha Christie, Shell Molds, the George Washington General Grand Master Medal, Hard Times Era Satirical Notes, Civil War sutlers, the Royal Mint's least obnoxious choice, and the accidental gift card quadrillionaire, read on. Have a great week, everyone!

Wayne Homren
Editor, The E-Sylum

NEW BOOK: FINDING THE FORT

Finding the Fort is a comprehensive investigative study into one of Florida’s most elusive and poorly documented frontier military installations. Drawing from historical records, oral histories, archaeological evidence, and material culture, this volume seeks to reconstruct the story, location, and significance of Fort Capron with a level of rigor not previously applied.

The objective of this report is fourfold.

First, it documents the surviving body of evidence associated with Fort Capron. Unlike nearby Fort Pierce, Fort Capron has left behind a sparse historical footprint. This section assembles and evaluates written accounts, personal recollections, interviews, and known artifact assemblages in order to preserve and contextualize the remaining traces of the fort’s existence.

Second, the study evaluates potential structural remains linked to Fort Capron. Using compiled documentation and physical evidence, the book examines previously unrecognized or undocumented features that may represent fort-related structures, assessing their plausibility and historical relevance.

Third, the volume proposes a more precise location and scale of Fort Capron. By synthesizing all collected data—historical references, landscape analysis, and archaeological indicators—the book presents a reasoned interpretation of where the fort stood and the extent of its footprint.

Finally, the book provides the most detailed treatment to date of the lost Fort Capron payroll. This section examines the historical incident surrounding the missing funds intended for the fort and includes a comprehensive illustrated catalog of coins from the event that are now preserved within the Florida Collection.

Together, these sections establish Finding the Fort as both a historical record and a reference work—preserving evidence, advancing interpretation, and contributing meaningfully to the understanding of Florida’s frontier military history.

About the Authors
Sal Guttuso is currently the Operations Director of 1715 Fleet-Queens Jewels, LLC, and an avocational historian. He recently authored and compiled two books on the 1715 Fleet that have since sold out. Ben Costello is the president of the nonprofit 1715 Fleet Society and Terry Howard is an established author and longtime resident of the community where the Fort once sat.

About The book

• Museum Quality
• 8.5"X11", 80# coated paper and premium color inks, hardbound
• A limited edition of 100 numbered copies
• 250+ pages
• Packing and Shipping Included

For more information, or to order online, see:
Finding the Fort - Limited Hardcover First Edition (https://1715treasurefleet.myshopify.com/products/finding-the-fort-limited-hardcover-first-edition?variant=44788628390095)

NEW BOOK: TESSERAE

Announcement of a four-part study of ancient tesserae.

Besides coins and medals, numismatics includes a special group of tokens called "tesserae". A distinction was made based on their use; for example, the Romans recognized tesserae nummulariae (used to mark bags of coins), tesserae nummariae (small coins), and tesserae lusoriae (games and gambling tokens). Tesserae were usually made of lead at the request of specific individuals or merchants, for use in public buildings (theaters, arenas, brothels), or to celebrate a special event or celebration. Tesserae in copper, bronze, or silver-plated or gilded examples are rare.

With this four-part work "TESSERAE," Koen De Wolf publishes his collection of 887 pieces in the first volume. Since there was no basic work on tesserae, he studied all publications on the subject and compiled them into one single catalogue where the reader can easily check whether a particular tessera has already been published and in which study. If good photographs or engravings are available, they are depicted. Oriental tesserae are also known and included in these catalogues.

In Part II, he lists 4,771 tesserae with Latin inscriptions. Parts III and IV list the pieces without inscriptions. Part III provides an overview of 1,488 tesserae depicting gods, personifications, and mythological figures. Part IV shows 1,181 tesserae depicting animals, plants, buildings, etc.

This monumental numismatic work by Koen De Wolf will be an important tool for studying these unusual numismatic witnesses from antiquity. This study was published by the Numismatic Society of Diest (D/2026/14935/3-6) and can be downloaded for free from www.studiekring-numismatiek.be .

BOOK REVIEW: BRITISH AND IRISH COPPER TOKENS OF 1787 – 1804

A cover-to-cover read of British and Irish Tradesmen and their Copper Tokens of 1787-1804 displays the herculean effort of Jon Lusk to produce this volume. Throughout his book, Lusk’s goal was to sort authentic tradesmen’s tokens from specialized pieces made for collectors. I was in awe of his visits to cities and towns all over England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, where these Provincial tokens were manufactured. He wrestled with the inconsistencies of local records, ancestral trees and cemetery findings to conduct his research. He also did token researchers a favor by correcting and updating inaccuracies in R.C. Bell’s Commercial Coins 1787-1804, published in 1963. In addition, he is careful to point out that Conder token research is ongoing, aware that future discoveries may update or alter his own findings.

Along with more tantalizing specifics about each token covered in the book, Lusk brings to life the token issuers and their family members, who faced both hardships and successes.

This book has marvelous obverse, reverse and edge images of tokens accompanied by his expert analysis. Although the text could have benefited from a bit more copyediting prior to publication, Lusk’s thoroughness with investigating his subject matter is impressive.

Intriguing indices are used by the author to close his work. Highlights include the ten categories he used to assess and classify tokens, a fascinating list of occupations held by token makers, a set of unanswered questions after his six years of research on these copper delicacies, and an appendix entitled Rejected Tokens, which explains his rationale for tokens excluded from the volume, including those of a political nature. Too bad, because I am quite fond of Thomas Spence’s political tokens! Another helpful appendix discusses flaws in D&H token classifications.

Lusk deserves a gold medal for assembling this volume. The amount of time he spent researching, traveling, writing, editing and seeing this work through production is truly astonishing. I highly recommend this book as a welcome and valuable contribution to numismatists who love researching and collecting British Provincial tokens.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NEW BOOK: BRITISH AND IRISH COPPER TOKENS OF 1787 – 1804 (https://www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v17n24a04.html)

 

PERIODICAL: MCA ADVISORY WINTER 2025

Medal Collectors of America Advisory
Volume 28, Number 4 | Winter 2025

President's Message

Editor's Message

Letters to the Editor

MCA and Hobby News

From the Desk of Rob Penn, Auction Correspondent

The Winners of the Annual MCA Medallic Awards have been Chosen!

Vote for the Winner of the MEDALS250 Project!

January 2026 NYINC Speaker Douglas A. Mudd Presents “Medallic Washington; Man, Myth, Legend in Medallic Art”

Articles

Medal Design for the Spanish Loyalist in Manzanillo, Cuba (1868)
by Dr. Ángel O. Navarro Zayas, Ponce, Puerto Rico

The Heroes of Camperdown
by Roberto Menchaca García

Touching for the King’s Evil: James II Gold Touch Piece Recently Certified in Choice AU
by Doug McIndoe

The Ill-Fated Coinage of Medalist Jules Chaplain
by Jeffrey J. Pritchard

The Medals of the San Francisco Mechanics’ Institute Industrial Expositions
by Michael Wehner

How Was This Made? And Why?
by Lev Tsitrin

MCA members can view all issues in their My Account section.

Number 4 is here! We have done it again; a second year of four quarterly issues is now in the books. In that same time frame, the magazine has reached a few other important milestones. First, our formatting and artwork has expanded, with the help of Maria Fanning, our Design Artist. Second, the Advisory has won two Second Place annual ANA awards in its category. Finally, we have now begun to accept paid advertising from industry leaders. On board with us for the launch of advertising are two mainstays, Stack’s Bowers, and Heritage Auction. We are excited to be working with them. We currently have room to take on two additional advertisers. Please contact us for details.

This is my 10th issue as Editor of the MCA Advisory. The inside back cover page is officially filled with thumbnails to click on if you want to order back issues, and we will have to reconfigure that page somehow going forward. Maybe this is metaphorically symbolic of another packed issue. We have six more feature length articles; several important announcements on MCA; a very exciting medal contest from Mel Wacks, who wishes for all to participate; another interesting review from Auction Correspondent Rob Penn, and

For more information or to join the Medal Collectors of America (MCA), see:
https://www.medalcollectors.org/

 

SIR DAVID KIRCH (1936-2026)

Sir David Kirch, who has died 89, was a London property speculator who assembled what was thought to be Britain’s largest collection of provincial banknotes and the world’s most extensive personal collection of airship memorabilia; but he sold it all in the process of becoming one of the nation’s most generous philanthropists.

In 1973 he settled as a tax exile in Jersey... On reaching “three score and ten” in 2006, he decided to mark the milestone by distributing £100 Co-op vouchers at Christmas to every islander aged 70 and over – a commitment he honoured even on discovering that there would be 9,000 recipients.

He repeated the scheme in subsequent years – later upping the voucher to £110 – and established a charitable trust to provide homes for pensioners on Jersey. In 2012, on being diagnosed with cancer, he announced that he would leave £100 million, the bulk of his fortune, to the elderly of Jersey.

Observing that his two happiest encounters with money were, first, in the making of it, and second, in the giving away, he proceeded to liquidate his assets to fund his trust. He sold his Rolls-Royce in favour of a Mini, and auctioned his collection of nearly 4,000 English provincial banknotes issued by defunct 19th-century institutions such as Scarborough Old Bank, Glastonbury & Shepton Mallet Bank and many others, their £5 and £10 denominations often fetching four-figure prices. He also sold a more unusual collection of “skit notes” – historic joke banknotes with political or satirical themes, issued by entities such as “the Bank of Love”.

His 15-ton collection of airship relics, sold in 2012, included medals awarded to the crew of the R101 which crashed in France in 1930 and a singed beer bottle salvaged from the wreckage of the Hindenburg in 1937.

David Roderick Kirch was born in Wimbledon on July 23 1936, the son of Leonard Kirch and his wife Margaret. His father had done well as a wholesale meat trader, but chose to keep travelling by train at six o’clock to Smithfield because, if the other traders saw his chauffeured Rolls-Royce, “he’d never get the price he wanted”.

At Tonbridge School, David demonstrated a flair for selling stamps. His commanding officer on National Service agreed that he would make a better businessman than a soldier, and since “I wasn’t clever enough to go to university,” as Kirch recalled, he found a job in the Lloyd’s insurance market.

On the untimely death of his father, aged 59, Kirch inherited £5,000 and launched himself in the meat trade. When his firm was taken over by a Dutch company, who wanted his Kingston cold store rather than his business, he realised that property was a better bet than meat, and bought a stake in a Hampshire estate agency.

He joined forces with his brother Peter in 1962, and they borrowed heavily to buy up chunks of west London, specialising in properties with sitting tenants that could be converted to more lucrative short-term lets. One flat in Courtfield Road was rented to the Rolling Stones; the police stripped off the oak panelling in the drawing room during a drugs bust.

To read the complete article, see:
Sir David Kirch, reclusive collector of rare banknotes who gave £100 million to the elderly of Jersey (https://www.msn.com/en-gb/money/other/sir-david-kirch-reclusive-collector-of-rare-banknotes-who-gave-100-million-to-the-elderly-of-jersey/ar-AA1XEDh1)

NEWMAN PORTAL ADDS ADOLPH HESS CATALOGS

Newman Portal Adds Adolph Hess Catalogs

Thanks to the diligent efforts of Lara Jacobs at the American Numismatic Society, Newman Portal now includes 131 auction sales from the German firm Adolph Hess, dated 1875-1914.

Hess (1846-1912) launched his coin business in 1871 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany and handled many important sales before selling his firm in 1894 to Louis Hamburger and his son-in-law, James Belmonte. Hamburger and Belmonte continued the business under the name Adolph Hess Nachfolger. The firm, today known as HessDivo, is currently based in Zurich.

The site rnumis.com lists 240 Hess catalogs total and further links to scans from Gallica (the digital face of the French National Library) and the University of Heidelberg.

Link to Hess catalogs on Newman Portal:
https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/auctioncompanydetail/515305

Link to Hess catalogs on rnumis.com:
https://www.rnumis.com/house_auctions.php?house=HESS

Link to HessDivo history:
https://www.hessdivo.com/history

VIDEO: 1893 COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION

Story of the World's Fair in Chicago, how it came to be, and the many exhibits and inventions that premiered.

Speaker: Dr. Ted Karamanski.

Running time: 54:55.

From the 2016 Central States Numismatic Society.

To watch the complete video, see:
1893 Columbian Exposition (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcPtjnHcYrk)
1893 Columbian Exposition (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/540203)

NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: MARCH 8, 2026

Tandjong Kassau Plantation Token Information Sought
Adrian J. Lansen of the Netherlands writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NEW BOOK: DUTCH EAST INDIES PLANTATION TOKENS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n41a07.html)

AI and Charred Ancient Documents

Martin Purdy of Upper Hutt, New Zealand writes:

Google Gemini writes:

Roger writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
ABOUT THIS ISSUE: FEBRUARY 22, 2026 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n08a30.html)

For the particular article Martin referenced, see:
A volcano scorched hundreds of Roman scrolls — can AI recover their text? (https://www.understandingai.org/p/a-volcano-scorched-hundreds-of-roman)

Agatha Christie in Metal and Paper

For more information, see:
Christie in Metal and Paper: Numismatic and Philatelic Commemorations of the Queen of Crime (https://www.iacf-uk.org/festival-2026/literary-festival/christie-in-metal-and-paper-numismatic-and-philatelic-commemorations-of-the-queen-of-crime)

SBG 2026 PROFESSIONAL NUMISMATIST PROGRAM

Throughout their more than 90-year history in numismatics, Stack’s Bowers Galleries has maintained an unparalleled team of experts at the core of its business. Today, the firm’s roster of professionals is world-renowned across all areas of numismatics and widely regarded as among the very best in the field. This year’s Professional Numismatist Program (PNP) offers students with an interest in numismatics the opportunity to learn directly from these distinguished professionals by participating in the 2026 session, scheduled for July 25–31, 2026. The program’s mission statement: To provide practical tools and build professional connections for the next generation of young adult numismatists.

The 2026 session will be led by Jason Carter and joined by distinguished industry leaders including Greg Roberts, John Kraljevich, John Pack, Kyle Ponterio, and Peter Treglia among others.

Participants will engage in comprehensive instruction covering:

• Advanced coin grading
• Wholesale trading and valuation
• Bullion trading
• Introduction to world numismatics
• United States and world paper money
• An in-depth exploration of the full auction process

The Professional Numismatist Program is fully funded by Stack’s Bowers Galleries. All expenses—including travel, lodging, meals, beverages, and entertainment—will be covered for accepted applicants. The program will be held at Griffin Studios, located within the company’s global headquarters in Costa Mesa. This setting offers students the opportunity to experience the best of Southern California’s diverse recreational and cultural environment. For exceptional participants, paid positions and internship opportunities may be available immediately following completion of the program.

"The PNP program is an incredible experience that offers meaningful insight into the professional numismatic field through leading experts and hands-on experience, from grading coins to understanding the auction process itself. Everyone involved was incredibly kind, eager to help, and shared a genuine passion for numismatics. The program’s customizable courses allow students to explore interests across the full spectrum of numismatics. I can confidently say I have grown considerably as a numismatist and developed a deeper passion for coin photography as a result. I feel very fortunate to have had this opportunity and cannot recommend it highly enough to prospective applicants." P.N.P. graduate K.W.

“PNP offered a wide variety of numismatic courses. I especially enjoyed the world grading course, which also provided valuable insight into the different minting processes of coins around the globe. My grading skills for both U.S. and world coins improved significantly.” P.N.P. graduate E.P.

If you have ever considered making your hobby your profession, here is the perfect opportunity to observe and acquire the skills necessary to be successful in this exciting field.

Applications must be submitted by May 1, 2026. For more information and to apply click here.

2026 CENTRAL STATES CONVENTION

The Central States Numismatic Society (www.CSNS.org) 87th Anniversary Convention Coin Show, April 23-25, 2026, will recognize Missouri as part of a continuing multi-year program to honor all 13 states that comprise the organization’s geographical area.

The 2026 CSNS convention will be held at the same suburban Chicago site as in recent years, the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 North Thoreau Drive, in Schaumburg, Illinois. There is free parking for visitors and guests at the hotel and convention center.

“We will be giving away 1,000 of the 2017-dated Ozark National Scenic Riverways quarters that commemorate the 134 miles of rivers in southeastern Missouri. While supplies last, they’ll be available, one per visitor, at the CSNS club tables (A2 and A3). Littleton Coin Company (www.LittletonCoin.com) has graciously donated these America the Beautiful Quarters® Program coins,” said CSNS President Mitch Ernst.

As part of this year’s convention theme, collectors are encouraged to set up Missouri-related exhibits at the show.

“Missouri has an interesting history of coins, tokens, and medals, as well as 19th-century National Bank Notes issued by more than 260 banks,” explained Jack Huggins, CSNS Secretary/Treasurer and 2026 Exhibits Chairman. “In keeping with this year’s theme, only Missouri-related exhibits will be displayed in the revamped collector’s exhibit area.”

Collectors who want to display can get an exhibitor’s application on the CSNS website at www.CSNS.org/exhibit-application.

The show will feature more than 400 dealers’ tables with coins, bullion, tokens, medals, and paper money. The Newman Numismatic Portal (https://nnp.wustl.edu) will present educational programs each day.

Authentication and grading services ANACS (www.ANACS.com), CAC Grading Service (www.CACgrading.com), Numismatic Guaranty Company (www.NGCcoin.com), and Paper Money Guaranty (www.PMGnotes.com) will be accepting on-site submissions. Professional Coin Grading Service (www.PCGS.com) will also accept submissions at the show as well as offer on-site grading and encapsulation.

Heritage Auctions (www.HA.com), booth #800, is the Official Auctioneer for the convention. Lot viewing for the auction will be in the Nirvana Ballroom on the second level of the convention center.

“Heritage Auctions has enjoyed a long, rich history of unmatched auction success at the CSNS Convention, which remains one of the most important numismatic auction events of the year. For decades, the most serious of collectors have come to Heritage at CSNS to complete important sets and add must-have trophies to their collections,” stated Greg Rohan, President of Heritage Auctions.

“As we celebrate our 50th year and continue our status as the world's premier numismatic auctioneer, Heritage is proud to remain the Official Auctioneer at CSNS, and have every expectation that the coins and featured collections Heritage offers at this venue again will be the most coveted prizes at the convention,” added Rohan.

CSNS Convention Manager Cindy Wibker encourages attendees to book their hotel accommodation now.

“Discount hotel room rates of $179 per night (plus taxes) are available at the conveniently adjoining Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel. Room reservations can be made by calling the hotel directly at 847-303-4100 or booked online at https://book.passkey.com/go/CentralStateNumismatic.

Admission is $15 per day or $30 for a three-day pass. CSNS members and visitors 17 and under are admitted free. Visitors can save time and get a $5 discount by ordering their admission tickets in advance online at www.CSNS.org/events/87th-anniversary-convention-coin-show.

Additional information about the CSNS 87th annual convention will be announced in the coming weeks and posted online at www.CSNS.org/convention. Information is also available by contacting Convention Manager Wibker by phone at 407-221-8737 or by email at convention@CSNS.org.

VOCABULARY TERM: SHELL MOLD

Shell Mold. The form from which a thin casting is made. In medallic work shell molds are employed for casting plaques which have high relief. The mold for the back side forms the depressed area congruent with the high relief on the obverse. This forms a casting which can have uniform thickness irrespective of the high relief reduceing the weight and curtailing the metal cost somewhat. The cast plaque would be called cast hollow for these reverse depressions. It may remain single-sided, or have a backplate attached to the reverse. Shell molds are typically thought of as the mold for statues and statuary, they are molds which have a core built into them for making the cast piece – not solid – but a thin shell forming the design.

To read the complete entry on the Newman Numismatic Portal, see:
Shell Mold (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/dictionarydetail/516745)

CHARLES MEREDITH BRAINARD (1939-1996)

I want to share with readers a newspaper clipping from the July 15, 1963, issue of The Daily Breeze of Torrence, California. It shows Charles Brainard as the owner-manager of the Eagle Coin Gallery. I knew the guy and wondered what more I could learn using my normal biographical sources.

Charles M. Brainard was born in Detroit on May 14, 1939. His father was Albert Reginald Brainard (1899-1878) and mother was Ida Mae Ware Brainard (1902-1993). He had an older sister, Betty Jane Brainard (1923-2015) and older brother, Edward Albert Brainard (1928-2014).

Albert and Ida Mae were married in Los Angeles on May 21, 1921. At that time, Albert was working as a railroad clerk and Ida Mae was a stenographer.

At the time of the 1930 Census, the couple was living with their two children in Detroit. For the 1940 Census, the family was still living in Detroit. Albert was a freight agent for a railroad.

Listed in the 1950 Census, Charles was living with his parents and older brother at 2840 Indiana Avenue in South Gate, California. Charles would live there for the rest of his life. At that time Albert was an assistant manager at an automobile factory. Albert seldom got his name in the papers. His wife was active with the Woman’s Society of Christian Service.

Charles graduated from South Gate High School in the class of 1957. When his class put on their senior class play, Charles M. Brainard was responsible for set design and decoration. He also worked on the stage crew. Perhaps these interests led to later work in the entertainment industry. I found no indication that he attended college. What was he doing between 1957 and 1963?

There are mysteries about Mr. Brainard. It has been reported that he bought part of a hoard of uncirculated large cents from the estate of B. Max Mehl in 1960 when he was only twenty-one years old. By 1963 he owned the Eagle Coin Galleries, described as an up-scale shop, that was reported to have “one of the most complete stocks in Southern California.” How did someone so young, and coming from a family of limited means, jump into the industry at a professional level?

His employee, Ray Arthur Borland (1903-1971) was an old man of sixty in 1963. He had joined the ANA in 1960 and died in 1971. Jon Hanson was only twenty in 1963. He went on to a distinguished career in numismatics. Brainard also operated as an itinerant dealer out of Coin-A- Rama City in Hawthorne, California, just a couple miles north of the shop in Lawndale.

Charles M. Brainard joined the American Numismatic Association as member 40783 in April, 1961. His address was listed as 2840 Indiana Avenue, South Gate, California. This was a modest house, currently described as 981 square feet. Brainard recruited one new ANA member but was otherwise not mentioned in The Numismatist.

He was a member of the Numismatic Association of Southern California (N,A.S.C.). In 1963, Charles Brainard served as a board member for Downey Numismatics. Downey is about five miles east of South Gate.

In 1966 he left for an extended trip to Europe. He came back a changed man and with a new name. He changed his name to Jack Collins, a name that should be familiar to readers of The E-Sylum. Even his best friends in numismatics knew little about his previous life.

It has been thirty years since his death and sixty years since his name change. Is anyone left who can add insight into his early life?

This is an opportunity for me to show off another of my favorite personal tokens. Without the story, this would just be another wooden nickel. I was excited to find the first one. When I found a second one, I gave it to George F. Kolbe. Later he contributed it to the 2019 NBS Benefit Auction, as lot 7.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
COIN-A-RAMA CITY (https://www.coinbooks.org/v26/esylum_v26n47a18.html)

NUMISMAGRAM MEDAL SELECTIONS: MARCH 8, 2026

103483 | FRANCE. Imperial Palace bronze Gaming Token or Jeton. Issued circa 1812 (28mm, 12h). By Raymond Gayrard at the Paris mint. HEUR ET MALHEUR (the good and the bad), female janiform head, with a somewhat smirking expression facing left and a somewhat annoyed expression facing right // Fortune, carrying overturned cornucopia and advancing left, leading Cupid (or Amor), who holds walking stick; both have their eyes blindfolded; in exergue, two moles advancing left.

Bramsen 1200; Julius 2578. PCGS MS-64. Pleasing brown surfaces, with great brilliance in the fields; minor planchet crack near the edge is noted for completeness. The only example of the type observed in the PCGS census.

To read the complete item description, see:
103483 | FRANCE. Imperial Palace bronze Gaming Token or Jeton. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103483)

103318 | UNITED STATES, CANADA & NETHERLANDS. American-Canadian Border Arbitration silver Medal. Issued 1829 celebrating the role of Willem I, King of the Netherlands, in the "arbitration" (43mm, 28.67 g, 12h). Of uncertain manufacture.

WILHELMVS I NEERLANDIAE REX LVX. M. DVX, bust facing slightly right in military attire // AB / ANGLIS / ET / AMERICANIS / SEPTEMTRIONAL. / DE / TERMINO MOTO / ARBITER / VOCATUS / 1829 (as an intermediary, he called for the settling of the border between the English [ie, Canada] and the North Americans [ie, United States]) in ten lines. Edge: Plain.

Dirks 310; Pax in Nummis 802; Leroux 830; Hunter Coll. 437 [R4]; Wurzbach 9757; Ford V, 187; Medina 398. PCGS MS-64. Very attractively toned and with exceptional iridescence and luster; a stray mark in the reverse field prevents an even higher, gem designation. Very rare in silver, especially in such an elevated state of preservation as is the case here. The Ford specimen, listed as a prooflike Choice Uncirculated piece, realized a total of $1,955 over two decades ago in 2005.

Ex Munthandel Verschoor inventory, January 2000.

Growing tensions between the United States and Canada, particularly between the state of Maine (US) and the provinces of Québec and New Brunswick (Canada), following the ends of the American Revolution and the War of 1812 left the borders between the two countries in somewhat of a flux. By the latter part of the 1820s, King Willem I of the Netherlands intervened as an intermediary, brokering a tentative border solution. While celebrated as successful on this medal, a resolution was not agreed upon at the time, with the conflict continuing for over another decade, recognizably in the form of the Aroostook War of 1838-1839. Finally, with the Webster-Ashburton Treaty of 1842, the border in this area was settled, roughly comporting to the lines originally suggested by Willem over a decade prior. Regarding manufacture of this medal, while Wurzbach suggests Loos in Berlin, a search of their product catalog from a little over a decade later reveals no such instance of its availability for collectors, nor does it display an artist's signature or mint (LOOS) reference—both of which would be highly unusual for a Loos-made product of the era. As such, it is of the opinion of this cataloger that, despite possessing the "feel" of a Loos medal, it is not one from their output.

As recounted by Kraljevich in the Ford catalog:

“The boundary dispute between America and Great Britain over the land and water boundaries between Maine and Canada took nearly a century and a half to settle. The treaty of Paris (1783) fixed the north-east boundary of the United States along the middle of the St. Croix River "from its mouth in the bay of Fundy to its source" and "due north from the source of St. Croix river to the highlands; along the said highlands which divide those rivers that empty themselves into the river St. Lawrence from those which fall into the Atlantic Ocean, to the north-westernmost head of Connecticut river; thence down along the middle of that river to the forty-fifth degree of north latitude." The vagueness of the description was the cause of the dispute.

The various attempts to resolve the dispute include Jay's Treaty (1794), the Commission of 1798, the Treaty of Ghent (1814), commissions under Ghent (1816 and 1822), the Convention of 1827 setting up the King of Netherlands as arbitrator (approved in 1829, the date of the medal), the king's decision (1831) rejected lending to the Aristook War (1838-39), and the Webster-Ashburton Treaty (1842) which settled the land boundary issues. The water boundary problems persisted, however, leading to the conventions of 1892 and 1908, the Treaty of Washington (1910), and the second Treaty of Washington (1925) that finally settled the boundary."

To read the complete item description, see:
103318 | UNITED STATES, CANADA & NETHERLANDS. American-Canadian Border Arbitration silver Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103318)

103503 | CUBA, UNITED STATES & SPAIN. End of the American Blockade aluminum Award Medal. Issued 1898, but never disbursed (35mm, 6.72 g, 12h). By Antonio Jiménez.

AYUNTAMINETO DE LA HABANA. AÑO. 1898., personification of Havana standing facing with five children at her side and resting hand upon shield; costal scene in background // RECUERDO DEL BLOQUEO DE LA ISLA DE CUBA / 21 DE ABRIL AL 12 DE AGOSTO, view of Havana Harbor, with Morro Fortress to left, the city in background, and ships upon the harbor in foreground. Edge: Loop as made attached at top, otherwise plain.

Gem Mint State. Extremely vibrant and mirrored. A rare and virtually unseen medal within the market.

Following increased tensions in Cuba among some of her freedom-seeking populace and her colonial power, Spain, then-president of the United States, William McKinley, sent a battleship to the neighboring island in order to provide protection for American citizens based there. Under mysterious circumstances, the battleship, the USS Maine, suffered an explosion and sank. The American Congress then approved the use of military force to intervene, with a US blockade of Havana harbor ensuing on 21 April 1898.

Throughout the spring and summer, the blockade continued, with little actual engagement. It eventually ended when the American fleet departed the harbor for the port of Santiago de Cuba, where Admiral Cervera's Spanish squadron had arrived. It was hastily at this time that Spanish authorities in Havana came up with the idea for this medal to be presented to the citizens there who had endured the blockade. The medals, however, were never to be presented, as Spain was not successful in the campaign (the Spanish-American War), with these medals seemingly impounded and long forgotten. For more information on this medal, please see this article.

To read the complete item description, see:
103503 | CUBA, UNITED STATES & SPAIN. End of the American Blockade aluminum Award Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103503)

103511 | FRANCE. Electrical Construction Union silver Award Medal. Issued circa 1925-1935, and engraved and awarded to Lucien Pinard (67mm, 111.99 g [ASW = 3.2406 oz], 12h). By Charles Pillet at the Paris mint.

Female personification of Electricity, nude except for billowing drapery, soaring left among the clouds and hurling thunderbolt // SYNDICAT · GENERAL · DE LA · CONSTRUCTION · ELECTRIQUE ·, view of hydroelectric power plant in nature; below, shield with panel engraved "M. LUCIEN PINARD." Edge: «cornucopia» 2 ARGENT.

MdP –; Maier –; Silich –; cf. Musée d'Orsay RF MO MEDOR 2018 2 (for obv.). Mint State. Pleasing gunmetal gray surfaces, with some darker areas for contrast around some of the devices, and with some light rub noted upon the highest points. An enticing design and a rare type in silver.

The Syndicat Général de la Construction Électrique awarded medals like these to employees following years of service, usually in the amount of 25 or 30 years, with the silver issues being the more prestigious with respect to time served to the company. Pillet's classic design is the earlier of the two Art Deco renderings for this award (with the latter being that of Pelletier).

To read the complete item description, see:
103511 | FRANCE. Electrical Construction Union silver Award Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103511)

103467 | FRANCE. "Léda et le Cygne" uniface bronze Plaque Restrike. Issued 1988. Édition de la Collection générale de la Monnaie series (60x100mm, 283.64 g). By André Lavrillier at the Paris mint.

Leda left, with knee set upon draped base, being seduced by swan to left // Blank. Edge: 1988 «cornucopia» BRONZE.

Cf. Maier 313 (for original); cf. MdP 3, 228c (same). Gem Mint State. Tan-bronze surfaces, with great glossiness. An enticing reissue of this classical and immensely exceptional Art Deco design originally issued in the early 1920s.

An iconic mythological scene represented since antiquity in various sculptures and paintings, and one which Lavrillier has portrayed here in the Art Deco form of his time. It portrays a wondrous, erotic dance between Leda (a mortal) and a swan (Zeus, the king of the gods, in disguise).

To read the complete item description, see:
103467 | FRANCE. "Léda et le Cygne" uniface bronze Plaque Restrike. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103467)

SBG SPRING 2026 SHOWCASE COLONIAL COINS

Undated (ca. 1652-1674) St. Patrick Farthing. Martin 1d.1-Ba.11, W-11500. Rarity-6+. Silver. Nothing Below King. AU-55 (PCGS). Martin 1d.1-Ba.11 is the most available of the 15 St. Patrick farthing die varieties known in silver, but still rare in absolute sense with just a few dozen examples extant. Martin estimates that no more than 100 silver St. Patrick farthings exist in total. The finest from these dies is probably the impressive Ted Craige example graded PCGS AU-58+ that we sold in November 2012 for $80,500. The present coin is not quite as sharp but is still a remarkably high quality piece and would almost certainly be included in a Condition Census were one to be compiled. In any event, an outstanding silver St. Patrick farthing, always a classy and desirable colonial type coin.

To read the complete item description, see:
Undated (ca. 1652-1674) St. Patrick Farthing. Martin 1d.1-Ba.11, W-11500. Rarity-6+. Silver. Nothing Below King. AU-55 (PCGS). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1QK9HI/undated-ca-1652-1674-st-patrick-farthing-martin-1d1-ba11-w-11500-rarity-6-silver-nothing-below-king-au-55-pcgs)

"1776" (1783) Continental Dollar. Newman 1-B, W-8435. Rarity-7+. CURENCY, Partially Dotted Rings. Pewter. EF Details--Damage (PCGS). The B reverse, with its partially dotted rings, is essentially a die state of the Newman C reverse before it underwent major reworking to make the rings solid instead of dotted. Because of this, ring and letter positions are the same, but Newman 1-B shares certain hallmarks beyond the presence of partially dotted rings. All Newman 1-B specimens were struck before Obverse 1 develops a die break over GI in FUGIO. The punctuation after AMERICAN (in AMERICAN CONGRESS, on the reverse) appears as a comma instead of a period. The same lapping process that reduced the comma also later reduced the length of the rays right of CONGRESS. Perhaps most notably, a die chip (likely from spalling) appears within the center of the Pennsylvania ring at the lower right reverse on all Newman 1-B coins, but the reworking to Reverse C removed it entirely.

When Breen wrote about this variety for his 1988 Encyclopedia, only two were known: the Picker coin (described as unique in 1984) and another more recent discovery. We sold the third known example (PCGS Fine-12) in our (Stack's) September 2006 sale, and three others prior to this one in the last 15 or so years, most of which were not straight graded. There appears to be a total of fewer than 10 known in pewter, with about the same number in brass.

To read the complete item description, see:
"1776" (1783) Continental Dollar. Newman 1-B, W-8435. Rarity-7+. CURENCY, Partially Dotted Rings. Pewter. EF Details--Damage (PCGS). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1QK9VO/1776-1783-continental-dollar-newman-1-b-w-8435-rarity-7-curency-partially-dotted-rings-pewter-ef-details-damage-pcgs)

Undated (1850s) Good Samaritan / Oak Tree Shilling Muling. Dies by Thomas Wyatt. Noe-GO, W-14100. Gold. Overstruck on an English Guinea. MS-65 (PCGS). 4.18 grams. This is the unique muling of these Wyatt dies in gold, as described in the 2020 edition of the Whitman Encyclopedia of Colonial and Early American Coins as, "Struck over an English gold guinea by Edwin Bishop." Visually pleasing and of the utmost rarity, we have difficulty imagining a more desirable example of this famous Wyatt-Bishop concoction, and once the present specimen sells, it may be a long time before it reappears in the market.

Provenance: From Doyle's sale of the Loye L. Lauder Collection, December 1983, lot 124.

To read the complete item description, see:
Undated (1850s) Good Samaritan / Oak Tree Shilling Muling. Dies by Thomas Wyatt. Noe-GO, W-14100. Gold. Overstruck on an English Guinea. MS-65 (PCGS). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1QK9WE/undated-1850s-good-samaritan-oak-tree-shilling-muling-dies-by-thomas-wyatt-noe-go-w-14100-gold-overstruck-on-an-english-guinea)

"1781" (1783) Libertas Americana Medal. Original. Paris Mint. By Augustin Dupre. Betts-615, Adams-Bentley-15. Copper. MS-63 BN (PCGS). Landing in the number one spot in the popular reference 100 Greatest American Medals and Tokens, the Libertas Americana medal has always been an object of intense desire. These pieces were struck in Paris to commemorate peace following the American victory over Great Britain in the Revolutionary War. It is the most symbolic and desirable of all of the peace medals. The concept and mottoes that make up the design are attributed to Benjamin Franklin, who at the time was serving as U.S. commissioner to France. While in France, Franklin set about the production of a medal to give to a select few he deemed instrumental in securing American independence. The Libertas Americana medal was to be symbolic of the winning of American liberty, not only on the battlefields of the New World but also in the courts of Europe, most particularly that of France. For without French support American victory over Great Britain would not have been possible. And since it was Franklin who secured the support of the king and queen of France, he was as indispensable to the political victory of the American Colonies as George Washington was to their military victory.

The dies for the Libertas Americana medal were cut in Paris in 1782 by Augustin Dupre. The obverse portrait would later influence the first renditions of Liberty to appear on United States coinage, specifically those of the Liberty Cap copper coinage and the Flowing Hair silver coinage. The reverse design is highly symbolic, the two serpents representing the American victory over the British at the battles of Saratoga and Yorktown, but Minerva keeping the British lion at bay confirming that ultimate American independence would not have been possible without French aid. The dates in exergue on the reverse are the dates of the colonists' victories over General John Burgoyne at Saratoga and General Charles Cornwallis at Yorktown.

All original Libertas Americana medals are scarce-to-rare pieces (Paris Mint restrikes of later years have bullion or minimal value) with most examples encountered in today's market being copper impressions, as here. Far rarer are the silver strikings that Franklin himself presented to French ministers, "as a monumental acknowledgement, which may go down to future ages, of the obligations [the United States is] under to [the French] nation." Two gold strikings that Franklin presented to King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette of France are not traced.

While we have been extremely fortunate to have offered a number of bronze Libertas Americana medals in recent years, few have been as attractive and desirable as this premium quality example. Strong bids are encouraged.

Provenance: Ex Richard Picker, April 1969; our Baltimore Auction of November 2016, lot 73.

To read the complete item description, see:
"1781" (1783) Libertas Americana Medal. Original. Paris Mint. By Augustin Dupre. Betts-615, Adams-Bentley-15. Copper. MS-63 BN (PCGS). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1QKDOG/1781-1783-libertas-americana-medal-original-paris-mint-by-augustin-dupre-betts-615-adams-bentley-15-copper-ms-63-bn-pcgs)

1797 George Washington General Grand Master Medal. Musante GW-29, Baker-288. Silver. Engrailed Edge. EF Details--Holed (PCGS). Though this is pierced for suspension, such treatment is not exactly rare amongst these medals, illustrating that at least some of them were used as adornment. All three of the known uniface Sheffield plate specimens are pierced, as are three of the documented brass examples, of which the present writer has confirmation of 17 total specimens.

There are potentially four examples in silver. Since 1981, no silver example has been seen until now. This is now one of just two we know to survive with certainty. No one has had a chance to buy one of these in silver in more than four decades.

As given in our 2022 sale of the unique plain edge R. Coulton Davis specimen in brass, "the connection of these medals to Peter Getz of Lancaster is both evident and undocumented. The portrait on this medal is not a precise match for those found on the 1792 private patterns by the Lancaster silversmith, but it is either by the same hand or, quite possibly, a copyist's attempt. The detail on the epaulet is quite different, but otherwise the portrait here is plainly copying the 1792 pieces by Getz. Numismatic tradition has long attributed these to Getz's hand, and even today he's as good a guess as any. Getz was an active mason in Lancaster, was master of his local lodge in 1794, and he worked as a die engraver in this era. However, Neil Musante suggested in his Medallic Washington that this medal was probably not by Getz. His reasoning is arguable (it hinged on the famous but now broken ladle owned by a Virginia Masonic lodge), but his conclusion is probably right.

"The key piece of evidence in identifying the authorship of this medal was discovered in an unusual place: the archives of the descendants of Adam Eckfeldt, which hit the market in 2014. A manuscript entitled 'An inventory of Coining Machines taken from Richard Harpers & sent to the Mint of United States by order of the Mayor of this City Aug. 29th, 1797.' The authors of 1792: Birth of a Nation's Coinage make the assumption that Richard Harper was the son of the recently deceased minter and sawmaker John Harper of Philadelphia, who died in either late 1796 or early 1797. The inventory is fascinating, including '1 Coining press complete with a Leaver without balls,' a cutting press, a rolling press, and most everything else someone would need to operate a private mint. For our purposes, the dies on hand are most interesting. They include a single die for 'Jersey half pence' along with '2 Dies of General Washington Heads' and '1 [die] of the face Masons coat of Arms.' In other words, this 1797 inventory from the estate of John Harper appears to list the obverse and reverse dies of this exact medal.

"As a coiner, Harper is not necessarily the engraver of this medal; indeed, he may have been contracted by an engraver like Getz to produce them. Saw makers weren't usually the artistic sort, but someone had to have engraved the dies for the cents Harper struck privately in 1795, now known as 'Jefferson Head' cents. It could have been Harper, or Getz, or someone else entirely."

To read the complete item description, see:
1797 George Washington General Grand Master Medal. Musante GW-29, Baker-288. Silver. Engrailed Edge. EF Details--Holed (PCGS). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1QKDQV/1797-george-washington-general-grand-master-medal-musante-gw-29-baker-288-silver-engrailed-edge-ef-details-holed-pcgs)

1805 Eccleston Medal. Musante GW-88, Baker-85A. Bronze, Fire Gilt. With Eccleston's Secret Marks. Mint State. The reverse die is cracked through the right of the central medallion, connecting the letters S OURS, and a small rim cud is noted over THE at 9 o'clock, identifying this as a somewhat later die state than some seen.

This is one of just 10 fire gilt Eccleston medals we have accounted for, and again, it is arguably one of the nicest. It bears the three "secret marks" that we first published in our November 2019 Historical Society of Pennsylvania sale at lot 20076. As discussed there, these punches are found on very few Eccleston medals, but were clearly deliberate and certainly done at the request of the publisher, Daniel Eccleston, and by the hand of the maker, Thomas Webb. There are just four or five known bronzes with these marks, and all but one or two of the fire gilt examples bear them. The fact that Thomas Jefferson's example (a fire gilt medal that he received directly from Daniel Eccleston, still residing at Monticello) bears the punch marks illustrates that these were added at the source. The marks are as follows:

Obverse: A tiny triangular punch in the truncation next to the engraver's name, WEBB.

Reverse: A small circular punch within the space formed between the Native American's body and the (viewer's) right arm.

Reverse: A small square punch beneath the exergual line of the central medallion.

Provenance: From John P. Burnham Collection.

To read the complete item description, see:
1805 Eccleston Medal. Musante GW-88, Baker-85A. Bronze, Fire Gilt. With Eccleston's Secret Marks. Mint State. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1QKDRO/1805-eccleston-medal-musante-gw-88-baker-85a-bronze-fire-gilt-with-ecclestons-secret-marks-mint-state)

1847 Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association Award Medal. Harkness Ma-70, Julian AM-33. Gold. MS-63 (PCGS). With Original Case. 38.0 mm. 50.1 grams, XRF tested .9904 fine (99.04% Au, 0.442% Ag, 0.521% Cu), 1.595 troy oz AGW. Central reverse inscribed to the recipient HY. H. STEVENS & CO. / FOR LINEN / GOODS / EXHIBITION / OF / 1847. The original maroon leather exterior, purple plush interior slipcase is nicely preserved apart from some light to moderate external scuffing that hardly detracts. (Total: 1 medal; 1 case)

Provenance: From the Anthony Terranova Collection.

To read the complete item description, see:
1847 Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association Award Medal. Harkness Ma-70, Julian AM-33. Gold. MS-63 (PCGS). With Original Case. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1QKE1U/1847-massachusetts-charitable-mechanic-association-award-medal-harkness-ma-70-julian-am-33-gold-ms-63-pcgs-with-original-case)

1853 Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association Award Medal. Harkness Ma-70, Julian AM-33. Gold. About Uncirculated. 38.5 mm. 44.1 grams, XRF tested 0.870 fine, 1.233 troy ounces AGW. Central reverse inscribed to the recipient P.B. TYLER / FOR / PATENT / SAFETY SWITCH. / EXHIBITION OF / 1853. A tad hazy in areas, and with light handling marks, although the design elements remain crisp and the fields are nicely reflective.

Provenance: From John P. Burnham Collection.

To read the complete item description, see:
1853 Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association Award Medal. Harkness Ma-70, Julian AM-33. Gold. About Uncirculated. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1QKE27/1853-massachusetts-charitable-mechanic-association-award-medal-harkness-ma-70-julian-am-33-gold-about-uncirculated)

1870 New York State Agricultural Society Award Medal. Harkness-Ny 392, Julian AM-61. Gold. Specimen-63 (PCGS). 53.0 mm. 86.35 grams, .999 fine, 2.78 troy ounces AGW. Central reverse inscribed to the recipient AWARDED / TO / WALCOTT & / CAMPBELL, / AYRSHIRE / HERD PRIZE. / UTICA, 1870. Julian reports that the United States Mint did not receive the dies (two pairs) for this type until 1885, so the present example must be one of those specimens that the author states were struck prior to 1870 at private mints. Indeed, the dies for this type were prepared in the 1840s by William Joseph Taylor in Birmingham, England, using designs supplied by Francis Rotch, Esq., in fulfillment of an order placed by the Society. The latter received the dies, as well as the first medals struck, in 1845. This is only the sixth gold impression that we have offered in recent memory. The example awarded to Walcott & Campbell in 1868 that realized $10,200 in our June 2025 Showcase Auction was certified Specimen-62 by PCGS.

Provenance: From the Anthony Terranova Collection.

To read the complete item description, see:
1870 New York State Agricultural Society Award Medal. Harkness-Ny 392, Julian AM-61. Gold. Specimen-63 (PCGS). (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1QKE5N/1870-new-york-state-agricultural-society-award-medal-harkness-ny-392-julian-am-61-gold-specimen-63-pcgs)

SOVEREIGN RARITIES AUCTION XXI

Sovereign Rarities – Auction XXI Now Live

Sovereign Rarities are delighted to announce that Auction XXI is now live online at www.sovr.co.uk, culminating in a live sale session on Tuesday 10th March 2026 at 10:00am GMT.

Our first auction of 2026, held in conjunction with the Royal Mint, comprises 279 lots. The sale features an extensive selection of British coinage spanning from the reign of King Edward III through the hammered and milled series, concluding with the modern issues of Elizabeth II (1952–2022) and Charles III featuring coins from the Great Engravers, Queen’s Beats and Queen’s Effigies Series.

In addition to British material, the auction includes a selection of Anglo-Gallic and Islamic coins, offering collectors a diverse and historically rich catalogue.

The auction is conducted with a 23% buyer’s premium. Bidders are encouraged to review our full terms and conditions prior to participating and to allow sufficient time for client approval where required.

We look forward to welcoming you online and to the live session on 10th March

James II (1685-88) James II (1685-88),gold Two Guineas, 1687, laureate head left, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding both sides, IACOBVS. II. DEI. GRATIA,rev. crowned cruciform shields, emblematic sceptres in angles, date either side of top crown, .MAG. BR. FRA. ET. HIB REX, 16.61g (Schneider 454; MCE 121; Bull EGC 318; S.3399).With pleasant red tone, old graffito scratched in field under 87 of date, otherwise almost very fine and rare.

To read the complete item description, see:
James II (1685-88) (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=31&lot_id=760496)

Elizabeth II (1952-2022) gElizabeth II (1952-2022), gold proof Five Pounds, 2002, struck to commemorate the Golden Jubilee, Equestrian portrait of The Queen with the inscription 'ELIZABETH II DEI GRA REGINA FID DEF' around the circumference and 'AMOR POPULI PRAESIDIUM REG' within and '2002' below separated by the central element of the Royal Armsrev. new portrait of The Queen with the denomination 'FIVE POUNDS', both obverse and reverse by Ian Rank- Broadley, 39.94g (S.L10). Proof state with some residue to fields, accompanied by Royal Mint box and Certificate of Authenticity.

To read the complete item description, see:
Elizabeth II (1952-2022) (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=31&lot_id=759654)

Charles III (2022 - ), g Charles III (2022 - ), gold proof Five Pounds, 2026, struck in 22 carat gold to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Birth of Queen Elizabeth II, bare head left, MJ initials below for designer Martin Jennings, Latin legend surrounding, CHARLES III. D. G. REX. F. D. 5 POUNDS 2026, rev. young laureate head right by designer Mary Gillick, the First Portrait of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II against a background of radial lines, 'PORTRAIT OF A QUEEN 1953 - 1967' surrounding, 39.98g (S.L179). Slabbed and graded by NGC as PF70 Ultra Cameo.

To read the complete item description, see:
Charles III (2022 - ), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=31&lot_id=760621)

Elizabeth II (1952-2022) g Elizabeth II (1952-2022), gold Queen's Beasts Quarter-Ounce 10-coin reverse proof Set, 2021, struck in 999.9 fine gold, featuring the ten beasts which featured on statues created by Sculptor James Woodford RA especially for the coronation of Her Majesty the Queen. Crowned head right, JC initials below for designerJody Clark,Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, ELIZABETH II. D. G. REG F. D. 25 POUNDS.,rev. by Jody Clark each coin has the image of each beast with its name below and date 2021 surrounding (S. QBCGS1).A stunning set in original Royal Mint case and presentation black box, with numbered certificate of authenticity.

To read the complete item description, see:
Elizabeth II (1952-2022) (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=31&lot_id=760617)

Hong Kong, Victoria (1837-1901), † Hong Kong, Victoria (1837-1901), silver proof Dollar, 1866, VICTORIA QUEEN, bust of Victoria left, wearing tiara, meander pattern around, rev. denomination and date (KM 10). Attractively toned, slabbed and graded by PCGS PR58.  

To read the complete item description, see:
Hong Kong, Victoria (1837-1901), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=31&lot_id=760472)

Ilkhan, Uljaytu Ilkhan, Uljaytu (AH 703-716), Gold Presentation Quadruple-Dinar, Madinat al-Salam [Baghdad] AH709, 17.04g, 3h (Diler Ilhans Ul-364 but unrecorded in gold; cf Islamic Coin Auction 19, 25 April 2012, lot 141). NGC AU53, very rare.  

To read the complete item description, see:
Ilkhan, Uljaytu (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=31&lot_id=760660)

Mexico, silver Onza, 1979 (13), 1980 (17), CASA DE MONEDA DE MEXICO, and date, "de balancín" minting press, rev. scale, UNA ONZA DE PLATA PURA etc., 33.625g, 0.925 fine silver, 1 oz ASW each (KM M46b). Generally uncirculated, few with insignificant bag marks and/or areas of toning. (30)

To read the complete item description, see:
Lot 276: Mexico, Silver Onza 1979-1980 (30) (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=31&lot_id=760501)

See www.sovr.co.uk for much more detail about all of these coins, medallions and more!

SBG SPRING 2026 SHOWCASE: U.S. PAPER RARITIES

Stack’s Bowers Galleries is delighted to offer a diverse selection of paper rarities in the U.S. Currency sessions of the Spring 2026 Global Showcase Auction. The three U.S. Currency sessions will be hosted on March 12 in Griffin Studios, located at the company’s Costa Mesa, California Headquarters, as well as online at StacksBowers.com.

Part I (Session 5) offers a wide range of collectible currency including Colonial and Continental pieces, Fractional currency, and Obsolete notes, highlighted by a selection of Obsolete rarities from the Caine Collection. The Caine Collection offers standout pieces such as a $3 Proof impression on the Bank of Austin (Lot 5120) as well as an issued note from the Bank of Germantown (Lot 5196) that displays a vignette known as The White Bear engraved by DeWitt Clinton Hay based on the work of Felix O.C. Darley. Session 5 also presents a $5 Obsolete issued by the Kirtland Safety Society Bank (Lot 5184) that was later countersigned and reissued in Utah in the late 1840s.

Part II (Session 6) presents a rich variety of National Bank Notes and type pieces. The New Jersey National Bank Notes of the Clearwater Collection offer a curated selection of rare opportunities, among which is a Type 2 $5 issued by the National Bank of Palisades Park (Charter# 14088) during the early 1930s (Lot 6073). This note is unique for the issuing charter and has never traded in a public context. A selection of rarities on seldom traded charters from Bergen County locales like Lodi and Tenafly rounds out the offerings from the Clearwater Collection.

Part III (Session 7) is headlined by the Manhattan Beach Collection, which accounts for the core of the firm’s Rarities Night catalog and offers remarkable rarities that represent generational auction opportunities. The first lot of the section presents the sole finest Replacement $1 Legal Tender Note (Lot 7001) issued under the Series of 1928, which was largely released in Puerto Rico in the late 1940s. Bidders will also have the chance to consider a Serial Number 1 Replacement $100 Federal Reserve Note (Lot 7028), which was once a highlight of the John Whitney Walter Collection sold in 2004. Premium WWII-era Emergency Notes and Gold Certificates round out the fine selections of the Manhattan Beach Collection. A Replacement $20 Hawaii Emergency Note (Lot 7048) stands as the ultimate keystone for the collector looking to assemble a set of WWII-era Emergency Notes, as it is the sole finest graded by PMG. A Replacement $100 Gold Certificate (Lot 7057) issued under the Series of 1928 represents the only example of the Friedberg number at its grade level to bear the EPQ designation; it is also unsurpassed in technical terms at both major grading services.

Additional highlights from Session 7 include: Lot 7009: Fr. 1609*. 1935A $1 Silver Certificate Star Note. (R) Experimental. PMG Gem Uncirculated 66 EPQ. Lot 7012: Fr. 1700. 1933 $10 Silver Certificate. PMG Gem Uncirculated 66 EPQ. Lot 7018: Fr. 1890-G*. 1929 $100 Federal Reserve Bank Star Note. Chicago. PMG Gem Uncirculated 65 EPQ. Lot 7032: Fr. 2201-Gdgs*. 1934 Dark Green Seal $500 Federal Reserve Star Note. Chicago. PMG Choice Uncirculated 64 EPQ. Lot 7041: Fr. 2211-Cdgsm*. 1934 Dark Green Seal $1000 Federal Reserve Star Note. Mule. Philadelphia. PMG Gem Uncirculated 66 EPQ. Lot 7056: Fr. 2404*. 1928 $50 Gold Certificate Star Note. PMG Choice Uncirculated 63 EPQ. Lot 7058: Fr. 2407. 1928 $500 Gold Certificate. PMG Gem Uncirculated 65 EPQ. Lot 7059: Fr. 2408. 1928 $1000 Gold Certificate. PMG Choice Uncirculated 63 EPQ.

The entire Stack’s Bowers Galleries Spring 2026 Showcase Auction is available for viewing and pre-sale bidding at StacksBowers.com. To consign to one of the firm’s upcoming auctions call 800-458-4646 or email Consign@StacksBowers.com.

SBG: THE HUGH SHULL COLLECTION

May 10th, 1834. Rag Bank of the United States Philadelphia, PA Five Dollars. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#N12. PMG Fine 12. No. 10. Plate A. This note is also unique and the only example observed by us. It first appeared in Smythe's 1995 Memphis auction where it was acquired by Dr. York. It was not until 2016 that it was finally sold again at Roland Auctions. Hugh finally got his chance to own this prize when the Nassau Collection was sold in 2023. Its overall character and dimensions are very distinctive. The "jackass" pictogram in the center permitted the obligations to swirl around it, in all their complexities. Though at first glance it looks like currency, because the denomination in the center, the numerous plays on political slogans from the period weave a narrative of this unstable financial period. Calhoun and Biddle are both lampooned with their first names. Payable to "H. Clay" at their branch in Lexington, this is a very unusual obligation on any Hard Times Era Satirical Note. The bill also mentions "Anti-masonic," or "W-H-I-G paper rags." The end panels with their perpendicular text are somewhat perplexing and merit further research but "WIG CURRENCY" sums up the overall tenor of this exceptional museum caliber note. Fault-free making it rather exceptional for such an instrument that was meant to look worn in commerce communicating its political messages. Very strongly pursued when last auctioned. We would expect the same today with its enhanced pedigree research doubtlessly confirming its uniqueness.

Ex: R.M. Smythe & Company, 1995 Memphis Auction #139 (06/1995), Lot #1168; Roland Auctions NY, Estate of Dr. Alan York: Coins, Medals & Paper Money (03/2016) Lot #222; The Nassau Collection; Heritage 2023 FUN Auction #3591 (01/2023), Lot #20198.

To read the complete item description, see:
May 10th, 1834. Rag Bank of the United States Philadelphia, PA Five Dollars. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#N12. PMG Fine 12. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1R3VM1/may-10th-1834-rag-bank-of-the-united-states-philadelphia-pa-five-dollars-hard-times-era-satirical-note-rulau-htn12-pmg-fine-12)

January 1, 1834. The Glory Bank, in the City of Washington Twenty Dollars in Glory. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#UNL. PCGS Banknote Choice Fine 15. No. None. A second distinctive brown rag paper "The Glory Bank" type. Simpler than the previous and slightly smaller. The seemingly very well combed out boar faces left, scowling, and standing on straw. Flanking each side are "XX" counters, the title at center and obligation below. This type payable "in GLORY to Martin Van Buren, or Bearer on demand." The officers Kendall and Jackson are block printed like the previous. The simple end cartouches with "PAY MY PEOPLE IN GLORY." Extremely rare and missing from several of the major collections researched, including Leidman, Ford, and the Nassau Collection. This piece was sold in Schingoethe Part 9 and in the March, 2016 Dr. Alan York auction at Roland. This note demonstrates a strong originality with regards to the paper body throughout. At the upper left corner tip, the minuscule bald spot identifies this example's appearances in prior auctions. Another charming rendition and an important major type for the specialist.

Ex: R.M. Smythe & Company, Herb & Martha Schingoethe Collection Part 9 (12/2006), Lot #2643; Roland Auctions NY, Estate of Dr. Alan York: Coins, Medals & Paper Money (03/2016) Lot #361.

To read the complete item description, see:
January 1, 1834. The Glory Bank, in the City of Washington Twenty Dollars in Glory. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#UNL. PCGS Banknote Choice Fine 15. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1R3VMP/january-1-1834-the-glory-bank-in-the-city-of-washington-twenty-dollars-in-glory-hard-times-era-satirical-note-rulau-htunl-pcgs-ba)

Aug. 21st, 1837. Humbug Glory Bank Six Cents in Mint Drops or Glory at Cost. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#N18. PCGS Banknote Choice Uncirculated 64. No. None. This design is likely the most iconic from the entire genre and encountered with frequency in various conditions. Several are very low-grade notes, indicating they passed through hands heavily, most likely in the Philadelphia area. Printed on white rag paper, with imprints at the left and right margins. The layout and satirical references are numerous. At the top center, a recalcitrant jackass faces left, "Roman Firmness" above. To the left "6 Cents" counter titled ""Better Currency''" and to the right a titled "Hickory Leaf" vignette. Under the vignette, "We promise to pay to Tumble Humbug Benton. Seven Months after date at the 'HUMBUG GLORY BANK SIX CENTS in mint drops or Glory at cost." The titles rest upon an undertint of a large and lazy "6" outlined in white on shaded "CENT." Along the left end panel, inside the frame line, are six satirical Jackson-portrait coins or ''Mint Drops'' dated 1837, below is a satirical ''artist's signature'' as on contemporary medals, "Martin V. sc." At the right the ''magician'' has disappeared and all that is left is the President's trademark top hat, hickory leaf stem, pipe, spectacles and a "veto[ed]" bill; "6"' above and below. On the top border is the motto ""I leave this great people prosperous and happy''-Manager's last kick."" On the bottom border ''In seven months from this time bank rag shall be abolished.['']-Globe of 1834." Outside the frame lines are the imprints. At the left end, "SOLD Whole Sale, Winslows 6 Little Green St. near Maiden Lane New York." At the right end, "Published at 89 Nassau Street." At the bottom, are engraved signatures of "Cunning Reuben" as "Cash" and "Honest Amos" as "Pres't." At the bottom margin line is a "copyright," "Entered according to Act of Congress August 21, 1837, by H.L. Winslow in Clerk's Office of the Southern District New York." The mottoes are identical to the ''Five Cents in Mint Drops'' previous, but with different style and designs. In addition, there are plate and paper variances observed. This is a high-grade example and one of the finest we have seen. Only the Ford Part X note we sold in May 2005 eclipses this in preservation. This example is exceptionally framed even for the grade assigned boasting complete imprints and distinct margins that utterly trump the minor imperfections noted by PCGS Banknote. The note may have been pressed at one time, but this may as well be immaterial. Hugh acquired this privately, and we are uncertain if it has any auction pedigrees. This appears to be superior to the Richard August Collection example we sold in our Spring 2025 Showcase auction for $3,840. It is a striking example of this famous American note and would place itself perfectly into the center of any top caliber collection of these notes. PCGS Banknote comments "Small Repaired Edge Tear, Minor Adhesive Residue."

Historical Note: As we summarized in the Ford Part X catalog: "Amos Kendall, Reuben Whitney and Van Buren here again are satirized, along with most of Jackson's symbols from Veto to Hickory Leaves and his oft-quoted stubbornness or ''Roman Firmness.'' Few other Presidents found themselves facing such an array of their own symbols turned artfully against them with such devastating skill. Numismatists know that no Jackson portrait coins exist, but his obsession with Hard Money and his ally Benton made such a satire all too inviting."

To read the complete item description, see:
Aug. 21st, 1837. Humbug Glory Bank Six Cents in Mint Drops or Glory at Cost. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#N18. PCGS Banknote Choice Uncirculated 64. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1R3VN7/aug-21st-1837-humbug-glory-bank-six-cents-in-mint-drops-or-glory-at-cost-hard-times-era-satirical-note-rulau-htn18-pcgs-banknote-)

(ca. 1837). The Great Loco Foco Juggernaut 12 1/2 Cents. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#N21. PCGS Currency Very Fine 35. A numismatic rarity of great importance. Unlike the crude woodblock plates used for most of the Hard Times Era Satirical notes, the "Loco Foco" was created by an artist of extraordinary talent forging a masterwork. Laboring upon a small surface, an engraved plate was created with immense detail that foreshadowed many future American illustrators. The engraved plate still exists today. This is a note that always draws attention, and it has justifiably become one of the great favorites among sophisticated obsolete banknote collectors and Hard Times token mavens. Printed on thin skin-like paper. The designs were imaginatively drawn. Engraved by David Claypool Johnston, without imprint. There are three major vignette 'suites' featured on the note (almost as if acts in a play).

At the top center is a Martin Van Buren faced cat, atop bank deposits, riding a 200,000 JACK ASS POWER wagon being pulled to the left as a "juggernaut" by the "Loco Foco" radical Democrats wearing their yokes of OFFICE. Others sacrifice themselves underneath the mayhem. Following along are Jackson and 'John Bull' congratulating themselves on the situation. The Tories to be consoled were British bankers who were to profit from Jackson's fiscal policies. At the far right is Jackson dressed as an old maid trampling on VOTE OF CONGRESS, PEOPLE'S RIGHTS, and COMMON SENSE in small type. He's holding the flag of CONSTITUTION and an oar of VETO is projecting from the globe to his left. This is a clear reference to the influential and despised "Kitchen Cabinet" of Jackson's first administration. The left end vignette faces outwards and perpendicular with framed title GLORY ENOUGH. The jackass has the head of Jackson and behind is Van Buren as a monkey, hat in hand. The sign points TO RUIN and in fine print underneath "Treading in the footsteps of his illustrious & c." This vignette is flanked by two different satirical counters. In the bottom center, underneath the "juggernaut" is ornate text. In the center, a human faced dung beetle (most likely representing Thomas Hart Benton) pushes back on a ball titled 12-1/2 CENTS/SHINPLASTER over a re-creation of the Greek legend of Laocoön, priest of Apollo crushed by a serpent for warning the Trojans of the danger of the massive hollow horse left on the battlefield by the deceitful Greeks. TREASURY CIRCULAR strangles Van Buren. The left text in eight lines: Thou monster slayer, BENT ON gold, Who every bank WOULD-BURY; Who KENN'D ALL things in the womb of Time. And wiser grew sage Dogberry Endow'd with WIT-KNEE deep in love. Mong'st learned pundits, in the VAN Thou stand'st, a learned financier, And learned seer without finan.' The text to the right reads: 'For thou did'st see Mississippi bank, (The only bank devoid of rags.) O'erflow with shining yellow gold, Instead of HICKORY leaves and snags. Then in thy yellow current, see Thou pay the bearer TWELVE & A HALF CENTS At sight and charge the same to me. Yours with respect, an expense, [engraved signature in cursive] Loco Foco'.

Ex: Stack's Bowers Galleries August 2019 ANA Auction U.S. Currency (08/2019), Lot #11088.

To read the complete item description, see:
(ca. 1837). The Great Loco Foco Juggernaut 12 1/2 Cents. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#N21. PCGS Currency Very Fine 35. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1R3VOC/ca-1837-the-great-loco-foco-juggernaut-12-12-cents-hard-times-era-satirical-note-rulau-htn21-pcgs-currency-very-fine-35)

July 22nd, 1837. The Sucker Institution Company, Guard Wall, PA Ten Cents in Suckers. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#N25. PCGS Banknote Very Fine 30. No. 98765432. Hugh Shull considered this the center piece of his Hard Times Era Satirical Note collection. It was so revered that its first documented auction appearance was in the 1956 Stack's ANA Auction catalog. That was a time when most paper money such as this was relegated to the far corner of the bourse room. The intriguing design and satirical motifs elevate this considerably and few would argue against it being the "King" of this genre. Adding to its desirability is its impressive condition with the appearance of almost being as made. Under the title a scaly fish swims upstream in the field of the note. At upper left a "10" counter and at upper right, the serial number penned "98765432." The obligation across the center, promises to pay "N. Codfish" or bearer, "in Suckers" in addition "Ten Cents," in the center gives the appearance this is an actual scrip note. Bolded "Guard Wall, PA" and penned signatures of the officers "James Dill" and "S. Moody." Very interesting because this distinctive issue has satirical references much different than other better-known notes in the series. The signatures apparently refer to a sour distrust for worthless scrip notes. The payee references relate to the vignette and the populace being suckered. The descending ladder serial number was noted in our 2001 Americana catalog as "perhaps counting down to the impending financial disaster." The reference "on the Guard Wall," is more cryptic, but Pennsylvanians were flooded with hundreds of different private issues at this time. This is the Rulau Plate Note and likely unique in numismatic terms. This specimen is bright, vivid and well margined example with strong printing clarity that stands distinct for the grade assigned. Light wear is observed from the blank back. We last cataloged this in our 2001 Americana Auction where Hugh acquired it for $2,185. Prior to that, it was in the Robert Lindismith collection for over three decades. It has been twenty-five years since this was last available, and it alluded the top two specialists that day. An absolute trophy note that certainly merits a runaway price in this auction.

Ex: Stack's 2001 Americana Sale (01/2001), Lot #2265.

To read the complete item description, see:
July 22nd, 1837. The Sucker Institution Company, Guard Wall, PA Ten Cents in Suckers. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#N25. PCGS Banknote Very Fine 30. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1R3VPL/july-22nd-1837-the-sucker-institution-company-guard-wall-pa-ten-cents-in-suckers-hard-times-era-satirical-note-rulau-htn25-pcgs-)

May 15th, 1837. Abrams Preaching on a Fire Plug, Philadelphia Twenty Cents. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. PMG Very Fine 25. No. 47. The fourth and final "Abrams Preaching" note we offer in this auction is an important one. The denomination is much rarer and it is the only confirmed example. The vignette is identical to the others with the mob of Quakers at left, instigating the constables to seize Abrams. The obligation across the top is identical to the previous 10 Cents. The bottom left is dated as last with the serial number "47." Signed only by Isaac Abrams at the lower right. Endorsed on the blank back by "Isaac Abrams." This is the Rulau Plate Note in all the editions it appeared. An impressive condition note and a great rarity. Appropriately, it boasts the superior pedigree chain that brings it forward to this bidding opportunity. It originated in the 1986 Leidman auction where Dr. York acquired it for $605. Nearly thirty years later it realized $1,500, to an anonymous internet bidder at his first estate auction at Roland in March 2016. Ultimately this reappeared at Heritage in December 2024 where it realized $4,800 in furious competition. Hugh recognized that it may be unique. A beautiful example that is the key in the "Abrams Preaching" series.

Ex: Bowers and Merena / Presidential Coin and Antiques Company, The Collection of Julian Leidman (Metropolitan New York Convention Sale 04/1986), Lot #4047; Roland Auctions NY, Estate of Dr. Alan York: Coins, Medals & Paper Money (03/2016) Lot #452; Heritage 2024 Winter U.S. Obsolete Showcase Auction #62234 (01/2024), Lot #95289.

To read the complete item description, see:
May 15th, 1837. Abrams Preaching on a Fire Plug, Philadelphia Twenty Cents. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. PMG Very Fine 25. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1R3VQ9/may-15th-1837-abrams-preaching-on-a-fire-plug-philadelphia-twenty-cents-hard-times-era-satirical-note-pmg-very-fine-25)

(ca. 1837). Chelsea Clam Bank One Hundred Clams. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#N41. PMG Very Fine 20 Net. Internal Tears, Backed. No. 149. Few would dispute that this is an epic American note. Its obvious symbolism and distinctive blue color printing make it an extraordinary presentation and very appealing. Printed in all blue on cream paper. The Jacksonian ass at the upper left and the boar at the upper right stare across the note with the nocturnal absconder removing the "Deposites" being chased by the canine basking in the moonlight at top center. The obligations across the center are mostly in italics and the payee and denomination are handwritten with the engraved "Clams." The note was printed by a mythical engraving concern in "Chelsea." Likely unique and the only example we have seen. Hugh did not participate in the first 2016 Roland Auctions sale featuring the Estate of Dr. Alan York. Dr. York acquired this through his agent Tom Denly at the May 2005 Ford Part X auction for $6,112.50. It required just over five-figures for Hugh to finally land this trophy in January 2023. PMG notes "Internal Tears, Backed." It is bright and sharply printed. An absolutely stunning note and one of the true highlights from this landmark collection. PMG comments "Internal Tears, Backed."

Jack Guevrekian, June 15, 1973; Stack's John J. Ford, Jr. Collection Part X (05/2005), Lot #4194; Roland Auctions NY, Estate of Dr. Alan York: Coins, Medals & Paper Money (03/2016) Lot #227; The Nassau Collection; The Hugh Shull Collection of Hard Times Era & Historical Notes. Ex: Heritage 2023 FUN Auction #3591 (01/2023), Lot #20212.

To read the complete item description, see:
(ca. 1837). Chelsea Clam Bank One Hundred Clams. Hard Times Era Satirical Note. Rulau HT#N41. PMG Very Fine 20 Net. Internal Tears, Backed. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1R3VQZ/ca-1837-chelsea-clam-bank-one-hundred-clams-hard-times-era-satirical-note-rulau-htn41-pmg-very-fine-20-net-internal-tears-backed)

(ca. 1840). American Colonization Society, Monrovia (Liberia) Three Dollars. Abolitionist Related Currency. PMG Extremely Fine 40. Remainder. No. None. Plate A. The Anti-Slavery movement in America contributed social commentary and actions that influenced the eventual Civil War in the United States. The Monrovia notes with this title are among the most important artifacts related to this historical period and are very rare. Although for many decades this was traditionally collected as a Liberia issue, its American origin and implementation make it paramount in that genre of paper money. The imagery on this note is both iconic and ironic. Printed on bond paper, as used on notes intended for circulation, with imprint of Underwood, Bald, Spencer & Hufty, Philad./Danforth, Underwood & Co., N. York. Top center, flanked by George Washington and Henry Clay portraits, The Presentation of the Declaration of Independence. Left end, sailor standing in oval as "Lord Byron." Right end, boy with rake. Bottom center, small coconut palm tree. "Payable at their Store in Monrovia." Pick S103 (under Liberia, specialized volume). A remainder note, unaccomplished, with penciled annotation on the blank back. The third we have catalogued (the first being the Roper sale note which brought $632.50 in 1984), and a sole Proof we sold in the 52 Collection Part I sale in 2010. That unique proof realized $9,775. We believe there are five confirmed examples of this historic type. An extremely bold example and rarely offered. PMG comments "Annotation, Previously Mounted, Corner Tip Missing."

Historical Note: This very rare issuer engraved and printed these notes from the United States for use at the newly formed Republic of Liberia, capital Monrovia. The top center vignette imagery is quite iconic on this very historic note. Hugh Shull formed a specialized collection of "Presentation of the Declaration of Independence" vignetted notes. He recognized the significance of this as highly important within that collection. Interestingly, the founding fathers depicted on the central vignette were laden with slave owners including Thomas Jefferson. Social equality and moral equality were different matters. This society, which was founded in 1816 at the Davis Hotel in D.C., was not entirely about abolition and anti-slavery or about integrating freed blacks into America. Instead, the idea was that Monrovia was to be a place to "expel" the freed black population to avoid social integration, risk of slave rebellion assistance, and competition with white labor. Prominent Quakers, who were among many of the founders, benevolently believed that this repatriation would be better for these newly freed blacks, socially and economically. Among the society's founders was Henry Clay (pictured on the note) of Kentucky, who held an extreme view regarding the integration of freed blacks into American culture and the risks it would pose to the white populace and economy. The society sold memberships and even received $100,000 of funds from Congress.

Ex: Spink Auction 341 (6/2018), Lot #1276.

To read the complete item description, see:
(ca. 1840). American Colonization Society, Monrovia (Liberia) Three Dollars. Abolitionist Related Currency. PMG Extremely Fine 40. Remainder. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1R3VU9/ca-1840-american-colonization-society-monrovia-liberia-three-dollars-abolitionist-related-currency-pmg-extremely-fine-40-remai)

(ca. 1854). Bank of Nebraska Will Pay on Demand at the Slave Pen in Washington, Five Hundred Dollars. Abolitionist Related Currency. PCGS Banknote Very Fine 30. No. None. A great rarity, one of only two examples we have observed in nearly four decades. Historically, it is in the upper echelon of satirical themed and styled notes, fitting well into this period of Hugh Shull Collection types. Though undated, it refers to the 1854 Kansas-Nebraska Act period where act architect Stephen A. Douglas and President Franklin Pierce share the notes surface area with the turmoil of anti-slavery satire rhetoric between. Printed current banknote size upon a translucent and thick, sturdy bond paper without imprint. Within an oval, the wise owl spreads its wings with banner "NEBRASKA LAND OF LIBERTY" with its talons clutched upon olive branch. Flanking left, a "$500" die and at the right, caricatured Black man, underneath "Against Foreigners." Titled across center "BANK OF NEBRASKA" with italicized satire text under. "Will pay on demand at the Slave Pen in Washington FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS for every White or Black Slave delivered in Nebraska." Engraved signatures of "Gen'l Purse" and "Steve a. Doublelash" complementing their standing caricatured figures. Franklin Pierce in military garb stands upon the 1852 Convention "Baltimore Platf[orm] left. At right, "The Little Gnat" (not, Little Giant as he was known respectfully) is Douglas dressed holding a whip and a drink. Amazing imagery and subtle textual touches. The only published example we know of was in the first Dr. York auction in 2016. This piece was acquired privately and has never been at public auction. Printed as a single impression, the margins somewhat wide. Some doubling of the printing as made and press-bed ink smear may be observed. Worthy like several notes here that Hugh acquired for decades of achieving a strong realization. PCGS Banknote comments "Stained, Minor Edge Damage."

To read the complete item description, see:
(ca. 1854). Bank of Nebraska Will Pay on Demand at the Slave Pen in Washington, Five Hundred Dollars. Abolitionist Related Currency. PCGS Banknote Very Fine 30. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1R3VUL/ca-1854-bank-of-nebraska-will-pay-on-demand-at-the-slave-pen-in-washington-five-hundred-dollars-abolitionist-related-currency-pcg)

Great Britain. 1819 “House of Correction” Satirical “Skit” Note. Extremely Fine. Mimicking the British "white notes" and Provincial Banknotes of the early nineteenth century, satirical notes were created to comment upon relevant issues of the day, particularly those affecting the lesser classes of society. This British "Skit" is not often encountered and collectors frequently hold them in their collections for many years. The larger size and the layout is similar to Government "white notes" in circulation. Like the similar "Anti-Hanging" note, this so-called "Anti-Flogging" note takes on the cruelty of corporal punishment and the inequities of its distribution upon poorer citizens. The caricature artwork is attributed to George Cruikshank. He was a prolific illustrator for many decades. Printed on bond paper, published by S. Knight as noted far left. These were sold for "1 S." Satirical text across the center with bolded "Perpetual Flagellation" and engraved signature "J. Flogwell." At the far left, a perpendicular vignette portrays a juggernaut forced forwardly by Jack Ketch (executioner for Charles II, botched mercilessly the Duke of Monmouth's beheading) symbolizing Death wields the "cat" upon a man pushing the mortuary cart pulled by two other men; the scene cheered on at the rear. The coat of arms has Satan climbing the gibbet's ladder. At lower left, man in the stocks with banner. Exceptional and macabre imagery attributed to Cruikshank. Though corner tip backed upon a paper sheet, this uncertified example appears as made with moderate handling only and a vertical fold. The first we have handled and an important glimpse into this period.

Historical Note: George Cruikshank (1792-1878) was an important Victorian Era illustrator with influence upon artists until this very day. Prior to working upon his friend Charles Dickens' earlier works in the 1830s, he was a caricaturist with his notable (or notorious) works revolving in the 1819 period when several issues, such as Abolition and inequities in Justice, interested the educated population. His print "The New Union Club," a direct comment on the Anti-Slavery movement, has been studied closely in modern times. The two "skit" notes attributed to him, but not signed, are best known with paper currency collectors. Though, not signed, the "Bank Restriction Note" (the so-called "Anti-Hanging note) example in the British Museum was donated by his family in 1891; likely preparing for a 100th anniversary exhibit as his Dickens' inspired plates and others were held in high regard. It is interesting that "Jack Ketch" appears on both notes and his cruel symbolism carried forth for nearly two centuries. An interesting case of a mainstream illustrator, of future renown, cartooning his way during tumultuous political times.

Ex. Dix Noonan Webb Auction (2/24/2022), Lot #71.

To read the complete item description, see:
Great Britain. 1819 “House of Correction” Satirical “Skit” Note. Extremely Fine. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1R3VYT/great-britain-1819-house-of-correction-satirical-skit-note-extremely-fine)

WAYNE'S NUMISMATIC DIARY: MARCH 8, 2026

I've been planning it for a while, but last week I made it official - I'll be retiring from my day job at the end of June. My oldest son gave me an early retirement gift - a copy of the new Mega Red X from Whitman. The gift was timely; on Thursday I headed up to Baltimore for the Whitman Spring Expo, where I had it signed by Senior Editor Jeff Garrett and Publisher John Feigenbaum. Len Augsburger took this great photo. It was the first copy signed at the show.

I'd been meeting at the Whitman booth with John and Len discussing the latest happenings at the Newman Numismatic Portal and possible things we could work on together to bring more information to the numismatic community. As our meeting wrapped up a line of people was forming for the signing opportunity.

Next, Len and I headed over to the booth of numismatic literature dealer Charlie Davis, where he was speaking with Charles Morgan of PCGS. We chatted on a number of topics, and I thanked Charlie for his eulogy at the funeral services in London for Phil Skingley who was not only his colleague but also a close personal friend. Marcus Davis also stopped by the table while we were there. Here are some photos I took of Charlie's stock.

 

It was whirlwind show for me. It snuck up on me and I hadn't made any dinner plans and ended up heading back home to Virginia for a normal homecooked dinner with my family. I didn't find anything to purchase but did get to speak with longtime E-Sylum supporters Doug Winter and Dave Kahn. I swung by other sponsor and advertiser tables (Northeast Numismatics, Jon Sullivan and others) but as often happens I caught them with customers and didn't want to interrupt.

I did get to visit a bit with Julian Leidman and Erik Douglas, and spotted Tony Terranova, Vicken Yegparian and others at their tables. On my way out I chatted some more with Len about some E-Sylum issues. So it was a short, but productive afternoon. My next show will likely be PAN in May.

ANCIENT COIN FOUND IN BUS FAREBOX?

A coin once used to pay for a bus fare was created more than 2,000 years ago.

James Edwards worked as a cashier for the Leeds Transport Company in the 1950s, gathering fares from bus and tram drivers in the city.

He put fake and foreign coins to one side, and this collection was passed down to his grandson, Peter Edwards.

Mr Edwards later set about investigating one of the stranger items in the collection, which has now been revealed to be a coin that was minted 2,000 years ago.

It was made in the 1st century BC by descendants of the Carthaginians, in what is now Cadiz, and features their god Melqart, ruler of the underworld.

The other side of the coin, likely used in trade across the Mediterranean, features the Greek hero Heracles.

How the items came to be used as bus fare in 1950s Leeds remains a mystery.

Mr Edwards told the BBC: “My grandfather would come across coins which were not British and put them to one side, and when I went to his house, he would hand me a few.

“It was not long after the war, so I imagine soldiers returned with coins from countries they had been sent to.

“Neither of us were coin collectors, but we were fascinated by their origin and imagery – to me, they were treasure.”

To read the complete article, see:
Coin used as bus fare was 2,000-year-old currency (https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/coin-used-as-bus-fare-was-2-000-year-old-currency/ar-AA1XLPHx)

THE 1661 AKERSHUS 10 DUCAT

NORWAY. 10 Ducat (Portugaloser), ND (1661). Christiania Mint. Frederik III. NGC AU Details--Damaged.

Fr-5a; KM-64 (silver); Hede-39; Sieg-44 (silver); NMD-1; Schou-2; Aagaard-A2; Rønning-P8; Bruun-10080. Weight: 35.68 gms. Mintmaster: Frederik Grüner. Engraver: Johan Blum. Apart from being nicked in the left obverse field, this is a most remarkable AU piece with amazing details and remains of original luster.

Arguably the most famous, beautiful, and coveted of all Norwegian gold coins and presumed UNIQUE in private ownership with just two other exemplars known, namely one in the National Museum of Denmark and one in the Coin collection of the University of Oslo (Universitetets Myntkabinett).

The present piece was bought personally by count Preben Bille-Brahe at the 1831 auction of the important collection of the late Carl Friderik (Friederich) Schubart for the then formidable sum of 46 Daler and has not been offered for sale in close to two hundred years! Thus this is a chance of not only one but of several lifetimes and will certainly be the crowning achievement of any collector of Norwegian coins in general or any collector of architectural European gold.

The outstanding type was struck to commemorate the celebration of king Frederik as a sovereign monarch of Norway. The ceremony took place at Akershus on August 15th 1661 in the presence of crown prince Christian V. While the obverse had previously been used for the regular Speciedalers from 1659 and 1660 (Aagaard die 60-1), the reverse is in every way unique in Scandinavian monetary history. Below the text "Aggers Haus" is a beautifully composed and balanced rendering of Akershus Castle on top of a rock overlooking the sea. Akershus, which can still be visited in the Norwegian capital Oslo, was constructed around 1300 to protect and provide a royal residence for the city. Many late medieval monarchs resided there, including Margaret (Margrethe) I (1375-1412), who was the architect of the Kalmar Treaty which united the Scandinavian countries Denmark, Norway (with Iceland) and Sweden (with Finland) under a Danish monarch. Christian IV, always very personally involved in the architectural design of official buildings, first transformed Akershus from a medieval castle into a regular fortress in 1592 and then from 1637 onwards into a full-blown renaissance castle complete with Italian inspired bastions, also visible on the design of the coin.

To read the complete lot description, see:
NORWAY. 10 Ducat (Portugaloser), ND (1661). Christiania Mint. Frederik III. NGC AU Details--Damaged. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1QMBPY/norway-10-ducat-portugaloser-nd-1661-christiania-mint-frederik-iii-ngc-au-details-damaged)

To read an article by Stack's Bowers Henrik Berndt Senior Numismatist , see:
A Once in Several Lifetimes Opportunity (https://stacksbowers.com/a-once-in-several-lifetimes-opportunity/)

IMPERIAL RUSSIAN GOLD HOARD FOUND

Archaeologists from the Institute of Archaeology of the Russian Academy of Sciences have revealed a remarkable hoard of gold coins uncovered in 2025 in the historic town of Torzhok, in Russia’s Tver Region.

The find, which includes 409 gold coins dating from 1848 to 1911, is now considered one of the largest hoards of late-Imperial Russian gold coins ever found during archaeological excavations. The treasure was recovered during rescue excavations before the construction of a new residential building on Torzhok’s Left Bank.

The work was conducted by a joint expedition of the Institute of Archaeology and the All-Russian Historical and Ethnographic Museum in Torzhok. These rescue excavation works are required by law in areas with archaeological significance before construction begins. The coins were discovered buried under the stone foundations of a house in a glazed ceramic kandyushka, a small container like a mug or pot with a neck and rounded handle.

According to Natalia Sarafanova, head of the Novotorzhsk archaeological team, the hoard was likely concealed during the upheaval of the Russian Revolution in 1917. “Most of the coins date to the reign of Emperor Nicholas II. This appears to be a so-called return hoard: the owners hid their valuables intending to retrieve them later, but for some reason they never returned,” she said.

The oldest coin in the collection is a five-ruble piece from 1848, when he ruled as Emperor Nicholas I, and another coin dates to the period of Alexander III. Most of the hoard is made up of ten-ruble gold coins made during Nicholas II, with the most recent dating to 1911. The collection also contains coins produced under Sergei Witte’s monetary reform in 1897, including two coins worth 7.5 rubles and another 10 coins worth 15 rubles. The total of the hoard is 4,070 rubles in gold.

To read the complete article, see:
Archaeologists reveal major hoard of Imperial Russian gold (https://www.heritagedaily.com/2026/03/archaeologists-reveal-major-hoard-of-imperial-russian-gold/157279)

THE ROYAL MINT'S 60 YEARS IN WALES

It was an unpopular quandary which successive governments dodged for over a century, but on 1 March 1966, Prime Minister Harold Wilson finally grasped the nettle... Britain would be going decimal.

£1 would no longer be worth 240d, but 100 new pence.

Nowhere was the upheaval felt more strongly than in the south Wales valleys where a 38-acre site was created in Llantrisant so the Royal Mint could meet demand for the new currency.

Since then, it has continued to adapt to the times, facing the challenge of an increasingly cashless society by diversifying into jewellery, commemorative coins and medals and even reclaiming precious metals from E-waste.

Once the decision was made, next came logistics - where would all these coins be made?

Chris Barker, Royal Mint historian, said Belfast and Durham were also frontrunners, but "in many respects, Llantrisant was regarded as the lesser of several evils".

"From a civil engineering perspective Llantrisant was hopeless - the ground was hilly and boggy, and really difficult to locate heavy machinery."

Importantly, it did have several things going for it.

These included its relative proximity to London by rail and the M4, experience of former workers from the tin and copper industries in south Wales and the backing of Chancellor and Cardiff MP, James Callaghan.

In a rare example of management and worker solidarity, Jack James – deputy royal mint master – opined that it would be difficult to entice overseas clients to Durham, while the London workforce, many of whom would have to relocate, called Llantrisant "the least obnoxious of all the sites under consideration".

Spades were in the ground by 1967 and Queen Elizabeth II officially opened the site in December 1968.

By decimalisation day on 15 February 1971, it was already producing 80% of all new coins.

To read the complete article (subscription required), see:
Royal Mint - 60 years since new money rolled into Wales (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cde4lwngkx6o)

Also:
How being 'the least obnoxious choice' brought the Royal Mint to Wales 60 years ago (https://www.aol.com/news/being-least-obnoxious-choice-brought-133240701.html)

SUTLERS’ SCRIP: SHOPPING WITH THE SOLDIER

Sutlers–private operators of the Army’s version of a travelling general store–operated in their own realm separate from the military supply chain. Catering to the soldier, they aimed to add some comforts to camp life – at a price. The sutler offered non-regulation items the quartermaster could not, or would not, provide. These products included razors, tobacco, watches, sewing kits, stamps, ink, boot polish, brushes, newspapers, envelopes, books, canned food and more. When available, they offered fresh fish, oysters, fruit, vegetables, and dairy. Pies were very popular, even if their content was sometimes suspect. Most desirable was coffee, though if regimental leadership had a lax enough policy about it, alcohol could be had as well.

While sutlers had a reputation for price-gouging, prices reflected the risk of bringing the goods (and themselves) to the front lines in addition to scarcity. Complain as they might, a soldier knew if they refused to pay the inflated costs, someone else would.

Army regulations allowed sutlers to be appointed at the rate of one for every regiment, corps, or separate detachment by the commanding officer. Sutlery expanded exponentially along with the growing armies. State militias allowed commanders considerable leeway in appointing (or at least permitting) merchants to sell goods to the men. Mustered in with their own uniforms and weapons, sundry goods were never a priority or logistical reality.

To say there was friction between sutlers and the military is an understatement. The sutler, who was a civilian and not an officer, held no authority over soldiers. They bristled at regulations and the possibility of military punishment. Some officers viewed sutlers as another opportunity to leak military secrets or movements, degrade combat readiness, and spread rumors. Still, the demand for convenient goods, a lack of alternatives, and overtaxed quartermasters meant no real competition for the sutler. While often painted as parasitic, the incentive to maintain lucrative appointments and keep their captive market satisfied probably self-regulated sutlery more than the army would admit. Their individual legacies deserve better than being known simply as con artists.

The sutler obtained goods from a variety of contractors and local markets, but if he sold substandard product, it was the sutler and not the manufacturer who was the target of soldiers’ ire and retaliation. Meanwhile, the officers overseeing sutlery operations could be equally unscrupulous, manipulative, or even complicit in price-fixing. The sutler compensated by adjusting prices due to spoilage, loss, or theft, an endless cycle of everyone seeking advantage where they could.

The navy didn’t fare much better. While there was better access to goods in port, long stretches of blockade time or riverine warfare deep in enemy territory along the Mississippi, Cumberland, and Tennessee rivers did not allow for frequent resupply. Ships could be visited by “bumboats,” or merchants that might row up to a ship or even be allowed on board to offer their wares. Various sutler ships also operated on the rivers as a more expedient means of transport. But this system was unreliable and suffered the same criticism about substandard quality and overcharges.

The most under-reported aspect of sutlery was that even the most infamous prison camps, including Andersonville and Elmira, were intermittently serviced by sutlers. As both sides adopted increasingly cruel and retaliatory punishment, Stanton ultimately prohibited trade with prisoners in December 1863. He later relented somewhat when it was clear the harsh winters exacerbated the need for basic clothing and hygiene needs, and the federal government could benefit from the commercial venture. In the south, Confederate guards were willing to trade food for manufactured goods, jewelry, and greenbacks. The Federal prisoners used Confederate dollars to purchase whatever was available from the sutler.

To read the complete article, see:
Robbers Road and Sutlers’ Scrip: Shopping with the Soldier (https://emergingcivilwar.com/2026/02/04/robbers-road-and-sutlers-scrip-shopping-with-the-soldier/)

LOOSE CHANGE: MARCH 8, 2026

America's First Quarter Dollar

Half dimes, half dollars, and dollar denominations were struck in 1794, which now gave the fledgling U.S. Mint five different denominations to strike. The two remaining denominations, dimes and quarters, were struck beginning in 1796. The quarter dollar coin was one of the least needed coins at the time as the United States had an overabundance of Spanish two reales coins in circulation. These Spanish coins traded at roughly the same value in commerce as the new quarter. These coins were considered equal in trade because, for example, the 1796 Spanish two reales was struck at a weight of 6.77 grams of .8330 fine silver and the newly designed 1796 American quarter contained 6.74 grams of .8924 fine silver.

While most coins of this era display only 13 stars, this coin displays 15 stars representing the number of actual states admitted to the Union at that time. But the Mint soon realized that as more states joined the union, the stars would soon dominate the design. The Mint made the decision to limit the numbers of stars to 13, represented on any future coins, honoring the original Colonies and all subsequent states.

The reverse design was borrowed from the 1794 silver dollar which depicted a small-sized eagle standing upon a bank of clouds. The eagle is displayed within a large wreath of laurel and lily and tied with ribbons. Around the periphery was "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", but it depicted no denomination. The 1796 quarter was the only American quarter struck for use in the 18th Century.

The Mint at Philadelphia struck 5,894 of these 1796-dated quarters in 1796, while 252 additional coins were not delivered until February of 1797, for a total of 6,146 pieces.

To read the complete article, see:
America's First Quarter Dollar (https://www.greysheet.com/news/story/americas-first-quarter-dollar)

1861 Half Eagles from the Start of the Civil War

Before North Carolina and Georgia seceded from the union, fresh dies were shipped from Philadelphia and operations began as they had in years past. However, as soon as their respective states left the union, the mints fell first under the control of the state governments, then finally under the control of the newly formed Confederate States of America.

The Charlotte Mint produced some 6,879 half eagles before being shut down by the summer of 1861. Experts suggest that around 200 examples survive in all grades today. We are proud to offer the single finest known example in our Spring 2026 Rarities Night. Graded MS-63 by PCGS and approved by CAC, this piece most recently sold in Legend Rare Coin Auctions’ Regency Auction 42 as part of the Bigmo Civil War Collection.

The mintage for the Dahlonega Mint is somewhat shrouded in mystery. The facility remained under federal control until April 8 when the southern government took over. From the start of the year until the mint fell to Confederate control, 1,597 half eagles were recorded as struck. The remaining stock of gold planchets were coined until they ran out; though the records of the quantities produced do not survive, experts and scholars believe perhaps 1,000 to 2,000 pieces were struck by the southern government. We are again honored to offer one of the finest known examples of this rare and important issue, one of perhaps 75 to 85 thought extant. Boasting a numismatic provenance that includes the legendary collection of Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr., this piece is graded MS-63 by PCGS and dually endorsed by CAC and CMQ.

To read the complete article, see:
Exceptional Pair of 1861 Half Eagles from the Charlotte and Dahlonega Mints are Numismatic Legacies from the Tumultuous Start of the Civil War (https://stacksbowers.com/exceptional-pair-of-1861-half-eagles-from-the-charlotte-and-dahlonega-mints-are-numismatic-legacies-from-the-tumultuous-start-of-the-civil-war/)

The Accidental Quadrillionaire

A Nottingham business owner has become the richest person in the history of the world - but only on paper.

Sophie Downing, 29, was given what she thought was a £10 coffee shop voucher for Christmas.

But she discovered the balance on the gift card totalled more than £63 quadrillion when using it to buy a matcha latte last week.

That's 63 with 15 zeros. Or a thousand trillion. Or a million billion.

Of course, the 29-year-old is not literally a quadrillionaire - there was just a mix-up on the till at 200 Degrees Coffee.

To read the complete article, see:
Woman becomes richest person in the world with £63 quadrillion to her name after gift card slip-up (https://www.msn.com/en-my/news/other/woman-becomes-richest-person-in-the-world-with-63-quadrillion-to-her-name-after-gift-card-slip-up/ar-AA1WOLGi)

DAVID J. FARBER (1934-2026)

David J. Farber, a gregarious professor of computer networks who was sometimes called the “grandfather of the internet” because of the ultimately groundbreaking students he trained, died on Feb. 7 in Tokyo. He was 91.

When Professor Farber started his career in the mid-1950s, at Bell Laboratories, computers were practically islands unto themselves. If they communicated at all, they talked by means of a Teletype or punch card reader down the hall.

Since then, thanks in part to his work, the realms of communication and computation merged into that one powerful glue for society that is the internet; The New York Times once described him as “an early architect” of it.

Dr. Postel’s 1974 dissertation, “A Graph-Model Analysis of Computer Communications Protocols,” would define much of the evolution of the early internet. Another Farber student from that era, Paul Mockapetris, would help design the Domain Name System (DNS), the address directory of the internet.

Those algorithms, along with others developed with other students and colleagues throughout the research community, became part of the foundation for a variety of academic experimental networks that would eventually be called simply the internet. If Professor Farber was not supervising the work directly, he was often on committees that lobbied the federal government for support.

Perhaps his most influential paper was one he wrote with the engineer Paul Baran in 1977, “The Convergence of Computing and Telecommunications Systems.” In it, they argued that digital computers were now fast enough to take over communication functions, later to take the form of email, text messaging and more. The computers were not just for rapidly adding up columns of numbers, they said, but also, as creative tools, for supporting a wide range of human interaction.

That insight helped attract investment money from the National Science Foundation to expand the Arpanet, a precursor to the internet funded by the Department of Defense’s Advanced Research Projects Agency. Professor Farber helped organize a project that linked hundreds of universities and research labs with the evolving Internet Protocols.

“I don’t think anyone in the early days thought there was going to be a commercial application for what they were building.” Professor Farber recalled to the website Hightechforum.org. “It’s a research project.”

To read the complete article, see:
David J. Farber, ‘Grandfather of the Internet,’ Dies at 91 (https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/14/technology/david-farber-dead.html)

For more, see:
David J. Farber, Known as the ‘Grandfather of the Internet,’ Dies at 91 (https://www.wsj.com/tech/david-j-farber-dies-at-91-99a23aca)
In Memoriam: David J. Farber, ‘Grandfather of the Internet’ (https://ics.uci.edu/2026/03/02/in-memoriam-david-j-farber-grandfather-of-the-internet/)

ABOUT THIS ISSUE: MARCH 8, 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.