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

 

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

WAYNE'S WORDS: THE E-SYLUM MARCH 9, 2025

New subscribers this week include: Ryan Sullivan. Welcome aboard! We now have 7,249 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.

As often happens, I had more material than I could fit in. More good stuff on the way next time. This week we open with an offering of rare American Bank Note Company annual reports, four new books, one book review, updates from the Newman Numismatic Portal, notes from readers, and more.

Other topics this week include Umayyad coinage, American medallists, the Southern Gold Society, women in numismatics, the 2025 Medallion Congress, serial hero Tom Sampson, fixed price and auction offerings, makers of elongated coin presses, and the new National Medal of Honor Museum.

To learn more about William Cumming Smillie, United States Currency, the 1892 World's Columbian Exposition, numismatics of the Hispanic Caribbean, the D. Wayne Johnson artist "databank", the casting of counterfeit Roman coins, parting agents, the Life Saving Benevolent Association of New York medals, touch pieces, Leo Mildenberg, the coins of Roman Egypt, coin-embedded tableware, and "squishin' missions", read on. Have a great week, everyone!

Wayne Homren
Editor, The E-Sylum

 

AMERICAN BANK NOTE CO. REPORTS 1864-1876

New York, 1864 to 1876. Lot of 11 ABN Annual Reports. An extraordinary collection of annual reports of the business conducted by the legendary security printer, American Bank Note Company. ABN, as it is commonly known, has been America's premier engraver and printer for over 150 years. These eleven reports document the annual activity of the company from 1864 to 1876, missing only the years 1870 and 1871. The reports are fascinating to read, and they document the company's activities in printing national currency for the United States as well as currency for foreign governments.

While the details they offer on the company finances and production is interesting, they are signed by some of the period's most prominent and well respected engravers who had been previously highly successful independent operators of their own companies before forming the American Bank Note Company. There are various combinations of the trustees of the company signing at the conclusion of each of the annual reports including the following: George N. Hatch; J. D. Bald; Jno E. Gavit; J. V. Carpenter; William Cumming Smillie; James L. Graham; John G. Wellsford; A. G. Goodall; Tracy R. Edson; Charles Welsh; Theo. H. Freeland, and others. Every one of these men played an important role in the early history of security printing and engraving in the U.S. and with their predecessor companies until they merged to form the American Bank Note Company in 1858.

This unique offering represents one of the most significant groups relating to the early financial history of the world's largest security printer, the American Bank Note Company. All reports are intact and fine or better condition. (11)

To read the complete lot description, see:
Historic American Bank Note Company Annual Reports from 1864 to 1876 (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/Historic-American-Bank-Note-Company-Annual-Reports-from-1864-to-1876_i55814004)

 

NEW BOOK: UNITED STATES CURRENCY, 9TH ED.

Whitman Brands™ proudly announces the release of the revised ninth edition of United States Currency, a fully illustrated guide to the history and market values of American paper money. First published over 30 years ago, this popular reference book is now updated with market pricing from the Greyhseet team and features high-quality images, making it an invaluable resource for both seasoned collectors and those simply curious about their old banknotes.

The latest edition of United States Currency covers the evolution of U.S. paper money, from large-size and fractional currency to small-size notes. Readers will find comprehensive information on denominations ranging from $1 to $10,000, as well as insights into World War II issues, uncut sheets, error notes, and even early Notes of the War of 1812. Additional features include guidance on grading, counterfeit detection, and a comprehensive collector glossary.

"This book is an excellent starting point for new collectors and an essential identification guide for understanding the many types of U.S. currency issued over the years," said Patrick Ian Perez, Foreword author and Vice President of Data and Development at Whitman Brands. "Interest in paper money collecting has been growing significantly, and it's exciting to see this momentum continue!"

Ninth Edition Highlights:

• Complete listings of every U.S. currency series, arranged by the universally accepted Friedberg Numbering System™.
• Market values in up to seven collectible grades, now powered by Greensheet®, the industry's leading price guide for paper money.
• New Foreword by Patrick Ian Perez, Editor of CDN Monthly Greysheet® and Greensheet®.

United States Currency is the second title in the former Whitman Guidebook Series to be rebranded and published under the new Collector Series™—your essential gateway into the fascinating world of collecting. The series provides comprehensive, up-to-date guidance and information on identifying, valuing, and caring for coins. Authored by industry experts, each book ensures enthusiasts can maximize both their enjoyment and investment. Other titles include Coin Collecting: An Introduction to the World of Numismatics (the Yellow Book), United States Gold Counterfeit Detection Guide, Inside the Rare Coin Market, Official ANA Grading Standards for United States Coins, and much more.

Published by Whitman®, the most trusted name in numismatic literature, United States Currency can be purchased through Whitman.com, Whitman's Ebay Store, Amazon, and Walmart.com, and bookstores, hobby shops, and other retailers nationwide.

For more information, visit whitman.com.

Specifications

Title: United States Currency, 9th Edition
Author: Kenneth Bressett
ISBN: 9780794851897
E-book: 9780794852061
Binding: Perfect bound softcover
Dimensions: 6 x 9 inches
Pages: 352
Retail: $22.95 U.S
https://whitman.com/a-guide-book-of-united-states-currency-9th-edition/

NEW BOOK: REFERENCING COLUMBIANA

Referencing Columbiana

Introducing a new reference book on medals, badges and souvenirs of the World's Columbian Exposition - compiled and presented after four years, by Steve A. Starlust.

This new 305 page book will replace the Nathan Eglit book "Columbiana", printed 67 years ago. Over 900 images and unlisted "new discoveries" are shown in different metals, in full color- to size. All designs have been enhanced to portray, whenever possible, how the medal would have looked if you acquired it at the fair.

The book is dedicated to Tom Hoffman, one of the premier collectors of our time. Many renowned Columbian Expo experts have lent their expertise and contributed images from their personal collections. Jeff Shevlin, so-called $ guy has praised it. This reference book has been well received as long overdue. Mr. Starlust has hopes his book will create a renewed interest in this historic event and possibly a coffee table book for non-collectors.

After the book is published. Steve's 1,500 pc. collection, which contains some of the nicest and rarest medals, badges, and souvenirs from the Exposition, will be auctioned.

Preface: As the owner of an ad agency for over 40 years, beautiful designs really impress me. I fell in love with the coins, medals and souvenirs from the 1893 World's Columbian Expo and began to collect them. As with most other Fair enthusiasts, I referred to the Nathan N. Eglit book Columbiana - The Medallic History of Christopher Columbus and the Columbian Exposition of 1893. It's a guide to nearly six-hundred items, but it only has a small amount of black & white photos and most medals are described in text only.

I also used Tom Hoffman's website to help me, because, unlike the Eglit book, he used lots of images in color. All collectors, auction houses and grading services agree, it's time for a new reference book, one that has as many pictures of medals in as many metals as possible. Well, this is it - but to make it even better, all images are to size, retouched to look like they are brand new, in mint state, or prooflike (as if you just brought them home from the Expo) also included is information about the designers, a brief history, country of origin, packaging, and so much more. Grades shown are from accredited grading services. In some cases, the type may be enhanced or recreated and may not be exact, but the integrity of the designs will be as struck.

I am hoping that more people will become enthusiasts of this 1893 spectacle that attracted millions of visitors from the United States and around the world. I've also included nearly three hundred new medals that were not included up to this point. If you are a collecting "completest", like I am, you will now have more pieces to search for. I've also included some souvenirs that are really interesting. I will be completing a bunch of supplements on souvenirs from the fair in future publications. Even if you are not a collector craving a new reference guide, just flip through these pages and enjoy this guide as a unique "coffee table" book, jam-packed with exquisite designs from talented, world renowned artists. Feel free to send me any quality images that didn't make this edition. Enjoy.

Contents

• Section one medals / coins / key fobs / tickets / Eglit & HK references
• Section two "new discoveries"
• Section three badges & ribbons
• Section four souvenirs & more

For more information, or to order, contact Steve at stevestarlust@gmail.com or 631-374-4483

Steve adds:

NEW BOOK: DOCUMENTS OF THE HISPANIC CARIBBEAN, VOL 2

Documentos Numismáticos del Caribe Hispano (Siglo XIX) Tomo II
Numismatic Documents of the Hispanic Caribbean (19th Century) Volume II
By Ángel Navarro Zayas

The Roman orator, Marcus Tullius Cicero, stated that: "History is the witness of the times, the light of truth, the life of memory, the teacher of life, the messenger of antiquity." Coins have an intrinsic history which marked their time; a history which is sometimes silent, given their inherent nature, which makes them travel through space and time, sometimes reaching our present. Historians, like numismatists, have the task and duty to decipher and reconstruct the history of these historical pieces, which are used in everyday life, and have sometimes come to us from a not-so-distant past.

On the other hand, it is worth reflecting that, given the intricate nature of human life, together with the unavoidable advance of time, have caused that, in certain situations, humanity loses the memory of its past. The aforementioned premise is based on the careful conservation of history in archives, libraries, private collections, or its loss through time and space. Today, people dedicated to historical research and conducting studies with old documents have a commitment to society and the historical discipline of rescuing from oblivion the characters, social and economic events that have had a considerable impact on the present and cultural identity, in this case, the monetary history of the Caribbean.

This documentary book does not pretend to be an exhaustive analysis on the subject of the use of currency in the Hispanic Caribbean during the 19th century. However, this publication seeks to make a numismatic historical reconstruction of this period of Caribbean monetary history, using as a basis primary documents available in the National Historical Archive in Madrid and the General Archive of the Indies in Seville.

Our fellow numismatists in Puerto Rico know that Puerto Rico has a vast and varied rich history in monetary matters. However, in recent decades, the Numismatic Society of Puerto Rico has been the entity that has led the largest rescue of the documentary collection on the monetary history of Puerto Rico, and has filled that gap that the country's educational centers have neglected in their work. Therefore, as a member of the Numismatic Society of Puerto Rico, the objective of this research has been to try to rescue the numismatic documentary collection of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, to carry out a partial reconstruction of a fragment of monetary history. Therefore, the theme of this research revolves around the monetary history of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, during the 19th century.

In the vast majority of my publications I believe it is important to review the definition of what numismatics is. Numismatics constitutes an auxiliary discipline within the historical field that is dedicated to the analysis and study of coins, paper money (notafilia), exonumia and medals, among other subspecialties. However, although numismatics is commonly considered an auxiliary science to history and archaeology (Burzio, 1958), numismatics itself should be considered an independent science that can indeed be studied through the use of the Scientific Method.

In the field of numismatics, the representation of rulers, civilizations and historical events is frequently observed on coins or engraved on banknotes, which makes them a valuable resource for the collection of historical information. It is recognized that the minting of coins for general circulation constitutes one of the sovereign symbols of a nation. It is therefore under this definition of sovereignty that it is understood that Puerto Rico does not possess national sovereignty, as it does not have its own currency.

However, it is also worth noting that the exhaustive study of numismatics helps to foster a deeper understanding of the economic, political and cultural history of a country or civilization. Coins and medals play a fundamental role in the conservation of the cultural heritage of a nation or group of nations that exist in a certain time and geographic space. On the other hand, in order to better study and understand the historical evolution of the numismatic cultural heritage, in this case of the Caribbean region, it is important to go directly to the archives to better reconstruct the monetary history. It is under this premise that, to promote the study of the monetary heritage of the Caribbean, a series of files have been transcribed regarding the numismatics of Puerto Rico and Cuba, so that these primary documents can be made accessible to researchers who seek reliable sources to write their own papers and reach their own conclusions. The purpose or objective of this publication has been to transcribe and make accessible primary documents from the National Historical Archive in Madrid and the General Archive of the Indies in Seville, which address the Spanish-Caribbean region during the 19th century.

Probably, the most significant contribution of this research is that it has been possible to document, for the first time, through primary sources from the 19th century, in which the use of the "fleur-de-lis counterstamp" in Puerto Rico is clearly and explicitly indicated. The colleague and numismatic mentor, Dr. Jorge Crespo Armáiz, in the many conversations we have had, guided me and was the one who brought this important fact to my attention. Last year 2024, talking about our respective historical-numismatic research, we were commenting on his publication about the fleur-de-lis, in the American Numismatic Society magazine, and he asked me if I had been able to locate in the Decree of 1884, if anywhere it explicitly mentioned the "fleur-de-lis". To which I replied no. Dr. Crespo Armáiz was the one who told me that no documentary evidence had yet appeared that explicitly mentioned the "fleur-de-lis" overprint, even though it is widely recognized in Puerto Rico.

Approximately twenty-five years ago I had the opportunity to acquire a one-ounce U.S. gold coin from 1986. In 2005, when I was studying in the graduate history program at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico, Ponce Campus, I wanted to travel to Colorado Springs to participate in a summer course organized by the American Numismatic Association (ANA) in Colorado Springs. At that time I did not have sufficient funds to pay for the travel and lodging expenses. So I went to Old San Juan and sold my gold coin and with the funds obtained, I was able to acquire something of greater value than gold. I exchanged my gold coin for something much more valuable; I exchanged it for a good education. With the tools acquired in that experience and since then, I have conducted studies and research on coins from a historical perspective.

The course at ANA on 19th century American numismatics was directed by John Kraljevich, a distinguished numismatist, and Charlie Davis, one of the few salesmen specializing in the sale of numismatic literature in the United States. After taking the course, I arrived in Puerto Rico and proceeded to visit the historical archives of Puerto Rico. Through a classmate in the history program, she told me that in Spain, numerous files from various Spanish archives had been digitized. It was at that time that I began to make a regular practice of transcribing specialized folios on the monetary history of Puerto Rico. With considerable challenge and little experience in the field of paleography, I rigorously undertook the transcription of the documents. Once finished, I sent them to my email to keep them accessible, as a kind of digital archive of my academic works.

Now, in January 2025, I started a search through my old emails and numismatic documents, and to my surprise, I found a transcribed file from January 2007. I downloaded the document from the email and realized that this was one of my first transcriptions carried out almost two decades ago. Therefore, I took on the task of reviewing and updating these transcriptions. At this point, and to my surprise, the use of the "fleur-de-lis counterstamp in Puerto Rico" was mentioned.

In this documentary book, I make public this finding, which thanks to Dr. Crespo Armáiz, who indicated to me that this had not been previously disclosed. This study contributes to a certain extent, to complement previous research, carried out by researchers such as Don Jaime González Collazo, Dr. Ovidio Dávila Dávila and Dr. Crespo Armáiz, among others. Therefore, to facilitate access to numismatic researchers, several files of primary handwritten and printed documents that have been obtained through the Spanish Archives Online Portal have been transcribed in their entirety.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Dr. Damaris Mercado Martínez, the first female president of the Numismatic Society of Puerto Rico, for her support of my research. This research has been carried out thanks to the Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society (EPNNES) 2023 scholarship. Many thanks to Mr. Andy Newman, Mr. Leonard Augsburger, Mr. Christopher McDowell, Dr. Jesse Kraft, Mrs. Julia Casey and Mr. Roger W. Burdette. I would like to thank my uncle Dr. Miguel Moreno Quintana, who was the person who motivated me in my numismatic endeavors in my childhood. I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. Luis M. Girón Negrón, Lic. Jorge Ortiz Murias, Dr. Jorge Crespo Armáiz, Dr. Ovidio Dávila Dávila, Mr. Rafael Echevarría, Dr. José “Pepe” Muñiz, Mr. Enrique Mancheno, Dr. Pedro Damián Cano Borrego,

For more information, or to order either volume, see:
Documentos Numismáticos del Caribe Hispano (Siglo XIX) (https://www.lulu.com/shop/%C3%A1ngel-navarro-zayas/documentos-numism%C3%A1ticos-del-caribe-hispano-siglo-xix/paperback/product-p6642dg.html)
Documentos Numismáticos del Caribe Hispano (Siglo XIX) Tomo II (https://www.lulu.com/shop/%C3%A1ngel-navarro-zayas/documentos-numism%C3%A1ticos-del-caribe-hispano-siglo-xix-tomo-ii/paperback/product-zm75e27.html)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NEW BOOK: NUMISMATIC DOCUMENTS OF THE HISPANIC CARIBBEAN (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n15a05.html)

NEW BOOK: IDENTIFICATION OF UMAYYAD COINAGE

A recent publication provides visual details for identifying the challenging coins of the Umayyad period from AH 77-132. Spanning 48 pages, it offers visuals for recognizing the dates, legends, mints, and governors' names on these coins. Published in the Manquso Gacetilla, Especial No. 20, January 2025, this edition is so significant that it was published in both Spanish and English.

English: https://wearenumismatics.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Manquso-20-english.pdf.

Spanish: https://wearenumismatics.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MANQUSO20.pdf.

Like the previous text about the Identification of Abbasid Coins (Manquso 16), this one tries to offer a visual method to identify the coins of the Umayyad Caliphate of Damascus following similar premises as in that one.

In the year AH77 (696 AD) for gold and in AH79 (698 AD) for silver, 'Abd al-Malik carried out a reform of the Umayyad coins and established a series of regulations that put an end to the anarchy of coinage that prevailed in the Caliphate. These new designs remain practically unchanged, maintaining an almost identical structure throughout the half century they represent until the end of the dynasty, with few local exceptions.

All gold and silver coins post-'Abd al-Malik reform and therefore purely Umayyad, are anonymous.

BOOK REVIEW: THE PUBLICATIONS OF ERIC P. NEWMAN

I must be Kolbe & Fanning's favorite customer. I buy every new book on colonial numismatics and many older ones. In addition, people send me books and articles to read and review, with some arriving unannounced on my front porch like foundlings. Many of these books and articles get little more than a passing glance before being put on a shelf. Others are given a premium spot in my library, and a select few make it next to my bed. The Publications of Eric P. Newman: A Collector's Guide by Leonard Augsburger & Joel Orosz, with a foreword by Kenneth Bressett, and published by Kolbe & Fanning 2025, is on my nightstand. I am a big fan of the authors' previous collaborative efforts, including Truth Seeker: The Life of Eric P. Newman and 1792: Birth of a Nation's Coinage.

The first thing that struck me when the book arrived was the fabulous dust jacket showing a young Eric Newman with a rich, bright red background. A similar red color scheme was used on the Heritage auction catalogs of his collection and for the Truth Seeker cover. I later learned that the Newman home was partially decorated in red, which was a color many came to associate with him. Maria Fanning designed the cover and contributed to the book's graphics and layout. Maria has prepared the layout for many numismatic publications over the years, and this one is a stunner. The cover so captivated me that I was immediately drawn to look inside. The images, of which there are many illustrating the listings, are in sharp color and really pop from the page. From a production standpoint, this book stands out. Indeed, it may be the finest numismatic work from a production point of view I have ever seen. This sort of thing may go unnoticed by most people, but I have come to believe that the attention to detail paid by authors and publishers to these features foretells what the reader will discover inside. This book epitomizes that theory.

Don't be misled by the title. This book is not a dry recitation of Newman's works. It's a comprehensive guide, an absorbing read that lists everything Newman authored in the field of numismatics, covering the entire modern era of American colonial numismatic research. The first article is dated 1941, and the last listing is the posthumously printed 2022 edition of The Early Paper Money of America. The final article published during his lifetime was a work on the Continental Currency Dollar in July 2017, when he was 106 years old!

It can be forcefully argued that the investigative research style we have become accustomed to in our hobby was ushered in by Newman's 1959 classic "The Secret of the Good Samaritan Shilling: Supplemented with Notes on Other Genuine and Counterfeit Massachusetts Silver Coins." With all the books and articles I review and edit as the President of the Colonial Coin Collectors Club (C-4) and The Journal of Early American Numismatics editor, there is precious little time to go over anything twice. However, I re-read his Good Samaritan article with greater and greater amazement and appreciation every few years; it is like an Agatha Christie mystery novel with Newman as the police inspector trying to solve the 200-year-old cold case of the Good Samaritan Shilling. If there is a perfect numismatic research article, this is it. Perhaps, with today's AI-assisted computer search capabilities, it might be possible for someone to piece this story together—that Newman was able to gather obscure clues from across two continents to definitively answer this mystery at the dawn of the jet-age when computers were housed in buildings instead of your pocket, speaks to his raw genius and tenacity as a research detective and author.

The book is not just a listing of Newman's publications. It goes beyond that, providing integral context by drawing upon the Newman papers, an incomparable archival record of his research. Newman was the quintessential antiquarian who carefully saved a long lifetime of numismatic correspondence and research. Upon his death, hundreds of boxes of numismatic correspondence were found in his basement, with more stowed away at other locations. Thanks to the Newman Numismatic Portal, these papers can be found and searched today. The papers are a treasure trove of information for modern researchers. This book represents an effort to connect Newman's research papers more closely with his corresponding publications while also revealing forgotten publications that are now captured in this bibliography for the first time. Each work is summarized with many contextual insights that clarify points from Newman's extensive papers that would not otherwise be apparent to the reader.

Newman's prodigious corpus of work has influenced almost every aspect of the study of American colonial numismatics. His research forms the foundation of much of what we read in the field today. In 1675, another famous numismatist, Sir Isaac Newton, quipped, "If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of Giants." If today, we see far, it is because Eric Newman has hoisted us up upon his shoulders. This book helps us appreciate where we came from and how we got here. To know where we are going in colonial numismatics, we need to know where we came from, and the best way to do that is to read this book.

So, as it turns out, you can judge a book by its cover.

To read earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
NEW BOOK: TRUTH SEEKER: THE LIFE OF ERIC P. NEWMAN (https://www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v19n01a04.html)
NEW BOOK: PUBLICATIONS OF ERIC P. NEWMAN (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n09a03.html)

NNP ADDS DICK JOHNSON MEDALLIST DATABANK

Dick Johnson Artists Databank Rescued from Digital Oblivion

Through the efforts of Mark Schlepphorst and John Sallay, and the cooperation of Shirley Johnson, the D. Wayne Johnson artist "databank" is now available on Newman Portal. For American artists, this is the most significant contribution to the field since Leonard Forrer's Biographical Dictionary of Medallists (1902-1930). The work covers seven volumes, nearly four thousand pages, and presents capsule biographies of American engravers along with lists of their related works.

Many thanks to Mark, John, and Shirley for recognizing the value of this work and going above and beyond to ensure its preservation for future generations. Collectors and catalogers of American medals will do well to consult this reference frequently.

Image: The Edison Brothers Store Achievement Medallion (1956) by New Jersey engraver Abram Belskie (1907-1988), as listed in the Johnson databank [A-B].

Link to D. Wayne Johnson databank on Newman Portal:
https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/booksbyauthor/519080

Link to Leonard Forrer's Biographical Dictionary on Newman Portal:
https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/booksbyauthor/511633

NNP ADDS SOUTHERN GOLD SOCIETY NEWSLETTER

Newman Portal Adds Southern Gold Society (SGS) Newsletter

Courtesy of David Crenshaw, the newsletters of the Southern Gold Society are now available on Newman Portal. This mission statement of this group notes "The Southern Gold Society was formed to increase the enjoyment and study of Southern gold coins and related history, through an informal, relaxed mix of education and fellowship. " The SGS periodically meets at regional coin shows, typically in a southern locale.

Particularly noteworthy in this periodical are the feature articles by David Ginsburg, including "Antebellum Gold Deposits at the New Orleans Mint" in the January 2009 issue, "The Post-Civil War Operations of the New Orleans Mint" in the January 2010 issue, and "The Bechtlers' Production and Some Other Aspects of the Southern Gold Rush" in the July 2013 issue.

Image: 1856-O $20, PCGS SP63 CAC. Courtesy of Heritage Auctions (May 2009 Long Beach, 5/29/2009, lot 1989, realized $1,437,500).

Link to Southern Gold Society newsletters:
https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/publisherdetail/555594

Link to Southern Gold Society website:
https://www.southerngoldsociety.org/

Link to David J. Ginsburg obituary:
https://www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v19n06a10.html

VIDEO: WOMEN IN NUMISMATICS

F

See the ladies of numismatics conduct their meeting and hear speaker Walter Ostromecki give his presentation. Speaker(s): Gloria Weiss, President.

To watch the complete video, see:
WIN Membership Meeting (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/557317)
WIN Membership Meeting (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDLUd2Hi66w)

NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: MARCH 9, 2025

Gold Piece Mystery

Chriss Hoffman writes:

Pete Smith writes:

Joel Orosz writes:

Chriss writes:

Pete writes:

Joel adds:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NEW BOOK: PUBLICATIONS OF ERIC P. NEWMAN (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n09a03.html)

Ron Gillo at the Singapore Coin Show

Ron Gillo writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: MARCH 3, 2025 : Singapore Coin Show Photos (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n09a14.html)

Trump Money
Steve Shupe writes:

Wayne Pearson writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
TRUMP $250 BILL RIDICULED IN CHINA (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n09a35.html)

Video on Making Counterfeit Roman Coins
Ed Hohertz writes:

THE 2025 MEDALLION CONGRESS

This year the 11th annual medallion congress organised by the Historical Medal Society will this year be held at a new venue:

The event, for collectors of commemorative and historical medals, will be held at the Stratford Manor Hotel conveniently located on the A439 just 3 miles from Junction 15 on the M40 the outskirts of the historic towns of Warwick and Stratford Upon Avon.

As usual proceedings will commence on the Saturday morning with a full programme of talks interspersed by lunch and refreshments. There will be an evening meal followed by a Congress bourse giving the opportunity for delegates to acquire new specimens for their collection. Delegates can choose whether to stay for the day or overnight with a bargain rate being offered for overnight stays on Friday or Saturday. Many are likely to make a weekend of it and visit the local sites of Warwick castle , Stratford upon Avon. The choice of date in July 2025 will enable anyone, staying on Saturday night, to visit the Midland Coin Fair to be held on Sunday 13th at the National Motorcycle Museum, which is only a short drive away. If interested further details can be obtained from the website of the Historical Medal Society https://www.historicalmedalsociety.org.uk/congress/ or email: historicalmedalsociety@gmail.com.

The Society also still has back copies of its 64 page annual journal. If you missed your copy of the 2024 journal it is not too late to acquire one ( for £5 plus postage). Details from the website or email address.

 

VOCABULARY TERM: RELEASE AGENT

Release Agent. A coating in a mold to ease the removal of a casting; a mold release. Release agents are also called parting agents and are used in most all casting applications irrespective of the type of mold or the composition of the casting. (Green sand castings are the only molds which do not need a mold release, because of the water in the sand.)

In electrogalvanic casting the release agent of bronze powders metallizes the surface, not only does the bronze powder coat the surface of the object to be cast but also makes the surface electrically conductive for the deposition of the metal. Clay models are usually coated with talc but graphite can also be used. Plaster models are coated with green soap when pouring other plasters in the casting, but light oil, silicon spray can also be used as release agents. See plaster casting.

Casting mold preparation. The ideal surface to be cast is one that has no pores, is very hard, has no undercuts and all relief and lettering has a bevel of 5° or more. Plaques to be cast in flexible molds do not require the latter two. The hardest, finest plaster is used for coin and medal models (as Densite). Any organic material (as wood or ivory) has pores; these need to be closed off. The face of the mold is coated with shellac.

After the pattern is as hard as it can be and all pores are covered over, then the mold release is applied. Messy powders, as graphite and bronze powders, are applied with a brush. A stipple brush is used for green soap on plaster, light oil is applied with a cloth. Liquids that can be sprayed on are the easiest, but are susceptible to applying too heavy a coating. Theoretically only two microns of coating are needed for separating the mold and its casting. Release coatings need only a very light coating but it must cover the entire surface.

To read the complete entry on the Newman Numismatic Portal, see:
Release Agent (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/dictionarydetail/516613)

 

HONEST TOM SAMPSON (1827-1901)

Let's begin with this premise: Anyone who gets a medal by Act of Congress has a story worth telling. Thomas W. Sampson was mentioned in more than three hundred newspaper articles during his life. As stated in the New York Times in 1878, "To detail his exploits would require a volume." This is a story you have not read before.

Thomas W. Sampson was born in Appleby, England, in February 1825 or 1827. He came to America with his family at the age of three.

Records show Sampson was married to Mary Brown (1831-1886) in Manchester, England, on Christmas Day in 1854. They had daughters Ida Wharton Sampson (Phillips) (1850-19XX), Fanny Wharton Sampson (Miller) (1851-1899) and Cornelia Euphemia Sampson (Phillips) (1854-1874). Their daughter Cornelia married James Lyle Phillips in 1873. She died on Christmas day in 1874. James Phillips then married daughter Ida in 1878.

In the 1850 Census, Sampson was listed as a bookbinder. He left that noble profession in 1852 to take a job as patrolman in New York's 18th precinct. He was recognized as a hero and honored with a medal from the mayor. He was promoted to detective and resigned in 1860 with the rank of Captain.

New York boxer Bill Poole was killed by Irish rivals in 1854. The murderous gang chartered a boat for the Madeira Islands. The mayor sent Sampson in pursuit. His boat overtook the other after 1100 miles. Sampson arrested Lewis Baker and returned to America. Baker was acquitted of murder but imprisoned as an accomplice.

His next job was with the New York Bankers' Association at a salary of $5000 per year.

Sampson was detailed to Baltimore in 1861 to protect president-elect Abraham Lincoln as he passed through Baltimore on his way to the inauguration. A crowd of hundreds gathered at the train station including some with revolvers. Sampson warned the president's party by telegraph and the train was delayed by five hours while the crowd dispersed.

In 1864 he was appointed a detective for the New York Subtreasury. At the time there were forgers who "raised" bonds by altering their value or changing the names on registered bonds. Sampson detected forgeries and arrested forgers. The building at 26 Wall Street is now the historic Federal Hall.

After the Lincoln assassination. General Hancock detailed Sampson to lead a group to the boarding house of Mary Surratt to arrest everyone there. They arrested Mrs. Surratt, her daughter and niece Miss Fitzgerald. Sampson remained to search the house.

There was a knock and Sampson opened the door for a man carrying a pickax. It was 1:30 in the morning and Sampson inquired what the visitor was doing there. He said he came to dig a ditch from the yard to the street. Sampson saw suspicious blood stains on his clothing and placed the man under arrest. Eventually the man was identified as Lewis Thornton Powell a/k/a Lewis Payne who had stabbed William Seward. For this arrest, Sampson received a $1,500 reward.

On July 7, 1865, Lewis Powell, Mary Surratt and two others were hanged at the Washington Arsenal. Mary Surratt was the first woman executed by the United States government.

On January 7, 1870. Sampson became head of the detective corps at the New York Stock Exchange. On June 21, 1871, he was also enrolled as a police detective. After nine years he resigned in 1878 to return to the Subtreasury.

Sampson had a farm on Staten Island. In 1866, Sampson won an award for "best four-year-old Mare." In 1872-23, Sampson served as president of the Richmond County Horticultural Fair. He received a gold shield for his office.

William E. Gray was a forger and son of Dt. Edwin H. Gray, the United States Senate Chaplain. In 1869, he left the country headed for England, He carried with him $250,000 swindled by altering the value on bonds and $250,000 in bonds that had been stolen and altered. He carried forged letters of introduction and gave the appearance of a rich American. Detective Sampson left in November 1871 to pursue him to England but he escaped to Europe. Sampson returned empty handed in February 1872. Sampson returned to England in April 1876 but could not get extradition for Gray. Gray was returned to America in 1878, put on trial and convicted in 1879.

Louis Maxmillian Van Eaten was a forger. Sampson pursued him from New York to California and then on to Panama, Mexico, Cuba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico and South America. He was arrested by Sampson in New Orleans in 1871. He was sentenced to nine years in Sing Sing in March 1871 and died in prison.

In 1879, Sampson filed for bankruptcy. His real estate investments had lost value.

In August 1878, Sampson resigned from his position at the Stock Exchange to return to his previous position at the Subtreasury. For nine years he worked at the Subtreasury at a salary of $1500 per month. He retired in 1889.

Sampson was lauded as a hero and known as "Honest Tom Sampson." He died at the home of his daughter Ida in Mount Vernon, New York, on April 19. 1901. He is buried with his wife at Greenwood Cemetery. He was described as wealthy from reward money.

A Heritage auction of January 24, 2015, had documents related to Abraham Lincoln and was not a numismatic sale. Lot 4222 was a small archive of Thomas Sampson documents including, "an 1890 itemized pawn shop receipt for medals and a watch pledged for security, an 1889 letter regarding the payment of interest on the medals and watch."

During his lifetime, Sampson received sixteen medals for heroism or meritorious service. Mentions in the press are often scant on details. There are often contradictions and inaccuracies in the reports. For some incidents, he received more than one medal.

New York Mayor Fernando Wood in 1855 presented Sampson with a silver medal on a blue ribbon for saving four lives in five years. In August of 1854, he rescued a child from a burning house. On May 16, 1855, he rescued a child thrown out of a carriage and under the wheels of a railroad car.

On August 18, 1856, he received a silver medal from the Life Saving Benevolent Association of New York for saving several people from drowning.

It was reported that he received another medal from the Life Saving Benevolent Association of New York for a different incident.

In 1857, he rescued three boys from a tenement fire on Seventeenth Street.

The New York Board of Fire Underwriters gave him a gold medal for his work at a fire.

He received a gold medal for saving the life of John McSorley during a fire on Seventeenth Street.

The Humane Society presented him with a medal for saving the lives of thirteen people from drowning.

On March 1, 1871, he was presented a medal for bringing Louis M. Van Eaten to justice. The citation read; "Presented to Capt. Thomas Sampson by the National Park Bank, the Bank of California. and Wells, Fargo & Co., in recognition of faithful professional services in bringing a noted criminal to trial and conviction for forgery."

In 1872, members of the Stock Exchange presented him with a gold badge set with diamonds.

The Board of Brokers gave him a medal of chaste design set with diamonds.

The New York Bankers' Association presented him with a medal for the 1873 arrest of "Dutch" Heinrich.

He received a medal from the German Turnverein for meritorious service.

He received a medal from Richard H. Fox, publisher of The Police Gazette during a dinner at the Astor House on October 13, 1883. The oblong medal, studded with diamonds, was valued at $600.

He was awarded a medal by Act of Congress on July 19. 1886. This was described as his fourteenth medal.

In 1888 he was presented with a life savings medal of the first class by Act of Congress of May 14, 1888.

NUMISMAGRAM MEDAL SELECTIONS: MARCH 9, 2025

102947 | ITALY. Papal States. Pope Pius IX/Opening of the Albano-Ariccia Bridge bronze Medal. Issued 1854 (82mm, 227.44 g, 12h). By Giuseppe Bianchi & Niccolò Cerbara in Rome. PIVS IX PONT MAX, bust left, wearing zucchetto, mantum, and decorative pallium; all within ornate border of oak and laurel wreaths // PROVIDENTIA OPTIMI PRINCIPIS / ARICIAE CLIVI PERICVLO SVBLATO, view of the bridge of Ariccia with the three rows of arches; the Lazio hills in background; in foreground, between fields and paths, the old road that climbs and leads to Ariccia; in three lines in exergue, VIA INGENTI MOLITIONE ARCVBVS IMPOSITA / COMMEANTIVM SECVRITATI / ANNO MDCCCLIV. Edge: A few light marks, otherwise plain. Mazio 699; Bartolotti IX, 9. Choice Mint State. Deep brown surfaces, with a great lustrous and glossy nature. Given its large-format status, extremely rare in this advanced state of preservation, with no scuffs, distracting marks, or bruising. $795.

Architecture in general plays a heavy role in the medallic art of Pius IX, given the number of restorations done to religious edifices during his rather lengthy reign. In the case of this medal, the opening of the Albano-Ariccia Bridge, which was built between 1847 and 1853, and is considered one of the most important engineering works of the 19th century.

Pius IX presided over the longest verified papal reign in history, serving as pope from 1846 to 1878, and also saw the loss of papal dominion over the states (parts of central mainland Italy) to which it laid claim for centuries. Following Italian unification under the King of Sardegna (Sardinia), Vittorio Emanuele II, the peninsula began to coalesce under a single regnum, leaving the rule of Pius in question. When Rome fell, then taking a new role as the capital of the Kingdom of Italy, Pius became trapped, literally and figuratively, and considered himself a prisoner in the Vatican—a standoff between the papacy and the kingdom that would last for nearly 60 years. In 1929, and brokered by then-Pope Pius XI and leader of the Fascist Party, Benito Mussolini, the Lateran Treaty ended the longstanding feud between the two factions over the sovereignty of the papacy within the kingdom. The treaty gave the Vatican City to the papacy—a separate city-state headed by the pope within the city of Rome itself—as well as compensation to the papacy by the Italian government for the loss of the territory within the former papal states.

To read the complete item description, see:
102947 | ITALY. Papal States. Pope Pius IX bronze Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/102947)

103050 | SWITZERLAND. Bern. Silver Academic Prize Medal or "Gärtnerpfennig" of 3 Francs. Issued circa 1855-1857 for outstanding pupils in the canton (31mm, 12h). By Nikolaus Lendi.LABOR OMNIBUS IDEM (work is the same for all), bees in flight around a beehive set upon an elaborate bench; flowering shrubs to left and right; PRÆM DILIG (a prize for diligence) in exergue // RESPUBLICA BERNENSIS, crowned cantonal coat-of-arms of Bern within a laurel wreath. SM 708; Meier & Häusler 167. NGC MS-65. Deeply toned, with tremendous brilliance and crispness. Fairly rare in this elevated and rather attractive state of preservation, and the finest of just three observed in the NGC census. $395.

Quite popular in the canton of Bern during the 18th and early 19th centuries, the so-called “Gärtnerpfennigs,” or "gardener's pennies," were a special form of scholastic prize given to deserving students for their academic achievements. They would sometimes feature a kneeling gardener on one side (accounting for the name), as the gardener was considered an allegory of diligence. Here, however, the iconography of industriousness is represented by a beehive with numerous bees flying around.

To read the complete item description, see:
103050 | SWITZERLAND. Bern. Silver Academic Prize Medal or "Gärtnerpfennig." (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103050)

103115 | UNITED STATES. Christopher Columbus gilt bronze Medal. Struck 1893. World's Columbian Exposition (50mm, 58.67 g, 12h). By Ferdinand Massonnet. 1435 CHRISTOPHUS COLOMBUS 1506, capped and robed bust facing slightly right // WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION / CHICAGO / 1892–93, aerial view of the exposition grounds. Edge: Plain. Eglit 99; Rulau X16 (though the engraver is mentioned as François Massonnet). Choice Mint State. Highly lustrous and brilliant. Rather scarce in gilt. Compare to another choice gilt example, an NGC MS-63 PL, which realized a total of $468 in Kagin's 2020 ANA/National Money Show auction (lot 3132). $435.

During the lead-up to the quadricentennial of Columbus's initial contact with the New World, numerous medals were designed and struck, both in the United States—in conjunction with the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago—and abroad—sometimes for this event or for similar others. In the case here, this classic by the French engraver Ferdinand Massonnet, features a view of the expo grounds in Chicago and has become known for its designer, standing within the series as "the Massonnet medal."

To read the complete item description, see:
103115 | UNITED STATES. Christopher Columbus gilt bronze Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103115)

103108 | GERMANY. Zeppelin, Eckener & Dürr silver Medal. Issued 1929. Commemorating the world tour of the LZ-127 "Graf Zeppelin" (36mm, 12h). By Oskar Glöckler at the Berlin mint. • ZEPPELIN DER SCHÖPFER • ECKENER DER FÜHRER / • DÜRR DER ERBAUER •, busts left of Zeppelin, Eckener, and Dürr // I WELTFAHRT DES LUFTSCHIFFS »GRAF ZEPPELIN«, view of the Earth centered upon the North Pole, with the airship's flight path outlined throughout. Edge: PREUSS. STAATSMÜNZE • SILBER 900 FEIN. Hans Kaiser 511; Button 243; Müller 2249. PCGS SP-67. Exceptionally vibrant and attractive, with some alluring colorful toning as well. Tied with a small handful of others for the top spot in the PCGS census. $395.

Ferdinand Adolf Heinrich August Graf von Zeppelin was a German general and aircraft manufacturer, who later founded the airship company Luftschiffbau Zeppelin. Following Zeppelin's death in 1917, Dr. Hugo Eckener became the head of this company and oversaw post-war fundraising to expand upon its production, even serving as commander for the LZ-127 on numerous occasions. When this airship first entered use, it was the first commercial passenger transatlantic flight service in the world, eventually making 590 flights over nearly a decade. In 1940, she was scrapped for metal for the German efforts in World War II. Meanwhile, Ludwig Dürr served an important role next to Zeppelin in the early years of the company, assisting in the construction of the first airship and pioneering many of the parts. He often flew on board to oversee the flight and served the company until its dissolution in 1945.

To read the complete item description, see:
103108 | GERMANY. Zeppelin, Eckener & Dürr silver Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103108)

103013 | GREAT BRITAIN & NETHERLANDS. "Together" cast bronze Medal. Issued 2004 (66mm x 62mm, 257.20 g, 12h). By Theo van de Vathorst for the British Art Medal Society, and cast by the Bruining foundry in Haarlem. Nude male and female seated facing, each with one arm around the other's back and with the other arm placed in front, clasping hands // The backs of those two figures. Edge: Plain. "The Medal" 46, p. 102 (and also serving as the front and back cover art for the issue). As Made. Olive-bronze surfaces, with some hints of green for highlights. Fairly scarce and thought-provoking, with a total output of just 55 pieces. $595.

Theo van de Vathorst (1934-2022) was a prolific sculptor and medallist from Utrecht. In "The Medal" 46, the writeup for this medal mentions that he had "...always been fascinated by the challenge of projecting ideas, by way of sculptural forms and solutions, onto the relatively small scale of a medal. The two-sidedness, though posing an extra problem, is in fact a bonus. I always strive for a direct link between the two sides. Most of my medals are concerned in one way or another with human beings and their relationships. For 'Together' it is hardly necessary to explain what it is about. But it is too simple to see only the two figures. Underlying them is an abstract composition binding all elements involved into an interesting object." This item was featured in our E-Sylum ad.

To read the complete item description, see:
103013 | GREAT BRITAIN & NETHERLANDS. "Together" cast bronze Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103013)

SOVEREIGN RARITIES AUCTION XVII

Sovereign Rarities Auction XVII, in partnership with the Royal Mint, takes place online on Thursday March 13th, 10:00 GMT. Featuring an eclectic mix from Ancient through to modern Royal Mint issues, with strong Anglo-Saxon and Scottish sections to boot, the highlight piece of the sale must be the Elizabeth I fine gold Sovereign, graded MS62 by NGC, with a noble Dutch family provenance dating back seven generations to 1722. Seen also are superb collections of milled silver Crowns and Halfcrowns, as well as a wonderful date run of Half-Sovereigns across the various mints.

Following from these are a marvellous display of Royal Mint modern issues, with coins from the Great Engravers series present including an Elizabeth II 2oz Una and the Lion graded PF70 UCAM. Finally, we see a great selection of medals, with a rare platinum issue of the 1977 Silver Jubilee of Elizabeth II Medal on show, closing the sale with a Dutch East India Company silver Ingot from The Rooswijk shipwreck, c. 1739.

Lot 1: Emperor Hadrian of Rome (117-138) gold Aureus features a high relief portrait of the Emperor most famous perhaps for his wall across the then borderline of England and Scotland, coupled with a reverse depicting a militant Hadrian with military standards. Minted in Rome and NGC graded VF 3/5 and 5/5 the coin is estimated at £4,000-6,000

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 1: VF 5/5, 3/5 | Hadrian c. AD 132-134 gold Aureus Rome

Lot 4: Offa, King of Mercia (757-796), a superbly preserved portrait Penny of the King facing right, with a serpent torc reverse signifying the world around the moneyers name. Offa is known to have concentrated on improving the artistry on his coinage with regard to portraiture and perhaps inspired by Charlemagne's coinage invited engravers from the continent to attend to coinage production in Mercia. This amazing example was found in 1973 with a provenance trail of ownership since and is estimated at £10,000-15,000

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 4: Offa, King of Mercia, portrait silver Penny, light coinage, London Mint, Ealhmund

Lot 5: Eadberht Praen, King of Kent (796-798) endured a very short reign with his coins being subsequently rare. He seized control of the Kentish throne upon the death of Offa having given up the priesthood. However, Coenwulf of Mercia with Papal backing invaded in 798 captured, blinded, maimed and imprisoned Eadberht who lived out his final days as a monk after release in 805. The coinage is well produced with text and motif designs only. This Penny has a "Beotian" shield inspired reverse and is estimated at £10,000-15,000 as so well preserved.

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 5: Kings of Kent, Eadberht Praen, silver Penny, "Boeotian" shield reverse moneyer Duda

Lot 8: A Viking issue under the Southern Danelaw produced circa 900 to 910 this beautiful Penny design imitates the regal coinage of Edward the Elder (899-924) and his "flower" type reverse. The imitations by the Vikings are always a little cruder than the official issues and can be quite quirky as we have on the reverse of this piece where the moneyer name is rendered back to front imitating the known moneyer Heremod. These Viking pieces are much rarer than the regal and this coin is estimated at £4,500- £5,500.

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 8: Anglo-Viking imitation of Edward the Elder, silver Penny, flower type, Heremod

Lot 13: Dating from the Civil War period in the reign of King Stephen (1135-54) this coin was produced in the northern most parts of England probably under the jurisdiction of Earl Henry of Northumberland (1136-52) and made in imitation of the regal Stephen Penny of the Awbridge type. The bust has a slightly cruder style than a Stephen Penny and the legends are rendered unintelligible to hide the true identity of the moneyer at such time of duress. Such coins would have circulated around the border with Scotland and are listed in both the Standard Catalogues for England and for Scotland. This extremely Penny is estimated at £4,000-5,000

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 13: Baronial silver Penny, probably Earl Henry, Awbridge style, Northumberland area

Lot 17: Another very interesting Penny from the Civil War period in the reign of King Stephen (1135-54) is this Penny issued by Earl Robert of Gloucester the half-brother of Empress Matilda who rebelled in 1138 and invaded with Matilda in 1139. This Penny is issued in the style of a Watford type Stephen Penny but has the legend replaced with "Robert Comes" for Count/Duke/Earl Robert of Gloucester and issued from the west country mint of Shaftesbury where he held favour. This extremely rare Penny is estimated at £6,000-8,000

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 17: Baronial silver Penny, Earl Robert of Gloucester, Shaftesbury Mint, Moneyer Sagrim

Lot 21: Elizabeth I Fine Gold Sovereign dating to 1584-86 period with mint mark escallop, NGC graded Mint State 62. This coin comes from an old Dutch family with reliable passage of ownership dating back to circa 1722. The family name can only be revealed to the successful purchaser. Interestingly such fine sovereigns were regularly gifted by the Tudor Queen to the leading actors and playwrights of her day, if their performance pleased her. Unusual to find mint state graded at £40,000-50,000 estimate.

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 21: MS62 | Elizabeth I gold Sovereign sixth issue provenance to 1722

Lot 24: During the English Civil War, Newark in Nottinghamshire, was besieged several times and siege pieces were issued dated 1645 and 1646, with the town surrendering to the Parliamentarians on 6th May 1646. From Lawrence Korchnak's own collection, this coin was the subject of a three-page article authored by him in the British Coin News magazine in July 2023, in which an analysis of the coin revealed it is struck in 0.975 fine silver, weighing instead within the correct tolerance for a Ninepence coin yet proven as struck with the 1645 Newark Shilling dies – a hybrid minting error which saw circulation. About very fine and seemingly an early example of a mint error, this piece is estimated £1,500-2,000.

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 24: Charles I 1645 silver Newark Shilling struck on Ninepence planchet

Lot 29: James III of Scotland (1460-88) issued a gold coinage from locally mined gold from Crawford Moor from 1475-83 of what are denominated Riders, Half-Riders and Quarter-Riders. Riders are most commonly seen with the fractional gold pieces like this being much rarer. The Scottish arms appear on the obverse with the armoured King on horseback on the reverse. This coin has a wonderful provenance once being part of the esteemed Lockett Collection in the 1957 sale as well as Bearman in 1922 and Manley Foster in 1903. The estimate is £4,000-6,000.

To read the complete lot description, see:
Scotland James III 1475-83 gold Half-Rider provenance to 1903

Lot 59: Since the time of King Edward the Confessor, later canonised, it was believed that prayer combined with the Royal Touch could bring on a miraculous recovery from Scrofula, otherwise known as the "King's Evil" or Morbus Regius, later manifested as the alms of a penny And progressing to a gold Angel. Tied in with the idea of divine right to kingship, the regally touched presentation coin became in a sense a healing amulet, being passed as a touch-piece under the Stuart monarchs, in most cases holed to be worn around the neck against one's skin. As the hammered Angel was removed from circulation in favour of milled coinage, the custom-made touch-piece prevailed with a gap in the legend for official piercing. Queen Anne, the last monarch to touch on British soil, had a mintage of roughly 19,400 only in total across her reign according to Noel Woolf's book on touch-pieces, with these pieces remaining incredibly rare. This Touch-piece was minted by John Croker, described as a bold fine and rare, estimated £800-1,000. Additionally there is a Charles II touch-piece in this auction as lot 32.

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 59: Anne gold Touchpiece officially pierced by J. Croker, rare

Lot 61: A great example of Queen Anne's rarest Crown date 1705 from the Pre-Union period, Lot 61 shows the plumes reverse seen for this issue indicating this coin is made from silver sourced from Wales; Graham Birch's "The Metal in British Coins" is a superb read for those wishing to learn more about the background of the metals used in our coinage. With a silver output of only £1,332 across the calendar year of 1705, this small quantity would have been spread across Crowns, Halfcrowns, Shillings and Sixpences. Graded by NGC as AU53, there are only two finer known graded examples out there, and is estimated £2,000-2,600.

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 61: AU53 | Anne 1705 silver Pre-Union Crown plumes reverse

Lot 324: The first release from the Royal Mint Great Engravers series, the Una and the Lion design has proved immensely popular with modern collectors around the world, with Sovereign Rarities achieving impressive prices in recent times for the gold proof 2oz issue. This example, one of the limited mintage of 225, has been graded by NGC as PF70 UCAM, the highest quality one can achieve, and is estimated £28,000-32,000.

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 324: PF70 UCAM | Elizabeth II 2019 gold proof 2oz Una and the Lion

Lot 522: The Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth Medal of 1977 is often seen in silver and sometimes in gold, but very rarely in platinum. One of only 25 struck in this large 57mm size, the precious metal piece is hallmarked and numbered 22, an extremely rare item indeed, estimated £4,300-5,000.

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 522: Platinum Medal for the Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, 1977

Lot 527: Celebrating the coronation of Ras Tafari Makonnen, the future Emperor Haile Selassie I, as Negus, or King, of all Ethiopia in 1928, this rare medallic gold Half-Talari of Addis Ababa weighs 22.14g, and is estimated £900-1,200. Graded by NGC as MS62, this Medal is bested only by one sole finer example, and marks his accession following on from a number of failed attempts by the Empress of Ethiopia at the time, Zewditu (1916-30), to prevent his seemingly inevitable rise to power, fearing his modernising aims for the country. Failing to prevent his elevation, she raised him to the throne as Negus where he ruled as regent alongside her until her death.

To read the complete lot description, see:
Lot 527: MS62 | Ethiopia, gold Medal, 1928, for the Coronation of Ras Tafari Makonnen

Lot 528: Whilst on her second voyage to Batavia circa 1739, the Rooswijk was carrying thirty chests of silver coins and bars when she was shipwrecked. She lay undisturbed for over 250 years until 2005 when amateur diver Ken Welling discovered it after the shifting of the Goodwin Sands off the southern coast of Kent, England, and with subsequent retrieval of two chests in 2014, the Dutch and British governments agreed to launch a salvage mission which finally took place in 2017 and 2018. Stamped with the mark of the Amsterdam Chamber of the V.O.C. (otherwise known as the Dutch East India Company), this 1.940kg silver Ingot bears the Certificate of Authenticity Bar Category Number RK05AS0165 and is estimated £5,200-6,000.

To read the complete lot description, see:
VOC 1.940 kg silver Ingot from the shipwreck The Rooswijk c. 1739 (tag # RK05AS0165)

KUENKER AUCTION SALE 422

Künker's Spring Auction Sales: Netherlands, Württemberg, Anhalt and Much More

Every coin enthusiast knows that Künker holds its Spring Auction Sales in mid-March. The coins can be viewed not only at the headquarters in Osnabrück, but also in Munich – before and during the Numismata. More information can be found on the Künker website and in the catalog.

There will be plenty to see, as four heavy-weight auctions will take place over the five days. A separate preview is dedicated to ancient coins, which will kick off the auction week on Monday, 17 March. This preview exclusively presents the three auctions with coins and medals from medieval and modern times.

On Tuesday, 18 March 2025, auction 420 will offer the third part of the Lodewijk S. Beuth Collection with Dutch issues. Auction 421 follows on 19 March 2025 with the second part of the Heinz-Falk Gaiser Collection with Württemberg coins. The week will be rounded off by auction 422 with world coins and medals. It includes the Dr. Kurt Sonnenberg Collection of coins from the various lines of the House of Anhalt.

Catalog 422: Dr. Kurt Sonnenberg Collection – Coins and Medals from the House of Anhalt

Actually the House of Anhalt is a branch of the old Saxon noble family of the Ascanians, of which only one branch has survived since the end of the 17th century. They are a wonderful example of the fact that primogeniture, i.e. the right of succession to the territory as a whole belonging to the firstborn son, was the exception rather than the rule in Germany. As a result, once powerful territories were divided into smaller and smaller entities that were unable to compete with the likes of Prussia, Bavaria or the Electorate of Saxony. This is an advantage for collectors: all these small territories produced a diverse and varied coinage, as the example of the House of Anhalt perfectly illustrates.

In addition to the Principality of Anhalt, the collection contains coins from

• Anhalt-Zerbst
• Anhalt-Köthen
• Anhalt-Köthen-Plötzkau
• Anhalt-Bernburg
• Anhalt-Harzgerode
• Anhalt-Schaumburg
• Anhalt-Dessau

A total of 133 lots – including seven carefully arranged multiple lots with more coins from Anhalt – are waiting to be added to a new collection.

Coins of the German Empire

As every year, Künker's 2025 Spring Auction Sales will present an extensive series of fascinating coins from the German Empire, including the absolute highlights of imperial coinage: Frederick the Wise, the Bavarian Wedding as well as gold and silver coins from many smaller territories.

Numismatic Rarities from All Over the World

Last but not least, Künker's catalog 422 contains a spectacular mix of world coins and medals from medieval times to the present day. As always, the focal point is on Germany and the Holy Roman Empire, but collectors with other interests should also make sure to take a look and see what rarities from their field are on offer at Künker's.

We will mention four pieces to illustrate the offer:

• From Lithuania there is a ten-fold ducat by Vasa Sigismund III, who also ruled Lithuania as King of Poland. The multiple was minted in 1621 in Vilnius and is the only specimen from this year on the market.
• A magnificent gold medal with an impressive sailing vessel was created by the engraver Christoph Adolphzoon to commemorate the Treaty of Breda, concluded between the Netherlands and Great Britain on 31 July 1667.
• Mozaffar ad-Din Shah was the fifth Qajar to rule Persia. Politically rather unsuccessful, the ruler became an early media star when he fell in love with the new technology of cinematography at the Paris World's Fair. His court photographer was commissioned to purchase the necessary equipment to familiarize himself with the art. Mozaffar's interest provides us with a wealth of highly interesting insights into Persia at the turn of the century.
• Finally, there is a 10-fold ducat by Emperor Leopold I from 1675, minted in Kremnica, with the face value of 10 engraved in the field on the obverse.

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

 

ANCIENT COIN COLLECTORS GUILD AUCTION

ATTICA, Athens. Circa 454-404 BC. AR Tetradrachm (24mm, 17.15 g, 7h). Helmeted head of Athena right, with frontal eye / Owl standing right, head facing, closed tail feathers; olive spray and crescent to left; all within incuse square. Kroll 8; HGC 4, 1597. Toned, a few minor flan flaws and light scratches on obverse. Good VF.

To read the complete item description, see:
ATTICA, Athens. (https://auctions.cngcoins.com/lots/view/4-G3TGKE/attica-athens-circa-454-404-bc-ar-tetradrachm-24mm-1715-g-7h-good-vf)

Aelia Pulcheria or Aelia Eudocia. Augusta, AD 414-453 or 423-460. Æ (12mm, 1.29 g, 6h). Constantinople mint. Struck under Theodosius II, AD 423-425. Pearl-diademed and draped bust right / Empress enthroned facing, head right, placing both hands on breast; star to left; [CONS]. RIC X 427 or 428; LRBC 2228 or 2230. Dark brown-green and earthen patina, minor cleaning scratches. Good Fine. Very rare. With much of the legend off flan, it is difficult to definitively distinguish which empress this issue belongs to. Regardless, both issues are very rare.

To read the complete item description, see:
Aelia Pulcheria or Aelia Eudocia. (https://auctions.cngcoins.com/lots/view/4-G3THJR/aelia-pulcheria-or-aelia-eudocia-augusta-ad-414-453-or-423-460-12mm-129-g-6h-constantinople-mint-struck-under-theodosius-ii-ad-423-425-good-fine)

Justinian I. 527-565. AV Solidus (21.5mm, 4.47 g, 6h). Constantinople mint, 7th officina. Struck 537-542. Helmeted and cuirassed bust facing, holding globus cruciger and shield / Angel standing facing, holding long cross and globus cruciger; star to right; Z//CONOB. DOC (8e); MIBE 6; SB 139. In NGC encapsulation 8211528-002, graded MS, Strike: 2/5, Surface: 2/5, Die shift, scratches, wrinkled.

To read the complete item description, see:
Justinian I. (https://auctions.cngcoins.com/lots/view/4-G3THJV/justinian-i-527-565-av-solidus-215mm-447-g-6h-constantinople-mint-7th-officina-struck-537-542-ngc-ms-25-25-die-shift-scratches-wrinkled)

Pre-reform issues, Arab-Byzantine. Early Pseudo-Byzantine coinage. Æ Fals (20mm, 4.92 g, 6h). Type F (Standing emperor). Uncertain Syrian mint. Struck circa 647-658. Imperial Byzantine figure (Constans II) standing facing, holding cross-tipped staff and globus cruciger / Large M, cross above, A or inverted ? below; A/N/O and ?[...] across field; (retrograde D) in exergue. SICA I, –; DOCAB –; Album 3505. Brown patina, some roughness. VF. Rare.

Ex Wayne G. Sayles inventory JTC-603; Byzantine Coin Store (Larry Gaye) inventory 1137.

To read the complete item description, see:
Pre-reform issues, Arab-Byzantine. Early Pseudo-Byzantine coinage. (https://auctions.cngcoins.com/lots/view/4-G3THLD/pre-reform-issues-arab-byzantine-early-pseudo-byzantine-coinage-fals-20mm-492-g-6h-type-f-standing-emperor-uncertain-syrian-mint-struck-circa-647-658-vf)

Arabia, Local Coinage. Anonymous copper issues. Circa AH 1165-1215 / AD 1750-1800. CU Fals (6mm, 0.44 g, 10h). Pictorial issue (Lion left). ‘Ar‘ar mint. Undated issue. Album M1166.3 Zeno –. Brown patina. VF.

Ex Wayne G. Sayles inventory JTC-565; Album inventory 62364.

To read the complete item description, see:
Arabia, Local Coinage. Anonymous copper issues. (https://auctions.cngcoins.com/lots/view/4-G3THOD/arabia-local-coinage-anonymous-copper-issues-circa-ah-1165-1215-ad-1750-1800-cu-fals-6mm-044-g-10h-pictorial-issue-lion-left-arar-mint-undated-issue-vf)

FRANCE, Royal. Henri IV le Grand (the Great). 1589–1610. Æ Medal (40mm, 32.47 g, 12h). By Droz. Puymaurin, director. Struck early 19th century. HENRICVS IIII D G FR ET NAV REX, armored and draped bust right / IL FUT/ DE SES SUJETS/ LE VAINQUEUR/ ET LE PERE; below, pelican feeding young in nest; all within wreath. Brown surfaces. EF.

Ex David J. Fleischmann Collection (Classical Numismatic Group Electronic Auction 471, 1 July 2020), lot 565.

To read the complete item description, see:
FRANCE, Royal. Henri IV le Grand (the Great). (https://auctions.cngcoins.com/lots/view/4-G3THYV/france-royal-henri-iv-le-grand-the-great-15891610-medal-40mm-3247-g-12h-by-droz-puymaurin-director-struck-early-19th-century-ef)

FRANCE, Royal. Louis XV le Bien-Aimé (the Well-Beloved), with Louis and Marie Antoinette. 1715–1774. Æ Medal (41mm, 39.47 g, 12h). The Marriage of the Dauphin (Louis XVI) and Marie Antoinette. Dated 1770. LUD · XV · REX · CHRISTIANISS, head right / LUD · AUG · DELPHIN · ET · M · ANT · JOS · II · IMP · II · SOROR ·, confronted busts of busts of Louis and Marie Antoinette; in exergue, M · DCC · XIV ·. Brown surfaces, spot of discoloration, minor marks on surface and edge. EF.

To read the complete item description, see:
FRANCE, Royal. Louis XV le Bien-Aimé (the Well-Beloved), with Louis and Marie Antoinette. (https://auctions.cngcoins.com/lots/view/4-G3THYZ/france-royal-louis-xv-le-bien-aim-the-well-beloved-with-louis-and-marie-antoinette-17151774-medal-41mm-3947-g-12h-the-marriage-of-the-dauphin-louis-xvi-and-marie-antoinette-dated-1770-ef)

SWITZERLAND. Leo Mildenberg, numismatist. 1913-2001. Æ Medal (49mm, 73.37 g, 12h). Celebrating his 70th Birthday. By Calico. Dated 1983. Bust left; to left, LEO MILDENBERG/ NVMISMATIKER / Three Judaean coins; in exergue, ANNIVERSARIO/ LXX/ ZÜRICH 1983. EF.

Reportedly Mildenberg's personal example.

To read the complete item description, see:
SWITZERLAND. Leo Mildenberg, numismatist. (https://auctions.cngcoins.com/lots/view/4-G3THZ9/switzerland-leo-mildenberg-numismatist-1913-2001-medal-49mm-7337-g-12h-celebrating-his-70th-birthday-by-calico-dated-1983-ef)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
HR 595: LAWFUL TRADE IN COLLECTORS' COINS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n07a11.html)

ARCHIVES INTERNATIONAL 100TH AUCTION

This highly anticipated event will feature a remarkable collection of rare and historic items, many of which have not been available for public sale in 25 to 50 years—or ever. A highlight of the auction is the extensive U.S. Federal Bond and Liberty Loan Bond section, showcasing over 25 exceptional pieces, many missing from even the most advanced collections. Additionally, a wide array of Federal Drafts, Warrants, Checks, and fiscal documents from prestigious government agencies—including the War, Navy, Army, Interior, and Post Office Departments—will be presented, many of which have never been offered before at auction or through private sale.

Collectors will also be drawn to a stunning selection of World banknotes, featuring rare and desirable notes from China, Hong Kong, Czechoslovakia, Canada, Mexico, and more. U.S. Colonial, Obsolete, and Confederate currency will be represented by over 115 lots, including many items new to the auctioneer's platform. Further excitement is generated by the inclusion of over 130 lots of U.S. Large and Small type notes, with many pieces not seen in more than 25 years. For enthusiasts of early American currency, 25 lots of 1907 Panic Currency from a notable collection will provide an opportunity to acquire rarely seen examples. The auction will conclude with an outstanding selection of Scripophily, featuring issued and specimen bonds and shares from the worlds of railroads, banking, mining, and foreign certificates.

This historic auction promises to captivate collectors, dealers, and investors alike, offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to acquire some of the most significant and sought-after items in numismatic and financial history. We will be holding our 101st auction in mid to late April. We are now working on and actively seeking consignments for our Winter and Spring 2025 auctions to include U.S. and World Banknotes, Coins, Scripophily and Security Printing Ephemera as well as desirable numismatic & philatelic items. Please contact us to discuss how you may participate in our future auctions. The team at Archives International Auctions would like to thank you for your participation. We hope we are adding a little fun and enjoyment to your life and that you are doing well.

Lot 46: Harbin, Manchuria, China. ND (1919), 3 Rubles, P-Unlisted, S/M#H36-11, Issued banknote, Lime green undertint and birder with back Cyrillic text and red circular overprint on the lower left, S/N B01100, PMG graded Choice About Unc. 58, This note represents a local credit institution in a Russian-influenced part of China during a tumultuous period following the Russian Revolution.

To read the complete lot description, see:
China, Heng Tao Ho Tzu, _____ Mutual Credit Society, ND (1919) Harbin Private Banknote Issue (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/China-Heng-Tao-Ho-Tzu-Mutual-Credit-Society-ND-1919-Harbin-Private-Banknote-Issue_i55813877)

Lot 88: Hong Kong. 1st January, 1938. $10, P-178a KNB62e-m, Issued banknote, 1 Printed signature, Green vignette and text on pink and m/c underprint, allegorical reaper at left, arms in middle, back green and m/c with bank building in middle, 4 S/Ns on back, S/N K717,263, PMG graded Very Fine 30 with note of a very minor are of ink that is difficult to see and a minor split, still a very attractive note with 4 large even margins, sharp corners and bright colors. BW&C.

To read the complete lot description, see:
HK. Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corporation 1938 Issue Banknote (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/HK-Hongkong-Shanghai-Banking-Corporation-1938-Issue-Banknote_i55813919)

Lot 178: Washington, D.C., August 1, 1898. $100 Issued 3% Bond, S/N 20955, Black text with red border and underprint, Stephen Decatur at top center flanked by American flags, Red Treasury Seal at right, Native American seated at right, Embossed seal at center, Facsimile signature of Judson W. Lyons as Register of the Treasury. VF condition. Very rare Federal fiscal document. Judson Whitlocke Lyons (15 Aug 1858 - 22 June 1924) was an American politician and attorney. He became the first African American attorney in Georgia in 1884 and later served as the Register of the Treasury. B.E.P.. We could find no record of this bond being offered previously at auction.

To read the complete lot description, see:
U.S., Spanish-American 1898-1918 Three Per Cent Loan of 1898, Issued 1898 $100 Bond. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/U-S-Spanish-American-1898-1918-Three-Per-Cent-Loan-of-1898-Issued-1898-100-Bond_i55814009)

Lot 206: Washington, D.C., July 9th, 1984. $1000 Issued and Uncancelled, 13.75% Treasury Note, Black on light green underprint, Portrait of Lincoln top left corner, S/N 7922 pp C, Payable 1991 (Series F), PMG graded Extremely Fine 40 with comment "Minor Stains." Only 3 examples were found 7 years ago.

To read the complete lot description, see:
U.S.A., 1984, I/U $1000 13 3/4% Registered Treasury Note, Series F Rarity, Only 3 found 6 Years Ago. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/U-S-A-1984-I-U-1000-13-3-4-Registered-Treasury-Note-Series-F-Rarity-Only-3-found-6-Years-Ago_i55814037)

Lot 308: Washington D.C., March 4th, 1814 (January 1, 1815 handwritten), $100, Hessler X74C, Fr. TN-6, Remainder partially filled out, Edward Fox | Samuel Clarke | Double Signature remainder, Black printing on toned off-white paper, eagle holding olive branches at top right, Shield, cannons and flags bottom middle, S/N 9419 pp C, PMG graded Very Fine 20 NET with note of edge damage and small pieces missing with a small area of ink burn in the middle right, payable at 5 & 2/5% interest, Serial numbered 9419 and pen-dated Jan'y. 1., 1815 (over 4) at the top, with the year 1816 below for the one-year payable. Payable to "A S Bulloch N. Agt." At "Philad'a.". This note is consecutive with the one offered at Heritage in November 2020 which sold for $31,200. That example was in Choice EF 45. This is a rare opportunity to acquire an amazing U.S. rarity. This is the first time we have offered an example of this type and we are sure it will attract significant attention.

To read the complete lot description, see:
Washington D.C. , U.S. Treasury Note, $100 Act of March 4th, 1814 Remainder. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/Washington-D-C-U-S-Treasury-Note-100-Act-of-March-4th-1814-Remainder_i55814139)

Lot 323: Baltimore, Maryland...., May 1, 1878. $500, Black MD-200-500, Obsolete Banknote, Black with green underprint, Capitol building at top center with portraits of Eaton and Burnett at left and right, PCGS graded Very Fine 30 with comment "Edge Split at Right."

To read the complete lot description, see:
MD. Eaton & Burnett's Business College Bank, May 1, 1878, $500 College Currency Banknote. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/MD-Eaton-Burnett-s-Business-College-Bank-May-1-1878-500-College-Currency-Banknote_i55814154)

Lot 334: Bridgeton, New Jersey, December 12, 1787. 6 Pence, (W.194), I/U Remainder Banknote, Black with black border, S/N None pp A, PMG graded Very Fine 30. Private small change circulating notes issued at Bridgeton. Various typeset borders. Plate letters were added for the Dec. 12, 1787 issue. Blank back. Private small change circulating notes issued at Bridgeton. Various typeset borders. Plate letters were added for the Dec. 12, 1787 issue. Blank backs. Extremely rare New Jersey Colonial Note. No auction records other than a Christie's Auction, possibly having taken place over 30 years ago was found.

To read the complete lot description, see:
NJ. Seeley & Merseilles, December 12, 1787, 6 Pence Remainder Obsolete Banknote. (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/NJ-Seeley-Merseilles-December-12-1787-6-Pence-Remainder-Obsolete-Banknote_i55814165)

Lot 358: Charleston, South Carolina, 1840s. $20, SC-45-G64aP, Proof Banknote printed on india paper, Uniface note with black and gold print, Multiple vignettes including: Dock scene with steamboat in the background and bales of cotton, Slaves plowing field at right and allegorical woman at left, No S/N, pp B, PMG graded About Uncirculated 50 with comments "Mounting Remnants" and "Stains," RW&H. This note came from an old RW&H sample book discovered only recently. This lovely note deserves further research, but it would not be surprising if it is a new variety that is unlisted . RW&H.

To read the complete lot description, see:
SC. Bank of the State of South Carolina, 1840s, Proof Banknote (https://auction.archivesinternational.com/SC-Bank-of-the-State-of-South-Carolina-1840s-Proof-Banknote_i55814189)

For more information, see:
https://archivesinternational.com/

THE COINS OF ROMAN EGYPT

FOLLOWING THE DEATH of Mark Antony and Queen Cleopatra VII at Alexandria in August 30 BCE, Egypt became a province of the Roman Empire. For over three centuries, Roman Egypt maintained a separate, closed currency system, based on the denominations of the previous Ptolemaic kingdom. Regular Roman coins did not circulate in Egypt, and Egyptian coinage was not exported. There was a debased silver tetradrachm of about 13 grams, and several bronze fractions. Four (later six) bronze drachms typically equaled one tetradrachm, and six small bronze obols equaled one drachm. In practice, moneychangers in the marketplace would exchange one tetradrachm for 28 or 29 obols. The coins were inscribed in Greek, Alexandria's administrative language[1].

Augustus

Augustus replaced Cleopatra's portrait on the bronze coinage with his own image, adding the Greek inscription T??? ???? ("Son of a God", since he was the adopted son of the deified Julius Caesar, remembered by Alexandrians as Cleopatra's lover). The reverse bears the standing eagle that had appeared on Ptolemaic coins for centuries, with the simple inscription ???C???C ???????????C (Kaisaros Autokratoros, "Caesar Ruler"). The coins were undated. Most surviving examples are so heavily worn that the inscriptions are illegible. An exceptional specimen, described as "one of the finest known," brought $1,250 in a recent U.S. auction.

Tiberius

Augustus' successor Tiberius introduced a debased silver tetradrachm, probably because the old circulating Ptolemaic tetradrachms were worn out. Initially, the coins, weighing around 13 grams, consisted of about 33% silver, but this later declined to 25%. They were considered equivalent in value to the Roman denarius. The obverse bore a portrait of Tiberius wearing a laurel wreath, his name and titles in Greek[3], and dated according to his regnal year. The reverse bears the head of the deified Augustus wearing the spiked "radiate" crown, with the inscription TEOS SEBASTOS, (Theos Sebastos, "The God Augustus").

To read the complete article, see:
The Coins of Roman Egypt (https://coinweek.com/coins-of-roman-egypt/)

 

THE PENNY PRESS MACHINE COMPANY

Some may say the penny is past its prime, but it is still a big deal for a small company in Little Canada.

Since 1987, The Penny Press Machine Company has manufactured custom machines that flatten coins while printing new images on both sides, replacing Abraham Lincoln and the Lincoln Memorial or Union Shield with whatever the buyer wants.

"From theme parks to zoos to souvenir gift shops, fast food restaurants. We'll do a lot of sports teams."

"Souvenir shops use them to sell souvenirs of landmarks. Really anything you can imagine, we can put on the coin," said general manager Brian Peters.

Brian's father, Joe, bought the company a few years ago.

He says penny presses were introduced at the Chicago World's Fair in 1893 and gained popularity at tourist attractions in the 1950s and 60s.

He says by putting in 50 cents to a dollar or by tapping a credit card these days, collectors can crank out a unique souvenir that they helped make themselves.

"It's probably the most economical souvenir in the whole tourism industry that somebody can get for their family," said Joe.

There's even a website for die hard penny pals, who go on road trips or "squishin' missions" to find penny presses in all 50 states.

Even though there's been talk about stopping the U.S. Treasury from minting new pennies, the company says its machines could still operate using copper tokens.

"For 30 years, they've been trying to do away with the penny and nobody's been able to come up with a concrete solution. It's not going away," said Joe.

But no matter what happens, they plan to keep pinching pennies for as long as it makes cents.

To read the complete article, see:
For a Minnesota company, pinching pennies is big business (https://www.fox9.com/news/minnesota-company-pinching-pennies-big-business)

To visit the firm's website, see:
THE PENNY PRESS MACHINE COMPANY (https://www.tppmc.com/)

To read earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
THE SQUISH PENNY MUSEUM (https://www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v08n06a15.html)
RAYMOND H. "ROCKY" ROCKHOLT (1930-2021) (https://www.coinbooks.org/v24/esylum_v24n28a03.html)
THE PENNY PURGE: COMMON CENTS OR CENTSLESS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n07a29.html)

SCOTLAND'S PENNY PRESS FACTORY

New copper pennies vanished from circulation in 1982—73 years after the first Lincoln penny was minted. They were replaced by coins of mostly zinc thinly coated with copper.

The solid copper old ones were more pliable and easier to stamp, making them hot items for kids at funfairs.

"They'll clean 'em so when they elongate the dino or shark of the printed coin it maintains a ghost image of the printed head of Lincoln," said Brian Peters, general manager of Minnesota-based Penny Press Machine Co. "Pre-1982 copper pennies, they bring those."

Alan Fleming, of Scotland, is the owner of Penny Press Factory, one of a number around the world that manufacture machines that flatten and stamp coins.

"A lovely retired gentleman in Boston sold me over 100,000 uncirculated cents a couple of years ago but he doesn't have any more," Fleming wrote. "I will need to purchase new uncirculated cents within the next 12 months to keep my machines supplied and working!"

To visit the Penny Press Factory website, see:
Penny Press Factory (http://www.pennypressfactory.com/)

To read the complete article, see:
Penny souvenir sellers face an uncertain future after Trump's pledge to stop making the coins (https://www.fastcompany.com/91292323/penny-souvenir-sellers-face-uncertain-future-trump-pledge)

 

THE PIERRE DE COUBERTIN MEDAL

A total of 5,084 medals were produced for the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics, with a total of 878 medal events contested across the summer.

Established athletes such as Simone Biles and Katie Ledecky continued their Olympic legacies, while France swimmer Leon Marchand took home four gold medals and was arguably the star of the Olympics.

In the Paralympics, cyclist Sarah Storey further cemented her position as Great Britain's most successful Paralympian with an astonishing 19 gold medals.

But gold medals handed out by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) are not just limited to the Summer or Winter Olympics/Paralympics themselves.

The Pierre de Coubertin Medal is given out to athletes who 'exemplify the spirit of sportsmanship or exceptional service to the Games'.

Frenchman De Coubertin was the co-founder of the IOC and is known as the 'father of the modern Olympic Games'.

Leon Stukelj (Slovenia)

Date Awarded: November 1999
Dates Competed: 1924 through 1936
Achievements: 4 gold medals; oldest living Olympian (1996-1998)

Joao Havelange (Brazil)

Date Awarded: 2000
Dates Competed: 1936 and 1952
Achievements: IOC Medal (1963-2011)

Emil Zatopek (Czechoslovakia)

Date Awarded: 2000
Dates Competed: 1948 and 1952
Achievements: Gold medals in the 5,000m and 10,000m; broke world records in 10,000m and 20km

Cecilia Tait (Peru)

Date Awarded: 2003
Dates Competed: 1988
Achievements: Silver medal for volleyball; promoted women in sports

Vanderlei de Lima (Brazil)

Date Awarded: 2004
Dates Competed: 1996 and 2004
Achievements: Attacked by Irish priest, depriving him of gold medal

Elena Belova (Soviet Union/Belarus)

Date Awarded: 2007
Dates Competed: 1968 through 1980
Achievements: Foil Fencer

Shaul Ladany (Israel)

Date Awarded: 2007
Dates Competed: 1968 and 1972
Achievements: Holds the world record in the 50-mile walk; 100km world championship gold medal

Viktor Mamatov (Soviet Union/Russia)

Date Awarded: 2008
Dates Competed: 1968 and 1972
Achievements: Two gold medals in team 4 x 7.5km relay; Soviet and Russian Olympic Coach

Boyen Radev (Bulgaria)

Date Awarded: 2009
Dates Competed: 1964 and 1968
Achievements: Gold medals in wrestling's light heavyweight category; one of six Bulgarian athletes to win multiple Olympic gold medals.

To read the complete article, see:
Only nine athletes have been awarded super-rare Olympic medal with just six receiving it since 2004 (https://www.sportbible.com/other/olympics-rare-medal-awarded-ioc-athletes-134564-20250228)

NATIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR MUSEUM OPENING

The National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation is a 501(c)(3) educational organization dedicated to safeguarding and celebrating the legacy of the Medal of Honor and its Recipients.

Guided by the Medal's core values—Courage, Sacrifice, Commitment, Integrity, Citizenship, and Patriotism—we fund, build, and sustain three landmark tributes:

• The National Medal of Honor Museum, Arlington, Texas
• The National Medal of Honor Monument, Washington, D.C.
• The National Medal of Honor Griffin Institute, Arlington, Texas

Through education, leadership, and immersive spaces, we inspire every visitor to awaken the extraordinary by exploring what's possible in the service of others.

The Medal

Awarded by the President, in the name of Congress, the Medal of Honor commemorates those who have shaped our nation's history and continue to inspire its future with their acts of valor, humanity, patriotism, and sacrifice.

Over 40 million Americans who have served in the US Armed Forces since the Civil War. Fewer than 4,000 have been awarded the Medal of Honor.

Medal of Honor Recipients are the only individuals saluted by all ranks of the military—including the President.

As the only military decoration worn around the neck, the Medal of Honor has evolved since its founding in 1861. Today there are three variants, one for each military branch.

Recipients distinguish themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity, risking loss of life above and beyond the call of duty. The act of valor must occur in combat during 1 of 3 circumstances:

• While engaged in action against an enemy of the United States.
• While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing force.
• While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.

Exhibits

MOMENTS OF ACTION EXHIBIT

Step into virtual Medal of Honor battlefields and landscapes and meet the Recipients whose extraordinary actions continue to inspire—in vivid high-definition.

FROM RAILS TO ROTORS

Experience the legend and legacy of the Huey helicopter and the dangerous Dustoff missions that saved thousands of lives in Vietnam. The Museum features a Vietnam-era Huey as a permanent display.

For more information on the museum, see:
The National Medal of Honor (https://mohmuseum.org/)

To read the complete article, see:
National Medal of Honor Museum (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Medal_of_Honor_Museum)

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE GOLD MEDAL

A Department of Commerce Medal of Award for Exceptional Service to F.H. Wheeler, Feb. 14, 1951 makes for interesting research which indicates that this is Floyd Hall Wheeler. From his obituary in the Anchorage Daily News, March 25, 1995:

It appears that the obituary is incorrect. I can find no information about Mr. Wheeler receiving the "Presidential Medal of Heroism." But I did find an account of the Exceptional Service noted on the medal.

Nome Nugget, June 16, 1950.
WHEELER CITED BY CAA FOR ICE FLOE RESCUE

Nome Nugget, February 7, 1951.
FLOYD WHEELER OF CAA TO RECEIVE GOLD AWARD

Heritage has listed only one of these medals, a 1966 version, weighing 51.5 grams, testing 14K. This medal is a bit lighter at 46 grams, presumably 14K. Both sides were designed by Frank Gasparro.

FLUSHING COIN CLUB 60TH ANNIVERSARY MEDALS

David Menchell writes:

Joel Iskowitz writes:

David Menchell adds:

COLONIAL GEORGIA COLORED SEALS, PART 5

To read the complete exhibit pages, see:
The Colored Seal Notes of Colonial Georgia (https://www.money.org/howlandwood2017/)

To read the earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
Colonial Georgia Colored Seals, Part 1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n06a25.html)
Colonial Georgia Colored Seals, Part 2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n07a31.html)
Colonial Georgia Colored Seals, Part 3 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n08a23.html)
Colonial Georgia Colored Seals, Part 4 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n09a31.html)

LOOSE CHANGE: MARCH 9, 2025

Half Cents

For now, the penny survives as the smallest unit of U.S. currency — but that wasn't always the case. When the U.S. Mint was established in 1792, it made 10 denominations of coins, and the smallest was the half-cent. Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton proposed the half-cent for two reasons: so America's poorest residents could buy smaller quantities of items for less money, and so merchants could price their wares more competitively in smaller increments. Average wages in the 1790s were around $65 a year, so a half-penny made sense for purchasing everyday items.

Half-cent coins declined in popularity over the next few decades, and their production waned until they were discontinued in 1857. By that time, they were mostly used by the Post Office, which still made change in half-cent amounts.

To read the complete article, see:
The U.S. used to have half-pennies. (https://historyfacts.com/us-history/fact/the-u-s-used-to-have-half-pennies/)

Collins' Double Duty at Treasury Department

What appears to be an unprecedented case of doing double duty began in Washington on January 20 when Patricia (Patty) Collins was named Acting Treasurer of the United States. The treasurer has multiple functions, including liaison with the Federal Reserve, and direct oversight over the U.S. Mint, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, and Fort Knox.

Ms. Collins is also the director of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing since March 24, 2024. In other words, notwithstanding that she reports to the Secretary of the Treasury, it can be said that she is her own boss. Bureau of Engraving and Printing spokesperson, Lydia Washington, told CDN, "Director Patty Collins is temporarily serving as Acting Treasurer until a replacement is named or someone is appointed to the position. She continues to perform her BEP Director duties." She is the first woman named to that position.

Because she is Acting Treasurer, she will not have her facsimile signature on the next series of U.S. currency. That will have to wait until a Treasurer is officially appointed.

To read the complete article, see:
Director Does Double Duty (https://www.greysheet.com/news/story/director-does-double-duty)

Coin-Embedded Tableware

We know them from European castles and treasure chambers – those magnificent objects decorated and embedded with coins. We are pleased to offer a private collection of these valuable items. Throughout 2025, coin-embedded objects from the Hans-Jürgen Brammer Collection will be offered on various occasions, starting with auction 422 on 20 March 2025. The Hans-Jürgen Brammer Collection of coin-embedded tableware and coin jewelry was assembled over several decades and contains numerous treasures. Coin-embedded tableware is quite rare today. However, these items were anything but rare at the time of their creation. Only a fraction of them have survived, as most were melted down at some point. This is no cause for grief for their owners, on the contrary – it means that these objects served their original purpose.

Unfortunately, the history of coin-embedded objects has not been thoroughly examined yet. There is hardly any literature on coin-embedded objects of the 19th century. Collections such as Hans-Jürgen Brammer's could serve as a stimulus to promote research in this field.

To read the complete article, see:
Coin-Embedded Tableware as Part of European Dining Culture (https://www.kuenker.de/blog/auction-sales/numismatic-publications/coin-embedded-tableware-as-part-of-european-dining-culture/)

Ditching Digital for Physical

On New Year's Day 2023, my friend Matt texted to say he'd bought a Peach Bowl ticket... But what Matt had bought that morning was purely commemorative. As with almost every live event now, our actual tickets to the game only existed on our phones, and they'd disappeared along with the waning moments of 2022. The Peach Bowl had contracted with a vendor to print mementos for the game that could be personalized with your seat assignment — your own longitude and latitude for a moment immediately enshrined in the history of Georgia football. The event's organizers had advertised the service — $12 for an oversize sheet of glossy cardstock or $40 to add an acrylic display case — in the order confirmation email for the digital tickets, and Matt had dug it back up.

The ticket — the physical thing of it — used to be free, of course, or at least included in the price of admission. In my childhood bedroom a week and a half earlier, I'd come across a thick stack of them, for occasions both great and small... As objects, paper tickets serve as proof of past lives long after their brief utility as proof of payment. I sat with my accidental time capsule for more than an hour, doing what my teenage self had probably hoped I might: linking each one to a buried memory as best I could.

It's no coincidence, I think, that as paper tickets have disappeared, the merch markets for live events have boomed, or that event producers have realized many people will pay for a paper ticket printed after the fact, once they're sure the memory is a good one.

To read the complete article, see:
What We Lose When Our Memories Exist Entirely in Our Phones (https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-03-07/the-case-for-ditching-digital-memories-for-physical-objects)

FEATURED WEBSITE: THE SOUTHERN GOLD SOCIETY

This week's Featured Website is The Southern Gold Society.

For collectors and historians fascinated by the legacy of Southern gold coinage, the Southern Gold Society (SGS) offers a valuable online resource dedicated to this numismatic niche. The society focuses on gold coins from historic Southern mints, including Charlotte, Dahlonega, and New Orleans, as well as private minters such as the Bechtlers and Templeton Reid.

The SGS website (southerngoldsociety.org) serves as the primary hub for the society's mission to educate and connect enthusiasts of Southern gold. Through informative articles, historical insights, and a community-driven approach, the site preserves the heritage of these significant coins while fostering deeper engagement among collectors. The website is designed to be accessible and easy to navigate, providing dedicated sections on each mint's history, notable coinage, and their unique place in American numismatics.

As a virtual numismatic society, SGS relies on digital communication via newsletters, emails, and its website to share knowledge with members. The society holds an annual gathering in conjunction with the Georgia Numismatic Association Coin Show, with additional informal meetings at various numismatic events throughout the year.

While the website provides excellent historical context and coin-related information, additional updates and interactive features could enhance the user experience. Expanding content with more frequent updates or member-driven contributions might further strengthen the society's role as a go-to source for Southern gold enthusiasts.

For those interested in Southern gold coins, whether as collectors, researchers, or history buffs, the Southern Gold Society's website is a noteworthy destination. It stands as an essential reference for understanding the region's gold coinage and the rich history behind it. We encourage numismatists to explore the site and consider joining the society's efforts to preserve this fascinating aspect of American coinage.

https://www.southerngoldsociety.org/

ABOUT THIS ISSUE: MARCH 9, 2025

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

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