"Why should you be concerned where numismatics is headed just because people like myself and others collect coin albums, mint bags, etc?? Even though you say you are not casting stones from your glass house, you actually are when you refer to coin album collecting as peripheral and of questionable value.

Coin albums are an extremely important part of numismatics, as are the other items. They tell a a tale of the evolution of coin storage and dictated how our collections were assembled by "filling the holes." These albums, which were meant to be used, are a treat to find in excellent condition and getting harder and harder to find."

"absolutely we are NOT moving away from the core of the hobby, but rather expanding our knowledge of the moneying process. As far as engraving, yes it is an essential part of the coinage design process but by no means the only part. Part of the engraving process as we all know is by hand, but then the machine takes over. Another instance of Man and Machine working together to produce memorable and lasting art.

As far as the German book on engraving ... what a great opportunity to learn another language!! I can't begin to imagine how much coinage has increased my love of languages. I have learned at least 3 new languages since starting to collect coins. Just a rudimentary basic understanding of the german words should help translate that book somewhat.

Additionally we have many resources here in the states , specifically Ron Landis at the Gallery Mint who can help immensely with engraving.

In short, please don't throw the baby out with the bathwater. I myself dressed up in an old west outfit and showed some barber coins and morgan dollars and so forth to children this past halloween at a gathering.. the costume added to the flavor of the coins and gave a sense of history...much like those old coin bags and cardboard holders do..."