The E-Sylum:  Volume 11, Number 10, March 9, 2008, Article 17

SPINK ACQUIRES SMYTHE

[The following press release was issued jointly by Spink
and Smythe on Friday March 7. -Editor]

Spink, the world's leading auctioneers of Coins, Stamps,
Medals and Banknotes, Bonds and Share Certificates, based
in London and established 1666, has acquired R.M. Smythe &
Company, specialists in Antique Stocks and Bonds, Banknotes,
Coins, and Autographs, based in New York City and established
in 1880. Both Spink and Smythe are known around the globe for
their illustrious histories, impeccable reputations and
unparalleled expertise. The merging of these two companies
is the next logical step in line with Spink's strategy for
the future and will create the first truly global, fully
integrated, collectables house.

Spink is pleased to announce that John Herzog, owner of
R.M. Smythe & Company since 1967, has become a shareholder
in Spink. Mr. Herzog will act as Chairman Emeritus of Spink
USA and will participate in the development of the combined
entity which is valued in excess of $100million by this deal.
Mr. Herzog stated, "I could not think of a better company to
acquire Smythe. My wife, Diana, and I have been at Smythe's
helm for 40 years, and have tremendously enjoyed building
the business and working with clients and collectors. I look
ahead with great excitement to the opportunities presented
by this joining of forces."

Since their founding in 1880, R.M. Smythe and Company has
developed into one of the world's premier auction houses,
specializing in Antique Stocks and Bonds, Banknotes, Coins,
Autographs and Photographs. In 2007 Smythe hosted six major
auctions setting record prices for historical autographs,
currency, coins, stocks, bonds and antiques.

To Spink this deal brings with it an even more prominent
position in the American market following the recent
acquisition of Shreves Philatelic Galleries. In America,
as is already the case in Europe, Spink will continue to
operate as a strong competitor in the world of collectables
with a boutique approach to the business. In 2007 Spink was
already number one globally for stamp auctions. In 2008,
Spink USA will strive for the same prestigious position in
all categories in which they deal and auction. The
acquisition of Smythe brings them closer to realizing
this goal.

Olivier D. Stocker, Chairman and CEO of Spink, stated
"This acquisition is really a powerful match. It instantly
creates a leadership position for Spink in Banknotes,
Bonds and Shares and Worldwide Coins. We believe it is
the perfect strategic move to better service our clients
and continue to obtain the best results for them."

  Wayne Homren, Editor

	coinbooks.org Web

The Numismatic Bibliomania Society is a non-profit organization 
promoting numismatic literature. See our web site at coinbooks.org.

To submit items for publication in The E-Sylum, write to the Editor 
at this address: whomren@coinlibrary.com

To subscribe go to: https://my.binhost.com/lists/listinfo/esylum