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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 JULY 28, 2024

New subscribers this week include: Jonathan W. Marker. Welcome aboard! We now have 7,260 subscribers.

Thank you for reading The E-Sylum. If you enjoy it, please send me the email addresses of friends you think may enjoy it as well and I'll send them a subscription. Contact me at whomren@gmail.com anytime regarding your subscription, or questions, comments or suggestions about our content.

This week we open with NBS events at the ANA convention, a numismatic literature sale reminder, three new books, updates from the Newman Numismatic Portal, notes from readers, and more.

Other topics this week include the Mughal coins of India, Black Women on money, the Carson City Mint, the Huntington Award, ANA exhibits, author Leander McCormick-Goodhart, collecting U.S. colonial coinage, fixed price and auction selections, paper money toilet paper, and the origins of money.

To learn more about California Pioneer Fractional Gold, Eric P. Newman, coins and medals of the Counts of Wertheim, gold eight escudos, dealer Geoffrey Bell, the First Female President, James Mease, Dwight Manley, museum security, four dollar Stellas, precision casting, the Brutus Denarius, and electoral coins, read on. Have a great week, everyone!

Wayne Homren
Editor, The E-Sylum

2024 NBS CHARITY AUCTION AND ANA EVENTS

Numismatic Bibliomania Society 2024 Charity Auction

The NBS 2024 Charity Auction sale catalog is now available. Compiled by David Fanning with layout by Maria Fanning, the catalog includes 50 lots donated by NBS members. The sale will take place Friday, August 9, 11:30AM at the ANA convention (room 12). Mail bids may be submitted to David Fanning through August 8.

Lot 19 features Thomas Elder's first plated sale, ex. Eric P. Newman and donated by David Steine. Adams United States Numismatic Literature lists 25 plated Elder sales in total, all of which are desirable. From Dan Hamelberg comes a rare example of Bowersiana, lot 9, a prices paid for list published by Q. David Bowers in 1957. In the "hard to find but not necessarily expensive when you do" department is a c. 1942 Barney Bluestone fixed price list of large cents, lots 5, donated by Terry Stahurski. The catalog includes a good mix of topics and price points and most NBS members should find something of interest.

Link to NBS 2024 Charity Auction sale catalog:
https://coinbooks.org/nbsauction2024.pdf

LANG NUMISMATIC LITERATURE AUCTION 3

We would like to remind you that the third auction of the Numismatic Antiquarian Bookshop Lang will take place next Wednesday, July 31, 2024.

• Date: July 31, 2024
• Location: Live auction via Auex - click here to register
• Time: Start at 17:00 CEST

Alternatively, you can also use the auction platforms Biddr and Sixbid to place your pre-bids.

In this auction you have the opportunity to bid for popular and rare books of all eras at an estimated price of less than 300,00 EURO per lot.

Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. The best way to contact us is by e-mail at info@numismatisches-antiquariat.de.

We look forward to your participation!

To visit the firm's website, see:
http://www.numismatisches-antiquariat.de/

To register to bid, see:
https://auktionen.numismatisches-antiquariat.de/Auktion/Onlinekatalog?intAuktionsId=1513

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
LANG NUMISMATIC LITERATURE AUCTION 3 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n28a02.html)

NEW BOOK: COINS AND MEDALS OF THE COUNTS OF WERTHEIM

Almost 150 years after Ferdinand Wibel's work, the editors have presented a new catalogue. A project spanning more than five decades has come to an end.

Based on the study of available sources and literature, market observation, evaluation of auction events from around 1860 as well as personal visits to private and public coin collections, the number of recorded coins/medals can be almost doubled to 981 numbers compared to Wibel (501 numbers).

With a few exceptions, all pieces were available in their original form and are reproduced in color and in their original size. The coins minted by the Franconian district mint in Wertheim for foreign minters were also included. The work concludes with a list of the documented minting personnel in the various mints and other appendices.

The coin catalogue (hardcover, thread-stitched, approx. 600 pages) is available for subscription until March 31, 2024 at the greatly reduced price of €99. To do so, order the volume from the office of the Wertheim Historical Society at info@hv-wertheim.de or 0151/59 97 96 99.

The order will only be effective if the amount has been received in the Wertheim Historical Society's account by March 31, 2024. You will receive an invoice for your transfer. The volume will then be sent after publication.

For more information, or to order, see:
https://www.hv-wertheim.de/arbeitskreise/

NEW BOOK: OCHO ESCUDOS, 2ND EDITION

The newly released second edition of Los Doblones de a Ocho Escudos by Ignacio Gutiérrez Delgado is a comprehensive work in two volumes written in Spanish on all eight escudos, including a through investigation into their history and relevance in the world of collecting and investment. This iconic gold denomination - struck across hundreds of years in both the Old and New Worlds - stands as a paramount coin in the commerce of many nations.

Through extensive research and expert interviews, dedicated numismatist Ignacio Gutiérrez Delgado has written the premier reference work on the 8 escudos. This work contains over 681 pages filled with detailed, full-color images to illustrate the many different countries, mints, dates, and varieties represented across the denomination. Delgado's research delves deep into the minting process and the meaning behind all elements of 8 escudos designs across the ages. Expert numismatists from around the world were consulted to provide in-depth analysis across the different types of 8 escudos as well as the motivations involved in collecting this denomination. Current market and auction results along with rarity and grading guides are offered throughout the work to assist both new and experienced collectors of 8 escudos. Even non-Spanish readers will find this work to be a bountiful reference guide to 8 escudos coinage.

This hardcover set is housed in a presentation box and each set is individually numbered out of a total print run of just 350 sets.

Sedwick & Associates is proud to be the exclusive US distributor of Los Doblones de a Ocho Escudos. The set is available for $295 with included USPS Priority Mail shipping in the United States. Collectors can order on the Sedwick website here: https://sedwickcoins.com/8escudos/8escudos.htm

NEW BOOK: CORPUS OF MUGHAL COINS OF INDIA, VOL 4

Corpus of Mughal Coins of India, Volume 4: Silver & Gold Coins in the names of Aurangzeb, Azam Shah, Kam Bakhsh, Shah Alam Bahadur I, Azim-ush-Shan, Jahandar Shah and Farrukhsiyar (1658-1719)

Nilesh Gada
Dilip Rajgor

Vol. 4 comprises of silver and gold coins issued by thirteenth to twentieth Mughal rulers, viz., Aurangzeb, Azam Shah, Kam Bakhsh, Shah Alam Bahadur I, Azim-ush-Shan, Jahandar Shah and Farrukhsiyar; minted between AD 1658 to 1719.

Corpus of Mughal Coins of India is a series of six volumes. The Corpus deals with all the coins issued by Mughal Emperors within modern countries of India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Tibet, Nepal & Bangladesh from 1526 to 1858. These coins include not only all the coins issued by the Mughal Emperors, but also all the coins issued by provincial rulers in the name and style of these Mughal Emperors. These include Independent Kingdoms, Princely States and East India Company.

Coins of each ruler are appended with actual photographs of a coin of both the sides. This has been supplemented along-with eye copies of the Persian legends as seen on the coins. For this black calligraphy pen is used to over-write on each segment of the legends on a coin. This helps in understanding how the legends or couplets on a given coin are arranged. This is followed by in depth details of both the sides of a coin. For this, coin legend is written in Persian script to indicate the flow of the legends on the coin. To make it clear and lucid, a transliteration of the Persian script is also given in English.

For more information, or to order, see:
Corpus of Mughal Coins of India, Vol. 4: Silver & Gold Coins in the names of Aurangzeb, Azam Shah, Kam Bakhsh, Shah Alam Bahadur I, Azim-ush-Shan, Jahandar Shah and Farrukhsiyar (1658-1719) (https://www.bagchee.com/books/BB138432/corpus-of-mughal-coins-of-india-vol-4-silver-gold-coins-in-the-names-of-aurangzeb-azam-shah-kam-bakhsh-shah-alam-bahadur-i-azimushshan-jahandar-shah-and-farrukhsiyar-16581719)

To read the earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
NEW BOOK: CORPUS OF MUGHAL COINS OF INDIA, VOL 1 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v26/esylum_v26n41a04.html)
NEW BOOK: CORPUS OF MUGHAL COINS OF INDIA, VOL 2 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n19a03.html)
NEW BOOK: CORPUS OF MUGHAL COINS OF INDIA, VOL 3 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n23a05.html)

GEOFFREY BELL (1942-2024)

Geoffrey Goodwin Bell, 82 of Moncton and formerly of Shediac, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Wednesday, July 24, 2024. He was the son of the late Dr. Barnes and Evelyn (Goodwin) Bell.

Geoffrey's life was deeply rooted in education. After attending Moncton High School, he pursued further studies at NB Teachers College and the University of New Brunswick. This educational journey set the foundation for a distinguished career in education, during which he served as principal at five different schools in the Moncton area. Geoff was a natural educator, always sharing knowledge whether in a school setting, out in the community, or in personal conversations.

Geoffrey's passion for numismatics began at the tender age of five. A neighbor down the street had one of the few televisions in the neighborhood, and Geoff would visit to watch hockey games. During intermissions, they would look at coins, sparking a lifelong interest. This passion eventually led to the opening of a local coin store in 1986, followed by the founding of Geoffrey Bell Auctions in 2008 alongside his son Brian and daughter-in-law Dawn. Geoffrey's commitment to family was central to his business beliefs, reflecting his deep belief in the importance of familial bonds.

Geoff's contributions to the numismatic world were substantial. He served as the first vice president of the Royal Canadian Numismatic Association (RCNA) from 1981 to 1983 and again from 1999 to 2001. He also served as RCNA president during two separate terms, from 1983 to 1985 and again from 2001 to 2003, making him the only past president to serve two non-consecutive terms. His commitment to the organization was further exemplified by his chairmanship of the RCNA conventions in 1983, 1993, and 1997.

In recognition of his significant contributions, Geoff was honored with the RCNA Fellow recognition in 1998 and was also named a Fellow of the Canadian Numismatic Research Society (CNRS). His outstanding service to numismatics was acknowledged with the prestigious J. Douglas Ferguson Award in 1987. Geoff's willingness to share his extensive knowledge and passion for numismatics made him a beloved figure among collectors and historians. His expertise was also showcased on CBC's "Canadian Antique Roadshow," where he served as a numismatic expert.

Motivated by his passion for numismatics, Geoff developed a deep interest in medals and their history. He spent countless hours in his "den" researching and writing articles for future collectors. Geoff's extensive writings on medals reflect his dedication and love for the subject.

Geoff was dedicated to several clubs, often serving as an active member on their boards. Sylvia recalls how Geoff would come back from meetings with another role, be it president, secretary or treasurer. Some organizations Geoff was involved with include Probus, Moncton Museum, Food Bank Community Garden, St. George's Church, Bank of Canada (Acquisition Advisory Committee), Canadian Paper Money Society, Canadian Numismatic Association, The J. Douglas Ferguson Historical Research Foundation, Canadian Numismatic Research Society, and even served on Moncton City Council further showcasing a knack for bringing the right people together to improve organizations.

To read the complete online obituary, see:
Geoffrey "Geoff" Bell (https://www.fergusonsfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Geoffrey-Geoff-Bell?obId=32481181)

The Canadian numismatic community is deeply saddened by the passing of Geoffrey Bell, a revered dealer and collector, who died on July 24. Geoff's profound impact on the Canadian banknote scene and the broader numismatic industry has been felt for decades and will continue to influence future generations.

A longtime collector, Geoffrey Bell's professional passion for numismatics began with the establishment of the Coin Cabinet in Moncton, New Brunswick, in 1986. This passion evolved into a family business when he founded Geoffrey Bell Auctions in 2008 with his son Brian and daughter-in-law Dawn.

Geoff Bell was highly respected for his extensive knowledge of banknotes, tokens, and medals, and his enthusiasm for sharing this knowledge was well known. At the recent 2024 RCNA Convention in Boucherville, Que., he was honoured with the title of honorary RCNA president, a testament to his esteemed status in the community.

Geoff leaves behind his beloved wife Sylvia and their three sons and their families. Within the numismatic community, he was particularly associated with his son Brian, daughter-in-law Dawn, and grandchildren Rayna and Malcolm.

Jared Stapleton, a long-time friend of the Bell family, shared his memories: "Geoff was a wonderful man and a true gentleman in the numismatic community. He was a pioneer in the hobby with his research and a leader of many of the organizations, supporting dealers and, most importantly, collectors. I remember meeting Geoff for the first time at a CPMS (Canadian Paper Money Society) lunch, I sat right next to him. Being so green in the hobby, he welcomed me with open arms, and a numismatic friendship was born. He was never shy to take a closer look at a new find, and congratulate and recognize the discovery. A great lesson I have learned from Geoff was that good and rare numismatic items will always be good and rare. Always willing to chat about numismatics at any time of the day, he was a genuine friend."

To read the complete article, see:
Canada's numismatic community mourns the loss of iconic collector and dealer Geoffrey Bell (https://canadiancoinnews.com/canadas-numismatic-community-mourns-the-loss-of-iconic-collector-and-dealer-geoffrey-bell/)

NNP ADDS BLACK WOMEN ON MONEY

Newman Portal Adds Black Women on Money

Harcourt Fuller, Associate Professor of History at Georgia State University, has produced a short film, Black Women on Money, which is now posted on Newman Portal. The short features Black women on American money, including Maya Angelou, Bessie Coleman, and Harriet Tubman. Fuller includes commentary from Ernestine "Tina" Martin, 3x-great grandniece of Tubman, as well as discussion of portraits of Black women on world paper money. Harcourt Fuller further covers his Black Money Exhibit. This work was produced in part with support from the Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society, via a 2024 Newman Grant for numismatic research.

Link to Black Women on Money:
https://archive.org/details/fullertubmanshort

Link to Black Money Exhibit home page:
https://www.blackmoneyexhibit.com/

VIDEO: PEOPLE OF THE CARSON CITY MINT

Learn the story of the people who ran America's mint in Nevada that struck some of this country's most desirable coinage. This presentation includes the story of the first mint Director and all subsequent people who were involved in Carson City.

Speaker(s): Hal V. Dunn.

To watch the complete video, see:
Remembering People from the Carson City Mint (https://youtu.be/P_8lMPmT8u4)

ANA HONORS JAMES MEASE, DWIGHT MANLEY

The American Numismatic Association (ANA) is presenting its Chester L. Krause Memorial Distinguished Service Award and Hall of Fame honor to those who have left indelible marks within the numismatic community. The recipients will be recognized during the World's Fair of Money® in Chicago, August 6-10.

Eminent philanthropist Dwight N. Manley is the recipient of the 2024 Chester L. Krause Memorial Distinguished Service Award, the ANA's highest honor. Inspired by a pivotal experience at the ANA's Summer Seminar in 1981, Manley launched his career fresh out of high school in 1984. By 1990 he opened a dealership, Spectrum Numismatics. His business burgeoned and eventually handled major rarities, including the King of Siam 1804 proof set and two of the five 1913 Liberty nickels.

In 1999, on behalf of the California Gold Marketing Group, he negotiated the purchase of most of the treasure recovered from the SS Central America. He built a massive exhibit about the ship and its cargo that debuted in 2000 and was featured at the World's Fair of Money in Philadelphia. The extraordinary display led to record-breaking attendance at the convention, and the exhibit later traveled across the nation and overseas. Two books by Q. David Bowers and a History Channel documentary followed.

Manley channeled his success into philanthropic endeavors. He has donated more than a half million dollars to the ANA to the Library, which is named in his honor, and to establish the Florence Schook School of Numismatics. He also regularly donates rare books and manuscripts and recently contributed over 1,050 George Washington-related medals—valued at over $2 million—to the Money Museum, many from William Spohn Baker's penultimate collection and others from Manley's personal holdings. Manley's generosity to both the ANA and the public knows no bounds.

To recognize the most important collectors, scholars, and hobby professionals of all time, the ANA maintains the Numismatic Hall of Fame (HOF) at its Colorado Springs headquarters. ANA historian Jack W. Ogilvie proposed the HOF in the mid-1960s. By 1969 bylaws were drafted, and the HOF inducted its first honorees. The next group was enshrined in 1970, and now the HOF alternates recognizing persons from modern and historic eras every year. In 2024 pioneering numismatic author Dr. James Mease (1771-1846) joins the HOF's ranks.

Mease's comprehensive 1821 work "Description of Some of the Medals, Struck in Relation to Important Events in North America, Before and Since the Declaration of Independence by the United States" was the first numismatic article ever published in the United States.

Mease also has the distinction of having authored the second and third U.S.-published articles over the next 17 years. The third, "Old American Coin" (1838), was the first numismatic article about U.S. coins published in America. It describes nine notable copper coins.

Outside of being a trailblazing numismatist, Mease was one of the courageous physicians who stayed in Philadelphia to treat victims of the 1793 yellow-fever epidemic while many others fled. He also served as a surgeon during the War of 1812.

A polymath, Mease wrote about medicine, geology, and history. His book Picture of Philadelphia (1811) is a foundational work of local history and contains the first useful description of the U.S. Mint's operations.

On July 3, 1800, Mease married Sarah Butler, the daughter of South Carolina Senator Pierce Butler. They had two sons. Mease died in Philadelphia on May 14, 1846, and was buried in the cemetery of Third Presbyterian Church.

Both Manley and Mease will be recognized at the annual ANA Banquet during the 133rd anniversary convention on Friday, August 9.

 

METCALF WINS 2024 ANS HUNTINGTON AWARD

The Trustees of the American Numismatic Society (ANS) have selected Dr. William E. Metcalf to receive the 2024 Archer M. Huntington Award in honor of his tremendous contributions to Roman and Byzantine numismatics. A reception will be held on October 19 at the ANS in New York City at 4:00 PM ET, followed by the award ceremony at 4:30 PM ET where Metcalf will provide the Silvia Mani Hurter Memorial Lecture on "The Making of Roman Provincial Coinage (X)."

William E. Metcalf received his degrees from the University of Michigan (A.B. in Latin with distinction and highest honors in 1969, A.M. in Classical Studies in 1970, and Ph.D. in Classical Studies in 1973). He joined the ANS as Assistant Curator of Roman and Byzantine Coins in 1973, and, following promotions to Associate Curator and Deputy Chief Curator, became Chief Curator in 1979, a position he held until 2000. In 2002, he became Curator of Coins and Medals at the Yale University Art Gallery and Professor of Classics (adj.) at Yale University. From 2007- 2014, he served as the Ben Lee Damsky Curator of Coins and Medals and has been appointed Visiting Professor or Adjunct Professor at Columbia University, Princeton University, University of Padua, Bryn Mawr College, Rutgers University, and New York University.

Metcalf is the author of several books, including The Cistophori of Hadrian (ANS, 1980), The Silver Coinage of Cappadocia: Vespasian-Commodus (ANS, 1996), and The Later Republican Cistophori (ANS, 2017), as well as dozens of articles and reviews. He is also the editor of The Oxford Handbook of Greek and Roman Coinage (Oxford University Press, 2012). Metcalf has served on the editorial boards of Lexicon Mythologiae Classicae, American Journal of Archaeology, American Journal of Numismatics, Schweizerische Numismatische Rundschau, the advisory board of Bryn Mawr Classical Review, and on various committees for the American Philological Association (now the Society for Classical Studies) and the Archaeological Institute of America. He was a member of the Bureau of the International Numismatic Commission from 1991-2003.

Among many other awards and recognitions, Metcalf was a member of the Institute for Advanced Study from 1988 to 1989 and was elected as a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London in 1998. The annual William E. Metcalf Lecture Series of the Archaeological Institute of America was established in his honor in 2000, and he received the Jeton de Vermeil of the Société Française de Numismatique in 2008. Metcalf has been a member of the ANS since 1971, and a Life Fellow since 1992. In 2018, the ANS published Concordia Disciplinarum: Essays on Ancient Coinage, History, and Archaeology in Honor of William E. Metcalf, organized and edited by Nathan T. Elkins and Jane DeRose Evans.

The Archer M. Huntington Award, first presented to Edward T. Newell in 1918, is conferred annually in honor of Archer M. Huntington, ANS President from 1905 to 1910, in recognition of outstanding career contributions to numismatic scholarship. The current award medal is designed by Eugene L. Daub. For more information about the Huntington Award, visit numismatics.org/huntingtonwinners/.

About the ANS
The American Numismatic Society, founded in 1858, is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization based in New York City dedicated to the study of coins, medals, and all other numismatic objects. The ANS holds one of the largest collections of numismatic objects in the world and a research library. For more information about the ANS, visit numismatics.org.

NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: JULY 28, 2024

More on Richard August
Dennis Tucker writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
RICHARD AUGUST (1940-2024) (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n28a09.html)
MORE ON RICHARD AUGUST (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n29a13.html)

More on Pot Metal
James Higby writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
VOCABULARY TERM: POT METAL (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n29a16.html)

On Museum Security
Louie Joo' writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
ROMAN COIN HOARD EXHIBITED IN WALES (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n29a26.html)

ANA Doctor of Numismatics Awardees?
Kerry Wetterstrom writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
KYLE KNAPP AWARDED HONORARY DOCTORATE (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n29a12.html)

Roman Britain Coin Molds at the Yorkshire Museum
Michael Kodysz writes:

To watch the complete video, see:
Why do you think coin moulds were being used in Roman Yorkshire? (https://fb.watch/tsPL4VZZOK/)

Poisonous Old Books

"The Lord of the Isles" occupied a conspicuous place on Mentock's bookshelf, the vivid green sliver of its spine adding a shock of color to her home. Sometimes she'd handle the old book when she dusted or repainted, but mostly she didn't think too much about it.

Until, that is, she stumbled upon a news article in 2022 about the University of Delaware's Poison Book Project, which aimed to identify books still in circulation that had been produced using toxic pigments common in Victorian bookbinding. Those include lead, chromium, mercury - and especially arsenic, often used in books with dazzling green covers.

"Huh," Mentock thought, staring at a photo of one of the toxic green books in the article. "I have a book like that."

Mentock shipped the book - tripled-wrapped in plastic - to Delaware. It wasn't long before she heard back. The red contained mercury; the blue contained lead. And the green cover that captivated Mentock all those years ago? Full of arsenic.

"Congratulations," the email she received said, "you have the dubious honor of sending us the most toxic book yet."

To read the complete article, see:
Old books can be loaded with poison. Some collectors love the thrill. (https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/old-books-loaded-poison-collectors-183155374.html)

Librarian Humor

To read the complete post, see:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/347731464692853/permalink/460311210101544/

AFRICA & BYZANTIUM EXHIBIT

Michael Kodysz writes:

Neck rings, such as this imposing gold example, are cited in early sources as playing a role both in the glorification of military heroes and in coronation ceremonies. This pectoral necklace is composed of a plain, hollow neck ring attached to a frame set with a large central medallion flanked by coins and two small decorative disks. Although it was found in Egypt, the pectoral is believed to have been made in Constantinople, since a personification of that city is depicted on the reverse of the central medallion. The front of the medallion and the smaller coins depict Byzantine emperors. The two ribbed rings at the pectoral's lower edge once held a large medallion of the emperor Theodosius I. This imperial imagery suggests that the pectoral is composed of a collection of military trophies that once belonged to a distinguished general or a member of the imperial court.

For the complete online description text, see:
Africa & Byzantium November 19, 2023–March 3, 2024 (https://www.metmuseum.org/exhibitions/africa-byzantium/exhibition-objects)

Michael adds:

2024 ANA COMMEMORATIVE COINS

To celebrate the Chicago World's Fair of Money, the American Numismatic Association (ANA) and Minted Assets will provide the first ever decimal denominated legal tender coin during the show. Attendees that visit booth 730 on the bourse floor can receive a free base metal commemorative coin (limited quantity) with designs reflecting this year's convention. About 200 coins will be handed out per day (around 1,000 total), from August 6-10.

The obverse design on the commemorative coin shows an allegorical figure of NOMISMA, which is the Greek word for "money." She is shown holding the World's Fair of Money logo. E Pluribus Unum graces the legend as a tribute to the show's mission of bringing people in the hobby together for the convention.

The reverse depicts a proud American bald eagle in flight over Cloud Gate, also known as "The Bean." The eagle is shown holding a rose in its talons which symbolizes the city of Rosemont where the convention is held. An image of Dr. George F. Heath can be seen in front of Cloud Gate. Dr. Heath was the founder of the ANA and held the very first convention in the city of Chicago in 1891. Charles E. Barber originally created this image on a Galvano in the early 1900s. The image was later turned into a medal for the ANA.

The ANA World's Fair of Money (WorldsFairOfMoney.com) is being hosted at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL. The show brings coin collectors together from all over the world, featuring hundreds of dealers, displays of rare treasures, educational opportunities, family activities and more.

During the show, the coin's designer, Joel Iskowitz, will be at Minted Asset's Table 730 to sign certificates of authenticity. ANA President Thomas J. Uram and Minted Assets President Chang Bullock will join him as their schedules allow.

Iskowitz gave me a fascinating look at how he created these designs. His widely admired motifs for the United States Mint and other mints often feature goddesses such as Liberty and Columbia. For the ANA eagle, he developed a new goddess called Nomisma, who makes her first appearance on these pieces. He had planned to call her Numa (the goddess of numismatics) but changed the name at Bullock's suggestion. Joel said goddesses are essential figures that bridge cultures and time, representing universal ideals and aspirations. He tries to make them universally appealing and beautiful. He says, "Classic art is not confined to the past; it is timeless."

Iskowitz used the same model he's utilized on prior goddess motifs. He combined her facial features and poses with motifs inspired by photos and drawings of antique and classic sculptures. He seeks to "bridge classic motifs with elements of modernity that blend seamlessly."

Joel also stressed how instrumental Uram and Bullock were in developing the design concepts. Uram and Chang agreed that the reverse must include specific motifs, including an eagle, Chicago, and The Bean. Chang suggested adding the rose to represent Rosemont and removing a reflection of the Chicago skyline from The Bean on the reverse because it made the design too detailed.

To read the complete article, see:
ANA Eagle to Debut in Rosemont (https://readingroom.money.org/ana-eagle-to-debut-in-rosemont/)

 

ANA EXHIBIT: FOUR DOLLAR GOLD STELLAS

The finest set of "Stella" $4 denomination gold coins in the PCGS Set Registry® will be displayed for the first time anywhere by Tangible Investments of Laguna Beach, California (www.TangibleInvestmentsInc.com) at the American Numismatic Association 2024 Chicago World's Fair of Money (www.WorldsFairofMoney.com).

The registry lists the historic, low-mintage pattern coins as the current finest set with a weighted grade point average of 66.75, and each of the four coins has cameo quality.

"Of all the world-class rare coins I've been fortunate to handle over the past 40 years, this set tops everything," stated Tangible Investments Founder and President Silvano DiGenova.

"The $4 denomination coins got their nickname, Stella, from the five-pointed star in the design on the reverse. They were only struck as proofs in small quantities for two years, 1879 and 1880, with two different obverse designs: Coiled Hair and Flowing Hair on Miss Liberty's head," explained DiGenova.

The grades are 1879 Coiled Hair PCGS PR65+ CAM CAC with a mintage of only 20; 1879 Flowing Hair PCGS PR67 CAM CAC, mintage 425; 1880 Coiled Hair PCGS PR65+ CAM CAC, mintage 10; and 1880 Flowing Hair PCGS PR66 CAM CAC, mintage 35.

Two of the United States Mint's most famous engravers designed the coins. The Flowing Hair obverse was created by Charles E. Barber, and the Coiled Hair obverse was designed by George T. Morgan.

The PCGS Set Registry describes $4 gold Stellas as "…one of the most famous and popular sets in all of American numismatics. The odd denomination four-dollar coin has been desired by collectors since their issuance in 1879 and 1880 – they are classic American rarities...one of the most impressive numismatic items one could hope to own and always brings accolades when displayed."

"This is the current finest PCGS Registry set. Furthermore, as a CAC set, it is the finest all-time set. Currently, it is the finest PCGS and CAC Set! The 2024 ANA convention may be the only opportunity for collectors, dealers, and the general public to see these superb-quality, rare coins together," said DiGenova.

"It would take someone over ten years to build a set of similar quality. Three of four coins have such small mintages that it is nearly impossible to obtain all three of them. It is highly unusual to see all four Stellas together in that quality," stated John Albanese, chief executive officer and founder of CAC.

The display will be at the Tangible Investments booth, #401, at the ANA 2024 Chicago World's Fair of Money in Hall A of the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, in the Chicago suburb of Rosemont.

For additional information about Tangible Investments or the $4 gold Stella set, contact Tangible Investments Senior Vice President Mike Bonham at 949-878-0393 or email mbonham@tii1.com.

SAINT-GAUDENS DOUBLE EAGLES AT ANA SHOW

Described by researchers as "one of the most important recent discoveries in 20th century American numismatics," the finer of the two known 1921 Satin Finish Proof Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles along with the unique Experimental Finish Proof 1910 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle will make only their third public appearance together.

Insured for $10 million, they will be a featured exhibit in the Museum Showcase area (booth 434) at the American Numismatic Association 2024 Chicago World's Fair of Money® (www.WorldsFairofMoney.com), August 6-10, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois.

These two multi-million-dollar coins will be displayed courtesy of Brian Hendelson, president of Classic Coin Company of Bridgewater, New Jersey.

Hendelson will also have another extremely rare U.S. gold coin in an exhibit at his booth (#414) during the convention, one of the three known Proof 1839/8 overdate Type of 1838 Liberty Head $10 gold coins.

The rare Double Eagles ($20 denomination gold coins) were first exhibited together at the 2022 ANA Chicago convention and then at the ANA 2023 Pittsburgh convention.

"There was an incredible reaction by visitors who saw the two historic Saint-Gaudens coins together in the earlier exhibits," said Hendelson. "I love numismatics and American history. The displays were an overwhelming success, and that's why I want to bring them out again to let other people see them in person. This will add to the enjoyment of the 2024 show."

The 1921 Satin Finish Double Eagle is graded PCGS SP64+ CAC and was discovered in 2006, a half dozen years after the first known example was found. No others have been reported since then.

"In my opinion, it was the most important single coin discovery in numismatics over the last 100 years," stated Hendelson.

The lettered-edge 1910 Double Eagle, designed by acclaimed sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, is graded PCGS SP66+ CAC. It is the only known example of this type of Experimental Finish with surfaces that are lighter and more reflective than Satin Finish proofs, and brighter than Matte Proofs of that era.

The Satin Finish was used for 1909 and 1910 Double Eagle proofs; however, experimental pieces with Satin Finishes from different years are now known, including the two from 1921.

The 1839/8 overdate Eagle with the short-lived 1838 design is graded PCGS PR62. The coin was discovered in Europe as part of a three-coin proof set in the early 1980s.

"It is one of the rarest coins in American numismatics. Only three examples of this overdate are known and one of them is permanently part of the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution. Another specimen is nearly as unavailable as the Smithsonian's example because it is one of the highlights of the tightly-held Tyrant Collection. I am fortunate to have one in my personal collection and I am happy to share this historic rarity with the public at the ANA convention," said Hendelson.

For additional information about Classic Coin Company, call (908) 725-5600 or visit www.ClassicCoinCompany.com. For information about the ANA 2024 Chicago World's Fair of Money, visit www.WorldsFairOfMoney.com.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
SAINT-GAUDENS DOUBLE EAGLES AT ANA SHOW (https://www.coinbooks.org/v26/esylum_v26n31a23.html)

VOCABULARY TERM: PRECISION CASTING

Precision Casting. A type of investment casting which produces finely detailed casts. The process utilizes a wax pattern, which is melted away, thus it is a modern development of lost wax, cire-perdue or waste wax. It is a fairly expensive method of casting, particularly for long runs, yet it is the best method for complex and detailed designs, and it can use "medallic" alloys – gold, silver, bronze – creating an excellent surface.

History of precision casting. Lost wax was the process used for casting vessels and statuary in China 4000 bc, employed by the Greeks in casting their monumental bronzes 2000 years ago, and widely used in the Renaissance for creating the first medals and medallions. Thus the technique of art metal casting was applied to small glyptic objects. While in continued use in the medallic field since Pisanello's first medal of 1438, it was the 20th century in which modern needs improved on the ancient method. Dentists and doctors led the development of precision casting for dentures and prosthetic devices.

To read the complete entry on the Newman Numismatic Portal, see:
Precision Casting (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/dictionarydetail/516533)

 

LEANDER MCCORMICK-GOODHART (1884-1965)

I don't like to make mistakes, but I enjoy correcting mistakes that come to my attention. This week I had to correct the listing for Leander McCormick-Goodhart in American Numismatic Biographies (ANB). He was the author of a reference on Admiral Vernon medals.

When Leander McCormick-Goodhart died, an obituary was carried in papers around the country.

The (New York) Daily News for Saturday, December 18, 1965, reported on page 21:

The Detroit Free Press for Sunday, December 19. 1965, reported on page 56:

The Philadelphia Inquirer of Saturday, December 18, 1965, reported on page 10:

My listing for him in American Numismatic Biographies stated:

This week a descendant pointed out an error to Len Augsburger who passed the information on to me.

To clarify, let's begin with Robert Sure McCormick, Jr. (1780-1864). He was born in Walnut Grove, Virginia, which was not a "Little House on the Prairie." He made various inventions including an early version of a reaper. He encouraged his oldest son, Cyrus Hall McCormick (1809-1884), to improve upon the reaper and had it patented in 1834. This became the foundation for the International Harvester Company.

But enough about Cyrus, Robert's sixth child was Leander James McCormick (1819-1900). He was married to Henrietta Maria Hamilton (1822-1899). He enlarged his wealth through real estate investments.

They had a daughter, Henrietta Laura McCormick (1857-1932) who married an Englishman, Frederick Emanuel Goodhart (1854-1924). They were married in November 1883. Both came from wealthy families. In 1899 they were granted a name change and used the hyphenated name, McCormick-Goodhart. They were the parents of Leander McCormick-Goodhart (1884-1965), born on August 10, 1884.

Thus, Leander McCormick-Goodhart was a grand nephew of Cyrus McCormick and not his great-grandson.

Leander attended Eton College and Oxford and mastered seven languages. During the First World War, he served on the Admiralty War Staff. Later he was honored with the Order of the British Empire (OBE). He retired from the Naval Reserve with the rank of commander.

He came to America in 1921 to work as commercial secretary at the British Embassy.

He married Janet Sherman Phillips (1909-1956) in 1928. At the time of their marriage, he was 44 and she was 19. They had a son and a daughter and were divorced in 1952.

Later on August 10, 1952, he married an Australian, Nita Emma Kloeden (1916-1993). At the time of their marriage, he was 68 and she was 36. Their son, Leander Paul, was born in 1955 and daughter Henrietta was born in 1958 when Leander was 74.

His parents had an estate at Langley Park, Maryland. By 1948, Lender's family lived at a twenty-five acre estate called Bellepais. It was located on the Mount Vernon Memorial Parkway overlooking the Potomac River in Virginia. The estate was frequently opened for social events.

 

He joined the ANA in October 1923 as member 2566. In 1925 he contributed to a numismatic exhibit at the Smithsonian Institution National Museum.

He served on the Maryland State Tercentennial Commission in 1934.

During the Second World War, he was supervisor of American relief to Great Britain until his retirement in 1942. A book of his poetry, "Gentle Shafts" was published in 1942. He also published books on family genealogy.

He was the author of a 44-page booklet, Admiral Vernon Medals published by Numismatic Review in 1945. The Numismatist reported that his collection included 255 of the 270 known Admiral Vernon medals. Dick Johnson met McCormick-Goodhart and reported that he had more than 10,000 pieces and about 1000 different. Also, his collection of metal sculptures of Shakespeare was among the finest in the world.

He was awarded the Knighthood of the Order of St. John in 1955. He served on the Advisory Committee of the Virginia 350 th Anniversary Commission in 1957. He held many other positions with charitable organizations. He was honorary vice president of the Audubon Society, Middle Atlantic Chairman of the National Council. Metropolitan Opera. He was trustee of the Naval Historical Foundation and president of the Society for the Preservation of American Musical Heritage. As president of the British Commonwealth Cricket Club, he hosted many cricket games at his estate, Bellepais.

He died of a heart attack on December 15, 1965, while riding to a meeting of the Steamship Historical Society at the Washington Navy Yard. He is buried at Rock Creek Cemetery in Washington, D.C. Naturally, his listing on the FindaGrave site states that he was a great grandson of Cyrus McCormick.

 

STAN KESSELMAN INTERVIEW, PART SIX

GREG BENNICK: Okay. Were there other dealers from back in the day that you connected with? You know, you mentioned Abe Kosoff and other people as well. Were there other dealers from that era that you remember having interactions with that you liked?

STANLEY KESSELMAN: That's an excellent question you ask. And I'm going to tell you why. For some reason, I became a hoarder. And what did I hoard? Correspondences. I have letters, invoices, from people from 1957 through modern times.

GREG BENNICK: Wow.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: I put them in suitcases and did not open the suitcases for 40 years.

GREG BENNICK: Wow.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: So, I finally opened one suitcase, and I found 25 letters from Superior, Ted Naftzger, Harry Bass, and David Bowers. Abe Kossoff, Saul Kagin, not Saul Kagin, A.M. Kagin, and his brother, Paul Kagin. I have letters going back. So, I called Julian up, what to do with them. He told me to send them to the Newman Archive.

GREG BENNICK: Absolutely.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: But I was a little bit conflicted, and I gave Andrew Bowers, David's son who works for Stacks, all the David Bowers letters, maybe 25 of them. Rather than sending them in. And David Bowers had letterheads from so many different firms. There was Bowers and Ruddy. There was Paramount. There was Hathaway and Bowers. There's probably a couple more. And I had all the letterheads, and I gave them to Andrew.

GREG BENNICK: Great.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: I had maybe ten letters written by Julian Liedman. And I gave Julian his letters. And I told him, he sold me an 1886-20 in AU for like $2,100. I told him I never got the coin. I said, you owe me the coin now. I was joking, of course.

GREG BENNICK: Of course, yeah.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: The coin now is $100,000.

GREG BENNICK: Yeah, exactly, exactly.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: All right. So, I was just teasing him, but I sent him his letters. And then I sent one suitcase to the Newman Archives. And they were very happy to get them.

GREG BENNICK: I'm sure.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: Some of the letters are controversial. I never went into the story of the pennies that were stolen. That Ted Naftzger ended up with.

GREG BENNICK: Oh, wow! Yeah, I don't know the story. You're welcome to share it or not as you choose.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: No, the story was that I'm trying to remember all the names. Ted Naftzger bought the best coin there was. Somebody went to the society, ANS, and switched coins.

GREG BENNICK: Oh, okay, okay, yep.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: They took the best coin and put in another one. And then they sold the best coin to Naftzger. Who didn't know. I mean, the best coin, the next best coin. I mean, you're talking very close. So, Ted Naftzger had these coins that were stolen. Somebody, these large cent people are experts. Variety wise, they know every coin, where it is, where it came from. They saw Ted Naftzger had the coins. They reported it to the society. So, the society made a deal whereby Ted Naftzger would replace their coins, give them back. And he could take the one they had, the second best one. And they make this trade, give them back the stolen coins and take the spare.

GREG BENNICK: Fair enough.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: Yeah, he had a son-in-law who was a lawyer, and they refused the deal.

GREG BENNICK: Wow!

STANLEY KESSELMAN: So, now they went to court. And there's a letter there from Walter Breen talking about the case. Ted Naftzger, unfortunately, towards the end of his life, had dementia. So, he did not make a good witness for himself. He could not remember. So, he ended up losing the case, totally. And for the last five years of his life, or six years of his life, I didn't talk to him. And his wife was very angry with me that I didn't call. But it was difficult to try to speak to him, you know, because I knew him when he was well. And I didn't know what kind of conversation I'd have with him. So, I always felt they could call me if they wanted to speak to me, which they never did. But he was an unbelievable gentleman, but he lost the case. He got bad legal advice, in my opinion.

Some of the coins Ted Naftzger bought at auction, public auction. And they were stolen. And at the end of the day, while he still had his, you know, faculties, he calls me up again. And now he wants to sell his large cents. Totally. And we sold the large cents to Stacks. And Eric, I forget his last name, did the deal with Stacks, used Stacks' money and did it. And they bought the best, you know, 1793 large cents, chains, wreaths, and everything. And I did buy a few coins for Ted Naftzger in 1976, large cents. I paid, I think, $125,000 for a 1793. And they got written up in the papers. But it was for Ted Naftzger, He wanted it. It was the Garrett sale, the Garrett coin, which recently sold over a million dollars. You know, sure.

So, there's a lot of stories, a lot of friends. Everybody pretty much got along. Even though we were competitive. Mike Brownlee was my biggest competition with Johnny Rowe. And I stayed at his house in Dallas, you know, even though it was competition. I stayed at Harry Bass' house. And Harry Bass had a refrigerator that was the size of my bedroom. He could eat there for a month. And I could tell you more stories.

I mean, well, let me just tell you one more thing. Amon Carter, Jr.?

GREG BENNICK: Yep.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: Have you ever heard of him?

GREG BENNICK: Absolutely.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: I met him a couple of times. We were having dinner with him in a restaurant. He was the last to arrive. Okay. When he walked into the room, everybody at the table stood up until he was seated, like you do the President of the United States. He was friendly, nicest person in the world. All these people, John Morrell, Hogue, Harry Bass, they were all the friendliest people in the world, but they have their own demons, I guess, as all people do.

GREG BENNICK: Of course.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: So, Amon Carter would come into the room, every 12 people at the table, just stand up, wait till he's seated, and then sit down. And we bought some of his coins and sold them to Jeff Browning. My favorite coin there, he had an 1882 twenty in his $20 gold set that he thought it was a proof. It was not a proof. It was the finest uncirculated example. I think they graded it 63. And the uncirculated 63, there's nothing close to it. Proofs exist. There may be 60 some odd proofs of which, I don't know, twenty survived. The uncirculated coin, when he found out it was uncirculated, he was unhappy. But it's worth a lot more than a proof. Cause people appreciate that now.

GREG BENNICK: All of these stories, the Harry Bass stories and the Naftzger stories and your stories, of course, about your gold coin experiences and your experiences as a part-time but really experienced coin dealer, all of them have been absolutely amazing.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: Well, I'm glad I could help somewhat.

GREG BENNICK: Absolutely, absolutely.

STANLEY KESSELMAN: And it's a shame that all these people are no longer with us.

GREG BENNICK: It is, but I really appreciate you telling stories about them, which is going to keep the memory of these folks and their legacy alive, which is a large part of why I'm doing these interviews, is to hear stories about people who are no longer with us.

About the Interviewer
Greg Bennick (www.gregbennick.com) is a keynote speaker and long time coin collector with a focus on major mint error coins. Have ideas for other interviewees? Contact him anytime on the web or via instagram @minterrors.

To watch the complete video, see:
Stanley Kesselman Interviewed for the NNP by Greg Bennick (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/638521)

To read the complete transcript, see:
Stanley Kesselman Interviewed for the NNP by Greg Bennick (Transcript) (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/638520)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
STANLEY KESSELMAN INTERVIEW, PART ONE (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n25a06.html)
STANLEY KESSELMAN INTERVIEW, PART TWO (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n26a13.html)
STANLEY KESSELMAN INTERVIEW, PART THREE (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n27a11.html)
STANLEY KESSELMAN INTERVIEW, PART FOUR (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n28a17.html)
STANLEY KESSELMAN INTERVIEW, PART FIVE (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n29a18.html)

ERIC SCHENA INTERVIEW, PART THREE

GREG BENNICK: I love it. This is why when we met, I knew we were kindred spirits, even if you're collecting things I don't necessarily collect. I've had a growing interest in counterstamps over the last year. In collecting counterstamps, you'll find a merchant who issued some counterstamps and that name was stamped by that merchant on that exact coin. And then you find ancillary things relating to that counterstamp. Maybe it's a photo, if it's a photographer or a piece of silver, if it's a silversmith, and then you learn about maybe who owned that or whose photo was taken by the photographer who stamped the counterstamp coin. And this is hours of entertainment and legacy building and you know like you said, stewardship of history.

ERIC SCHENA: That is exactly what it is. It continues that story down the line. We are fortunate in America that there is so many places that where we can do that. There is such a rich history with scrip and tokens that a lot of people don't know about. I mean, a lot of people just say, "Who cares? It's just the paper money in your wallet or the coins in your pocket." But 150 years ago, that was not necessarily the case. And even 120 years ago, 80 years ago, tokens are still being used. There are people today that still remember using tokens. Heck, I remember tokens in D.C. Because I went to high school in North West D.C., and the students there, if you're a D.C. resident, you could go to the D.C. Metro and get a roll of tokens that you would use on the bus or on the Metro. Mainly the bus. And I remember those tokens. And I remember the students that had them getting the rolls because they would all have to go to Metro Center. That's where you bought them. And you had to have a valid student ID to do that.

So, that kind of thing disappears in time. Because a lot of people just don't think much of it. It's just part of daily life. Going to, if you live in a coal camp, going to the company store to go buy a bucket of coal for your furnace or mining equipment or a five-pound bag of flour. Because you had to buy all of that at the company store. It was just way of life. That's what you did. And then when the towns closed up shop, that just vanished from memory. And in coal camps, that's a risk. That did happen.

There's a story. It's actually an article that I wrote on this town. It's a place called Kempton. And it's in Maryland. But it straddles the line with West Virginia. If you ever look at a map of Maryland, it's in the very point in Garrett County. And it's between Garrett and Preston County. And the mine, the tipple, the school, the houses, all of that equipment was in Maryland. 25 feet over the state line was where the company store, the post office, and the corporate headquarters were. And the reason why they did that was because in the 1860s, the state of Maryland banned company stores. And they didn't want to have anything to do that. They didn't, do with that. Get around that. This particular mining company, it was the Davis Coal and Coke Company, moved all their, made sure that their offices and the post office was in West Virginia. And the tokens actually say Kempton, West Virginia.

If you look on Google Maps, it'll probably say Kempton, Maryland. Because that's where the majority of it is. And in fact, the store building doesn't exist anymore. It's an ankle bone site. It's mostly a foundation course. And what's really interesting about this is in the 1950s, that coal played out. The coal seam ran out. And Davis Coal and Coke decided all of a sudden to just close up shop. And that's exactly what they did. They closed up their office, sealed up the mine. And they sent out a notice saying you had two weeks to redeem all your scrip and to vacate. And that's exactly what they did.

And they grabbed all the scrip that they could pay out. They redeemed it all. And they dumped it down a mine shaft and filled the mine shaft with tailings. So, there's a pile of scrip somewhere in Western Maryland, down a very deep hole with a lot of overburden on top of it. And so that's what happened to an awful lot of that scrip. And there's some still around, obviously. I mean, I know about it. There are mining records. There are still minting records from Ingle Schierloh that still have the records and all that. But otherwise, that's what would happen to the stuff.

It was considered just an ersatz currency, almost like a gift certificate. And so, it wasn't preserved. And whatever is around now just happened to escape being dumped into that pit.

GREG BENNICK: It's so interesting because I was in New York City last week. And many people, you don't have to be 100 years old to remember when there were tokens years ago to ride the subway. And you certainly don't need to be even 50 years old to remember when there were people in the booths that you would purchase access to the subway from. Or who would answer questions for you. And now, of course, everything is automated. Pay with your credit card. You don't even need to pay with your credit card. Scan your phone. Enter the subway.

So, what's interesting to me about this and what you're talking about is that the experience of being in New York City and Manhattan and riding the subway is entirely different because of the way we pay. And the experience of being in the coal town back then was entirely different than it could possibly be today, because of the way people paid for and purchased items.

ERIC SCHENA: Exactly.

GREG BENNICK: Yeah! The scrip or the token became part of the life experience overall that isn't replicated today in any way, shape, or form, potentially.

ERIC SCHENA: Yep, exactly right. People don't realize that prior to the Eisenhower interstate system, it was difficult getting from one major town to another every once in a while. If not, everyone had cars, and certainly in 1910, 1920, not everyone did, certainly in the rural areas, it was an effort to go 15, 20 miles. Especially if you're in the mines. Because a lot of those mines are in very rural areas, very out-of-the-way areas, difficult to access. And if you are out in those places, getting money there is equally hard as getting tomatoes or whatever. So, a lot of places had to make do. And a lot of those companies, the mining companies, would issue their own money for especially that purpose.

There was a side benefit for the mine owners in that they could charge, they could upcharge, their basically captive audience.

GREG BENNICK: You don't have any other alternative, right?

ERIC SCHENA: Yeah, that's exactly right. And if you only have the one store in town, you have no choice than to pay their prices. And the way store scrip really evolved back then is it became, in a way, almost like a payday advance. A lot of times, the prices were very high. The families didn't have enough money to buy all the stuff that they needed. So, the miner would have to take an advance on their pay, and they would take that advance in the form of scrip. And so, it all goes back to the company store. That's why Tennessee Ernie Ford sang that song. You know, 16 tons and...

GREG BENNICK: "…what do you get? Another day older and deeper in debt."

ERIC SCHENA: Exactly. "I sold my soul to the company store." Exactly.

GREG BENNICK: That's right.

ERIC SCHENA: That's exactly what that was written about. And some companies were better than others. But there was always some form of that there. And what's really fascinating is there's a lot of other states started catching on and cracking down on it. Coal company scrip is throughout the United States. And there's coal company scrip from Alabama, quite a bit from Alabama. There's even some from New Mexico, Colorado. You name it, there's coal company scrip. But there's one state that stands above all others, and that's West Virginia. And the standard catalog for coal company scrip is in two volumes.

Volume one is every state except West Virginia. Volume two is just West Virginia. There are thousands upon thousands upon thousands of different types of coal scrip from West Virginia alone. And that's because the laws of West Virginia were very lax when it came to issuing that kind of stuff. Maryland? It's two or three pages, and that's about it. And some of that had to be a little sneaky. It wouldn't expressly say Davis Coal and Coke Company. It would have another name. In that particular case, it was Buxton and Landstreet. They had, it was, on paper, a separate entity, but in reality, owned by the same company. And so that kind of nefariousness existed back then.

GREG BENNICK: So, tell me this, just before I forget. Is that a Dave Schenkman book? Did he write that book, or did somebody else write that book?

ERIC SCHENA: No, that was Edkins.

GREG BENNICK: Okay. And I ask about Dave Schenkman, who is obviously a mutual friend of both of us, because he's known prolific in the way that Dave Bowers has been prolific. It's like if I hear of a book about some aspect of numismatics that I don't know about, Dave Bowers or Dave Schenkman probably wrote the books.

ERIC SCHENA: Yes. Dave Schenkman is, as far as I'm concerned, a national treasure. When it comes to numismatics. I've been fortunate, I would almost say blessed, to have known him for as long as I have. He has taught me so much. He continues to teach me so much. And he has given so much to the numismatics community that I don't think enough good things can be said about the man.

GREG BENNICK: I agree. Even just being at Token and Medal Society banquets or around people-related Token and Medal Society, he walks in the room, and it's like one of the members of Metallica just walked into the room.

ERIC SCHENA: Yeah, basically.

GREG BENNICK: He's a rock star. The guy's a rock star.

ERIC SCHENA: Yeah, he is a rock star. And he doesn't like to think of himself as that, but he is. And, well, it's earned.

GREG BENNICK: All of this is fascinating. I feel like we could do an entire interview just on West Virginia coal scrip.

ERIC SCHENA: Oh, absolutely.

About the Interviewer
Greg Bennick (www.gregbennick.com) is a keynote speaker and long time coin collector with a focus on major mint error coins. Have ideas for other interviewees? Contact him anytime on the web or via instagram @minterrors.

To watch the complete video, see:
Eric Schena Interviewed for the NNP by Greg Bennick (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/639081)

To read the complete transcript, see:
Eric Schena Interviewed for the NNP by Greg Bennick (Transcript) (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/639095)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
ERIC SCHENA INTERVIEW, PART ONE (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n28a18.html)
ERIC SCHENA INTERVIEW, PART TWO (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n29a19.html)

SUMMER 2024 ROSA AMERICANA FIXED PRICE LIST

Which sounds better to you: the worst of one grade level or the best of another? The quality-price disparity is even more striking with coins that are technically just two points apart, an AU58 and a MS60, where just the faintest bit of rub (often nothing more than oft-noted cabinet friction over a couple centuries of storage by collectors) can equate to tens of thousands of dollars difference in pricing, yet that cheaper 58 coin will always look better than the 60 one does.

Collectors of a certain age had a shorthand term for this kind of quality: "a Robert Martin coin." Robert, who passed away far too soon, had a legendary appetite for pieces that had the right look. A Robert Martin copper coin was a nice even brown, smooth and hard surfaces with a bit of gloss, and a wholesome, natural appearance that had not been "improved" by anything other than a dollop of Coin Care. A coin could have clips or planchet flaws – which were of course there before the coin was struck, but whether the coin graded VG or AU, it would be free of unsightly damage. Collector Jerry Bobbe has called that sort of damage "HIPS" – Human Impairment, Post Strike. The problem most collectors face is that there aren't all that many pretty colonials out there – most of them do have some sort of HIPS. For many varieties, in every series, there might only be a couple coins that are choice and the rest have varying degrees of problem – and for some varieties, the ONLY survivors may all be ugly. Do you eschew those unattractive coins, knowing you will never get close to a magic number if you do (think 300 Connecticut coppers or 100 New Jersey copper varieties)?

Robert Martin was actually one of the first collectors of the modern era to get to the 300-variety mark for his CT coppers, but his eye for quality made him dislike some of the pieces in his own collection which were not up to his standard. So he did what was right for him – he sold those pieces off, knowing he would never be able to get to that variety count again (and making less-picky collectors quite happy, as those discarded coins put at least two others over that 300 mark in one fell swoop). A look at the Stack's Bowers offering of Robert's frontline collection shows the result of his quest, and there are few coins that even the pickiest collector wouldn't happily welcome into their own cabinet today (though he did buy some less attractive secondary coins that fit into his provenance collection – Painted Die Varieties, or with paper envelopes and tickets from earlier famous collections).

The other side of the coin, so to speak, is represented by Syd Martin, also gone far too soon. While Syd could and did buy many extremely choice coins, he was a "completeist" – he wanted every variety, and he came closer than anyone in the history of collecting colonials to doing so. That meant taking a truly ugly coin if that was the only example of a variety available – though if a notable upgrade appeared later, he would happily buy that one too. Syd appreciated every coin he had – and for those of you who have bought things from the recent auctions of his collection, you might have noticed that the handwritten envelope for a lower grade common NJ copper he paid $50 for has just as much care and attention to detail as the envelope for that Unc. NJ that cost him $50,000. Syd had no qualms about paying top dollar for a newly discovered variety, even if it would become the least-attractive coin in his collection of that series.

There is no right or wrong way to collect here, and it is truly a personal choice for every numismatist. Truth be told, I veer far more to the Syd side of things in the areas that I collect, as well as in the colonial issues I deal in. But a completeist can certainly appreciate a coin that is choice, so this list will feature pieces that check that "pretty" box, regardless of grade – with, as always, an emphasis on coins that are excellent value for the money.

This list is being issued before the ANA convention, and will likely be the last list I get out in 2024, as the Fall is taken up with travel to England for Conder-token stuff (a series I collect), the C4 convention in Baltimore, and then the winter holidays. Speaking of Conder tokens, many of the pieces that colonial specialists collect are, indeed, Conder tokens. From the Talbot, Allum & Lee mules, the Kentucky tokens, and many of the early Washington issues, all were made in England, and listed by authors as British Conder tokens from the time they were made. The colonial-Conder gap should not be as wide as it is: Conder tokens were all 18th century productions, mostly in copper, with lots of die varieties, ranging in rarity from common to exceedingly rare, and with contemporary circulating counterfeits in all of the larger series, which flooded the market and led to the collapse of public trust in circulating copper, leading to a national coinage that drove them (mostly) out of circulation. Sound familiar? It's literally the exact same playbook as the state copper issues here on this side of the Atlantic.

To introduce you to the wonderful world of Conder tokens – where you can get something dated 1787 in full mint red for a couple hundred bucks, I might add! – I will make an offer to all readers of this price list. If you email me privately that you are interested, I will gift you a one-year digital membership to the Conder Token Collectors Club, which will also allow you access to all 80+ back issues of the club Journal. No obligations, no pressure, if you like the club you can renew (there are both print and digital options, the print one obviously costing more since printing and postage costs are involved), and if it's not for you, you simply don't renew. You have absolutely nothing to lose, and may find that you can get your 18th century copper fix and discover an awful lot of interesting tokens along the way.

To read earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
ROBERT MARTIN (1946-2017) (https://www.coinbooks.org/v20/esylum_v20n46a07.html)
ANS 2020 HUNTINGTON AWARD TO SYD MARTIN (https://www.coinbooks.org/v23/esylum_v23n43a20.html)
SYDNEY F. MARTIN (1945-2021) (https://www.coinbooks.org/v24/esylum_v24n04a02.html)

ATLAS NUMISMATICS SELECTIONS: JULY 28, 2024

1079229 | GREEK. PTOLEMAIC KINGS OF EGYPT. Berenice II. (Queen, 267/266-221 BC). Struck circa 224-221 BC. AV Mnaieion or Octodrachm. NGC Ch. AU (Choice About Uncirculated) Strike 5/5 Surface 3/5 Fine Style, Light Marks. Alexandria. 27mm. 27.81gm. Veiled, diadem and draped bust, right; beaded circle border / ????????S ??S???SS?S. Cornucopia bound with royal diadem; beaded circle border. Svoronos 1113; SNG Copenhagen 169; CPE 895.

Ex Nomos Auction 13 (7 October 2016) Lot 241.

$89,500

To read the complete item description, see:
1079229 | GREEK. PTOLEMAIC KINGS OF EGYPT. Berenice II. AV Mnaieion or Octodrachm. (https://www.atlasnumismatics.com/1079229/)

1079089 | ROMAN IMPERATORIAL. Q. Servilius Caepio. Struck circa 54 BC. Marcus Junius Brutus (Issue a Moneyer) AR Denarius. NGC AU? (About Uncirculated ?) Strike 5/5 Surface 4/5. Rome. 19mm. 3.80gm. BRVTVS. Bare head of L. Junius Brutus, right / AHALA. Bare head of C. Servilius Ahala, right. Crawford 433/2; Sydenham 907.

Superb strike and portraits, lovely cabinet patina. Given the star designation for exceptional eye-appeal by NGC.

$19,500

To read the complete item description, see:
1079089 | ROMAN IMPERATORIAL. Q. Servilius Caepio. Marcus Junius Brutus (Issue a Moneyer) AR Denarius. (https://www.atlasnumismatics.com/1079089/)

1078988 | AUSTRIA. Vienna. (1843-56) AV Medallic 12 Ducats. NGC PR62 Cameo. By Konrad Lange. Vienna. Edge: (A) Hallmark. 42mm. 41.83gm. SALVATOR MVNDI. Nimbate half-length bust of Christ left / SVB VMBRA ALARVM TVARVM. City view of Vienna, small crowned double-headed eagle above, MVNVS REIPVBLICAE VIENNENSIS on cartouche below flanked by Arms. Unger 23.

This medal was awarded in 1862 to Adolf Ignatz Mautner Ritter von Markhof (12/26/1801-12/24/1889).

$95,000

To read the complete item description, see:
1078988 | AUSTRIA. Vienna. (1843-56) AV Medallic 12 Ducats. (https://www.atlasnumismatics.com/1078988/)

1078786 | FRANCE. 1834-Dated AR Medal. NGC MS64. By Alphée Dubois. Edge: ARGENT (cornucopia). 37mm. 28.38gm. Head of Syracuse by Eunaitos after the classical decadrachm design / Inscription and branches; date below.

Award medal from the Society for the Humanities.

$695

To read the complete item description, see:
1078786 | FRANCE. 1834-Dated AR Medal. (https://www.atlasnumismatics.com/1078786/)

1079019 | GERMAN STATES. Esslingen. Martin Luther. (Theologian, 1483-1546). 1717 AV 5 Ducats, 1/2 Portugalöser. NGC MS63. By Chr. E. Müller (Augsburg). 33mm. 17.35gm. PAUL DE BURGERMEISTERO • LEREM • SPINDLERO • IEREM • GODELMANNO P • I • COSS :// MARTINVS LVTHERVS THEOLOGIÆ DOCT (date 1717 in chonogram). Facing portrait of Luther holding bible to right; initial "M" lower left of truncation / + MEMOR • IVBILÆI • II • CELEBRATI IN S • R • I • CIVITATE ESSLINGA • D • 31 • OCT • 1717// CONSERVET DOMINUS LUMEN IN URBE SUA. Halo of the Gospel above a city view depicted from the southwest with the Pliensau Bridge, Frauenkirche, Stadtkirche and Dominican Church, and castle in the background. KM 14; Fr.-934a (Struck with 1/2 Thaler dies, cf. KM 12).

200th Anniversary of the Reformation. Only 3 pieces known

Ex UBS Auction 50, Basel (30 January 2001) Lot 9. Includes old auction ticket.

$85,000

To read the complete item description, see:
1079019 | GERMAN STATES. Esslingen. Martin Luther. 1717 AV 5 Ducats, 1/2 Portugalöser. (https://www.atlasnumismatics.com/1079019/)

1078925 | GREAT BRITAIN. Anne. (Queen, 1702-1714). MDCCXIII (1713) AV Medal. NGC MS64. By John Croker. Edge: Plain. 35mm. 23.11gm. ANNA • D : G • MAG • BRI FR : ET • HIB : REG •. Draped, laureate bust of Queen Anne facing left, name and titles around /COMPOSITIS • VENERANTVR • ARMIS •// MDCCXIII. Britannia standing, holding olive branch, shield and spear; warships left, farming scene right, legend COMPOSITIS. VENERATVR. ARMIS. above, and Roman numeral date in exergue. Eimer 460; MI II, 400/257.

Struck to commemorate the Peace of Utrecht. Superb and exceptional; fully prooflike surfaces (not noted by NGC).

$79,500

To read the complete item description, see:
1078925 | GREAT BRITAIN. Anne. MDCCXIII (1713) AV Medal. (https://www.atlasnumismatics.com/1078925/)

1079214 | GREAT BRITAIN. George III. (King, 1760-1820). 1817 AR "Incorrupta" Pattern Crown. PCGS PR63+ Cameo. By W. Wyon. Edge: Plain. GEORGIUS III D:G: BRITANNIARUM REX. Broad bust, draped and laureate, right / INCORRUPTA FIDES VERITASQUE. Large crowned shield. ESC-2029 (Prev. ESC-229) R4; L&S 159.

Reported mintage of 25 pieces; significantly rarer than the popular "Three Graces" pattern of the same year (R2).

Price upon request.

To read the complete item description, see:
1079214 | GREAT BRITAIN. George III. 1817 AR "Incorrupta" Pattern Crown. (https://www.atlasnumismatics.com/1079214/)

Current and Upcoming Events

Atlas will be attending the following numismatic convention. Please stop by and say hello if you have a chance.

The 2024 Chicago World's Fair of Money - Table #1023
August 6-10, 2024
American Numismatic Association (ANA)
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
5555 N. River Road, Rosemont, Illinois

Updates to their online inventory are issued monthly.

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

LYN KNIGHT WORLD CURRENCY HIGHLIGHTS

Lots can be viewed and bids made for July 2024 WKL at www.lynknight.com. Knight Live will run this auction on Wednesday, July 31st @ 10 AM CDT.

Here is the schedule:

Wednesday July 31st @ 10 AM CDT - Afghanistan - Zimbabwe + Miscellaneous Countries - pre-bidding ends on July 31, 2024 @ 10:55 AM EDT

And here are some highlights from the first part of the alphabet. Bermuda and Brazil are two terrific collections in this section (see a few selections below).

Here are two early marvels from Saint Thomas and Prince. Each note has a majestic appearance and is sure to be a strong highlight for virtually any collection. The relatively new (and amazing) reference The Portuguese African Paper Money of the Banco Nacional Ultramarino states that these two pieces, made in Portugal, were withdrawn on February 17, 1912; the amount made is unknown and each is valued as Rare in any condition. Only three of each on the population report. Each looks significantly better than its technical condition. We have not offered either of these pieces prior and it is quite unlikely that we will do so again.

HERITAGE ANA U.S. SELECTIONS

Just because something is an error does not mean it is not in high demand.

Consider the case of the 1794 S-28 Head of 1794 Cent, MS66 Brown NGC, a magnificent double-struck early large cent that will be up for grabs when it crosses the block in Heritage's ANA US Coins Signature® Auction August 13-18.

"Double-strike errors are exactly what they sound like: a coin that has two (or more) images because the planchet was impressed (at least) twice," says Todd Imhof, Executive Vice President at Heritage Auctions. "This example is breathtaking, and exceptionally rare in this grade, as one of just four S-28 cents that Del Bland grades MS60 and are tied for the finest examples of the S-28 pair. The double strike is important, exceeding its census position as one of the four finest existing S-28 cents. The combination of the two strikes, both of which are off-center showing the date, and the remarkable MS66 NGC grade make this a fantastic error coin."

"When our consignor, Dr. Robert A. Schuman, showed me this coin in 1996, I was astounded," says Mark Borckardt, Senior Cataloger at Heritage Auctions. "I elected to use a photograph of this coin to introduce the error chapter of Walter Breen's Encyclopedia of Early United States Cents, 1793-1814, which I was editing at the time. Now, nearly 30 years later, the opportunity to catalog this amazing piece ranks among the highlights of my career."

The 1876-CC Twenty Cent Piece, MS65 PCGS that is a part of this auction always has been considered one of the finest known examples of a celebrated rarity in the U.S. silver series that often is included in the same conversations as the 1804 dollar, the 1913 Liberty Head nickel and the 1894-S dime. The Condition Census example offered in this auction is one of a confirmed surviving population of just 16 pieces in all grades — a minuscule total for a coin that Mint records indicate was from an original mintage of 10,000 pieces struck in 1876 at the Carson City Mint — and can be traced back to World's Greatest Collection of F.C.C. Boyd and the renowned Armand Champa Collection.

A 1907 Rolled Rim Indian Eagle, MS66 PCGS. CAC is a gorgeous example of a classic rarity in the series from which examples are coveted by both pattern collectors and series specialists. The 1907 Rolled Rim is exceptionally rare, more than all issues in the Indian eagle series other than perhaps the famous 1933, with an estimated surviving population of just 40-42 examples — most of which fall in the MS63-MS65 grade range. The example offered here ranks No. 9 among survivors, but its rank among those within the reach of the collecting community is even loftier, since two are included in the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution and two others reside in the collection of the American Numismatic Society.

1821 BD-1 Half Eagle, MS63 PCGS. CAC is one of the highest-graded examples of this magnificent coin, a beauty that has resided in several elite collections and a rare issue in a series loaded with rarities. It is the only use of the obverse die with no visual explanation of why it was taken out of service.

Another extraordinary offering in the auction is an 1851 Humbert Fifty Dollar, MS63 NGC Territorial Gold piece that is tied with one other example for the highest recorded grade. The San Francisco-based Assay Office issued a series of octagonal fifty dollar ingots in 1851 and 1852 that were accepted by the government as payment for customs dues and were used widely to settle large transactions. Since neither NGC nor PCGS distinguishes between the K-6 and K-7 varieties of the 1851 Humbert fifty, interpretation of the population data is difficult, but based on the long record of public offerings in Heritage's Auction Archives, it is believed that this example is tied with one MS63 coin at PCGS for the finest-certified honors for the K-6 variety.

The auction includes several featured collections, including the Benedict Family Collection, a trove of 70 lots replete with an exceptional selection of type coins and important rarities.

Top lots from the Benedict Family Collection include, but are not limited to:

• An 1887 Liberty Double Eagle, PR65 Deep Cameo PCGS. CAC that is a gorgeous example of a prized proof-only issue, of which John Dannreuther estimates a surviving population of 35-40 in all grades
• A magnificent Registry example of an 1895 Morgan Dollar, PR68 Cameo PCGS. CAC that once resided in the Bob R. Simpson Collection, Part III; as demand for the Morgan dollar series has grown in recent years, so has the allure of the 1895 proofs since no circulation strikes are known
• An 1883 Liberty Double Eagle, PR65 Deep Cameo PCGS. CAC is a popular rarity within the series in which just 92 Proof-only pieces were struck, of which Dannreuther has estimated that just 28-32 remain in any grade; PCGS CoinFacts is even stingier with its estimate of 20-25 surviving examples

Other top coins in the auction include, but are not limited to:

• An 1870-CC Liberty Double Eagle, XF40 NGC
• A 1919-S Quarter, MS66 Full Head PCGS
• A 1799 Ten Dollar, MS65+ CACG
• A 1920-S Indian Ten, MS64+ PCGS. CAC
• A 2000-D Sacagawea Dollar/Quarter Mule, MS64 PCGS

Images and information about all lots in the auction can be found at HA.com/1376.

To read the complete article, see:
Magnificent Double-struck 1794 S-28 Cent Turns Heads At Heritage's ANA US Coins Auction (https://www.greysheet.com/news/story/magnificent-double-struck-1794-s-28-cent-turns-heads-at-heritages-ana-us-coins-auction)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
HERITAGE ANA WORLD & ANCIENT SELECTIONS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n29a23.html)

WERE CELTIC TREASURE COINS MELTED?

Investigators looking into the theft of hundreds of ancient gold coins from a German museum have found lumps of gold that appear to have resulted from part of the treasure being melted down, but still hold out hope of finding the rest intact, officials said Thursday.

Four suspects were arrested on Tuesday over the Nov. 22 break-in at the Celtic and Roman Museum in the Bavarian town of Manching in which 483 Celtic coins discovered during an archaeological dig in 1999 were stolen.

The coins date to around 100 B.C.

Authorities said Thursday that DNA found on an object outside the museum, which they wouldn't identify, led them to the suspects, three of whom they linked to a series of previous break-ins in Germany and neighboring Austria dating back to 2014.

The Manching robbery appeared to be the alleged gang's first targeting cultural treasures.

The coins and a lump of unworked gold were discovered during excavations of an ancient settlement in Manching, and authorities have said they are considered the biggest trove of Celtic gold found in the 20th century.

The deputy head of Bavaria's state criminal police office, Guido Limmer, told reporters in Munich that authorities have examined 18 lumps of gold that were recovered this week.

Each is believed to be the result of four coins being melted down, and Limmer said that the non-standard alloy largely matches that of the treasure, though further analysis is ongoing.

The German suspects — a telecoms engineer, an accountant, a shop manager, and a demolition firm employee — haven't given any information to authorities since their arrest, officials said.

To read the complete article, see:
German police find melted-down gold in search for stolen ancient Celtic coins (https://nypost.com/2023/07/20/german-police-find-melted-down-gold-after-theft-of-celtic-coins-seek-rest-of-treasure/)

To read the earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
CELTIC TREASURE COINS STOLEN IN GERMANY (https://www.coinbooks.org/v25/esylum_v25n48a24.html)
CELTIC GOLD HOARD THEFT ARRESTS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v26/esylum_v26n30a27.html)

ELECTORAL COINS

IssueVoter is a nonpartisan, nonprofit online platform dedicated to giving everyone a voice in our democracy. Make a donation of any amount to IssueVoter from this page to get an Electoral Coin of your choice in the mail — a collectable reminder of the true power behind every single vote. Your support will help our message reach every corner of the country.

Our Electoral Coins are divided into two commemorative sets: ?

The 2022 set consists of the Gun Laws Coin, Environment Coin and the Marijuana Legalization Coin. They commemorate the coin flip of ‘22, which decided the election of a Mayor in Kentucky. ?

The 2023 set consists of the Immigration Coin and the Book Ban Coin. They commemorate the last coin flip that happened in 2023, electing a Mayor in the state of North Carolina.

A 24k-ish gold coin that commemorates one of the never-ending debates in politics. This is the Environment Coin. On one side, a green future that relies on renewable energy. On the other side, the trusted model of fossil fuels that powered the industrial revolution. A debate decided purely by chance.

A 24k-ish gold coin to decide if there should be tighter gun control or if we should respect the Second Amendment. A controversial decision that can only be made by an unbiased, almighty and wise coin.

A 24k-ish gold coin that commemorates the possibility of another product in our stores, or more people in our prisons. Should marijuana be legally commercialized and used? Or should it be banned and punished? These handcrafted designs will make this decision for us.

A 24k-ish gold coin that honors the hard decisions made on our borders. Heavier immigration policies or more welcoming policies for foreigners. Are we a nation of immigrants or are they here to take our jobs? It's not fair for a person to carry the weight of such a decision when, on the other hand, a coin doesn't feel weight.

A 24k-ish gold coin that honors the hard decisions in our education system. Are they old enough to learn these topics in school? To teach them or not to teach them, that is the question, and why on Earth should a person carry the weight of answering it, when a coin could do it.

For more information, or to donate, see:
Electoral Coins (https://www.electoralcoins.com/#coinSection1)

"Hollywood became the film capital of the world through the flip of a coin. In 1911, director Al Christie was making Westerns in New Jersey and had grown tired of the inappropriate landscape there. He wanted to try filming in California. His producer, David Horsley, favored Florida, thinking it would be cheaper. Christie had a silver dollar. ‘Heads for California and tails for Florida,' he declared. It was heads. On the train west, the two met a theatrical producer who told them Hollywood was a pretty place. ‘None of us had heard of Hollywood before,' Christie recalled.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
THE HOLLYWOOD COIN FLIP -- 7/26/24 (https://www.delanceyplace.com/view-archives.php?p=5097)

UKRAINIAN AMERICAN'S MEDAL OF HONOR

Baldwin's Auctions brings to sale an extremely rare Congressional Medal of Honor, to be offered in a single-lot auction on Thursday 8 August at 399 Strand, London. The only such medal ever to have been granted to a Ukrainian American soldier, it was posthumously awarded to Nicholas Minue following a brave attack against the Germans in Tunisia, Africa, during which he lost his life on 28th April 1943.

The project is being led by Mark Smith, a medals and militaria specialist often seen on the Antiques Roadshow as well as at Baldwins.co. The auction house is working with charity United 24 to help fund Ukrainian humanitarian relief efforts. The item is expected to sell for £250,000–300,000.

Congressional Medals of Honor – the equivalent of the British Victoria Cross – is the United States Armed Forces' highest military decoration and is awarded to recognize soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen, guardians, and coast guardsmen who have distinguished themselves by acts of valour. Often awarded in extraordinary circumstances or posthumously, they are incredibly rare to come by, and are illegal to be bought or sold by Americans, unless to be gifted to an American institution. So high is their prestige – and so many the social and financial reward – that they must be returned, on the death of their recipient, to congress for safekeeping. Rarer still is to find a Medal of Honor such as this one, awarded to a Ukrainian soldier. Nicholas Minue was and still is the only Ukrainian born recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Nicholas Minue was born on 13th March 1905 in Sedden, in the Kingdom of Galicia and Lodomeria, in what was then Austria-Hungary, also known as Zaluzbe or Yezupil in the western area of Ukraine, he being born to ethnic Ukrainian parents. A Ukrainian born young volunteer from the Russian Civil War with the White Russian forces, Minue fought against the Bolsheviks, before emigrating with his family to the United States of America, where he settled in Carteret, New Jersey.

He then enlisted into the United States Army in 1927, and by the outbreak of the Second World War was a Sergeant. For his part, Minue wanted to serve overseas in a combat unit. To do so, he volunteered to give up his rank of sergeant for the lower rank of private. In December 1942, he was assigned to a rifle platoon of Company A, 1st Battalion, 6th Armoured Infantry Regiment, a unit of the 1st Armoured Division, and shortly afterwards joined it in North Africa.

To read the complete article, see:
London auction house Baldwin's to sell unique Congressional Medal of Honor in aid of Zelenskyy's charity United24 (https://artdaily.cc/news/172353/London-auction-house-Baldwin-s-to-sell-unique-Congressional-Medal-of-Honor-in-aid-of-Zelenskyy-s-charity-United24)

RUSSIA BANS RUBLE TOILET PAPER

A Moscow court has banned the sale of toilet paper with printed patterns of 1,000-ruble bills, the independent news website Vyorstka reported Thursday, citing the court's ruling.

The decorative toilet paper was deemed to "offend religious feelings" since the 1,000-ruble banknote depicts Yaroslav the Wise, an 11th-century Kyivan Rus' prince who was made a saint and, in 2016, canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church.

Moscow's Preobrazhensky District Court sided with the prosecutor who brought the case forward and banned the websites of four online stores that sold the toilet paper.

One of the four banned websites was Sima Land, which went viral for a 2021 pro-Putin flashmob amid widespread protests calling for the release of the late Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

Vyorstka said Sima Land and another e-commerce platform, Glavchudo, have since removed the decorative toilet paper from their websites.

To read the complete article, see:
Russia Bans Ruble Toilet Paper (https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2024/07/18/russia-bans-ruble-toilet-paper-a85756)

THE CANADIAN PREMIERS BUCK

Earl Brown arrived in Vancouver on Friday on a journey more than half a century in the making.

He travelled more than 1,000 kilometres southwest from his home in Fort Nelson with one goal — to get B.C. Premier David Eby to sign his $1 Canadian bill.

"I've been working for 53 years now, to make this happen," Brown said of getting all 13 premiers in that time span to sign his currency.

The now-defunct $1 bill was only missing Eby's signature. Brown, 67, arranged to travel to Vancouver to meet up with Eby at Canada Place.

Brown's journey began in 1971, at the age of 14. That's when then-premier W.A.C. Bennett was in Fort Nelson, unveiling a newly opened line of the Pacific Great Eastern Railway, which became known as B.C. Rail. Brown, in attendance, asked him for a signature.

With nothing more appropriate to sign, Brown suggested the premier sign a $1 bill. Bennett pulled one out of his own pocket, signed it, and handed it to Brown.

W.A.C. Bennett was B.C.'s longest serving premier, from 1952 to 1972. That's when Dave Barrett's NDP defeated Bennett's Social Credit Party. After the election, Barrett was in Fort Nelson and Brown made plans to acquire his second signature on the $1 bill.

Since then, he's managed to get the $1 bill signed by every subsequent premier while they were in office.

Brown calls his dollar bill his "premiers' buck."

To read the complete article, see:
B.C man collects 53 years of premiers' signatures on a $1 bill (https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/bc-premiers-buck-signatures-1.7270208)

For more information on Canada's Premiers, see:
https://www.canadaspremiers.ca/about/

THE ORIGINS OF MONEY

As an anthropologist who's made discoveries of ancient currency in the field, I'm interested in how money evolved in human civilization – and what these archaeological finds can tell us about trade and interaction between far-flung groups.

There are many theories about the origin of money, in part because money has many functions: It facilitates exchange as a measure of value; it brings diverse societies together by enabling gift-giving and reciprocity; it perpetuates social hierarchies; and finally, it is a medium of state power. It's hard to accurately date interactions involving currency of various kinds, but evidence suggests they emerged from gift exchanges and debt repayments.

Objects that occurred rarely in nature and whose circulation could be efficiently controlled emerged as units of value for interactions and exchange. These included shells such as mother-of-pearl that were widely circulated in the Americas and cowry shells that were used in Africa, Europe, Asia and Australia. Native copper, meteorites or native iron, obsidian, amber, beads, copper, gold, silver and lead ingots have variously served as currency. People even used live animals such as cows until relatively recent times as a form of currency.

The Mesopotamian shekel – the first known form of currency – emerged nearly 5,000 years ago. The earliest known mints date to 650 and 600 B.C. in Asia Minor, where the elites of Lydia and Ionia used stamped silver and gold coins to pay armies.

Coinage as commodity money owes its success largely to its portability, durability, transportability and inherent value. Additionally, political leaders could control the production of coins – from mining, smelting, minting - as well as their circulation and use.

In the past, as today, no society was completely self-sustaining, and money allowed people to interact with other groups. People used different forms of currency to mobilize resources, reduce risks and create alliances and friendships in response to specific social and political conditions. The abundance and nearly universal evidence of movement of exotic goods over diverse regions inhabited by people who were independent of each other – from hunter-gatherers to pastoralists, to farmers and city dwellers – points to the significance of currency as a uniting principle. It's like a common language everyone could speak.

For example, Americans who lived in the Early Formative Period dating from 1450 to 500 B.C. used obsidian, mother-of-pearl shell, iron ore and two kinds of pottery as currency to trade across the Americas in one of the earliest examples of a successful global trade. The Maritime Silk Road trade, which occurred between A.D. 700 to 1450, connected Europeans, Asians and Africans in a global trade that was both transformational and foundational.

To read the complete article, see:
When – and why – did people first start using money? (https://theconversation.com/when-and-why-did-people-first-start-using-money-78887)