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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 $45 to addresses in the U.S., and $65 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 1/25/2025 - Kolbe & Fanning

 

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 JANUARY 12, 2025

New subscribers this week include: Terry Sleep, courtesy Terry Freed. Welcome aboard! We now have 7,254 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.

Last week a number of readers noted a bad link to the issue. That was my fault - sorry!. Our webmaster Bruce Perdue caught the problem and sent out another copy of the email. For anyone who still has issues reaching last week's edition, here's a link to the full issue: https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n01.html . We've also addressed some issues with embedded YouTube videos - see this December 29th article on the Pakistan State Bank Museum: https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n52a17.html

This week we open with numismatic literature sale highlights, five new books and a review, a plea to help protect Roman coin collecting, updates from the Newman Numismatic Portal, notes from readers and more.

Other topics this week include numismatics of Panama, the 1773 Virginia Halfpenny, banknotes of Macedonia, Hyderabad and Berbice, United Future World Currency, David Fanning, Jeff Starck, Gerry Fortin, auction previews, more medals awarded by Joe Biden, Chinese New Year commemoratives, and Mints of the World.

To learn more about the Alessandro Magnaguti collection, the 100 Greatest United States Modern Coins, The Generation newsletter, the 2025 Newman Grants, Camden's Britannia, Zeleima Bruff Jackson, Thomas Michael, Joe Dodge, early numismatic photography, the Most Exalted Order of the Star of India, New France card money, the bird of paradise, and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, read on. Have a great week, everyone!

Wayne Homren
Editor, The E-Sylum

 

KOLBE & FANNING SALE 172 HIGHLIGHTS

On Saturday, January 25, 2025, Kolbe & Fanning Numismatic Booksellers will be holding our next auction, featuring rare and out-of-print works on ancient, world and U.S. numismatics. The sale includes material from several consignments, most notably the L.D. & I.P. Library (with exceptional offerings of auction catalogues on ancient and world coins) and the Barry Tayman Library (most significant for U.S. and Canadian material). With over 500 lots, there is something for everybody.

Some highlights of this first sale include:

Lot 8: the complete text and plates for Northern Greece of the landmark Traité des monnaies grecques et romaines, handsomely bound with a matching plate portfolio

Lot 59: Giovanni Dattari's 1901 Monete imperiali greche, the classic study of the coins of Roman Alexandria, still widely consulted today

Lot 227: the complete series of Santamaria catalogues of the Alessandro Magnaguti collection, with the ancient sales being Leonard Forrer's priced and named copies

Lot 160: Rollin & Feuardent's 1887 catalogue of the collection of Roman and Byzantine gold coins formed by the Vicomte de Ponton d'Amécourt

Lot 268: Gianfrancesco Galeani Napione's rare and most attractively illustrated 1828 folio on the medals of the House of Savoy, with 27 superbly engraved plates

Lot 292: a complete set of Admiral the Marquess of Milford Haven's magnificent three-volume folio Medallic History of Navies, the premier work on naval medals

Lot 399: Eric P. Newman's copy of Henry Chapman's 1912 catalogue of the George H. Earle, Jr. collection, with 39 exceptional photographic plates

Lot 422: Thomas Elder's highly important 1920 catalogue of the Henry C. Miller collection, with 28 plates depicting his ancient, English and colonial coins

Lot 487: a very rare set of four original photographs depicting W.W.C. Wilson's collection of bouquet sous, one of only a few sets produced for Wayte Raymond

Lot 512: a complete set of all 38 volumes of the original 1832–1861 printings of the American State Papers, including primary source material on numismatics.

Register early to bid online
Bids may be placed via post, email, phone, as well as online. Kolbe & Fanning use Auction Mobility as our third-party online bidding platform. Auction Mobility is an app-based platform allowing users the ability to participate in the sale through phones, tablets and computers. To register for the sale, bidders must go to bid.numislit.com and sign up. Once you have set up an account, you may browse lots, place advance bids, or participate in the live sale online. Those wishing to participate on their devices can download the Kolbe & Fanning app through the Apple or Google Play Store. The sale will also be listed on Biddr and NumisBids in the near future.

The printed catalogue has been mailed to all active customers on our mailing list. As international mail speeds have been inconsistent, we encourage our foreign clients to consult the electronic catalogue in case their printed catalogue does not arrive promptly. A PDF of the printed catalogue has been posted to our main website at numislit.com for those who prefer that format. Bids placed via post, email, or phone must be received by January 24 the day before the sale, in order for them to be processed. Advance absentee bids may also be placed at any time online at bid.numislit.com. Internet bidding will be available during the sale itself through the same platform.

Maria Beth Fanning, doing business as Kolbe & Fanning, is licensed by the State of Ohio Department of Agriculture (license 2024000216) as an auctioneer, and is bonded as required by law in favor of the State of Ohio. For more information, please see the Kolbe & Fanning website at numislit.com or email David Fanning at df@numislit.com. To register for the sale, go to bid.numislit.com. We look forward to your participation.

To read the Catalogue PDF, see:
https://numislit.cdn.bibliopolis.com/images/upload/kolbefanningsale172.pdf

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
KOLBE & FANNING JANUARY 2025 SALE ANNOUNCED (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n01a03.html)

 

NEW BOOK: 100 GREATEST U.S. MODERN COINS, 5TH ED.

Whitman® announces the recent release of the fifth edition of 100 Greatest United States Modern Coins by award-winning authors Scott Schechter and Jeff Garrett. This updated edition brings a "Modern Makeover" to the beloved series, offering an expanded and refreshed exploration of the most significant modern coins minted in the United States from 1964 to the present day.

With captivating full-color photographs, insightful narratives, and expert analysis, 100 Greatest U.S. Modern Coins continues to be a definitive resource for numismatists of all levels. From humble Lincoln cents to great rarities to costly platinum bullion issues, the new edition demonstrates why the modern era is the most dynamic in all of numismatics, incorporating recent trends, updated values, and the latest additions to the U.S. Mint's innovative coinage.

"Our goal with the fifth edition was to deliver a fresh perspective while maintaining the integrity of what makes this book a collector's favorite," said co-author Scott Schechter. "It reflects the evolution of the market, such as new directions on the part of the United States Mint, volatility among commemoratives, and the waxing and waning popularity of various error coins.

This edition features iconic modern coins such as the 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime Proof (No. 1), the 1969-S, the 1976 No S Bicentennial Eisenhower Dollar Proof (No. 3), the 1964 Special Mint Set (No. 6), the 2020 $50 Gold American Eagle V75 Privy Mark Proof (No. 17), the American Silver Eagle series, and the groundbreaking innovations of the U.S. Mint's 21st-century commemoratives.

Every coin is ranked and discussed in detail, with historical context, scholarship, and analysis provided by Schechter and Garrett, and for the first time updated market values using industry standard Greysheet®-based pricing and Greysheet Catalog Identification (GSID?) numbers that identify and link a coin across the entire family of Whitman Brands products.

Rigorous research and careful voting have led to widespread changes in the rankings over the fourth edition, with many new and some surprising additions. Fewer than one-fourth of all coins held their rank. Ten items are all-new, nine from the previous list dropped off, and two former entries were merged. Sixty-seven items changed rank, most of them by at least two places, but seven moved by ten or more places. Exciting Mint programs are represented among the new list items, along with fresh error-coin discoveries and two commemoratives that hold the record for the lowest mintage for any commemorative coin of their denomination and format.

Top 10 List

1. 1975, No S, Roosevelt Dime, Proof
2. 1969-S, Doubled Die Obverse, Lincoln Cent
3. 1976, No S, Bicentennial Eisenhower Dollar, Proof
4. 2000 Sacagawea Dollar / Washington Quarter Mule
5. 1995-W $1 American Silver Eagle, Proof
6. 1964 Special Mint Set
7. 2009 (MMIX) Ultra High Relief Double Eagle
8. 1968, No S, Roosevelt Dime, Proof
9. 2007-W American Platinum Eagle, Proof, "Frosted FREEDOM" Variety
10. 1990, No S, Lincoln Cent, Proof

The new edition is crisply rounded out by an all-new introductory material, including a Foreword by David Ryder, the 34th and 39th Director of the U.S. Mint; Publisher's Preface by John Feigenbaum, CEO and President of Whitman Brands; and Modern-Coin Grading Essentials by Mark Salzberg, Co-Founder and former Chairman and CEO of Certified Collectibles Group.

"This edition captures the artistry, ingenuity, and cultural significance of modern U.S. coinage," added Feigenbaum. "Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, 100 Greatest U.S. Modern Coins is an essential addition to your library. Schechter and Garrett have truly outdone themselves."

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

This reimagined edition of 100 Greatest U.S. Modern Coins is not just a price guide or a fancy picture book. It's a work of art that takes the reader to a hundred different points in recent American history and a fascinating introduction to the hobby of collecting U.S. coins.

For more information, visit whitman.com.

Coming Soon
100 Greatest World Paper Currency, 1st Edition (Summer 2025)
100 Greatest United States Paper Currency, 2nd Edition (Fall 2025)

About the Authors
Scott Schechter is a leading authority on modern coin grading and authentication, serving as a senior executive at Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC). Jeff Garrett, President of Mid-American Rare Coin Galleries, Inc. and senior editor of the Red Book (A Guide Book of United States Coins), is a renowned coin dealer, author, and expert with decades of experience in the numismatic industry.

Specifications
Title: 100 Greatest U.S. Modern Coins
Authors: Scott Schechter, Jeff Garrett
ISBN: 9780794851576
Binding: Hardcover
Dimensions: 10 x 12 inches
Pages: 140+
Retail: $39.95 U.S
ISBN: 9780794851422
Binding: Softcover
Dimensions: 6 x 9 inches
Pages: 250+
Retail: $24.95 U.S
https://whitman.com/100-greatest-united-states-modern-coins/

NEW BOOK: NUMISMATIC HISTORY OF PANAMA

An illustrated history and catalog of Panamanian coins from 1904 until 1965, the time of silver coins. Bilingual in English and Spanish. It draws on primary source documents to be as accurate as possible and highlights many interesting details. There is nothing else like it in the field of Panamanian numismatics.

Publication Date: Aug 16, 2023

Pages: 225

For more information, or to order, see:
Numismatic History of Panama 1904-1965 Historia Numismática de Panamá 1904-1965 Color (https://www.lulu.com/shop/david-plowman/numismatic-history-of-panama-1904-1965-historia-numism%C3%A1tica-de-panam%C3%A1-1904-1965-color/hardcover/product-v6vr42.html)
Numismatic History of Panama 1904-1965 Historia Numismática de Panamá 1904-1965 Hardcover (https://www.lulu.com/shop/david-plowman/numismatic-history-of-panama-1904-1965-historia-numism%C3%A1tica-de-panam%C3%A1-1904-1965-hardcover/hardcover/product-emrn82.html?q=Plowman+panama&page=1&pageSize=4)
Numismatic History of Panama 1904-1965 Historia Numismática de Panamá 1904-1965 Paperback (https://www.lulu.com/shop/david-plowman/numismatic-history-of-panama-1904-1965-historia-numism%C3%A1tica-de-panam%C3%A1-1904-1965-paperback/paperback/product-ypn24n.html?q=Plowman+panama&page=1&pageSize=4)
Numismatic History of Panama 1904-1965 Historia Numismática de Panamá 1904-1965 Color PB (https://www.lulu.com/shop/david-plowman-and-jorge-proctor/numismatic-history-of-panama-1904-1965-historia-numism%C3%A1tica-de-panam%C3%A1-1904-1965-color-pb/paperback/product-nvdj2z8.html?q=Plowman+panama&page=1&pageSize=4)

 

NEW BOOK: PARROTS ON COINS, BANKNOTES

Mintage World, the pioneering online museum for coins, stamps, and currency notes, has launched a remarkable coffee table book, 'Endangered Parrots of the World on Stamps, Coins and Banknotes'. This compilation serves as both a vibrant tribute to parrot diversity and a call to action for conservation.

Priced at Rs999, the book is available on various online platforms and bookstores. It meticulously gathers coins, stamps, and banknotes from countries worldwide, each depicting parrot species threatened by extinction. Based on the IUCN Red List data from July 2024, it highlights urgent environmental challenges with over 459 stamps, 37 coins, and 12 banknotes.

Among featured species are the Imperial Amazon from Dominica and Lear's Macaw from Brazil, accompanied by rich historical contexts. CEO Sushilkumar Agrawal emphasizes the book's role in raising awareness about preserving avian heritage. Mintage World plans further collectibles on historical and cultural themes, continuing its mission of education and preservation.

To read the complete article, see:
A Vibrant Tribute to Endangered Parrots: A Unique Collector's Edition (https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/business/3204341-a-vibrant-tribute-to-endangered-parrots-a-unique-collectors-edition)

Experience a kaleidoscopic journey with our new release, where the world of Endangered Parrots comes to life through stamps, coins, and banknotes. This hardcover book represents an exceptional approach to raising awareness about parrot conservation taking cues from International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Red List of threatened and endangered parrots.

Each page is curated to be of collector's delight and, most importantly a call to action for the conservation of this Species. These colourful birds are threatened by hunting and trapping for illegal trade, deforestation and climate change.

The personnel from police, customs, enforcement agencies, etc who work for stopping the illegal trade and smuggling will also find this work extremely useful. Needless to mention that a new theme for the collectors that is focussing only on endangered parrots will add to the thrill.

For more information, or to order, see:
Endangered Parrots Of The World On Stamps, Coins And Banknotes Book By Sushilkumar Agrawal (https://www.mintageworld.com/view-product/3322-endangered-parrots-of-the-world-on-stamps-coins-and-banknotes-book-by-sushilkumar-agrawal/)

See also:
Endangered parrots in stamps, notes and coins (https://www.deccanherald.com/environment/wildlife/endangered-parrots-in-stamps-notes-and-coins-3341941)
https://www.instagram.com/thebestaddress.co/p/DD654mKIiFp/?img_index=1

NEW BOOK: MACEDONIAN BANKNOTES

A new banknote catalogue has reached us from North Macedonia, which is suitable for beginners as well as for advanced collectors.

The catalogue is bilingual (Macedonian, translation into English by Jovan Strezoski) and all the requirements that a catalogue should have can be found on its 96 pages: a complete list of all Macedonian and North Macedonian banknotes since 1993, a valuation in euros and, for many collectors, the most important thing of all: the author has endeavoured to provide complete illustrations of all the notes listed, as far as he was able.

This book also has added value for those collectors who have removed the area from their missing list because it was too complete for their collection, as it also documents designs, illustrations and overstampings of all kinds.

The first two chapters contain a list of all, but really all, issues since the secession of Yugoslavia in 1993. These include the first two provisional series from 1993, all variants and issue dates of the regular series since 1996 of the "National Bank of the Republic of Macedonia" and, of course, also the polymer issues and the issues with the changed bank name "National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia".

All sample notes with SPECIMEN overprint are also shown and evaluated.

Finally, in the third and fourth chapters, all design series and unrealized designs are presented; the archives of the central bank were probably used for this purpose.

Further chapters contain propaganda designs (e.g. with the image of Alexander the Great), the propaganda stamps ("Суверена Македонија", Sovereign Macedonia) on Yugoslav banknotes, the Kosovo stamps on Macedonian banknotes ("Banka Provizore e Republikës së Kosovës") as well as various carnival notes, including those from Vevcani.

Finally, for all specialists, the local overstampings on German, Austro-Hungarian and Bulgarian banknotes are listed, which can probably only be found in high-quality special collections or in the archives of the Central Bank of Macedonia.

1st edition 2024
Brochure with perfect binding.
96 pages, with color illustrations.
Format 16.6 x 23.5 cm.
Self-published, Skopje.
ISBN 978-608-67115-1-1
Edition: 200 copies
Price: 12.00 EUR

Available directly from the author via Facebook or contact via email strezoski_z@yahoo.com.

Copies are also regularly offered on eBay.

To read the complete article, see:
Neuer Mazedonien-Katalog (https://www.geldscheine-online.com/post/neuer-mazedonien-katalog)

BANKNOTE BOOK HYDERABAD CHAPTER

To read the complete article, see:
Hyderabad chapter now available (https://banknotenews.com/?p=45867)

BOOK REVIEW: ANCIENT ROME IN TWELVE COINS

I wish I'd had Gareth Harney as a professor when I was in college. While his book, "A History of Ancient Rome in Twelve Coins," is dense with facts, it's also great fun to read. Not only does Harney put a new twist on how to think about history, but the way he uses his archeological instincts to first track down and then explicate the bronze, silver and gold coins the Roman Empire created before it fell in 476 A.D. is absorbing — even gripping.

It is a story of fantastic achievements like the Colosseum (Harney devotes a chapter to that iconic structure) and the aqueducts that gave Roman forces entrée to lands they wanted to conquer. It also is the story of rulers spanning the celebrity military genius Julius Caesar, the complex philosopher Marcus Aurelius, and Claudius, the Roman Senate's errand boy, eager to do the bidding of the Praetorian Guard. It is a bloody story, too.

Each ruler was immortalized in Roman coinage, a calling for Harney ever since his father pressed a 2,000-year-old piece of silver into his hand as a boy. Coins are a gateway to the past, a form of propaganda, and a kind of newsreel, Harney suggests.

"Coins need little explanation to evoke a pang of recognition," he writes. "They have been treasured friends on our human journey for over a hundred generations—and yet it seems increasingly likely that our very generation will be the one to break that long bond." Crypto currency is digital, not tangible, after all.

Harney covers a thousand-plus years in his creative, colorful recap of the rise and fall of the Roman world, which began as a village on a hilltop and ended as an empire that stretched from Europe to Asia to the Middle East to Africa, before Goths and Vandals put an end to it.

What makes this book unique is the way Harney frames history: through coins struck at various mints, starting with Juno Moneta, a temple in Rome dedicated to Juno, the city's divine protector and the wife of Jupiter, king of the Gods. Juno Moneta became the Roman mint, and as such, it was the source of the wealth of the emperors and, perhaps most importantly, their ability to support the military.

The book begins with a chapter called "Wolf," Harney's account of the mythological birth of Rome thanks to Romulus and Remus, brothers said to have founded the city. It ends, appropriately, with "Collapse," a chapter about the sacking of Rome by Goths on Aug. 24, 410.

The empire had been crumbling for some time, its leaders were corrupt, its governance overextended and its power base shifted to Constantinople. On that August day, the Germanic mercenary Odoacer entered the imperial palace at Ravenna and told Augustulus, the boy emperor, that "his service would no longer be required."

That day signaled the end of the classical period and the beginning of the Middle Ages. But as we are taught by Harney, Roman coins keep such significant and engrossing history alive.

To read the complete article, see:
Review: Gareth Harney and his minted history of Rome (https://www.post-gazette.com/ae/books/2025/01/12/gareth-harney-history-of-ancient-rome-coins-roman-empire/stories/202501120035)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NEW BOOK: MONETA: ANCIENT ROME IN TWELVE COINS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n19a02.html)

 

HELP PROTECT ROMAN COIN COLLECTING!

The US State Department has announced a proposed renewal of a cultural property Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Republic of Italy. There is a danger that this will provide an excuse for US import restrictions implementing that MOU to be expanded to include late Roman Republican and Roman Imperial Coins.

Import restrictions could make it far more difficult to import such coins from legitimate markets in Europe like those in the United Kingdom, Germany and Switzerland.

Why? Because they would give US Customs the authority to assume that any late Roman Republican or Roman Imperial coins with a country of origin/manufacture of Italy (i.e., Rome and other late Imperial mints of Aquileia, Mediolanum, Ostia, Ravenna, and Ticinum) are the "cultural property" of the modern Republic of Italy.

US Customs could then demand that the importer "prove" that such coins were out of Italy before the effective date of any governing regulations, which can be difficult to do for many coins, particularly low value ones like most Roman coins.

And if you can't provide this information? The coin(s) could be detained, seized and "repatriated" to the Italian government.

What can you do? Go to https://www.regulations.gov/, search for dos-2024-0048, and then click the blue "comment now" button. Or try this direct link: https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/DOS-2024-0048-0001

What can you say? Your own comments focusing on how import restrictions might make it more difficult to purchase coins to appreciate ancient history and culture are the best, but here is a short model for you to use for your own comments:

Want to learn more? Visit the Cultural Property Observer Blog at: https://culturalpropertyobserver.blogspot.com/ Or contact IAPN's Executive Director, Peter Tompa, at pkt@pktcounsel.com.

Comments Must Be Made on or Before January 27, 2025.

COMMENT HERE: https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/DOS-2024-0048-0001

The full IAPN press release can be found here:
Please Help Protect Roman Coin Collecting! (https://www.iapn-coins.org/general-news/13446719)

For more about the International Association of Professional Numismatists, see https://www.iapn-coins.org/

NNP ADDS VIRGINIA COINAGE NEWSLETTERS

Newman Portal Adds Virginia Coinage Newsletters

Courtesy of Roger Moore, Newman Portal has added a group of newsletters related to Virginia colonial coinage. Editor William Veach produced The Generation newsletter in the early 1990s and provided an overview in an August 1, 1990 launch letter: "The ‘Generation' is a select group of variety set oriented collectors of the 1773 - Colonial Virginia copper Halfpenny. Our legal structure is that of a ‘phantom' group, unregistered, unincorporated, yes even unfinanced. We pay no dues. We pay no taxes and we really answer to no one, except to ourselves."

The second issue announced a circulation of 17, and content focused on the usual collector concerns: varieties, attribution, rarity, pricing, and the occasional oddball examples, such as counterstamped pieces. Most of the material for the newsletter was contributed by Veach himself, such as a census of I-A pattern pieces in the June 1993 issue. Veach produced eight issues from 1990 to 1993, and an attempted reboot in 2005 reveals an interesting tidbit: among the anonymous members of this group was Virginia governor Douglas Wilder, who was instrumental in promoting a 1992 resolution (House Joint Resolution No. 271) of the Virginia legislature honoring Eric P. Newman for his research in the field of Virginia numismatics.

Images: 1773 Virginia halfpenny, ex. Newman IV (Heritage Auctions, May 16, 2014), lot 30010, realized $4,112.50.

Link to The Generation on Newman Portal:
https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/publisherdetail/531574

Link to "Eric P. Newman Honored by Virginia" in the January 1993 Virginia Numismatist:
https://archive.org/details/VirginiaNumismatist1993to1994/page/n15/mode/2up?view=theater

2025 NEWMAN GRANT PROGRAM ANNOUNCED

Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society Invites Applications for Newman Grants

The Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society (EPNNES) announces the opening of the application period for the 2025 Newman Grant program. Newman Grants are designed to financially assist numismatic authors and organizations pursuing original research in American numismatics. This program was launched in 2019 and supports research projects related to colonial numismatics, U.S. federal coinage, counterfeit detection, and other areas.

Authors, researchers, and numismatic organizations are encouraged to apply for amounts between $1,000 and $5,000. Awards may be applied toward related research costs including but not limited to photography, reproduction of research material and graphic art services, database access fees, and travel. Electronic publications will be preferred as EPNNES wishes to direct funds toward expenses specifically related to numismatic research, rather than the print publication of research. Newman Grant awardees agree to non-exclusive publication of their research on the Newman Numismatic Portal (NewmanPortal.org). EPNNES intends to make approximately half a dozen grants in 2025.

The Newman Grant program is administered for EPNNES by the Newman Numismatic Portal (NNP). Applications may be found on the Newman Numismatic Portal at https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/archivedetail/530553?Year=2025 and should be submitted to NNPCurator@wustl.edu. The application deadline is April 15, 2025, with the grant awards to be announced on May 25, 2025, coincident with the late Eric P. Newman's birthday.

It is the hope of EPNNES that this program will continue the legacy of Eric P. Newman in a way that would reflect his high standards for numismatic research.

VIDEO: UNITED FUTURE WORLD CURRENCY

Dr. Sandro Sassoli presents an example of United Future World Currency to the American Numismatic Association. From the 2009 ANA convention.

To watch the complete video, see:
United Future World Currency Presented to ANA (https://youtu.be/7_vovlM422A)
United Future World Currency Presented to ANA (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/584156)

NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: JANUARY 12, 2025

More on Camden's Britannia
Bob Van Arsdell writes:

In the late 1500s, antiquarian writers began to study Ancient British coins. Some coin inscriptions seemed to match the accounts of ancient Roman authors. Camden and Speed used these coins to illuminate a murky period in British history.

Cunobeline's coins were identified first. His large coinage with a bold "CVNO" was hard to miss – Camden illustrated four Cunobeline types in the 1590 edition of his Britannia. These are the earliest images of Ancient British coins to appear in print.

Surprisingly, the large coinage of Verica was not identified for another 250 years. Although a Verica stater was found before 1610, it was misattributed as a coin of Commius. Scholarly errors over the next two centuries made the coinage of Verica "invisible" to the general public.

The stater was mis-attributed because it had been struck from damaged dies – the inscriptions could easily be misread. And, of course, Commius was a prominent figure in Caesar's Gallic War. The attribution to such a famous man proved to be an exciting discovery. It was easy to miss the correct attribution to Verica. He's only mentioned by Dio in one sentence.

To read the complete article, see:
The Invisible Coinage of Verica (https://vanarsdellcelticcoinageofbritain.com/articles-numismatic_ccb3/van_arsdell_2022b_ccb3.html)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
KOLBE & FANNING JANUARY 2025 SALE ANNOUNCED (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n01a03.html)

U.S. Gold Electronic Waste Recyclers?
#1 Money Man writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
ROYAL MINT RECYCLES GOLD ELECTRONIC WASTE (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n01a27.html)

Query: Numismatic Reprints from Chicago
Laurence Edwards writes:

To read earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
CHICAGO HALL OF FAME INDUCTS LEE F. HEWITT (https://www.coinbooks.org/v22/esylum_v22n22a17.html)
LEE F. HEWITT (1911-1987) (https://www.coinbooks.org/v24/esylum_v24n52a14.html)

Who was Zeleima Bruff Jackson?
Roger W Burdette writes:

Mystery Coins

KKK Medal?
Thomas Lovelace writes:

To read the complete articles, see:
Symwao Miafa Anthar Silba (https://en.numista.com/catalogue/exonumia371260.html)
Token with KKK slogans "SYMWAO," "MIAFA" and "Non Silba Sed Anthar" (https://nmaahc.si.edu/object/nmaahc_2013.231.2)
The symbols and secret codes of a 1922 KKK membership medallion (https://history.nebraska.gov/the-symbols-and-secret-codes-of-a-1922-kkk-membership-medallion/)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
2025 TRUMP INAUGURAL MEDAL (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n01a10.html)

Korean Movable Type
Ted Puls writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
LOOSE CHANGE: JANUARY 5, 2025 : A new oldest book in world (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n01a26.html)

Modern Counterstamps on U.S. Paper Money
Omid Mohammadi writes:

To read some earlier E-Sylum articles on the topic, see:
CHOPMARKS ON MODERN U.S. PAPER MONEY (https://www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v17n07a21.html)
MORE CHOPMARKS ON MODERN U.S. PAPER MONEY (https://coinbooks.org/esylum_v19n23a31.html)

FANNING SPEAKS AT BNS NYINC MEETING

The meeting will take place in the Morgan Suite at the InterContinental New York Barclay, on E 48th Street, on Friday January 17th, at 4 PM.

I'm very pleased to say that our speaker will be Dr David Fanning, owner of Kolbe & Fanning Numismatic Booksellers, who will need almost no introduction to your readers. His talk is entitled Early numismatic photography.

All are welcome, and you don't have to be a member of the Society to attend.

The introduction of photography to the field of numismatics in the 19th century did much to enhance the utility of serious numismatic publications and encourage the further development of numismatics as a science. The adaptation of photography to mechanical printing processes allowed the widespread dissemination of clear images of coins, medals, tokens, and paper money, broadening the scope and range of numismatic publications, whether academic, recreational, or commercial. A historical overview of the subject suggests that the ways in which photographic illustrations were gradually adopted by numismatic publications had discernible effects on the subjects discussed, the authors published, the commercialization of recreational coin collecting, and the development of numismatic societies.

JEFF STARCK MAKES A MOVE

When Editorial Director Larry Jewett implored me to write a farewell editorial, announcing my amicable departure from Coin World after a 21-year relationship, I couldn't help but think of the credits on all those movies I've yet to watch.

Each one of the almost exactly 1,100 issues I've worked on at Coin World may have featured the names of myself and co-workers in bold bylines, but the issues could not have appeared in readers' hands, without a lengthy list of other folks.

From a librarian who sorted research materials, to photographers and image editors to page designers and advertising representatives, and customer service folks who handled subscription orders, among many other roles, the weekly world of numismatics (and more recently, the daily digital dish about this hobby) could not have reached the audience it has without them.

This job has taken me around the United States and the globe, and introduced me to many fine folks, including a bunch in Sidney, Ohio, Coin World's home. I will cherish this experience forever. But now, if you'll excuse me, I have some movies to watch.

To read the complete Coin World article, see:
Monday Morning Brief for Jan. 6, 2025: New year changes (https://www.coinworld.com/news/us-coins/monday-morning-brief-for-jan-6-2025-new-year-changes)

Change is in the air at NumisMaster, and we are thrilled to announce the newest team member, Jeff Starck, who has joined us as a Market Analyst. Jeff is stepping into this role following the retirement of Senior Market Analyst Thomas Michael.

Although the Numismatics team will greatly miss Tom, we are excited about the passion and knowledge Jeff brings to the table. Jeff is taking on his new role as a market analyst for NumisMaster, with over thirty years of experience in the coin industry. Holding a formal education in journalism from Webster University, Jeff has built a career that fuses his passion for numismatics with his talent for writing and editing. Some of you may recognize his name from his tenure at Coin World, where he was the senior editor for the publication. He also contributed to two numismatic-related books, is a current judge for Watermark Publishing's annual "Coin Constellation Award," and is a life member #100 of the Missouri Numismatic Society.

To read the complete Numismatic News article, see:
Numismatic News Welcomes Jeff Starck as NumisMaster Market Analyst (https://www.numismaticnews.net/archive/numismatic-news-welcomes-jeff-starck-as-numismaster-market-analyst-)

After an extraordinary 37-year career, Thomas Michael, Senior Market Analyst for NumisMaster, announced his retirement, effective at the end of 2024. Tom's last day will conclude an incredible journey of dedication and innovation in the numismatics world.

Tom began his career at Krause Publications in 1987 as the Numismatic Market Analyst, where he quickly became an integral part of the team. He made significant contributions to the Standard Catalog of World Coins, a guide cherished by collectors. Over the years, Tom contributed to over 130 books. His commitment continued through the transitions to F+W Media and later to Active Interest Media in 2019.

Among his many achievements, Tom played a pivotal role in developing and maintaining the NumisMaster database, serving as Senior Market Analyst. Beyond his analytical work, he has enriched the hobby by writing numismatic book reviews and new-issue announcements for World Coin News.

In 1990, Tom was invited to join the prestigious Coin of the Year (COTY) Nominating Committee due to his vast knowledge and passion for world coinage. Later, he stepped into the role of COTY co-coordinator, where his leadership has been invaluable. While Tom is stepping back from this role, he will remain a part of the Nominating Committee and Judges Panel.

To read the complete Numismatic News article, see:
Celebrating the Career of Thomas Michael (https://www.numismaticnews.net/world-coins/celebrating-the-career-of-thomas-michael)

VOCABULARY TERMS: RECIPIENT, RECOGNITION

Recipient. The person who receives or is bestowed a medal for award or recognition. The bestowal is customarily at a ceremony and the medal may be accompanied with a certificate and sometimes a monetary award. Often the medal is inscribed with the recipient's name, date, and occasionally a brief citation and presented in a case. When the presentation is posthumous, the medal goes to the next of kin.

In sports the recipient is called a medallist; in fields of academic, scientific and medical achievement the recipient it called a laureate. In rare instances the recipient is embarrassed he was bestowed the honor and removes his name from the medal; this is termed an obliterated name (and is considered an act of vandalism to the medal).

Recognition. A medallic award, often with the recipient's portrait or name, bestowed to him or her for performing some beneficence to mankind. A recognition award should not be confused with a prize award where many contestants vie for distinction of winning the prize medal. A recognition is an honor not a race or contest. Indian Peace Medals were, in effect, early recognition medals. In a few instances they were made in different sizes to reflect the different ranks of the Indian chief recipients. Recently such recognition awards have been called "lifetime awards" or "lifetime achievement awards." Some congressional medals with portraits of the honoree are also such recognition awards.

To read the complete entries on the Newman Numismatic Portal, see:
Recipient (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/dictionarydetail/516592)
Recognition (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/dictionarydetail/516593)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
1913 GOLD CARNEGIE HERO FUND MEDAL (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n42a26.html)
SBG NOVEMBER 2024 NUMISMATIC AMERICANA : (1913) Carnegie Hero Fund Medal. (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n44a23.html)

MORE ON OSBORNE COINAGE COMPANY HISTORY

Last week I described the history of the Osborne Coinage Company without comment. This week I offer some comments, particularly about Ziba Bisbee and Ira Bisbee.

My sources were the Internet in general, The Newman Numismatic Portal. The Numismatist archive, Newspapers.com., FamilySearch and Findagrave. I also pulled some books off my shelves.

Arlie B. Slabaugh wrote an article, "Which is the Oldest Private Mint?" published in TAMS Journal for October 1, 1980. He reported on his attempts to find the history of Osborne. Clifford Stegman Jr. provided a list of antecedents based on a 1911 letterhead of the James Murdock Jr. Co.

• James Murdock Jr. Co. Incorporated 1906
• James Murdock Jr. organized 1869
• Murdock & Spencer 1864
• John Stanton, 1852
• Bisbee & Stanton 1851
• Ira Bisbee 1848
• Z. Bisbee established 1835.

This is apparently the foundation for what is now thought to be their history. Slabaugh mentioned the 1849-50 city directory listing for Z. Bisbee as a stamp cutter and an 1855 listing for Bisbee and Stanton as brand and stencil cutters.

The professions of stamp cutter, brand cutter and stencil cutter do not suggest die engraving. There is no evidence that these firms were private mints prior to 1855.

A search of the Newman Numismatic Portal does not find any reference to Ziba Bisbee. I believe he was not mentioned in any numismatic context prior to my article in 2025. His name does appear in newspapers in the 1820's. He was involved in the manufacture and marketing of steel shovels and manure forks in East Bridgeport, Massachusetts.

His first listing in a city directory was for 1849-1850. There is no mention of him during the critical period of 1835-1848. The first reference to the Z. Bisbee Stamp Cutting Shop was in 1995, 165 years later. These were several promotional articles for Osborne with information obviously provided by Osborne. I did not find any contemporary reference to the firm.

I also did not find any reference to Z. Bisbee & Son in the NNP or any newspaper. It is mentioned by Davd Schenkman in an article in The Numismatist for May 2018, "James Murdock Jr. Ohio Die-Sinker."

The July 20, 1980, issue of Coin World had an article on Osborne. Clifford Stegman Jr. explained what happened to Z. Bisbee.

There are problems with the story. If Bisbee went to California in 1848, he was not striking coins there in 1843 or 1844.

I trust what Don Kagin wrote in Private Gold Coins and Patterns of the United States (1981). He wrote that the Cincinnati Mining and Trading Company was formed about January 1, 1849, and left for California about March 11. They purchased coining equipment that was transported over land to California. A few pattern coins were struck in 1849. Kagin does not mention anyone named Bisbee, nor does any other legitimate writer.

When the 1850 Census was taken on July 16, 1850, Ziba Bisbee was enumerated as a stamp cutter in Cincinnati.

The July 20 Coin World article was followed by a second installment on July 27, 1950. The story continues.

That may be the legend, but public records show that Ira married Sarah Ann Denny in Ohio on December 31, 1851. By 1860, he was living in Wisconsin.

Ira Bismee made luggage tags so he was in the metal stamping business. That does not make him a private mint. John Stanton struck medals in 1860 for presidential candidate Abraham Lincoln. The dies were engraved by Benjamin True. James Murdock made restrikes from these dies.

Osborne still has the dies and has some claim to continuity back to 1860. Osborne has a history of their company on their website.

When I studied mathematics, the time between1835 and 2025 would be 190 years.

Osborne was promoted beyond the limits of Ohio. An article in The Courier News of Bridgewater, New Jersey, dated April 11, 1995, included this statement: "The nation's oldest private mint, Osborne Coinage Co., has been making souvenir coins for all occasions since 1835." Osborne acts as if its lineage is linear, which it is not. They act as if Z. Bisbee had a mint, which he did not.

When studying genealogy, it is fairly obvious that parents produce children and have done so for many generations. In studying the history of a company, the connections may not be that obvious. When Wiley Osborne created the Osborne Register Company in 1920, it was a new company. When he acquired the James Murdock Company, Osburn adopted the company history but it was not a direct antecedent.

The Osborne Coinage Company was incorporated as a new company in 1947. The Osborne Register Company remained in business until bankruptcy in 1950. Although Osborne claims this as a name change, it was not.

I understand that the Osborne Company promotes its business in the best possible light. As a historian, I feel compelled to report what is found in the shadows.

The Long–Stanton Manufacturing Co. of Cincinnati also claims their history back to the Z. Bisbee Co. They state the John Stanton Company was in the novelty business from 1866 to 1955. The John Stanton Company dates back to 1901 in Chicago, John Stanton is a somewhat common name. The John Stanton who was born in 1829 was still in Cincinnati in 1900 and died in 1921. The Chicago John Stanton must have been someone else.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
THE OSBORNE COINAGE COMPANY (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n01a12.html)

GERRY FORTIN INTERVIEW, PART TWO

GREG BENNICK: So, were there Liberty Seated researchers or dealers throughout history that focused on Liberty Seated coinage that you admired or looked to before you became the expert on Liberty Seated dimes? Were there others who had paved the way a hundred years ago? That sort of thing.

GERRY FORTIN: Well, that's a great question. Because in 1989, I decided to join the Liberty Seated Collector's Club. Before that, in ‘88, after I made the decision to collect Liberty Seated dimes, I was looking in Coin World in the classifieds and there was a book put out by Kamal Ahwash that was published in 1977 and it was a second printing of the book. And it was specifically on Liberty Seated dimes. It was an encyclopedia. So, I ordered it. It came in and what was in that book was not only an analysis by date, but also major varieties.

Now, my background is that I'm a semiconductor engineer and my expertise is operations, testing, information management, yield enhancement. So, I've got a very inquisitive mind in terms of semiconductors. When I saw the book and the content, this was like opening a window to the minting process and understanding the manufacturing of that era.

GREG BENNICK: So the semiconductor manufacturing and the coin manufacturing...there were parallels in your mind.

GERRY FORTIN: Right. There are parallels. I mean, one's done in a clean room, one's done in a dirty sweatshop, but there's similarities because, you know, you've got to roll the alloy, you've got to make the planchets, you've got to polish them, then you've got to put them through a press, then you've got to count them. Um, you know, there was just that process while, you know, building a semiconductor wafer is similar, except it's much more complicated.

GREG BENNICK: So, you were still, in 1988, you were still in the semiconductor industry for many years as you began to study and collect coins.

GERRY FORTIN: Right. I'd been in the industry for 10 years, which is not that long. So, in 1986, I left IBM, we had our first child, and I decided that raising my son in Dutchess County, New York, which was just directly above, New York City...I just didn't think that was the best place. I had come out of Maine and a parochial school system and a Catholic high school. And I thought, "Eh, I think it's better to raise children up in Maine." So, we moved back, and I got a job at Fairchild Semiconductor in Portland, Maine.

GREG BENNICK: I like that. You've got this parallel life going on where you're gearing up with coins and still on proverbial fire working your way positively and successfully through semiconductors. So, it's pretty interesting that there were two lives basically being lived at the same time at this point.

GERRY FORTIN: Yeah, correct. I would work my semiconductor job. When I came back to Maine at IBM, I had done very, very well. Now here I am, I am in my late twenties and I'm managing some very sophisticated test equipment in an organization. And we were testing all these high-speed bipolar chips and doing the failure analysis and yield enhancement. And I'm 28 years old. So, coming back to Maine, I went to work for a, let's call it, a commercial semiconductor house, which was ages behind IBM. Very primitive. So, there I had to build all of these tools that I had at IBM before I could really do my job, which was just enhancing the productivity of the factories.

GREG BENNICK: So where, where we're at now is 1988 or so, and you've decided that Morgan dollars are boring, that Liberty Seated coins are interesting, that Liberty Seated dimes are doable...and in you go into Liberty Seated dimes. What happens from that point? Meaning you don't just start collecting by date. Something happens. I mean, where it triggers your collecting.

GERRY FORTIN: Well, number one, it was the, yeah, it was the Kamal Ahwash book. All right. That got me going. When I joined the Liberty Seated Collector's Club, I wrote a letter to the president, John McCloskey. I said, "I'm interested in Liberty Seated Dime varieties." All right. John McCloskey put me in touch with a gentleman named Brian Greer. Now, Brian Greer was, at that time, researching Liberty Seated dimes and was building a reference set for a book that was published in 1992. Within the Liberty Seated Collector's Club, he was also taking on the responsibility of doing a population survey. So there was a survey sheet of all the dates and major varieties. They sent it out to the club members, and everybody disclosed what they owned. But you know, there's a lot of work involved in making the template, sending it out, having all the responses, tabulating everything. Once you have the tabulation done, now you write articles for our publication, which was The Gobrecht Journal. So, I became the gopher. Essentially, I took on the role of doing all the administrative work. And Brian was thrilled to have somebody like me.

GREG BENNICK: I'm sure!

GERRY FORTIN: But at the same time, it was reciprocal because Brian was at that time, the authority on Liberty Seated dimes. So, I was able to get mentorship from Brian and he got an assistant. And the two of us really hit it off. I mean, we became friends. And after Brian published his book, he said, "I'm done. I put so much work into this. I'm moving on. I'm going to be a full-time coin dealer." I said, "Okay, I'll pick up from you. And I'm going to take this much, much further." And my model was the Overton book. So the Overton die variety book on Capped Bust halves. Now that's an incredible piece of research.

GREG BENNICK: It's incredible.

GERRY FORTIN: Right. So, I said, "Well, the model's there. I just have to take Liberty Seated Dimes and take it to that level."

GREG BENNICK: This falls right in line with what you said earlier, when you said, "I'm an intense individual," meaning devoted, intense, and all the above encapsulated in one word. You didn't just say, "Oh, Liberty Seated Dimes sound fun. I'll go to flea markets and buy one or two once a year for five bucks." You basically took the Olympic gold medal level research book on half dollars in the Overton book and said, "Yeah, that's the baseline. If it's that or better, I'm in good shape with these Liberty Seated dimes."

GERRY FORTIN: Yeah! And it was second nature to me because you have to remember that when I worked in the semi-industry, we had fantastic networks and databases because to manage yields in a semiconductor factory, you have to store so much data that's coming from the fabrication equipment, the test equipment, and then you have to have your trending tools, your linear regression tools, all the stuff that you need to make sense of what nobs or what defects you have to improve in the factory to get the productivity on each wafer up. So, I was just living that. To me, it was just natural. That's how I've been trained at IBM. So that same philosophy of researching the dimes and building a database, it was second nature. I knew the path to get to the Overton book for the dimes.

GREG BENNICK: Great. How did your collection grow as you started to collect? Where did you finding the pieces that you wanted? And how did it go from being, as you mentioned earlier, VF, a fine VF, into what it became eventually?

GERRY FORTIN: That's another great question. In the early years, there was a coin shop that was two blocks away from my office at Fairchild. And so, at lunchtime, I would take the car and go over and go see Bob Levy. Bob Levy managed Main Gold & Silver. And, you know, for fun, I would go pick his silver bullion buckets. As he bought silver, junk silver, as it came through, he'd just throw it in his big buckets. And every couple of days, I'd go through the buckets, and I'd pick out better date Mercury dimes and Walkers, whatever. And then one day I said, "Hey, Bob, you know, I'm collecting Liberty Seated Dimes." He goes, "Really?" He says, "I have a complete set." And yeah. He says, "...and I'd like to sell it. You want to buy it?" I said, "Well, Bob, I can't buy the whole set but show me what you got and let's figure out how I can, every week pick up a coin or something like that." And that's what happened.

I was able to go through his Dansco and pick out the coins that I wanted. He put them in little paper envelopes in a box and then he priced them. And every week I would come in with some cash and buy one. So that was one of the avenues for getting us some nice quality dimes. And then Bob told me stories because he knew Kamal Ahwash and he knew people in the business. He had been around. So, I got all the background on his coins.

GREG BENNICK: That's fantastic. When I started collecting Standing Liberty Quarters, I wouldn't have started, even though I always wanted to, were it not for a guy I met on the East Coast who had an almost complete set of Standing Liberty Quarters. I wanted to collect them in AU. He had an almost complete set of original AU Standing Liberty Quarters. He had decided that he wanted to buy a Trans Am or a Camaro or something, and he wanted to get rid of this set. So that's what started my collection was this block purchase of these quarters. So that's great to hear.

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 and US counterstamps. He is on the board of both CONECA and TAMS and enjoys having in-depth conversations with prominent numismatists from all areas of the hobby. Have ideas for other interviewees? Contact him anytime on the web or via instagram @minterrors.

To watch the complete video, see:
Gerry Fortin Interviewed for the NNP by Greg Bennick (https://youtu.be/aNYBgaAxv7k)

To read the complete transcript, see:
Gerry Fortin Interviewed for the NNP by Greg Bennick (Transcript) (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/643416)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
GERRY FORTIN INTERVIEW, PART ONE (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n01a13.html)

 

HERITAGE: NYINC WORLD AND ANCIENT COINS

South Africa: Republic gold "9" Pond 1898 MS63 Prooflike NGC Pretoria mint, KM-Unl., Hern-ZP6. The indisputable 'unicorn coin' in the entire South African series, the "Single 9 Overstamp" 1898 Pond remains unchallenged in its exclusive solitude. A distinct variant of the 130-piece "99" Pond issue (also presented in this sale), the "Single 9" Pond reportedly changed hands in a private sale in 2010, for a value documented as "multi-million Rand" by Hern. Other industry sources detail a more precise figure of R20,000,000, which was the equivalent of $2,700,000 at the average 2010 exchange rate. Possibly selected as the candidate for the overstamping for its gleaming 'Prooflike' appearance, this rarified treasure has been the prime target of South African experts for over a century.

The offering at hand holds an informed history, having been struck at precisely 10:30am on the 2nd of November, 1898. Notably absent were the reverse dies assigned with the forthcoming date of 1899; they had been misappropriated at Delagoa (Maputo) Bay by the British forces, thus impeding the vital task of producing currency for the impending year. Consequently, the Mint Master of Pretoria was prompted to impose an overstamp on the 1898 Ponde using a manual date punch. The very coin in question bears the honor of being the inaugural overstamp of this series. However, an obstacle immediately arose: the lone '9' punch was simply too large, inconveniently intersecting with the truncation of the President's effigy. In response to this dilemma, the mint's resourceful staff quickly recalibrated their approach and determined a smaller '9' punch to be more appropriate, leading to the remaining coins being struck with 'Double 99', and the sole 'Single 9' 1898 Pond's legend was born.

The coin comes accompanied by a laminated NGC Photo Proof document outlining the research conducted to authenticate this legendary piece, including the detailed explanation of the United States Consul General C.E. Macrum's 'M' monogram. Also included are two pieces of correspondence concerning the minting, one written by the government assayer at the time, J. Perrin, and the other by Macrum himself; in addition to the Farouk sale catalog (1954) and the telegram that informed Dr. Froelich about his acquisition.

To read the complete item description, see:
South Africa: Republic gold "9" Pond 1898 MS63 Prooflike NGC (https://coins.ha.com/itm/south-africa/south-africa-republic-gold-9-pond-1898-ms63-prooflike-ngc-/a/3121-31069.s)

India: Mughal Empire. Jahangir gold Zodiac "Aries" Mohur AH 1030 Year 16 (1620/1621) MS62 NGC Agra mint, cf. KM180.1 (for obverse), BM323 (same), Fr-762. 10.93gm. Ram, repose to left looking right over shoulder, with radiant sun behind / Name of Jahangir Shah, son of Akbar Shah in Persian, Agra mint and AH date 1030 above regnal year 16. Emperor Jahangir's fascination with astrology and the guidance of his court astronomers led to one of the most remarkable numismatic innovations in Mughal history: the gold Zodiac mohurs. Jahangir believed that celestial movements had a profound influence on life, and that decisions-even those related to coinage-should align with astrological advice. His dedication to this belief is evident in the unique coinage he introduced, with each coin featuring the zodiac constellation for the respective month.

Ex. NGSA Auction 11 (November 2019, Lot 37); CNG Triton XXII (January 2019, Lot 1260)

To read the complete item description, see:
India: Mughal Empire. Jahangir gold Zodiac "Aries" Mohur AH 1030 Year 16 (1620/1621) MS62 NGC (https://coins.ha.com/itm/india/mughal-empire/india-mughal-empire-jahangir-gold-zodiac-aries-mohur-ah-1030-year-16-1620-1621-ms62-ngc-/a/3121-33290.s)

Ethiopia: Empress Zauditu silver Essai Pattern Birr EE 1917 (1925) MS62 NGC Paris mint, Gil-Z5 var. (for obverse). Uneffaced denomination variety. By Dammann and Chaplain. A supreme rarity from the Ethiopian series and a type that has not been seen at market in silver since our handling of the Formosa example in 2014, also ranked MS62. The specimen on offer is simply astounding, a belief further confirmed when viewed in-hand under magnification. There, the collector will notice subtle but powerful artistic choices by the engravers who clearly wished to raise the profile of Menelik II's daughter, Empress Zauditu. Featuring a uniform cabinet tone that accentuates the peripheral legends while lending an appreciable matte-like appearance throughout, our specimen is in a visual class unto itself. While ultimately succeeded by Haile Selassie, these elusive Patterns would stay just that, struck in various metals and formats with minor variations and denominations, with so few in any combination extant. Those non-uniface examples in gold and silver are among the most prized products of Ethiopian numismatics and we anticipate a collector response commensurate with that fact.

Ex. Heritage Auction 3012 (January 2011, Lot 23808)

To read the complete item description, see:
Ethiopia: Empress Zauditu silver Essai Pattern Birr EE 1917 (1925) MS62 NGC (https://coins.ha.com/itm/ethiopia/ethiopia-empress-zauditu-silver-essai-pattern-birr-ee-1917-1925-ms62-ngc-/a/3121-32010.s)

Greek: PTOLEMAIC EGYPT. Arsinöe II Philadelphus (277-270/268 BC). AV mnaieion or octodrachm (27mm, 27.78 gm, 11h). NGC AU 5/5 - 3/5, Fine Style, brushed. Posthumous issue, Alexandria, under Ptolemy II, Group 4, 247/6 BC. Veiled head of deified Arsinöe II right, wearing diademed stephane and horn of Ammon, scepter surmounted by lotus over left shoulder; ? in left field, dotted border / APSINOHS-FI?A?E?FOY, double cornucopia bound with fillet, containing pyramidal cakes, pomegranates and other fruits, grape cluster hanging from the rim of each horn; dotted border. CPE 394. Svoronos 489. A striking Fine Style portrait on a smooth goldenrod flan.

Ex Numismatica Ars Classica, Auction 126 (17 November 2021), lot 274; Numismatica Ars Classica, private sale (2011).

To read the complete item description, see:
Greek: PTOLEMAIC EGYPT. Arsinöe II Philadelphus (277-270/268 BC). AV mnaieion or octodrachm (27mm, 27.78 gm, 11h). NGC AU 5/5 - 3/5, Fine Style, brushed. (https://coins.ha.com/itm/ancients/greek/greek-ptolemaic-egypt-arsinoe-ii-philadelphus-277-270-268-bc-av-mnaieion-or-octodrachm-27mm-2778-gm-11h-ngc/a/3121-33025.s)

Roman Imperial: Diva Faustina Senior (AD 138-140/1). AV aureus (19mm, 7.20 gm, 6h). NGC Choice MS 5/5 - 5/5 Rome, after AD 141. DIVA AVG-FAVSTINA, draped bust of Diva Faustina Senior right, seen from front, hair elaborately waved in several loops around head under thin band, braided, drawn up and coiled on top with pearls / PIETA-S AVG, Pietas standing facing, veiled head left, box in left hand, sprinkling incense with right over lighted and garlanded altar at left. RIC III (Antoninus Pius) 394a. Calicó 1799. Shimmering surfaces with radiant flow lines and sharp details.

To read the complete item description, see:
Roman Imperial: Diva Faustina Senior (AD 138-140/1). AV aureus (19mm, 7.20 gm, 6h). NGC Choice MS 5/5 - 5/5 (https://coins.ha.com/itm/ancients/roman-imperial/roman-imperial-diva-faustina-senior-ad-138-140-1-av-aureus-19mm-720-gm-6h-ngc-choice-ms-5-5-5-5/a/3121-33074.s)

Greek: CIMMERIAN BOSPORUS. Panticapaeum. Ca. 340-320 BC. AV stater (22mm, 9.09 gm, 11h). NGC MS 4/5 - 3/5, Fine Style, die shift Head of bearded Satyr (or Pan) left, wreathed with ivy bough / ?-A-N, griffin standing on grain ear left, head facing, holding spear in its mouth, right forepaw raised. MacDonald 54. Anokhin 1021. HGC 7, 20. SNG BM Black Sea 867. Gulbenkian 590. Absolutely jaw-dropping styling well-centered on a bright flan. This fantastic depiction of a mythical griffin must be enjoyed in hand. Starting out as a Greek trading post on the northern Black Sea coast settled by Milesian pioneers in the 7th century BC, Panticapaeum soon grew into a thriving city and home to the Spartocid kings - dynastic Greek rulers of the Bosporus. The city's fabulous wealth derived from its fertile grain fields and the thriving fishing industry of the northern Black Sea, all leading to a rich trade with the cities of mainland Greece and Asia Minor. This wealth is attested by its gold coins, which are typically larger and weightier than contemporary Greek gold pieces, and depict a wild-eyed satyr thought to represent the city's patron god and namesake, Pan. Here, Pan is shown with an expression evoking his role in sowing discord and fear (hence the term "panic") in enemy armies. While categorized as a mythological creature today, the griffin depicted on the reverse was very real to the Greeks of the Thracian hinterland, where it was thought to live. Griffins were said to be highly covetous of gold, a trait carried over into medieval conceptions of the dragon.

To read the complete item description, see:
Greek: CIMMERIAN BOSPORUS. Panticapaeum. Ca. 340-320 BC. AV stater (22mm, 9.09 gm, 11h). NGC MS 4/5 - 3/5, Fine Style, die shift (https://coins.ha.com/itm/ancients/greek/greek-cimmerian-bosporus-panticapaeum-ca-340-320-bc-av-stater-22mm-909-gm-11h-ngc-ms-4-5-3-5-fine-style-/a/3121-33009.s)

Great Britain: George V gold Proof Pattern Crown 1935 PR64 Cameo PCGS KM-PnM122, ESC-3656 (R3; prev. ESC-379), W&R-424. By Bertram Mackennal and Percy Metcalfe. A considerable rarity of an iconic type, here struck in gold and utilizing the instantly recognizable, redesigned reverse of George slaying the dragon by Metcalfe. Seldom are these off-metal strikings witnessed on the market, with only a handful even certified, here approaching a seemingly deserving Gem assignment and wonderful Cameo superlative. The Art Deco reverse remains especially crisp, with the raised devices amply frosted, lending to an already elevated aesthetic caliber. Produced upon a bright and luminous harvest-gold planchet, the example on offer is assuredly bound for a discerning cabinet for the specialist focusing in Crown-sized gold rarities.

To read the complete item description, see:
Great Britain: George V gold Proof Pattern Crown 1935 PR64 Cameo PCGS (https://coins.ha.com/itm/great-britain/great-britain-george-v-gold-proof-pattern-crown-1935-pr64-cameo-pcgs-/a/3121-33272.s)

India: The Most Exalted Order of the Star of India gold, silver, enamel & onyx Grand Cross Collar, Badge, Breast Star, Sash, and Sash Badge ND (Instituted 1861) UNC 1) enameled gold Collar, 24-1/2 x 17-1/4 in., 980gm. 2) enameled and carved gold, silver & onyx Collar Badge, 3-3/4 x 2-1/4 in., 95.93gm. 3) enameled and gilt-silver Breast Star, 3-1/4 in., 90.67gm. 4) enameled silver Sash Badge, 3-1/2 x 2-1/2 in., 42.95gm. 5) silk Sash, approx. 55 in. By R. & S. Gerard & Co., Goldsmiths and Jewelers to the Crown. An unimaginable offering that has simply blown this cataloger away, not only due to the impressive pedigree, but the quality of the contents of this original presentation piece. While the occasional breast star and sash badge are witnessed at market and always to great applause, seldom-seen are collars of any type, let alone in finely executed enamel and gold from the empire of Great Britain. In-part designed by Prince Albert himself, with all the fineries one expects from an order of chivalry of this magnitude, each detail is purposeful and symbolic, reflecting the desire to foster allegiances in India. The centerpiece of this Knights Grand Commander set is clearly the collar, featuring palm branches, the Tudor rose, and the lotus, all medallions linked with gold chain. Centrally inset are the faceted and gilt-silver breast star, a compartment for the light blue sash and enameled-silver sash badge, and an exceedingly fine gold and carved cameo badge; all of which read the order's motto: Heaven's Light Our Guide. A clear favorite of Farouk and B. Max Mehl, who had the pleasure of offering this and the other scarce orders and decorations within this very auction, showcasing the set as the first in the category at this particular sale, lending a full page description in his 1951 catalog. A truly exciting opportunity and one unlikely to be reproduced in a generation, with the only other full set located at auction selling in 2005. Scattered chips and flakes to enamel consistent with age. Accompanied by the original leather-clad and velvet-lined fitted case.

Ex. Collection of His Majesty King Farouk I of Egypt (B. Max Mehl, June 1951, Lot 2205)

To read the complete item description, see:
India: The Most Exalted Order of the Star of India gold, silver, enamel & onyx Grand Cross Collar, Badge, Breast Star, Sash, and Sash Badge ND (Instituted 1861) UNC (https://coins.ha.com/itm/india/british-india/india-the-most-exalted-order-of-the-star-of-india-gold-silver-enamel-and-onyx-grand-cross-collar-badge-breast-star-/a/3121-33302.s)

Italy: Vittorio Emanuele III gold Proof Prova 20 Lire 1906 PR65 Ultra Cameo NGC Milan mint, KM-Pr3, Pag-175 (R4). 6.26gm. Plain edge. By Egidio Boninsegna and struck at the workshop of Stefano Johnson. An astounding and diminutive rarity of the modern Italian series, where any Prova striking in gold excites collectors, especially at comparable tiers of preservation. Lavishly and carefully struck as to render the watery expanses fully reflective, projecting Vittorio Emanuele III's realistic bust and alluring bee reverse towards the viewer, warranting the Ultra Cameo superlative. The finest of just two of this plain edge variety certified by NGC and certainly worthy of considerable bidder engagement as such.

Ex: The Eternal Collection

To read the complete item description, see:
Italy: Vittorio Emanuele III gold Proof Prova 20 Lire 1906 PR65 Ultra Cameo NGC (https://coins.ha.com/itm/italy/italy-vittorio-emanuele-iii-gold-proof-prova-20-lire-1906-pr65-ultra-cameo-ngc-/a/3121-32076.s)

HERITAGE: FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE PROOFS

It has been said that the most passionate collectors are those who collect what they loved when they were younger. To those, it often is less about acquiring items of financial value and more about chasing the items that captured their fascination in years past.

Consider the case of Charlton Buckley. At the age of 12, the former San Francisco-area businessman began collecting coins; shortly thereafter, his numismatic interests spread to paper money as he developed an appetite for National Bank notes, large and small, large size U.S. notes and fractional currency. By the mid-1970s, he had built an extraordinary trove of California Nationals and notes, including California Gold Bank Notes. The collection reached into Federal Reserve Notes, both large and small, and was easily one of the foremost collections ever assembled.

The result of the lifelong passion is a trove now known as The Charlton Buckley Collection, of which 393 lots will be offered January 14-17 in Heritage's FUN US Currency Signature® Auction.

Included in the collection is America's Inaugural Federal Reserve Note Proof Archive, which offers a singular opportunity for the most serious collectors and once belonged to Albert Grinnell. Grinnell's collection was believed to be one of the finest and most complete ever assembled, and he considered this set the "Crowning Masterpiece" of his collection.

The offering comprises both face and back Proofs of Series 1914 and 1918 Federal Reserve notes of each denomination. Heritage has sold framed presentation sets of Federal Reserve notes before, selections that included $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 denominations. What makes this an extraordinary numismatic treasure is the fact that it also includes the $500, $1,000, $5,000 and $10,000 denominations.

On December 23, 1913, President Woodrow Wilson signed into law the Federal Reserve Act, a bill that transformed the American monetary system and paved the way for a new banknote design. Several design prototypes were considered before a final selection was made the following fall, the Proofs printed from the actual currency plates onto cardstock, and the Treasury seal and solid zero serial numbers glued on by hand. The 1916 Annual Report of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing described two sets of the $5 to $100 denominations, but additional sets of Series 1914 Proofs are known to have been presented by Secretary of the Treasury William G. McAdoo to select officials in the latter part of the year. To provide a secure transfer of large amounts of cash between banks, the 1918 Federal Reserve Notes were printed only in $500, $1,000, $5,000 and $10,000 denominations – elusive trophies that are included in the set offered in this auction. It is the last two notes in this set that catapult Buckley's Federal Reserve Note collection into the annals of legendary numismatic collections.

"Within a few years, by 1926, rules for handling Proofs required that they were destroyed after use to prevent any Proofs from being distributed outside the Bureau of Engraving and Printing," says Dustin Johnston, Vice President of Numismatics at Heritage Auctions. "Specimens were still printed and distributed, but the Proofs in this set very well might be the last Proofs that made it out of the Bureau, since none of the Series 1923 notes in Proof form are known to exist."

Grinnell most likely acquired this set, with its 18 uniface Proofs, from one of his many contacts within the Treasury Department. His appearance in the set's provenance automatically boosts value and interest, given the track record of other items once held in his collection that have generated seven-figure results, including a Grand Watermelon, which currently tops the list of most expensive banknotes ever sold at auction after realizing $3,290,000 in Heritage's 2014 FUN US Currency Signature® Auction in 2014.

"The 1918 $5,000 and $10,000 Proofs are unique in any form in private hands," Johnston says. "In other words, collectors have exactly one opportunity to acquire either one, and that opportunity is this incredible set."

To read the complete article, see:
America's Inaugural Federal Reserve Note Proof Archive Heads to Auction (https://intelligentcollector.com/americas-inaugural-federal-reserve-note-proof-archive-heads-to-auction/)

STACKS BOWERS: CANADIAN BANKNOTE SALE

We are thrilled to announce The Canadian Banknote Sale, now available for viewing and pre-sale bidding online at StacksBowers.com. The live auction event will take place on January 28, 2025. This is a significant milestone for Stack's Bowers Galleries, and we are excited to bring this exceptional collection of Canadian banknotes to collectors, investors, and enthusiasts around the world.

With nearly 500 lots of rare and highly sought-after items, this sale features a rich selection of historical notes, including Chartered, Colonial, Dominion of Canada, and Bank of Canada banknotes.

CANADA. Royal Bank of Canada. 20 Dollars, 2.1.1909. CH #630-10-04-22. PMG Choice Fine 15. Blue frame. This $20 note is the second-highest denomination of the series, with the 1909 issue being part of the second series issued by the Royal Bank of Canada. A rare example, the Charlton Catalogue lists only 16 known notes, a number that according to the Canadian note registry does not yet include the present piece. Grade-wise it falls right in line with most known examples, with only a handful grading above Fine.

To read the complete item description, see:
CANADA. Royal Bank of Canada. 20 Dollars, 2.1.1909. CH #630-10-04-22. PMG Choice Fine 15. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1G422D/canada-royal-bank-of-canada-20-dollars-211909-ch-630-10-04-22-pmg-choice-fine-15)

CANADA. French Administration. 24 Livres, 1733. P-S108. PMG Very Fine 25. An exceptionally rare piece of card money, dated 1733 at upper right. 24 Livres was the highest denomination of card money and is known as having been issued in 1729, 1730, 1733, 1735, 1742, and 1749. All card money is rare, and the present issue is no exception, with opportunities to acquire examples presenting itself extremely infrequently. While listed in the Pick specialized catalog they were government issued and they should have been listed in Volume 1. The Charlton catalog lists this issue on page 2, and states "all card money is very rare," making reference to a 2019 sale of a 1729 dated 24 Livres for $38,675 Canadian.

The economic development of New France was deeply intertwined with its natural resources and geographic advantages, which played a pivotal role in its growth. The fur trade emerged as the colony's primary economic driver, creating lucrative markets and fostering trade networks that connected the St. Lawrence River region to Europe. Strategic trading posts, such as Quebec City (where this was issued) and Montreal, became vital hubs for commerce and the transportation of goods.

However, lack of circulating coinage was a persistent problem, and often deterred economic growth. In the late 17th century, a solution was found by using playing cards, signed and dated. While initially disapproved by the French King, the playing cards brought temporary relief. When the French crown started redeeming the cards for silver coin at 50% of their face value, the cards disappeared from circulation, and by 1720 no more playing cards were in circulation. Lack of coinage continued to plague the colony, and in 1729 a new series of cards was issued, which would include the present example. This time, the French King approved of the cards, and the public accepted them at a large scale, although hoarding was a persistent problem. After the fall of New France in 1763 the notes were redeemed at a quarter of their face value.

Previously from the Peter Broeker collection. This lot includes a copy of a letter sent to Mr. Broeker by the Bank of Canada in 1975 confirming the authenticity of this piece.

To read the complete item description, see:
CANADA. French Administration. 24 Livres, 1733. P-S108. PMG Very Fine 25. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1G426X/canada-french-administration-24-livres-1733-p-s108-pmg-very-fine-25)

CANADA. Dominion of Canada. 2 Dollars, 1.7.1870. DC-3e. Payable at Victoria. PMG Choice Very Fine 35. The undisputed highlight of this auction and one of the greatest Canadian numismatic rarities to have ever been brought to the collecting community. Viewed from the front, this appears like a (still very scarce) 1870 $2 from the Dominion of Canada, preserved in remarkable condition. One might expect to see Montreal or perhaps Toronto or maybe even Halifax on the back, indicating the city this note was payable in. But instead, the name "VICTORIA" gracefully adorns the back of this example. Ever since the first edition of the Charlton catalog DC-3e was listed simply as "No Known Issued Notes ". That changes now, with the discovery and our subsequent offering of the unique 1870 $2 payable at Victoria, British Colombia. Even the National Currency Collection lacks an example of this note, and until now, none were even rumored to exist. 24.000 notes were reportedly printed and shipped to the Pacific Coast, but all were lost to the sands of time, until this piece recently turned up in Europe.

Beyond its rarity, the note's impeccable state of preservation makes it even more remarkable. All Canadian 1870 $2 notes are difficult to find, and examples in grades above Fine are exceptionally rare. The PMG population report shows no examples of this type ever having been graded above Very Fine 20. This newly discovered example, graded Choice Very Fine 35 by PMG, boasts crisp paper, vibrant inks, and detailed engravings that remain as vivid as when they were first printed. A comment for lightened stains does little to detract from the piece's overall appearance. As such, not only is it unique for its place of issue, but it is also the finest example of this important Canadian type.

At the time this 1870 $2 was issued, western Canada had a sparse population and few financial institutions, resulting in limited issuance and circulation of paper currency. British Columbia, which became a province of Canada on July 20, 1871, had a population of about 36,000 at the time. Victoria's financial landscape in the early 1870s had been shaped by its status as a frontier economy and its strategic role in British Columbia's integration into Canada. The city had emerged as a commercial hub during the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush (1858-1860), when it attracted miners and merchants. However, by the early 1870s, the gold rush had largely subsided, and Victoria's economy shifted to industries like logging, fishing, and trade with the United States and Asia.

Victoria had a population of just 3,630 people in April 1871. Its remote location, reliance on gold and silver coinage, and competition from U.S. and private bank currencies reduced the need for large quantities of government-issued paper money, even after British Columbia entered the Canadian Confederation. It is quite surprising then, that after British Columbia became a Canadian province, such notes were even issued. But as the capital of British Columbia, issuing these notes, payable at Victoria must have been thought an important contribution to the growth of the region.

It is difficult to locate any comparable for this piece. The $1 denomination was also issued at Victoria, and of that denomination, three pieces are believed to exist, including a single example in the National Currency Collection. This type was also issued at St. John, in Newfoundland, with a reported printing of 150,000 notes. A low-grade note is in the National Currency Collection, which the Canadian Note Registry states that "a high grade example, details unknown, exists in a private collection". It should not come as a surprise that this note, payable at Victoria, is of such tremendous rarity that it was difficult to come up with an estimate, but we have kept it modest, to let the Canadian specialists decide what this world-class rarity is ultimately worth. PMG Comments "Stains Lightened."

To read the complete item description, see:
CANADA. Dominion of Canada. 2 Dollars, 1.7.1870. DC-3e. Payable at Victoria. PMG Choice Very Fine 35. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1G428G/canada-dominion-of-canada-2-dollars-171870-dc-3e-payable-at-victoria-pmg-choice-very-fine-35)

CANADA. Dominion of Canada. 500 Dollars, 2.1.1925. DC-28S. Specimen. PMG Choice Uncirculated 64. One of Canada's most sought-after banknotes, a mere seven issued examples are known to exist of this type, out of just 40,000 originally printed. Not surprisingly, specimens such as this example are much in demand, as it is the only way most collectors can reasonably hope to acquire this rare type, although it would be a stretch to call them anything but rare, with most known specimens tightly held. The $500 and $1000 of this series were rather hastily designed after the Department of Finance encountered trouble issuing the 1911 notes of these high denominations, as is iterated in Charlton. As a result, it was decided to use the portrait of King George V from the 1923 $1 design. Executed in an appealing shade of blue by the Canadian Bank Note Company, it is a shame that this type is so rare, as it is quite attractive. This is one of just two such specimens presently graded by PMG, of which this is the finer of the two, giving an indication that specimens of this type may even be rarer than the issued notes. Needless to say, a tremendous opportunity for the Canadian specialist, and one we don't expect to repeat in the near future. PMG Comments "Previously Mounted".

To read the complete item description, see:
CANADA. Dominion of Canada. 500 Dollars, 2.1.1925. DC-28S. Specimen. PMG Choice Uncirculated 64. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1G42CX/canada-dominion-of-canada-500-dollars-211925-dc-28s-specimen-pmg-choice-uncirculated-64)

CANADA. Bank of Canada. 1 Dollar, 2.1.1937. BC-21d. Serial Number 1. PCGS Banknote Choice Extremely Fine 45. Coyne - Towers signature combination. E/N prefix. An exceptional offering and no doubt one of the highlights of the present auction. While the Bank of Canada over the years has made low-numbered notes available to collectors, and they even did so for the 1935 series, the 1937 series did not get the same treatment. Instead, they were quietly released into circulation, and as a result, low serial numbers on any of the denominations issued are extremely rare. In fact, one could easily make the argument that solid serial numbers on this series are much more available, and a survey of auction records confirms this. The $1 seen here with serial number 1 is the first we have been able to offer to the Canadian collector community. While it has a middle prefix and is seen in lightly circulated condition, its desirability cannot be overstated. An exceptional opportunity that is unlikely to repeat itself anytime soon.

To read the complete item description, see:
CANADA. Bank of Canada. 1 Dollar, 2.1.1937. BC-21d. Serial Number 1. PCGS Banknote Choice Extremely Fine 45. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1G42JD/canada-bank-of-canada-1-dollar-211937-bc-21d-serial-number-1-pcgs-banknote-choice-extremely-fine-45)

CANADA. Bank of Canada. 1000 Dollars, 2.1.1937. BC-28. Low Serial Number. PMG Choice Uncirculated 64 EPQ. Osborne - Towers signature combination. A/K prefix. One of Canada's most sought-after high-value banknotes, this stunning Choice Uncirculated 64 EPQ example is a standout. Issued by the Bank of Canada, it represents the second $1,000 note issued by that institution, and notably, it is the only 1937 issue besides the $100 not to feature King George VI. The front displays a central portrait of Sir Wilfrid Laurier, framed by red under-printing and rays. The back showcases an allegorical scene of a kneeling female figure shielding her child. Less than 90 notes of this type have been recorded in the Canadian Paper Money Society Note Registry. With bold, well-defined printing and vibrant colors, this note is of exceptional quality. Featuring a low three-digit serial number, it offers a prime opportunity for collectors to acquire or upgrade to a striking near-gem example.

To read the complete item description, see:
CANADA. Bank of Canada. 1000 Dollars, 2.1.1937. BC-28. Low Serial Number. PMG Choice Uncirculated 64 EPQ. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1G42QG/canada-bank-of-canada-1000-dollars-211937-bc-28-low-serial-number-pmg-choice-uncirculated-64-epq)

 

STEPHEN ALBUM RARE COINS AUCTION 51

Stephen Album Rare Coins will hold its Auction 51 from January 23-26, 2025 at their offices in Santa Rosa, California. The auction is made up of 4150 lots of Ancient, Islamic, Indian, Chinese, and World Coins. The first two days will include in-person bidding as well as online bidding, while the third and fourth days will be online-only sessions.

Featured collections in the auction include:

• The Joe Sedillot Collection of German Coins
• The Howard A. Daniel III Collection of Asian Coins
• The Wilfried Pieper Collection of Ancient Indian Coins
• The Dr. Dirk Löer Collection of Chinese Coins
• The Dr. Robert A. Rosenfeld Collection of World Coins
• The Michael More Collection of British Coins
• The Almer H. Orr III Collection of World Coins

Lot viewing is available by appointment at the firm's offices in Santa Rosa, California. Select highlights will be on display at their Table #612 at the New York International Numismatic Convention from January 16-19, 2025.

Some highlights from the sale follow:

Lot 147
MEDIEVAL ISLAMIC: Abbasid Caliphate: al-Radi, 934-940, AV donative dinar (4.23g), Madinat al-Salam, AH329, A-254H, Bernardi—, as the regular dinar citing the heir al-Fadl and the chief amir Abu'l-Husayn Bajkam with the title Mawlahu ("his client"); but with a broad outer margin on both sides, as used only for donative (presentation) coins in silver and gold; with a test cut; an incredible piece, unique and of the greatest rarity! NGC graded UNC details
Estimated at $7,000 to $9,000

Lot 651
INDIA: Mughal Empire: Jahangir, 1605-1628, AV heavy mohur (13.64g), Agra, AH1018 year 4, KM-185.1, with "Khushru" couplet, shahe nur ud din jahangir ibn akbar badshah // sikka zad dar shahr e agra khusru e giti panah, a lovely lustrous mint state example and a brilliant testament to the numismatic artistry of India! PCGS graded MS63
Estimated at $25,000 to $35,000

Lot 1004
WORLD COINS: Waldeck-Pyrmont: Friedrich, 1893-1918, AR 5 mark, 1903-A, KM-192, Y-213. Dav-930, J-171, an extremely rare proof 5 mark issue, a key for proof collectors, PCGS graded Proof 65 CAM, RRR, ex Joe Sedillot Collection
Estimated at $3,000 to $5,000

Lot 1307
WORLD COINS: German New Guinea: Wilhelm II, 1888-1918, AR 5 mark, 1894-A, KM-7, J-707, Deutsche Neuguinea-Compagnie issue, bird of paradise on a bough, a wonderful mint state example and rare so nice! PCGS graded MS64, R, ex Joe Sedillot Collection
Estimated at $6,000 to $8,000

Lot 1424
WORLD COINS: Philippines: U.S. Territory: 7-coin proof set, 1908, KM-PS5, all graded by PCGS, set includes 1/2 centavo PR65RB, 1 centavo PR64RB, 5 centavos PR65, 10 centavos PR66, 20 centavos PR65, 50 centavos PR63, and 1 peso PR64, a lovely high quality set with a mintage of only 500 sets!
Estimated at $3,000 to $5,000

Lot 1562
CHINA: Republic, AR 50 cents, year 3 (1914), Y-328, L&M-64, Yuan Shi Kai in military uniform, a scarce type in general, especially in high grade, and nearly impossible to get in choice mint state such as this lustrous example, PCGS graded MS65, ex Almer H. Orr III Collection
Estimated at $10,000 to $15,000

Lot 1565
CHINA: Republic, AR dollar, Central Mint, Tientsin, ND (1914), Y-322, L&M-858, K-642, 39mm Regular Strike type, commemorative for the Founding of the Republic of China; facing bust of Yuan Shih Kai in military attire and tall, plumed hat // value within wreath, a wonderful lustrous nearly mint state example with pleasant toning, NGC graded AU58
Estimated at $14,000 to $18,000

Lot 1619
CHINA: People's Republic: 5-coin gold proof set, 1993, KM-546-47 & 549-51, Fr-68-73, SET includes: 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 yuan featuring Guanyin (Kuan Yin), the Bodhisattva of Compassion, seated in a lotus blossom, all with P (proof) mark, accompanied with original People's Bank of China red case of issue and card cover, with COA numbered 0862 and Goddess of Mercy card, an official mintage of 1000 sets but only around 500 sets were produced!
Estimated at $10,000 to $20,000

The firm is currently accepting consignments for its forthcoming auctions in 2025.

Please see www.stevealbum.com for more information.

BIDEN AWARDS NATIONAL MEDALS

President Joe Biden revealed the newest honorees of the recipients of the National Medal of Science and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation. The laureates were honored during a prestigious ceremony at the White House last Friday. These esteemed awards celebrate groundbreaking contributions that have advanced knowledge, driven progress and tackled the world's most critical needs while underscoring the vital role of research and creativity in fostering a brighter, more sustainable future.

The National Medal of Science, established in 1959 by the U.S. National Science Foundation, recognizes outstanding contributions across scientific disciplines, celebrating groundbreaking discoveries and innovations that tackle humanity's most urgent needs. Similarly, the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, created in 1980 by the U.S. Congress, honors visionaries whose advancements have revolutionized industries, driven economic growth and strengthened the nation's global competitiveness.

"As we celebrate these extraordinary recipients, we are reminded of the boundless potential of science and technology to transform lives and shape the future," said NSF Chief Science Officer Karen Marrongelle. "NSF is proud to have supported many of these trailblazers whose groundbreaking work demonstrates the power of curiosity, creativity and collaboration in driving innovation and addressing humanity's greatest challenges."

Among this year's honorees are several distinguished individuals with ties to NSF. John Dabiri, Feng Zhang and Jennifer Doudna are former recipients of NSF's prestigious Alan T. Waterman Award, which recognizes exceptional early-career scientists and engineers for their transformative contributions. Keivan Stassun, a current member of the National Science Board and a former member of NSF's Committee for Equal Opportunity in Science and Engineering, has been a leader in advancing diversity, equity and inclusion in STEM.

These honorees exemplify NSF's enduring role in fostering groundbreaking research, nurturing talent and driving innovation across the scientific and engineering enterprise. Among the recipients, NSF has funded, at some point in their careers, all 14 recipients of the National Medal of Science and eight of the nine recipients of the National Medal of Technology and Innovation.

The recipients are:

National Medal of Science

• Richard B. Alley, Pennsylvania State University.
• Larry Martin Bartels, Vanderbilt University.
• Bonnie L. Bassler, Princeton University.
• Angela Marie Belcher, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
• Helen M. Blau, Stanford University.
• Emery Neal Brown, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
• Ingrid Daubechies, Duke University.
• Cynthia Dwork, Harvard University.
• R. Lawrence Edwards, University of Minnesota.
• Wendy L. Freedman, The University of Chicago.
• G. David Tilman, University of Minnesota.
• Teresa Kaye Woodruff, Michigan State University.
• John O. Dabiri, California Institute of Technology.
• Keivan G. Stassun, Vanderbilt University.

National Medal of Technology and Innovation

• Martin Cooper.
• Eric Fossum, Dartmouth University.
• Victor B. Lawrence.
• Jennifer Doudna, University of California, Berkeley.
• Kristina M. Johnson.
• Feng Zhang, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
• Paula Hammond, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
• David R. Walt, Harvard University.
• Paul G. Yock, Stanford University.

National Medal of Technology and Innovation Organization Recipients

• Moderna Inc.
• Pfizer.

To read the complete article, see:
NSF congratulates recipients of the prestigious National Medal of Science and National Medal of Technology and Innovation awards (https://new.nsf.gov/news/nsf-congratulates-recipients-prestigious-national-medal)

• Martin Cooper for his work in advancing in personal wireless communications for over 50 years. Cited in the Guinness Book of World Records for making the first cellular telephone call, Cooper, known as the "father of the cell phone," spent much of his career at Motorola.
• Jennifer A. Doudna, a Nobel Laureate in Chemistry and the Li Ka Shing Chancellor's Chair in Biomedical and Health Sciences at the University of California, Berkeley. She is a pioneer of CRISPR gene editing.
• Feng Zhang, the James and Patricia Poitras Professor of Neuroscience at MIT and a professor of brain and cognitive sciences and biological engineering, was recognized for his work developing molecular tools, including the CRISPR genome-editing system.

To read the complete article, see:
Biden Names 25 Recipients Of National Medals Of Science, Technology (https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaeltnietzel/2025/01/05/biden-names-25-recipients-of-national-medals-of-science-technology/)

See also:
MIT affiliates awarded 2024 National Medals of Science, Technology (https://news.mit.edu/2025/mit-affiliates-awarded-national-medals-science-technology-0103)
Jennifer Doudna receives National Medal of Technology and Innovation (https://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/jennifer-doudna-receives-national-medal-technology-and-innovation)

For more information on the medals, see:
The National Medal of Science (https://new.nsf.gov/honorary-awards/national-medal-science)
National Medal of Technology and Innovation (NMTI) (https://www.uspto.gov/learning-and-resources/ip-programs-and-awards/national-medal-technology-and-innovation-nmti)

To read the earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
AUGUSTUS SAGE'S CYRUS FIELD MEDAL (https://www.coinbooks.org/v27/esylum_v27n26a22.html)
BIDEN AWARDS PRESIDENTIAL CITIZENS MEDALS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n01a23.html)
BIDEN AWARDS MEDAL OF FREEDOM (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n01a24.html)

 

BIDEN AWARDS MEDAL OF FREEDOM TO POPE

President Biden awarded the nation's highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, to Pope Francis on Saturday.

The honor specifically came "with distinction," becoming the first person to receive the added level of honor by Biden.

In a statement, the White House commended Pope Francis for his commitment to serving the poor, as well as advocating for peace and protecting the planet.

"A loving pastor, he joyfully answers children's questions about God. A challenging teacher, he commands us to fight for peace and protect the planet. A welcoming leader, he reaches out to different faiths. The first pope from the Southern Hemisphere, Pope Francis is unlike any who came before," the statement read.

It concluded: "Above all, he is the People's Pope — a light of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly across the world."

Biden is the second Catholic president in U.S. history. But unlike John F. Kennedy, who was known for downplaying his faith, Biden has embraced it.

Pope Francis is the third pope to receive the medal. Pope John XXIII was posthumously recognized by President Lyndon Johnson in 1963, and Pope John Paul II was honored by President George W. Bush in 2004.

To read the complete article, see:
Biden awards Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction (https://www.npr.org/2025/01/11/nx-s1-5256937/biden-pope-francis-medal-of-freedom)

Mr. Biden honored the pontiff during a weekend in which he was scheduled to meet with the pope in person at the Holy See. The president, however, canceled the three-day trip to Italy to coordinate the federal response to raging wildfires in Los Angeles, according to a White House statement.

Rather than the usual award ceremony, in which the president places the award around the neck of the recipient, Mr. Biden posted on X an image from the Oval Office in which a military aide presented the medal. The White House announced the honor after Mr. Biden spoke to Pope Francis on Saturday and informed him of the award.

To read the complete article, see:
Biden Awards Medal of Freedom to Pope Francis (https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/11/us/politics/biden-medal-of-freedom-pope-francis.html)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
BIDEN AWARDS MEDAL OF FREEDOM (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n01a24.html)

THE PAPER MONEY OF BERBICE

In this blog we will look at an item that we will be offering later this year, a note from one of the rarest issuing authorities in the British Commonwealth: the Colony of Berbice. The colony of Berbice was a de facto colony of Great Britain from 1803 to 1815 when the British occupied the former Dutch colony. The Dutch formally ceded Berbice to the British with the November 1815 ratification of the 1814 Anglo-Dutch Treaty. In 1831, Berbice merged with Essequibo & Demerara to form the new colony of British Guiana, which eventually became the country of Guiana.

Throughout the 18th century, Berbice saw limited development, with scattered plantations along the Berbice and Canje rivers. The capital of the colony was Fort Nassau, located 50 miles from the coast on the Berbice River. Another settlement, known as Nieuw (New) Amsterdam, was located near the coast. Development of the colony was closely linked with nearby Suriname (also a Dutch colony that would remain so until 1975 when it gained its independence).

In 1762, the country had a recorded population of about 4,500 people, not including the Native people that had called the land home for generations. Less than 10% of the population were white Europeans, with the majority consisting of enslaved Africans, including many recent arrivals. The following year, under the leadership of an enslaved man named Coffij, the first major slave revolt in the Americas took place in Berbice. The 1763 Berbice Rebellion saw thousands of slaves revolt against the Europeans, who were driven away from their plantations. Only after reinforcements arrived from neighboring colonies and Europe was the uprising struck down. For an excellent read on the rebellion, I suggest Blood on the River: A Chronicle of Mutiny and Freedom on the Wild Coast by Marjoleine Kars.

Paper money collectors may be familiar with the issue of Essequibo & Demerara, which is typically seen in unissued form and listed in the Pick catalog under British Guiana, with notes denominated in Joes and Guilders. Coins were also issued, which circulated alongside Dutch Guldens (Guilders) leftover from the Dutch period. In nearby Berbice Guilders were also the currency of choice. At the time Berbice continued to be sparsely settled (New Amsterdam had a total population of fewer than 2,500 people in the early 1820s, many of whom continued to be enslaved individuals). However, paper currency was also printed for the Colony of Berbice. In A History of Currency in the British Colonies, published in 1893, Sir Robert B. Chalmers writes:

Of this amount, Chalmers writes that 94,907 Guilders "represented issues of 1826," which appear to be notes dated 1825. Despite what must have been a fairly substantial issue, very few examples of paper money issued in the Colony of Berbice are known to exist. When Berbice united with Demerara and Essequibo in 1831 to form British Guiana it appears virtually all notes in circulation at the time were withdrawn, and today, notes from Berbice are extremely rare.

Just two examples of paper money printed for the Colony of Berbice have appeared publicly in the past four decades. A 10 Stivers dated 1825, in remainder form, is in the collection of the British Museum, where it has been since 1984. Another remainder example of the same denomination was sold at public auction in 2021. To that we can now add a 1 Guilder, also dated 1825. While the serial number and signatures have faded, they remain partly visible, and there is no doubt that this note (graded Choice Fine 15 by PMG) is a fully issued example that circulated in Berbice in the 1820s. A true miracle of survival, there is little else at this time that we can add about this note except for a description of its design. A typical British printing of the period, the note is uniface, and shows a vignette of Justice at upper left, and a decorative border at left no doubt meant to deter counterfeiting. The note is signed by two commissaries and a secretary "By Command of the Council of Government." The note is printed on watermarked paper, with the watermark consisting of the words "COLONY OF BERBICE."

With so little known about the paper money of Berbice, this note is a truly fascinating relic of history that will surely be of interest to specialists of the Commonwealth or British Guiana. The newly-discovered issued 1825 1 Guilder will be offered as part of our Spring 2025 Maastricht Showcase Auction – World Paper Money.

To read the complete article, see:
Colony of Berbice: One of the Rarest Locales in Commonwealth Paper Money (https://stacksbowers.com/colony-of-berbice-one-of-the-rarest-locales-in-commonwealth-paper-money/)

2025 CHINESE NEW YEAR COMMEMORATIVES

This photo taken on Jan. 3, 2025 shows commemorative banknotes issued by China's central bank in celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year. The exchange of a set of commemorative coins and notes issued by China's central bank to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year was started on Friday. (Xinhua/Li Xin)

This undated photo shows commemorative coins issued by China's central bank to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year. The exchange of a set of commemorative coins and notes issued by China's central bank to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year was started on Friday. (China Banknote Printing and Minting/Handout via Xinhua)

To read the complete article, see:
Commemorative coins, banknotes to celebrate upcoming Chinese New Year start to exchange (https://english.news.cn/20250103/4b84a2322c5846b6b7b150cf23316503/c.html)

EISENHOWER'S ECONOMY FIXER: JOE DODGE

... Musk and Ramaswamy should take inspiration from an American who fostered necessary fiscal discipline in no fewer than three countries—Germany, Japan, and the United States. His name was Joseph Morrell Dodge.

Born in Detroit in 1890, Joe Dodge was a successful Michigan banker nearing retirement when he was tapped to chair the War Contracts Board during World War II. His scrutiny of the deals between the government and armaments firms paid off. He saved taxpayers the equivalent of 200 billion in today's dollars.

With the war's end in 1945, the devastated German economy required his attention. General of the Army Dwight D. Eisenhower wired Washington: "Get Dodge to Germany fast."

... Ravaged by hyperinflation, Germans often preferred cigarettes to near-worthless German marks. To begin correcting a desperate situation, Dodge advised spending cuts and a balanced budget. Following the work of the young economist Edward Tenenbaum, who also advised the post-war administration in West Germany and would later be known as the "Father of the Deutschemark," Dodge also proposed a 90 percent reduction in paper currency. Germans would receive one new mark for ten old ones.

Dodge's reforms were just taking root in West Germany when, in early 1949, President Truman dispatched him to Japan to work with the Supreme Commander of the Allied Powers, the legendary General Douglas MacArthur.

What became known as "The Dodge Line" did the trick. By implementing a balanced national budget and shutting down the printing presses, it ended hyperinflation. It drastically reduced government economic intervention across the board. It rationalized an incomprehensible tax code. Dodge's intention was not to "plan" the Japanese economy, but rather to finally leave it alone. He killed every subsidy and price control he could get his hands on, and MacArthur cheered him as he did it.

Once inflation was killed, Dodge established a yen-to-dollar exchange rate of 360-to-1, where it remained unchanged for almost a quarter-century. Stable money became a key pillar of the Japanese economic miracle.

Gone in Dodge's first budget for Japan were the Liquor Rationing Public Corporation and the Petroleum Rationing Public Corporation, along with dozens of other departments and bureaucracies. Another notable and deserving casualty was the Reconstruction Finance Bank, which made so many bad loans and fostered so much money printing that its effect was nicknamed "Reconstruction Finance Bank Inflation" by many Japanese. Dodge closed it down—lock, stock, and barrel.

To read the complete article, see:
DOGE and Joe Dodge (https://fee.org/articles/doge-and-joe-dodge/)

FEATURED WEBSITE: MINTS OF THE WORLD

This week's Featured Website is an old one listing Mints of the World.

http://www.mintsoftheworld.com/

ABOUT THIS ISSUE: JANUARY 12, 2025

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

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

Pete Smith
Numismatic researcher and author Pete Smith of Minnesota has written about early American coppers, Vermont coinage, numismatic literature, tokens and medals, the history of the U.S. Mint and much more. Author of American Numismatic Biographies, he contributes original articles to The E-Sylum often highlighting interesting figures in American numismatic history.

Greg Bennick
Greg Bennick (www.gregbennick.com) is a keynote speaker and long time coin collector with a focus on major mint error coins and US counterstamps. He is on the board of both CONECA and TAMS and enjoys having in-depth conversations with prominent numismatists from all areas of the hobby. Have ideas for other interviewees? Contact him anytime on the web or via instagram @minterrors.

John Nebel
Numismatist, photographer, and ANS Board member and Fellow John Nebel of Boulder, CO helped the ANA and other clubs like NBS get online in the early days of the internet, hosting websites gratis through his Computer Systems Design Co. To this day he hosts some 50 ANA member club sites along with our coinbooks.org site, making the club and our E-Sylum archive available to collectors and researchers worldwide.

Bruce Perdue
Encased coinage collector (encasedcoins.info) Bruce Perdue of Aurora, Illinois has been the volunteer NBS webmaster from its early days and works each week to add the latest E-Sylum issue to our archive and send out the email announcement.