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 can go to the following web page Subscribe You may Unsubscribe Here Membership There is a membership application available on the web site Membership Application To join, print the application and return it with your check to the address printed on the application. Print/Digital membership is $40 to addresses in the U.S., and $60 elsewhere. A digital-only membership is available for $25. For those without web access, write to: Jeff Dickerson, Treasurer Numismatic Bibliomania Society P. O. Box 578, Weatherford, TX 76086 Asylum For Asylum mailing address changes and other membership questions, contact Jeff at this email address: treasurer@coinbooks.org Submissions To submit items for publication in The E-Sylum, write to the Editor at this address: whomren@gmail.com BUY THE BOOK BEFORE THE COIN Sale Calendar June 13, 2026 - 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 MAY 24, 2026

New subscribers this week include: Dr. Roman K. Kovalev. Welcome aboard! We now have 6,483 subscribers.

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

This week we open with an new Asylum issue, a numismatic literature sale, the new Red Book, updates from the Newman Numismatic Portal, notes from readers, and more.

Other topics this week include John Highfill, Mike Bean, the Whitman Expo, souvenir and relic medals, fixed price and auction selections, the Imperial Collection, stepping the mast of the HMS Victory, Saddam Huessein banknotes, and the Trump gold coin.

To learn more about the beginnings of "Gradeflation", Mark Hofmann and the Mormon Church Forgeries, the library of James C. Risk, Newman Grant winners, collector James B. Clemens, the Christina Nilsson medal, the Caine Collection of obsolete banknotes, coins from the SS Republic, a coin incorporating a QR code, the inspiration for Pistrucci's St. George, and why Eddie Van Halen put a quarter on his guitar, read on. Have a great week, everyone!

Wayne Homren
Editor, The E-Sylum

 

ASYLUM SUMMER 2026 ISSUE PUBLISHED

Welcome to The Asylum's Summer 2026 digital edition.

In this issue:

• Dr. John F. Rainey, MBE, 1950–2026 Remembrances by Darryl Atchison, Douglas Saville and David Fanning
• Getting Started with Ancient Greek Coins: The Essential Literature By William E. Daehn
• David Muirhead: Pioneer Collector of Mexican Revolution Coins (1913–1917) By Adrián González-Salinas
• S. Hudson Chapman and the Beginnings of "Gradeflation" By Harry E. Salyards
• Alvin Rust, Mark Hofmann, and the Mormon Church Forgeries By Mike Costanzo
• Admiral Smyth and His "Vast Quantity of Coins" By David Pickup
• Numismatic Bibliomania: Symptoms of the Affliction By Mike Costanzo

If you are anything like me, your library is in a constant state of flux with piles of books dotting the house, awaiting integration into ever decreasing shelf space. Other volumes might get pulled for the latest research project, which never seems to come to fruition, until the pyramid of books resembles archaeological strata that documents the wandering thoughts of the bibliophile. Such disorganization is not to be feared but rather represents a necessary step in the production of creative and enduring research. Writing articles and books is never perfectly efficient, and, if it were otherwise, would be rather boring. It is often the unexpected byways that lead us toward new discoveries, and the seemingly random assortment of books strewn about our libraries is a sure sign that our brains are open to new possibilities. At least, this is what I tell my wife Debra.

On the NBS front, it's not too early to think about the upcoming ANA convention in Pittsburgh, August 25–29. The NBS will host our usual club table on the bourse floor, where we will exhibit items for sale in the annual fundraiser auction scheduled for Friday, August 28 at 11:30AM. We do solicit donated material for this sale, please contact myself or David Fanning for further details. On Thursday, August 27, at 1:00PM, the NBS Symposium program at the ANA convention welcomes Cassie Brand, Rare Books Curator at Washington University, who will advance our understanding of connoisseurship in book collecting. I'm not sure she will agree with my thoughts on library organization, but it will make for an engaging debate!

Each year at the ANA World's Fair of Money, the Numismatic Bibliomania Society conducts a benefit auction to raise funds for the organization. All items sold are donated to the NBS by members and 100% of the proceeds go to the NBS treasury. Suggested lot value is $100 and up, but smaller donations may be accepted. A catalog will be compiled and distributed prior to the auction and absentee bid may be placed for those who cannot attend.

Please contact David Fanning at df@numislit.com to discuss possible donations.

NBS Membership Renewal Time!

Please renew your membership in the NBS to continue receiving The Asylum. Go to coinbooks.org to pay by PayPal or download a membership form today. Your current expiration date is printed to the right of your name on your subscription envelope, which should be arriving soon.

 

KOLBE & FANNING SALE 177 ANNOUNCED

Kolbe & Fanning Numismatic Booksellers are pleased to announce that we will be holding our 177th auction sale on Saturday, June 13, 2026. The sale features a variety of rare and out-of-print works on ancient, world and U.S. numismatics, accompanied by the extraordinary library on orders and decorations formed by James C. Risk.

Some highlights of the sale include:

 

Lot 52: a bound volume of eleven 1852–1875 Sotheby sales of ancient and British coins, seven of which have the buyers' names recorded

Lot 61: a complete set of the extraordinary folio edition of Visconti & Mongez's incomparable Greek & Roman iconography, with a vast array of exquisite engravings of ancient coins

Lot 84: a complete set of Davenport on world talers, crowns, and dollar-size coins, the still-indispensable standard references to these fascinating series

Lot 113: the rare original edition of Adolph Hess's canceled 1939 sale of selections of the Georgii Mikhailovich collection, of great importance and utility for establishing provenance

Lot 196: King George II's presentation copy of Justus Christoph Dithmar's 1729 folio on the Order of the Bath, Commentatio de Honoratissimo Ordine Militari de Balneo

Lot 221: a beautifully illustrated 1760 manuscript volume, magnificently bound, prepared for Charles Wentworth, Marquess of Rockingham, on his investiture to the Order of the Garter

Lot 256: an extraordinary folio volume on the Order of St. Stephen of Hungary, bound in high relief in red full morocco with a full-size facsimile of the star of the Order's Grand Cross

Lot 277: Admiral the Marquess of Milford Haven's classic 1919 work on British Naval medals, very scarce and most important, handsomely printed in folio format

Lot 340: a well-preserved copy of Henry Chapman's 1909 sale of the Andrew Zabriskie collection, illustrated with 13 fine photographic plates, from the John Ford Library

Lot 387: early American coin dealer John K. Curtis's copy of John Hickcox's foundational 1858 study, An Historical Account of American Coinage, in a period binding.

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.

The printed catalogue is being 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 June 12, 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.

To bid in the sale, see:
https://bid.numislit.com/

 

WHITMAN UNVEILS 2027 RED BOOK

Whitman Brands™ proudly announces the upcoming release of the 80th edition of The Official Red Book®: A Guide Book of United States Coins, the world's best-selling coin price guide and the most trusted reference in numismatics. Celebrating 80 years in publication and more than 26 million copies sold, the all-new 2027 Red Book continues its legacy as the indispensable resource for collectors worldwide. Wholesale shipments are scheduled to begin late June 2026.

The announcement follows the success of the reimagined 2026 edition, which sold more than 315,000 copies—a 30% increase from the 2025 edition, earned the Numismatic Literary Guild's Extraordinary Merit Book award, and stands #1 on Amazon's Best Seller list in Antiques & Collectibles Encyclopedias. Building on that momentum, the 2027 edition delivers meaningful enhancements while honoring the tradition collectors have trusted for generations.

Since 1946, the Red Book has answered the essential questions collectors ask: What's this coin? How rare is it? How much is it worth? The 2027 edition carries that tradition forward with expanded listings, updated values, new research, and refined layouts designed to make information clearer and easier to use than ever.

"For eighty years, the Red Book has been the foundation of coin collecting," said John Feigenbaum, CEO of Whitman Brands. "With the 2027 edition, we're not only honoring that legacy—we're continuing to evolve the book based on real collector feedback, ensuring it remains both timely and essential in today's market."

New for 2027

The 80th anniversary edition introduces significant content expansions and updates, including:

• More than 13,000 coins, tokens, medals, sets, and collectibles
• Over 1,000 new additions, including coin rolls, DMPL Morgan Dollars, 2026 Semiquincentennial coinage, and more
• Market values in up to nine grades using Greysheet-based pricing and GSID catalog numbers
• Updated research, current market insights, and the latest U.S. Mint data
• More than 2,000 full-color images
• Engaging essays from leading numismatic experts
• Expanded specialty coverage, including Errors, Patterns, and modern issues

Collector Driven Improvements

Building on the major redesign introduced in the 2026 edition, the 2027 Red Book incorporates key updates based directly on collector feedback:

• Series-specific grading guides restored within each chapter
• Circulation and Proof values reintegrated into unified price charts
• Type coins and related data organized within their respective series
• Expanded coverage of errors and varieties
• New pricing additions, including coin rolls and Morgan Dollar DMPL designations

"These changes reflect a careful balance between innovation and familiarity," said Larry Jewett, Editorial Director. "We focused on making the book more intuitive and useful without losing the structure collectors have trusted for generations."

New Releases & Expanded Editions

Beginning with the 2027 edition, the Red Book will move to a summer release schedule, aligning more closely with current market pricing and major industry events.

"Moving the release date allows us to incorporate more up-to-date pricing, capture new U.S. Mint issues, and better align with the ANA World's Fair of Money," Feigenbaum added. "It also gives us the flexibility to expand the Red Book family, including new formats and special editions."

For the first time, the 2027 Red Book will be available in formats built for every collector, including special collector's editions featuring enhanced content celebrating 250 years of American coinage (USA 250) as well as online-exclusive bundles featuring Official Red Book label graded 2026 coins.

With eight decades of trusted service to the hobby, the 2027 Red Book stands as both a celebration of numismatic history and a forward-looking guide for the next generation of collectors.

For more information, visit whitman.com.

For all episodes of the The Red Book Podcast or to subscribe to the Greysheet & Red Book YouTube channel, visit https://www.youtube.com/@greysheet-redbook/playlists.

OPEN ACCESS "COLLECTION MONETA" VOLUMES

The Moneta Collection, which I created in 1995, has ceased publication.

To facilitate the dissemination of our work, the general catalogue and the 210 volumes of the Moneta Collection are now available in open access on https://cnrs.academia.edu/GeorgesDepeyrot.

The collection comprises over 60,000 pages cataloging treasures, including studies of economic and monetary history.

The works have been published in numerous languages, generally French or English.

 

To read the complete Moneta collection, see:
https://cnrs.academia.edu/GeorgesDepeyrot

NEWMAN GRANTS 2026 AWARD ANNOUNCEMENT

The Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society (EPNNES) today announces its seventh set of Newman Grants, created to financially assist numismatic authors and organizations pursuing original research in American and world numismatics. Newman Grants are awarded annually on the late Eric P. Newman's birthday and assist with direct costs of numismatic research such as travel, photography, and graphic arts services.

Seven awards are being made this year, touching on varied aspects of American and world numismatics. The 2026 Newman Grant awardees are as follows:

Greg Bennick will continue his series of numismatic interviews, which document the history of numismatics and capture the recollections of today's hobby leaders and influencers.

Gerard Clavecillas will focus on the work of the Philippine engraver Melecio Figueroa and explore his connections to the renewed U.S. coin designs of the early 20th century.

Mike Ellis will focus on military challenge coins and prepare a comprehensive catalog dedicated to the history, types, and authentication of this series.

Benjamin Gastfriend will study elongated coins produced in conjunction with the 1905 Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition, using source material from the Oregon Historical Society.

Liesel Gentelli will investigate the source of the Massachusetts Bay Colony silver coinage, continuing her previous work that focused on compositional analysis of early Spanish-American coins.

The Peabody Essex Museum will use grant funds to digitize the Mattew Stickney papers in their collection, which represent a rich archive for pre-Civil War American numismatics.

Ángel O. Navarro Zayas will research the early colonial paper money of Spanish-America. Zayas has previously published on this topic, using material from the Archivo General de Indias and other sources.

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.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
2026 NEWMAN GRANT PROGRAM ANNOUNCED (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n06a12.html)

VIDEO: JOHN HIGHFILL, PART 2 OF 3

John Highfill talks about how he started in coins and became known for silver dollars. He talks about some of the celebrities he has known like Karen Carpenter and Bobbie Darin, how important are his sports collectibles, stories about his days in baseball, some of the most important things in life, creation of the grade of MS64, his autograph collection including Johnny Cash, Stevie Wonder, and more, days in the coin business during the 1980's when he did 50 coin shows a year, some of his greatest achievements, television and the home shopping networks, and plenty of stories about the coin business.

Featuring John Wayne Highfill, Founder, National Silver Dollar Roundtable, David Lisot, Interviewer, CoinTelevision.com. Publication date 2016.

To watch the complete video, see:
Numismatic Personality: John Highfill, King of Silver Dollars (part 2 of 3) (https://youtu.be/J812V1MiPtg)
Numismatic Personality: John Highfill, King of Silver Dollars (part 2 of 3) (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/book/595530)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
VIDEO: JOHN HIGHFILL, PART 1 OF 3 (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n20a08.html)

MORE ON MICHAEL G. BEAN

In addition to Mike's intaglio printing for Mark Tomasko's book The Feel of Steel, there is another project that he undertook in 2013 for which he deserves our respectful attention.

In the early years of this century, some original copper plates engraved for banks to print their circulating notes came on the numismatic market. I acquired five of them used by early New Jersey banks, circa 1805 to 1836, and showed them to Mike. He thought that there was enough life left in them to print 25 sets of reproduction proofs. The plates had not been defaced, although they had minor nicks and scratches. So Mike took on the project. He had a home workshop that included not only the spider press but tools, sketches, samples and technical books. For the project he chose heavy absorbent paper and sepia ink so that the reprints could not be confused with originals. The results were spectacular.

We donated some sets to institutions, including the American Numismatic Society, Rutgers University Special Collections and Princeton University (the latter collection curated by the recently retired Dr. Alan Stahl). Some were given to appreciative collectors, including Tomasko, Q. David Bowers, Roger Siboni and Tom O'Mara. I kept a set of printer's proofs (Mike kept two) and the 25th set, as the "first and last" of the group – you can't tell the difference, the quality is the same from start to finish. In several cases the repros brought back to life some bank notes that no longer exist, or that are only represented by counterfeits. A few of the fake notes are so good that catalogers had thought them to be originals, but we know better now.

Mike's fee for his fine work was very modest. To make it up to him, I made a small donation to his library – a book of intaglio engravings of portraits and vignettes done up by workers at the National Bank Note Company. Mike's printing rivals that of NBNCo.

Mark Tomasko writes:

Michael "Mike" George Bean, 79, of Frederick, MD, passed away on May 16, 2026 surrounded by family.

Mike was born in Bethesda, MD. He graduated from Wheaton High School in 1965 and joined the United States Army. He was honorably discharged and later served in the United States Army Reserves. After briefly working with the United States Postal Service, Mike began his career at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing in 1971, retiring in 2005.

Mike's work was his life's passion. A plate printer by trade, he enjoyed teaching others about the Intaglio printing process even after retirement, travelling to conventions nationwide. A true patriot, he dedicated much of his time to The American Legion, serving in multiple elected and appointed positions.

To read the complete article, see:
Michael "Mike" George Bean (https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/silver-spring-md/michael-bean-12890988)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
MICHAEL G. BEAN, PLATE PRINTER (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n20a06.html)

NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: MAY 24, 2026

Dannreuther's Leatherbound Silver Proof Books Available for Preorder
John Dannreuther writes:

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NOTES FROM E-SYLUM READERS: MAY 10, 2026 : Dannreuther's US Proof Coins Volume III: Silver Spiral Bound (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n19a11.html)

Research into 1801, 1802, and 1803 Novodel Proof Silver Dollars
Roger Burdette writes:

JUNE 2026 BALTIMORE WHITMAN EXPO

Whitman Expos™ announces the return of the Whitman Summer Coin & Collectible Expo, taking place June 11–13, 2026, at the Baltimore Convention Center Halls A & B in Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and approachable footprint, the Summer Expo delivers the same excitement, discovery, and community collectors have come to expect from Whitman's larger flagship events—bringing together dealers, collectors, investors, and families for three days of buying, selling, trading, and learning.

Open to the public with free admission (photo ID required), the Expo offers visitors access to hundreds of tables featuring rare coins, paper money, bullion, tokens, medals, and collecting supplies. Guests can also enjoy educational club meetings, family-friendly activities, auction lot viewing, and opportunities to connect with independent dealers and numismatic experts from across the country.

"This show may be smaller in footprint than our Spring and Winter Expos, but it's every bit as enjoyable and energetic," said Christy Burbank, General Manager of Whitman Expos. "The Summer Expo has a unique atmosphere that makes it especially welcoming for collectors of all experience levels. Whether you're searching for a major rarity, building your first collection, exploring the hobby with family, or simply enjoying the community, there's truly something here for everyone."

Summer Expo Highlights

• Free public admission
• Over 200 independent dealers
• Stack's Bowers Galleries auction lot viewing
• Kid's Nook activities for young collectors
• Early American Coppers Club & Maryland State Numismatic Association meeting
• First Strike Opening Reception with coffee and pastries
• On-site supplies and hobby resources

Stack's Bowers Galleries, the Official Auctioneer of Whitman Expos, will present lot viewing for highlights from its upcoming Summer 2026 Showcase Auction series. Visitors will have the opportunity to preview important numismatic Americana, Colonial and Pre-Federal coins, and U.S. rarities ranging from 1792 patterns through classic silver dollars and modern issues. Featured sessions include the highly anticipated Rarities Night showcasing selections from the Young-Dakota Collection, along with specialized offerings of historic paper money and physical cryptocurrency. The auction series reflects the continued strength and diversity of today's numismatic marketplace, attracting advanced collectors, investors, and new enthusiasts alike.

Show Hours and Admission

The Summer Expo will be held in Halls A & B of the Baltimore Convention Center. Early birds and general public are encouraged to complete registration online but walk-ins are welcome. The primary entrance for Halls A & B is via the Charles Street Lobby at the intersection of S. Charles and W. Pratt Streets. Multiple public parking garages are available within a 5 minute walking distance.

Stack's Bowers Galleries Auction Lot Viewing

Wednesday, June 10 – Friday, June 12
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Dealer Hours

Wednesday, June 10 – 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, June 11 – 8:00 a.m. entry
Friday, June 12 – 8:00 a.m. entry
Saturday, June 13 – 8:00 a.m. entry

Early Bird Admission ($100 fee)

Thursday, June 11 – 10:00 a.m. entry
Friday, June 12 – 9:00 a.m. entry
Saturday, June 13 – 9:00 a.m. entry

Public Hours (Free Admission with government-issued photo ID)

Thursday, June 11 – 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday, June 12 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 13 – 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Additional activities include Kid's Nook programming throughout the show, a Dealer Appreciation Event on Wednesday evening, the Early American Coppers Club meeting on Friday afternoon, and the Maryland State Numismatic Association meeting later that day.

For a full schedule of events and more information on the Whitman Summer Expo, visit whitmanexpo.com.

VOCABULARY TERM: SOUVENIR MEDAL

Souvenir Medal. A medallic memento; a medal issued in honor of a public celebration or event. The occasion of the event can be anything: an anniversary, dedication, fair, exposition, coronation, inauguration, launching or any such public celebration. The medals issued upon the completion of a public project – roadway, bridge, tunnel, dam or such – all fall within this category. Souvenir medals are often sold to the public or given to some participants. They fall within the large class of commemorative medals, and become permanent historical mementos of the celebration.

For the original owners, possession of such a medal recalls their personal involvement – their participation, or attendance, or sheer endorsement of the event, its sponsor, or its subject matter. Souvenir medals are significant for the historical information they provide. We know of the date of the first step on the moon by man, or the delayed coronation of King Edward VII or the completion of the Alaskan pipeline – or thousands of events in history – because of permanent medallic memorials issued for these events.

Souvenir medals – like all commemorative medals – are a broad category of medallic art, in contrast to those award, prize or recognition medals given to recipients, or to medals of purely artistic or commercial nature. Souvenir medals are also very similar to historical medals because they almost always bear a date. Likewise they include all the medals known as so-called dollars.

To read the complete entry on the Newman Numismatic Portal, see:
Souvenir Medal (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/dictionarydetail/516781)

JAMES BIDDLE CLEMENS (1836-1878)

My story this week was suggested by Julia Casey. I appreciate her suggestion and welcome suggestions from others.

The St. Louis Globe-Democrat issue of January 9, 1876, had the story of what they called, "The Finest Collection in the West," describing the coin collection of James Clemens, Jr.

In the extended article, it also mentioned St. Louis banknotes, "all the issues of the Confederate states," "thousands of notes of wild-cat banks all over the country," Greek, Roman and other ancient coins and Papal medals.

Taken as a contemporary newspapers account, it is clear that this was an important collection. I will remark that the collection did not include a single certified Morgan dollar.

It did not take long before a problem developed with the story. In the January 11 issue, this correction appeared.

"In an article Sunday on "Coins and Curiosities." by an unintentional mistake the fine collection described was stated to belong to James Clemens, Jr. The name of the collector is James B. Clemens. The curiosities of his assortment were by no means fully described by the article alluded to and some day the list may be completed."

The article did not mention that James Clemens, Jr. was the father of James B. Clemens. The father was born on October 25, 1791, and died on January 12, 1878, at age 86. His lifetime spanned the first 85 years of United States coinage. He could have formed much of the collection out of circulation.

The son was born on January 18, 1836, and died on February 27, 1878, at age 42 and about six weeks after his father. His widow then put the collection up for sale.

There is a listing of his collection in the form of an Edward Cogan auction conducted on October 20-25, 1878.

Lot 55 was a 1794 Dollar. "Head a little rubbed, Liberty and 1794, very excellent. Stars on the left rather weak, and on the right very fair. The planchet damaged. Some stamp has been stamped under the chin of the figure of liberty, but not so as to interfere with the legend. On the whole I consider this a very fair impression of this rare dollar."

Lot 1811 was described, "1796 One of the best impressions of this exceedingly rare Half Cent I have seen for some years. The word Liberty and the date are quite perfect. The head is a little rubbed, but it will not disgrace any cabinet." This was called a cent in the newspaper article.

The sale did not include complete sets of gold coins. There were no double eagles. There were but two $10 eagles, 1795 and 1801. The last Half Eagle was an 1845-D with no 1854-S. In 1878, gold coins were still used in commerce and pieces with high face value had no added collector value.

Lots 1671 to 1680 were groups of 100 copper coins, thus a thousand coins with no descriptions.

The sale had a number of pieces called patterns. Lot 2037 was a 1792 Martha Washington Half Disme. Lot 2044 was an 1836 Gobrecht dollar. In addition to legitimate patterns were such things as lot 2038, a U. S. A, Bar Cent, 2041 & 2042 were 1836 Steam Press medals, Lots 2046-2048 were Feuchtwanger pieces.

He had proof sets from the 1870's. probably acquired from an eastern dealer. They brought little more than face value. It may not be much different today. A collector selling proof sets from the 1970's, may not recover their issue price in return.

His collection of world coins was extensive but their presentation in the catalog is somewhat random. There are no sets by country in any order. Many pieces were well circulated. It occurs to me that coins could have been accumulated through connections at the local banks to buy up their foreign exchange stocks and non-current coins.

The catalog is interesting as it represents the hobby at the time. Catalog descriptions were very brief. Many lots had groups of coins. Condition was often described as "a fair impression." whatever that meant. Prices were low. Just as the consignor could accumulate coins from circulation, potential buyers could as well.

So much emphasis today is placed on quality and the investment potential for high grade coins. I doubt if Clemens considered his collections as an investment. He was content to assemble his collection mostly from coins found in circulation and he had remarkable success.

To read the catalog on the Newman Numismatic Portal, see:
CATALOGUE OF A VERY VALUABLE COLLECTION OF GOLD, SILVER AND COPPER COINS AND MEDALS... (https://nnp.wustl.edu/library/auctionlots?AucCoId=19&AuctionId=510635)

NUMISMAGRAM MEDAL SELECTIONS: MAY 24, 2026

103268 | UNITED STATES & ITALY. Christopher Columbus bronze Medal. Issued 1892 for the Italian-American Exposition held in Genova (55mm, 85.17 g, 12h). By Eligio Pintore for Bocelli in Milano.

CRISTOFORO COLOMBO, bust left // ESPOSIZIONE ITALO–AMERICANA / GENOVA MDCCCLXXXXII, native princess (representing America) and civic personification of Genova, holding trident and resting hand upon shield, standing right; to right, personification of Italy seated left on throne, holding scepter and with lion at her side; above, angel in flight, emerging from clouds and holding laurel wreath in each hand; tower in background to left, lighthouse in background to right; all set upon base decorated with crowned janiform head. Edge: Plain.

Eglit 200; Starlust ST-eg-200; Rulau –; lamoneta.it W-ME54/1-3. Mint State. Deep brown surfaces, with a great glossy nature. Though not related to the 1893 Columbian Expo held in Chicago, a rare piece of Columbiana nonetheless.

During the lead-up to the quadricentennial of Columbus's initial contact with the New World, numerous medals were designed and struck, both in the United States—in conjunction with the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago—and abroad—sometimes for this event of for similar others. This particular medal was issued for the Italian-American Exposition held in 1892 in Genova—the city in which the famous explorer was born.

To read the complete item description, see:
103268 | UNITED STATES & ITALY. Christopher Columbus bronze Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103268)

103442 | SWEDEN. Christina Nilsson bronze Medal. Issued 1917. Commemorating the operatic soprano (50mm, 56.17 g, 12h). By Erik Lindberg.

CHRISTINA NILSSON DE CASA MIRANDA, bust right; FRÅN / BEUNDRARE / AF HENNES / KONST (from an admirer of her art) in four lines to right // SNART EN VÄRLD TILL SÅNGEN LYSSNAR (soon a world will listen to the song), young girl standing right, playing violin and being guided by female personification of Song; songbirds flying around. Edge: BRONS 1917.

Ehrensvärd 200. Choice Mint State. Tan-brown surfaces, with a great matte nature.

This item was featured in our E-Sylum ad.

To read the complete item description, see:
103442 | SWEDEN. Christina Nilsson bronze Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103442)

103632 | GERMANY & FRANCE. "The Enemy is on the Right" cast bronze Medal. Dated 1922. On the statements made by the Chancellor, Dr. Wirth (60mm, 12h). By Karl Goetz in München.

ALSO SPRACH BISMARCKS NACHFOLGER (thus spoke Bismarck's successor...), half-length bust right of Chancellor Dr. Joseph Wirth, holding nightcap of the German Michel and pointing behind him, speaking "DER FEIND / STEHT RECHTS" (the enemy is on the right)  // NICHT RECHTS NICHT LINKS, AM / RHEIN / HERR KANZLER! (not on the right, nor the left, but on the Rhine, Mr. Chancellor!), caricature of French Prime Minister Raymond Poincaré as a helmeted crawling monster left.

Kienast 293. NGC AU-55. Pleasing brown surfaces, with some darker hues around the devices.

A successor to the Chancellor's role once occupied by Otto von Bismarck, Dr. Joseph Wirth served as the German Chancellor for a year-and-a-half during the Weimar period, making a fairly famous speech in front of the Reichstag in which he indicated that "...there stands the enemy, who drips his poison into the wounds of a people. There stands the enemy, and about it there is no doubt: the enemy is on the Right!" Here, indicating that the far right elements in Germany posed the greatest threat to her. Goetz, however, attempts to show the error in Wirth's thinking, stating that the enemy of Germany was neither on the right or the left, but on the Rhine in the form of the occupying French forces. Little over a decade later, however, Wirth's concerns about the right wing in Germany would prove correct, given the rise of national socialism, or Nazism, and the beginning of the Third Reich.

To read the complete item description, see:
103632 | GERMANY & FRANCE. "The Enemy is on the Right" cast bronze Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103632)

103582 | UNITED STATES. "Apache Buffalo Hunt" bronze Medal. Issued 1959 (72mm, 184.49 g, 12h). By Allan Houser for the Society of Medalists, and struck by the Medallic Art Co. in New York City.

APACHE FIRE DANCER, Native American dancing right, holding sword in each hand // APACHE BUFFALO HUNT, Native American riding horse right, drawing bow; in background, buffaloes running right. Edge: THE SOCIETY OF MEDALISTS 59TH ISSUE–MAY 1959 ALLAN HOUSER, SC / MEDALLIC ART CO. NY BRONZE.

Alexander SOM-59.1. Gem Mint State. Light bronze surfaces. For an in-depth look at Houser's medallic art, as well as further commentary on this medal, please see "The Medallic Works of Allan Houser" by William Hyder in The MCA Advisory, Spring 2026 (pp 39-43).

To read the complete item description, see:
103582 | UNITED STATES. "Apache Buffalo Hunt" bronze Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103582)

103602 | UNITED STATES. Leonard Bernstein bronze Medal. Issued 1993. Jewish-American Hall of Fame series: commemorating the famous conductor and composer (47mm x 45mm, 75.88 g, 12h). By Marika Somogyi for the Medalcraft mint.

Head left; facsimile signature across neck // Bernstein, on stage, seated right at piano, instructing audience of youths. Edge: MAGNES MUSEUM / © 1993 189.

JAHF 25. Choice Mint State. Brassy-bronze surfaces. Serially numbered 189 of 650.

To read the complete item description, see:
103602 | UNITED STATES. Leonard Bernstein bronze Medal. (https://www.numismagram.com/product-page/103602)

 

STACK'S BOWERS: THE CAINE COLLECTION

Montgomery, Alabama. Bank of the State of Alabama. 18xx $50. PMG Uncirculated 62. Proof. (AL-5-G216P). Plate A. Imprint of Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Co. New York. Female allegorical figures at center inside wreathed ovoid portrait. Bank title partially flanks the aforementioned arrangement while ornate counters emblazoned "50" may be found at opposite ends. Subsidiary vignette of a Native warrior at left opposite an end panel emblazoned "FIFTY" at right. A total of (4) rounded POCs may be found above the signature panels.

Estimate: $300 - $400.

To read the complete item description, see:
Montgomery, Alabama. Bank of the State of Alabama. 18xx $50. PMG Uncirculated 62. Proof. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1SWMXV/montgomery-alabama-bank-of-the-state-of-alabama-18xx-50-pmg-uncirculated-62-proof)

New Haven, Illinois. Bank of Illinois. 18xx $3. PMG Choice Uncirculated 64. Proof. (IL-585-G4aP). Plate A. Imprint of Rawdon, Wright, Hatch & Edson. New York. Female allegorical figure representative of Liberty at center with eagle and "3" denomination counter between them. Bank title and guarantee text encircles the aforementioned composition while a state die may be seen left opposite a portrait of a Gypsy woman at right. A pair of rounded "3" denomination counters may be seen along the top margin while a total of (4) rounded POCs are concurrent with the signature panels.

Estimate: $2,000 - $4,000.

To read the complete item description, see:
New Haven, Illinois. Bank of Illinois. 18xx $3. PMG Choice Uncirculated 64. Proof. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1SWNV8/new-haven-illinois-bank-of-illinois-18xx-3-pmg-choice-uncirculated-64-proof)

Vienna, Illinois. Narragansett Bank. 18xx $10. PMG Gem Uncirculated 65 EPQ. Proof. (IL-850-G8aP). Plate A. Imprint of Danforth, Wright & Co. New York & Philadelphia. Portrait of Liberty at center enclosed by bank title and guarantee text along with a pair of "TEN" protectors underprinted in intricate text. State die at left surmounted by a large rounded denomination counter anchored by "X" which is flanked by "TEN" repeated exactly 12 times. Subsidiary vignette of a Native mother and child at right surmounted again by another intricate counter seen at right along the top margin. A total of (8) rounded POCs may be seen above the signature panels. Truly a rare opportunity for the specialist as any Proof on this arguably misplaced bank hasn't been offered by this firm since 2011.

Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000.

To read the complete item description, see:
Vienna, Illinois. Narragansett Bank. 18xx $10. PMG Gem Uncirculated 65 EPQ. Proof. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1SWO26/vienna-illinois-narragansett-bank-18xx-10-pmg-gem-uncirculated-65-epq-proof)

New Castle, Maine. New Castle Bank. 18xx $5. PCGS Currency Gem New 65 PPQ. Proof. Plate A. Imprint of Danforth, Wright & Co. New York & Philadelphia. Quintet of female allegorical figures at left opposite bank title and guarantee text at center with the title seen along the top margin. Rounded denomination counter at center along the bottom margin emblazoned "V," "FIVE," and "5" which can be seen here in a layered arrangement. A five-pointed white star formed with intricate lathe grillwork may be seen at right and encloses the signature panels of the bank's Cashier and President. A total of (5) rounded POCs may be observed in the signature panels. This institution ultimately became the New Castle National Bank (Charter# 953) in 1865. PCGS Currency comments "Hole Punch Cancelled; Mounted on Cardstock."

Estimate: $1,500 - $2,500.

To read the complete item description, see:
New Castle, Maine. New Castle Bank. 18xx $5. PCGS Currency Gem New 65 PPQ. Proof. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1SWOFE/new-castle-maine-new-castle-bank-18xx-5-pcgs-currency-gem-new-65-ppq-proof)

Taunton, Massachusetts. Taunton Bank. 18xx $1. PCGS Currency Choice New 63. Proof. Plate A. Imprint of the National Bank Note Company. Train depot vignette at center that is better known for its use on the T-3 $100 issued under the authority of the Confederate States of America. Subsidiary portraits of two distinct women at left and right seen above and below intricate cycloidal "1" denomination counters. Greenish-blue geometric lathework seen underprinted beneath bank title and guarantee text. The fringes of the engraved design comes accomplished here via dozens of "1" roundels interrupted by the state imprint (top) and the patent and manufacturer's imprint seen along the bottom margin. A total of (6) rounded POCs may be seen above the signature panels. This institution ultimately became the Taunton National Bank (Charter# 957) in 1865. PCGS Currency comments "Hole Punch Cancelled; Mounted on Cardstock."

Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000.

Haxby & Whitman Plate Note.

To read the complete item description, see:
Taunton, Massachusetts. Taunton Bank. 18xx $1. PCGS Currency Choice New 63. Proof. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1SWOIK/taunton-massachusetts-taunton-bank-18xx-1-pcgs-currency-choice-new-63-proof)

Austin, Minnesota. Bank of Austin. 18xx $5. PCGS Currency Gem New 66 PPQ. Proof. Plate A. Imprint of the American Bank Note Company. Female allegorical figure at center representative of agriculture with canal and railroad trestle in the background. Bank title and guarantee text below with underprinted "FIVE" protector seen directly below the title arrangement. Ornate geometric end panels at left and right that together represent no less than six distinct denomination counters. A total of (7) rounded POCs are consistent with the signature panels on this note which offers both an exceptional pedigree and a rare opportunity for the specialist. PCGS Currency comments "Hole Punch Cancelled."

Estimate: $4,000 - $6,000.

To read the complete item description, see:
Austin, Minnesota. Bank of Austin. 18xx $5. PCGS Currency Gem New 66 PPQ. Proof. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1SWOJC/austin-minnesota-bank-of-austin-18xx-5-pcgs-currency-gem-new-66-ppq-proof)

Vicksburg, Mississippi. Bank of Vicksburg. 18xx $500. PMG Choice Uncirculated 64 EPQ. Proof. (MS-210-UNL-500P). Plate A. Imprint of Underwood, Bald, Spencer & Hufty. Cherubs at center flanking monument emblazoned with a pictorial depiction of cotton along with a pair of cameo head die counters at left and right emblazoned "500." Bank title and guarantee text below with uncancelled signature panels. Subsidiary vignette of a female allegorical figure at left holding a shield counter emblazoned "500" opposite an end panel at right which merely states "FIVE HUNDRED."

Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000.

To read the complete item description, see:
Vicksburg, Mississippi. Bank of Vicksburg. 18xx $500. PMG Choice Uncirculated 64 EPQ. Proof. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1SWOTW/vicksburg-mississippi-bank-of-vicksburg-18xx-500-pmg-choice-uncirculated-64-epq-proof)

Omaha City, Territory of Nebraska. Brownville Bank & Land Company. 1857 $3. PMG Gem Uncirculated 65 EPQ. Proof. (NE-50-G2dP). Plate A. Imprint of Danforth, Wright & Co. New York & Philadelphia. Full-length pink-red tint throughout the design. Steamboat at center with riverine port city in the background. Bank title and guarantee text below with white-outlined "THREE" protector below laid atop the word "THREE" repeated dozens of times via microprinting extending to the fringe of the engraved design. Subsidiary vignette of a lumberman at left below a rounded "3" denomination counter seen along the top margin opposite a collection of cherubs seen at right with a "3" denomination counter seen along the margin at right. A total of (6) rounded POCs may be observed above the signature panels.

Estimate: $4,000 - $6,000.

To read the complete item description, see:
Omaha City, Territory of Nebraska. Brownville Bank & Land Company. 1857 $3. PMG Gem Uncirculated 65 EPQ. Proof. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1SWOZR/omaha-city-territory-of-nebraska-brownville-bank-land-company-1857-3-pmg-gem-uncirculated-65-epq-proof)

Camden, New Jersey. Farmers & Mechanics Bank. 18xx $500. PMG Choice Uncirculated 64. Proof. (NJ-60-G18aP). Plate A. Imprint of Baldwin, Bald & Cousland. New York & Bald, Cousland & Co. Philadelphia. Female figure representative of agriculture at center enclosed by bank title and guarantee text with a red underprinted "500" protector evident below encompassing a significant portion of the signature panels. Rounded "500" denomination counter at left anchoring a variety of ornate elements opposite a subsidiary vignette of a blacksmith at right seen directly below a counter identical to the one at left. A total of (4) rounded POCs may be observed above the signature panels. This institution ultimately became the First National Bank of Camden (Charter# 431) in 1864. PMG comments "Tear."

Estimate: $2,500 - $3,500.

To read the complete item description, see:
Camden, New Jersey. Farmers & Mechanics Bank. 18xx $500. PMG Choice Uncirculated 64. Proof. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1SWP98/camden-new-jersey-farmers-mechanics-bank-18xx-500-pmg-choice-uncirculated-64-proof)

Morristown, New Jersey. Iron Bank. 1858 $1. PMG Gem Uncirculated 66 EPQ. Proof. (NJ-480-G20aP). Plate A. Imprint of Danforth, Wright & Co. New York & Philadelphia. Full-length orange-red lace tint throughout. Vignette of the New Jersey State House in Trenton at center prior to multiple renovations. Bank title and guarantee text below with underprinted "ONE" protector evident atop a bed of dozens microprinted "ONE" counters. State die oriented vertically at left opposite a subsidiary vignette of a train navigating a tunnel at right. Ornate denomination counters may also be seen at left and right along the top margin while a total of (4) rounded POCs may be seen above the signature panels and manufacturer's imprint. This institution ultimately became the National Iron Bank of Morristown (Charter# 1113) in 1865 which later became the target of well-made counterfeit Brown Back $5s during the early 1900s produced by the Mafia which is detailed further in The Numismatist.

Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000.

To read the complete item description, see:
Morristown, New Jersey. Iron Bank. 1858 $1. PMG Gem Uncirculated 66 EPQ. Proof. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1SWPGV/morristown-new-jersey-iron-bank-1858-1-pmg-gem-uncirculated-66-epq-proof)

Wilmington, North Carolina. Bank of Wilmington. 18xx $7. PCGS Currency Superb Gem New 67 PPQ. Proof. Plate A. Imprint of Danforth, Wright & Co. Philadelphia & New York. Vignette of a female farmhand at center with large rounded "7" denomination counter seen at left. Below, bank title and guarantee text with underprinted red "SEVEN" denomination counter evident. Subsidiary vignette of workmen representative of various professions with industrial cityscape in the background. A total of (6) rounded POCs are concurrent with the signature panels and above the manufacturer's imprint. PCGS Currency comments "Hole Punch Cancelled; Mounted on Cardstock."

Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000.

To read the complete item description, see:
Wilmington, North Carolina. Bank of Wilmington. 18xx $7. PCGS Currency Superb Gem New 67 PPQ. Proof. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1SWPSN/wilmington-north-carolina-bank-of-wilmington-18xx-7-pcgs-currency-superb-gem-new-67-ppq-proof)

Nashville, Tennessee. Bank of Tennessee. 1860 $500. PCGS Currency Very Fine 20. No. 13. Plate C. A sublime rarity from Middle Tennessee that is seldom offered in issued form. Issued months before the American Civil War began and before Tennessee even considered succession, this note comes fully signed and issued with a number of rounded cancellation punches. At center below the bank title, a portrait of George Washington is seen with a large red "D" protector below with a pair of subsidiary vignettes directly to its left and right including Boy & Birds Nest engraved by James Bannister at left. The balance of the design is rounded out by two multi-colored "500" denomination counters and "FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS" spelled out boldly in red along the bottom margin with the imprint of the American Bank Note Company directly below. A penned date of September 1, 1860 can be observed placing this note among earlier emission for this denomination whose issue was clearly staggered owing to the lack of demand such a denomination would've found outside of a very select context. PCGS Currency comments "Hole Punch Cancelled."

Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000.

To read the complete item description, see:
Nashville, Tennessee. Bank of Tennessee. 1860 $500. PCGS Currency Very Fine 20. (https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-1SWPX7/nashville-tennessee-bank-of-tennessee-1860-500-pcgs-currency-very-fine-20)

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
THE CAINE COLLECTION OF OBSOLETE BANKNOTES (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n20a19.html)

SOVEREIGN RARITIES AUCTION XXII

The milled section Sovereign Rarities Auction XXII presents an impressive concentration of proof and pattern material, ranging from high-grade Victorian rarities to early 20th-century British gold and commemorative issues. Together, these coins chart the evolution of British minting technology from the mid-19th century onward, highlighting experimental phases of Royal Mint production rather than standard circulation coinage.

Lots 32–50 centre on the reign of George IV and feature a strong selection of early Sovereigns alongside important pattern issues. Several examples are certified by NGC in Mint State or About Uncirculated grades, including an 1821 Sovereign graded MS63 (Lot 33) and estimated at £4,000–5,000.

The group is further strengthened by several fascinating proof and pattern strikings. Lot 46 is an 1820 silver Pattern Shilling estimated at £3,500–5,000, while Lot 48 offers an 1820 silver Pattern Sixpence graded PF63 with an estimate of £4,000–6,000. Another particularly intriguing piece is Lot 50, an undated silver Pattern Penny estimated at £2,500–3,000. Pattern pennies from this period are highly sought after due to their extremely limited production and the small number of surviving examples outside institutional collections.

Attention then shifts to the reign of William IV, represented by a notable run of circulation Sovereigns in certified Mint State and About Uncirculated grades, including rare First Bust and Second Bust varieties from 1831 and 1832. The highlight of this section is undoubtedly Lot 51, an 1831 gold proof Sovereign struck in 24 carat fine gold, this example has been graded by NGC as PF65 Ultra Cameo and estimated at £12,000–18,000. Proof Sovereigns of William IV are regarded among the great rarities of British numismatics, admired for their deeply mirrored fields and sharp cameo contrast. The varieties in portrait are of particular interest to specialist collectors as they document subtle changes in royal portraiture during the short reign.

The Victorian portion begins with Lot 64, an 1838 Sovereign from the first year of Queen Victoria's reign estimated at £1,200 – 1,500. Historically important, it marks the beginning of what would become the longest continuous Sovereign portrait series of the 19th century.

Further into the Victorian series, Lot 75 features a unique 1847 silver Sixpence estimated at £700–900. Coins of this nature are especially desirable because many were struck experimentally or produced as presentation pieces rather than circulation.

Another standout is Lot 76, an 1837 silver proof Groat graded PF58 and estimated at £4,000–6,000. This extremely rare Royal Mint proof striking utilises a later Threepence obverse from the 1866-79 period coupled with an 1837 Proof Groat die of King William IV and it is therefore a most interesting mule between the two reigns.

The sale's emphasis on experimental bronze coinage becomes especially evident with Lot 77, an 1860 bronzed copper proof Penny graded PF65 Brown and estimated at £3,500–4,500. The year 1860 marked Britain's transition from heavy copper pennies to the new bronze coinage introduced under Victoria, making surviving trial and specimen strikings from this period particularly significant.

Among the rarest pieces offered is Lot 78, an 1862 nickel-brass Pattern Penny with the Coronet Head portrait, graded PF63 and estimated at £7,000–9,000. Experimental metallic compositions such as nickel-brass were tested by the Royal Mint as part of efforts to improve durability and efficiency, though few examples survived because they were never intended for circulation.

Pattern coinage continues with Lot 79, an 1870 bronze Pattern Penny graded PF64 Brown and estimated at £5,000–7,000. Lot 80, meanwhile, presents a remarkable circulation-strike 1882 bronze Penny graded MS64 Red Brown, currently the highest graded example by NGC, carrying an estimate of £10,000–12,000. Victorian pennies in such preserved condition are exceptionally rare, as most entered extensive circulation.

One of the most important copper pieces in the run is Lot 81, an 1860 Young Head copper Pattern Halfpenny graded PF64 Brown and estimated at £10,000–12,000. Transitional bronze halfpennies are keenly collected because of their rarity and the variety of portrait and reverse experiments conducted by the Royal Mint during this period of reform.

Lots 82 and 83 continue the experimental theme with additional halfpenny trial pieces from the 1860s, including an incomplete-date bronze trial and a brass striking from 1867. These coins provide valuable insight into the Royal Mint's internal development processes and are appreciated as much for their historical importance as for their rarity.

The section culminates with what is arguably its finest offering: Lot 91, the celebrated 1926 uniface matte proof "Peace" Crown graded PF63 and estimated at £20,000–30,000. Designed in the aftermath of the First World War as a symbolic issue celebrating peace and imperial unity, the Peace Crown remains one of the most iconic British coins of the 20th century. Its uniface proof format, struck on only one side, makes this example especially rare, technically fascinating, and historically significant.

George IV (1820-30), g George IV (1820-30), gold Sovereign, 1821, first laureate head left, B.P. below neck for Benedetto Pistrucci, legend and toothed border surrounding, GEORGIUS IIII D: G: BRITANNIAR: REX F:D:, rev. St. George and dragon right, date in exergue, B.P. to upper right of exergue, raised WWP on ground line below lance (Bentley 12; Hill 5; Bull EGC 959; M.C.E. 471; S.3800). Light tone, some light surface marks, has been slabbed and graded by NGC as MS63.

To read the complete item description, see:
George IV (1820-30), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760760)

George IV (1820-30), George IV (1820-30), Pattern silver Shilling, 1820, first laureate head left, B.P. for Benedetto Pistrucci below neck, legend and toothed border surrounding, GEORGIUS IIII D: G: BRITANNIAR: REX F:D:, rev. inverted die axis, first crowned quartered shield of arms, seven strings to Irish harp, with an escutcheon of the Arms of Hanover, emblems surrounding, ANNO 1820 below, raised W W P at centre of alternate shamrock leaves for Master William Wellesley Pole, edge milled, 5.69g (Bull 2394 R5; Davies 210; ESC 1246 R5; cf.S.3810). Toned with a little wear to high points, hairlined obverse from some light brushing, otherwise good extremely fine with cameo effect, has been slabbed by NGC as Proof details obverse cleaned, extremely rare.

To read the complete item description, see:
George IV (1820-30), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760730)

George IV (1820-30), George IV (1820-30), Pattern silver Sixpence, 1820, struck in pure silver, first laureate head left, B.P. for engraver Benedetto Pistrucci below neck, legend and toothed border surrounding, GEORGIUS IIII D: G: BRITANNIAR: REX F:D:, rev. inverted die axis, first crowned quartered shield of arms, with an escutcheon of the Arms of Hanover at centre, eight strings to Irish harp, emblems surrounding, ANNO 1820 below, tiny initials J B M in the border teeth to left of thistle leaf for engraver J B Merlen, raised W W P at centre of alternate shamrock leaves for Master William Wellesley Pole, edge milled, 2.78g (Bull 2420 R6; Davies 250; ESC 1653 R6; cf.S.3813). Attractively toned, one slight rim nick on reverse, otherwise practically as struck, has been slabbed and graded by NGC as PF63, extremely rare, only a very few known to exist.

To read the complete item description, see:
George IV (1820-30), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760729)

George IV (1820-30), George IV (1820-30), Crown sized Pattern, struck in silver, undated, possibly for a Penny on a 36mm flan, medallic style portrait obverse, laureate and draped bust left, legend and linear raised rim surrounding, GEORGIUS IIII D: G: BRITANNIAR: REX F: D:, rev. struck en medaille, penny design as used for the 1806-07 copper coin, Britannia seated left on rocks with heraldic shield, holding trident and olive branch, raised K for Kuchler below shield, SOHO on rock, sailing ship facing right on left horizon of sea in field, plain exergue, legend above surrounding BRITANNIA, beaded border and raised rim surrounding, edge plain though with vertical witness lines in four places where a plain edge segmented collar has been applied in the striking, 19.28g (Peck page 399 records this and the companion gold piece; BHM 1194 for a similar obverse design; L&S -). Toned with a couple of spots near rim, extremely fine and unique, the only other example known in struck in gold, with a lengthy provenance.

To read the complete item description, see:
George IV (1820-30), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760728)

William IV (1830-37), g William IV (1830-37), gold Proof Sovereign, 1831, struck in fine gold of 24 carats to a lighter weight than standard, second bare head right, nose points to second I in legend with squarer interior to ear and differing hair arrangement, W.W. incuse on truncation, GULIELMUS IIII D: G: BRITANNIAR: REX F: D:, toothed border around rim both sides, rev. crowned quartered shield of arms in frame, ANNO 1831 below, edge plain, 7.69g (Bentley 24; Bull EGC 1037 R3; Hill 16D S; S.3829B). Toned, with surface marks and hairlines, has been graded and slabbed by NGC as PF65 Ultra Cameo.

To read the complete item description, see:
William IV (1830-37), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760768)

Victoria (1837-1901), g Victoria (1837-1901),gold Sovereign, 1838, first young head left, W.W. raised on truncation for engraver William Wyon, date below, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, VICTORIA DEI GRATIA,rev. crowned quartered shield of arms within laurel wreath, emblems below, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, BRITANNIARUM REGINIA FID: DEF: (Hill 22; S.3852).Some surface marks due to circulation wear, hairline scratch in hair, rim a little uneven, otherwise good fine. Sold in Royal Mint Collector's pouch.

To read the complete item description, see:
Victoria (1837-1901), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760884)

Victoria (1837-1901) Victoria (1837-1901), silver Sixpence, 1847, first young head left, legend VICTORIA DEI GRATIA BRITANNIAR: REG: F: D:, toothed border around rim both sides, rev. inverted die axis, SIX / PENCE in two lines at centre of crowned laurel and oak wreath, date below, edge milled, 2.50g (Bull 3181 R6; ESC p.160 note 1; S.3908). Toned, worn from circulation, scratched with graffiti both sides, numerals scratched on bust in three lines "14/8/89" perhaps a date, reverse with an apparent repeat of this date in one line across SIX of value but not as distinct, poor to fair overall and slabbed by NGC as AG details graffiti, still the only Sixpence known with a date of 1847, unique.

To read the complete item description, see:
Victoria (1837-1901) (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760733)

Victoria (1837-1901), Victoria (1837-1901), silver Proof Groat, dated 1837, young filleted head left, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, VICTORIA D: G: BRITANNIAR: REGINA F: D: rev. inverted die axis, Britannia seated right with trident and shield, date in exergue, FOUR PENCE legend surrounding, edge milled (Bull 3318 R6; ESC 1929A R6; Davies 1200; S.3913). Toned, handling marks both sides, a patch of light scratches under ear, has been slabbed and graded by NGC as PF58 and of the highest rarity.  

To read the complete item description, see:
Victoria (1837-1901), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760732)

Victoria (1837-1901) Victoria (1837-1901), bronzed copper proof Penny, 1860, beaded borders both sides, laureate head bust in bodice facing left, L. C. WYON signature raised at rear of truncation, partly upon bust for designer Leonard Charles Wyon, legend with linear circle surrounding, VICTORIA D: G: BRITT: REG: F: D:, rev. draped Britannia seated wearing plumed helmet facing right on rocks with shield and holding trident, L.C.W. designer initials incuse on ground below shield, lighthouse on rocks to left, ship sailing away to right, sea meets linear circle, denomination ONE PENNY surrounding design, date in exergue, 10.94g (Peck 1622 dies 1+B R; Freeman 4 dies 1+A R17; Gouby BP 1860CA dies C1/a1 R9; Attwood 6,a; S.3954). Toned, with a pleasing deep chocolate brown colour, just some tiny black flecks and specks both sides, practically as struck with contemporary turned wooden roundel box, green label affixed inside lid with contemporary blue fountain pen ink writing in nine lines "Bronzed Proof Impression of the new penny to be executed in white metal 1860. Presented to M^rs Letts by L. C. Wyon esq. Medalists", has been slabbed and graded by NGC as PF65 Brown, very rare indeed.

To read the complete item description, see:
Victoria (1837-1901) (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760735)

Victoria (1837-1901), Victoria (1837-1901), pattern Penny, 1862, struck in "nickel brass", toothed borders, bust in bodice facing left with coronet on head and ribbon flowing behind, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, VICTORIA D: G: BRITT: REG: F: D:, rev. draped Britannia seated wearing plumed helmet facing right on rocks with shield and holding trident, no initials on groundline, lighthouse on rocks to left with bell shaped top and five vertical lines as lantern, ship sailing away to right, the sea crosses the linear circle, denomination ONE PENNY surrounding design, date in exergue, 9.38g (Peck 2060 EXR; Freeman 770 R19; Gouby BP 1862PN dies C2/g R9; S.-). A lustrous and well executed pattern, toned practically as struck, slabbed and graded by NGC as PF63, extremely rare.

To read the complete item description, see:
Victoria (1837-1901), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760736)

Victoria (1837-1901), Victoria (1837-1901), pattern bronze Penny, 1870, toothed borders, bust in bodice facing left with coronet on head and ribbon flowing behind, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, VICTORIA D: G: BRITT: REG: F: D:, rev. draped Britannia seated wearing plumed helmet facing right on rocks with shield and holding trident, no initials on groundline, lighthouse on rocks to left with bell shaped top and five vertical lines as lantern, ship sailing away to right, the sea crosses the linear circle, denomination ONE PENNY surrounding design, 9.33g (Peck 2062 ER; Freeman 774 R18; Gouby BP1870PP dies C2/g R9; S.-). Toned with some residual lustre outlining the design and wording, has been slabbed and graded by NGC as PF64 Brown, practically as struck, extremely rare.

To read the complete item description, see:
Victoria (1837-1901), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760739)

Victoria (1837-1901) Victoria (1837-1901), bronze Penny, 1882, no mint mark therefore Royal Mint issue, toothed borders with more finer teeth both sides, laureate head bust in bodice facing left, fifteen leaf wreath with four berries, raised veins recessed in leaves, more hooked nose with weak bridge, no designer signature below bust, legend with linear circle surrounding, VICTORIA D: G: BRITT: REG: F: D:, rev. thinner draped Britannia seated wearing plumed helmet facing right on rocks with shield and holding trident, plain sections of diagonal cross on shield outlined with raised lines, thinner trident shaft, no initials on groundline, lighthouse on rocks to left with four uneven lantern lines, ship sailing away to right, the sea meets the linear circle, denomination ONE PENNY surrounding design, date in exergue (Peck -; Freeman 112 dies 11+N R17; Gouby BP 1882A dies P/r R9; S.3954). Lightly toned over considerable lustre both sides, just a few light hairline surface marks, has been slabbed and graded by NGC as MS64 RB, extremely rare being the non-Heaton issue, but of the highest rarity being so well preserved with only one other known to be of the same grade level but this coin the superior example with the "Red Brown" rating.

To read the complete item description, see:
Victoria (1837-1901) (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760740)

Victoria (1837-1901), Victoria (1837-1901), copper Pattern Halfpenny, 1860, young filleted head left, W:W. incuse on truncation, date below, legend and toothed border surrounding, VICTORIA DEI GRATIA, rev. struck en medaille, Britannia seated right with trident and shield, emblematic spray of rose thistle and shamrock in exergue, legend and toothed border surrounding design, BRITANNIAR: REG: FID: DEF:, 9.40g (Peck 1552 ER; S.3949). Toned, good extremely fine practically as struck, has been slabbed and graded by NGC as PF64 Brown, extremely rare, purportedly less than 10 struck.

To read the complete item description, see:
Victoria (1837-1901), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760734)

Victoria (1837-1901), Victoria (1837-1901), bronze Halfpenny, 186-, Specimen Trial Strike from an unfinished die with incomplete date, "bun" type laureate and draped bust left, four berries in wreath of 16 leaves, SPECIMEN vertically in raised letters in field before face, OF vertically in field behind bust, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, VICTORIA D: G: BRITT: REG: F: D:, rev. Britannia seated right on rock with trident and shield, breastplate of incuse lines, lighthouse to left, ship to right, TRIAL vertically in raised letters in field above ship, DIES vertically in raised letters in field above lighthouse, denomination in words and toothed border surrounding, 5.59g (Fr.769C dies 7+G R20; cf.S.3956). Toned with a degree of wear both sides, some flecked striations in fields and exergue, other nicks and handling marks, has been slabbed and graded by NGC as XF40 Brown, of the highest rarity as an intriguing trial piece.

To read the complete item description, see:
Victoria (1837-1901), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760738)

Victoria (1837-1901), Victoria (1837-1901), Halfpenny, struck in brass, 1867, from a cancelled die, "bun" type laureate and draped bust left, four berries in wreath of 16 leaves, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, VICTORIA D: G: BRITT: REG: F: D:, rev. Britannia seated right on rock with trident and shield, breastplate of incuse lines, lighthouse to left, ship to right, date in exergue, denomination in words and toothed border surrounding, 5.22g (cf.Peck 1787; cf.Fr.300 dies 7+G; S.3956). Toned with wear and softness plus the raised line of cancellation across the obverse field with other hairline raised striations, series of raised hairline striations in exergue and to left of ship, scratches on bust and one in field, otherwise almost fine and of the highest rarity, unrecorded in the standard texts and the only example in private hands.

To read the complete item description, see:
Victoria (1837-1901), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760737)

George V (1910-36), George V (1910-36), Uniface Trial Pattern Reverse for a Crown, 1926, designed by Francis Derwent Wood, engraved by Humphrey Paget, struck with a matt surface, classical figure personifying Britannia seated on a chaise right, wearing chain mail and draped, olive branch in leading hand, caduceus in other hand, plumed helmet at feet, date in Roman numerals in exergue, MCMXXVI, legend surrounding design, GIVE PEACE IN OUR TIME O LORD, raised linear border surrounding all, rev. blank, edge milled (cf.KM TSA6 note; Royal Mint Museum 1865; Bull 3630A R7). With matt proof finish on obverse which is a little speckled, unevenly toned on reverse, practically as struck, has been slabbed and graded by NGC as PF63, this being the only example known with a blank reverse of this intriguing pattern of the highest rarity.  

To read the complete item description, see:
George V (1910-36), (https://auctions.sovr.co.uk/index.php?option=com_timed_auction&view=lot_detail&auction_id=32&lot_id=760742)

See www.sovr.co.uk for much more detail about all of these coins, medallions and more!

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
SOVEREIGN RARITIES AUCTION XXII (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n20a20.html)

WAYNE'S NUMISMATIC DIARY: MAY 24, 2026

Tuesday, May 21 was the meeting night of my Northern Virginia numismatic social group, Nummis Nova. Chris Neuzil was our host, and he'd made reservations at Vaso's Kitchen, a lovely little Greek place on Powhatan Street in Alexandria. I parked in the lot behind the place, but there was also street parking available.

Chris and Robert Hoppensteadt were among the first to arrive. The stragglers this month were Julian Leidman and Erik Douglas who'd first gone to the OTHER Vaso's Kitchen in another part of Alexandria. The great crowd of regulars was rounded out by Mike Packard, Mike Markowitz, Jon Radel, Eric Schena, Dave Schenkman, John Kralvevich and Steve Bishop.

As usual I brought along some numismatic literature, and one of the books held a coin - one of those recently conserved and slabbed 1861-O Half Dollars from the SS Republic.

Here's more information from last week's issue.

Erik Douglas said it was the best condition "Shipwreck Effect" coin he'd seen. These were uncirculated or nearly so when the ship sunk in 1865. I ordered it last month when Adam Crum's Finest Known first made the announcement. The coin came in a compartment within the faux-leather book with gilt edges (top left). There's a frontispiece and four pages of text followed by a hollowed-out slab-sized rectangular cavity holding the coin. Nicely done.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
DECLUSTERED 1861-O SS REPUBLIC HALF DOLLARS (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n19a25.html)

I also brought a copy of the new late date Large Cents Variety Identification Guide by Robert Powers (see last week's article for more information). The final book I brought was a purchase from Alan Workman's recent numismatic literature auction - Jerry Roughton's 1990 Academy Due Bills of North Carolina. I'd never owned or even seen a copy before, so I knew it was rare. Eric Schena, Dave Schenkman and John Kraljevich all agreed that titles on North Carolina numismatics are all pretty rare. I don't collect the notes, but look forward to reading about them.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
NEW BOOK: U.S. LARGE CENTS 1840–1857 VARIETY GUIDE (https://www.coinbooks.org/v29/esylum_v29n19a03.html)

Missing was Tom Kays, my "easy button" for writing these Nummis Nova diaries. Tom brings a handy light setup and photographs a lot of the items that get passed around the table. The attendees provided several images this time. Here are some of my photos from the evening.

Here are images some attendees shared of items they brought to the meeting.

Gallienus Antioch ad Maeandrum Coin
Robert Hoppensteadt writes:

Caria, Antioch ad Maeandrum. Gallienus, 253-260 AD, AE 38 23.63 g. Vs:. A [V KA P] O GALLIHNOS. Bust of the Emperor in helmet and crown of rays with shield and lance to the left. Rev.: ANTIOXE / WN bridge of Antioch on the Meander tower with arched tower right. On the bridge, the river god Meander with branch in arm. J.Nollé, Gephyra 6, 2009, 13e. Rare! Beautiful Brown Patina, extremely fine. Also ex Ed Waddell, RPC X this is the plate coin for the type and probably finest known.

Robert adds:

Justinian I Tremissis
Mike Markowitz brought the Justinian I Tremissis. Nice coin!

Justinian I, 527–565. Tremissis, 542–565, Thessalonica. Bust / Victory holding globus cruciger and wreath; star in field. 6h; Sear 173E. 1.45 g; 15.5 mm. Rare.

Steve's Beauties
Steve Bishop brought along a number of Morgan dollars that were really nice to view in hand.

Turks & Caicos Islands Token
Eric Schena writes:

$100 Belfast Mining Company Note

Dave Schenkman writes:

Koppenhaver, Schenkman & Van Ormer, Inc.
Dave Schenkman displayed this July 30, 1984 dated stock certificate for his share of Koppenhaver, Schenkman & Van Ormer, Inc., a short-lived company the three organized to jointly purchase and sell collections of tokens and medals. The mailing envelope attests to its provenance.

It was another great evening of numismatic fellowship - always a highlight of my month. 'Til next time!

 

THE IMPERIAL COLLECTION

John Feigenbaum welcomes Ursula Kampmann and a rare appearance by Ulrich Künker, president of Künker Auctions, for an extraordinary deep dive into "The Imperial Collection" — perhaps one of the most important European numismatic collections ever to come to market.

This historic collection was assembled by the Prussian royal family and German emperors of the House of Hohenzollern, preserved for generations, hidden during World War II, taken to Russia by the Red Army, and eventually returned to Germany before finally being offered at auction.

In this episode:

• The fascinating history behind the Imperial Collection
• Rare Russian "Family Ruble" coins tied to Tsar Nicholas I
• Massive gold medals celebrating the unification of Germany
• Alexander von Humboldt commemorative medals and 19th century scientific history
• Frederick the Great and Prussian military history through medals
• How museums, collectors, and auction houses preserve history
• Why the rare coin and medal market is stronger than ever

Ulrich Künker shares stories behind some of the most important medals and coins in the collection, while Ursula Kampmann provides historical context connecting Prussia, Napoleon, German unification, and the evolution of Europe.

Whether you're a collector, historian, investor, or simply fascinated by world history, this episode offers a rare opportunity to explore treasures few people have ever seen.

To read the complete article, see:
Greysheet Market Report: Is this the greatest collection ever offered? [Video] (https://www.greysheet.com/news/story/greysheet-market-report-is-this-the-greatest-collection-ever-offered-video)

COINS FOUND BENEATH HMS VICTORY MAST

Six nineteenth-century coins and tokens have been discovered beneath the foremast of HMS Victory.

The find was made following the successful removal of Victory's foremast at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

The discovery connects directly to a long-standing maritime tradition in which coins were placed beneath a ship's mast as a symbolic act, says Andrew Baines, executive director of Museum Operations at Royal Navy Museums.

The coins have endured extreme conditions for 132 years, sitting beneath the fore lower mast, bearing the weight of approximately 50 tonnes of masts, yards and rigging above them.

Baines added: "The placing of coins beneath a ship's mast has long been seen as a symbolic act, often associated with protection and good fortune for the vessel and her crew.

"Following the earlier discovery of a single farthing beneath the main lower mast, we had hoped there might be something similar beneath the foremast.

To read the complete article, see:
19th century coins found under HMS Victory masts (https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/19th-century-coins-found-under-hms-victory-masts/ar-AA23HGuQ)
19th Century coins found under HMS Victory masts (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cq8p4yqen0go)

The team has now been able to identify the six finds as:

• 1892 one penny, Queen Victoria "bun head" portrait
• 1890 one penny, Queen Victoria "bun head" portrait farthing, dated 1882
• 1890 one penny, Queen Victoria "bun head" portrait
• 1890 halfpenny, Queen Victoria "bun head" portrait
• 1835 Prince Edward Island "Ships, Colonies and Commerce" token - Issued in what is now Canada.

Prolonged pressure and corrosion left them heavily degraded and difficult to identify. The coins were cleaned and x-rayed so they could be identified.

To read the complete article, see:
Coins found under HMS Victory mast reveal hidden maritime tradition (https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news/2026/may/22/20260522-coins-found-under-hms-victory-mast)

To read earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
GOOD LUCK COIN FOUND IN MEDIEVAL SHIP WRECKAGE (https://coinbooks.org/esylum_v09n09a14.html)
SHIPS MAST COIN AS A MARKETING DEVICE (https://www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v10n19a11.html)
MAST COIN FOUND IN SHIP EXCAVATED AT WORLD TRADE CENTER SITE (https://www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v13n38a24.html)
STEPPING THE MAST: COINS OF THE BLUENOSE II (https://www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v14n02a20.html)

UNIQUE LINCOLN CENT DOUBLE ERROR

This Lincoln cent transcends the mint error category for several reasons. It is the only known major striking error on a modern U.S. coin with a well known die variety. It is perfect for a major mint error collection of unique errors, a collection of die varieties, a collection of doubled dies, or a collection of Lincoln cents.

Major die varieties such as doubled dies and overdates are very popular and widely collected. There are other known die varieties other than these two but the collector interest and value centers on the rarer and more famous examples. Focusing on the Lincoln cent series, the most famous doubled dies are dated 1917, 1936, 1955, 1958, 1969-S, 1970-S, 1972, 1983, 1984, and 1992.

An extremely rare example just sold for $64,000 on April 26, 2026 in a David Lawrence auction and had a catalog price of $300. It was a 1988 Lincoln cent doubled die with a doubled ear FS-101 PCGS MS63RB and one of only three graded at PCGS.

There are minor striking errors and planchet errors found on some die varieties. These include clipped planchets, tapered planchets, broadstrikes, slightly off-center strikes, laminations, struck throughs, cuds, and partial collars.

Going back over 200 years, there are a few U.S. coins that are major die varieties and also are major striking errors. A perfect example recently sold for $558,000 in a Heritage auction. It was a 1794 Large Cent, head of '94, S 28 variety, dramatically double struck.

This unique doubled die Lincoln cent is double struck. The second strike is 75% off-center and is die struck both sides. It is preserved in gem mint state condition, and was authenticated and certified by PCGS as MS 66 Brown.

Unique and rare Lincoln cent major mint errors have been setting record prices lately. Whether they are mules, transitionals, a unique off-metal or a unique mint error like this Lincoln cent, headlines are made and prices continue to rise.

Several world class experts specializing in Lincoln cents, die varieties and major mint errors were contacted regarding this unique discovery. None were aware of any modern major die variety with a major striking error other than this Lincoln cent.

Doubled die coins occur because the coin die that strikes them has a partial or fully doubled image. It takes several impressions from the coin hub to produce a coin die. If the alignment of the coin hub is not perfectly centered above the coin die, a second impression will be slightly off-center from the first. If this coin die is used to strike coins, these coins will have this doubling effect.

The 1984 doubled die is considered a major die variety within the Lincoln cent series. There are several different 1984 Lincoln cent doubled die varieties and the FS-101 variety has doubling on the ear. This 1984 Lincoln cent obverse doubled die is one of the FS-102 varieties and features distinct doubling on the date, LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST. Wexler's Die Varieties lists this as 1984 1¢ WDDO-005 "Best Of" Variety and it is also cataloged in The Cherrypickers' Guide as FS-01-1984-102 (038).

It is just amazing that this unique double struck doubled die Lincoln cent even exists. It was authenticated and certified by PCGS years ago but was unknown to the numismatic community until it just surfaced.

To read the complete article, see:
Unique Lincoln Cent Mint Error Discovery (https://minterrornews.com/discoveries-4-23-26-unique-lincoln-cent-mint-error-discovery-the-only-known-double-struck-doubled-die.html)

2026 PHILIPPINES 10 PISO ASEAN COIN

The 10-piso ASEAN coin commemorates the role of the Philippines as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026 and highlights the country's leadership and contributions to the region.

The reverse side of the coin features the ASEAN 2026 official logo and a QR code linking to the BSP website.

Including a QR code on the coin bridges tradition and technology, enabling the public to access real-time updates of ASEAN events through digital experiences.

The obverse side retains the design of the currently circulating 10-piso from the New Generation Currency coin series, which features Apolinario Mabini and the coin's face value.

To read the complete article, see:
THE 10-PISO ASEAN COIN (https://www.bsp.gov.ph/SitePages/CoinsAndNotes/ASEAN-Coin.aspx)

 

THE 2026 CRASH COURSE COIN

Crash Course is on a mission to provide access to high quality educational content to as many people as possible, and we are excited to be part of it!

Available through May 29th, funds raised through the sales of these coins keep Crash Course's diverse range of courses free for thousands of learners, anytime, anywhere!

The Crash Course coins are minted right here in our workshop from solid copper, brass, titanium, and bronze. Each reverse side features beautiful new artwork by graphic designer Elliott Zheng, depicting a sound wave that translates to the spoken words: "Knowledge weighs nothing: carry all you can."

For $1,000, you can help us reach 20,000 learners and receive a beautiful 1.25" titanium coin individually colored with lasers! Each coin features a unique hand-stamped number, and comes with a thank-you card signed by John and Hank Green.

The front features our signature image — a door being opened to our knowable world. All one needs to enter is curiosity. The door is surrounded by 200 hash marks, each of which represents 100 people you are helping educate. The back features the soundwave of the words "knowledge weighs nothing," designed by our in-house graphic designer Elliott Zheng. This art represents our commitment to offering clarity, context, and meaning in order to be a signal in the noise.

This art will be minted on coins using laser and hand-engraved dies by Shire Post Mint. Each 20,000 learner coin comes in a small wooden box.

For more information, or to order, see:
20,000 Learner Coin - 2026 (https://crashcoursecoin.com/products/20-000-learner-coin-2026)

For more about Crash Course, see:
WELCOME TO Crash Course (https://thecrashcourse.com/courses/)

EXHIBIT: ART IN A SEASON OF REVOLUTION

David Menchell writes:

Art in a Season of Revolution is a call to action that invites artists to reflect on the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In 1776, 56 delegates of the Second Continental Congress signed this handwritten document, boldly committing to the colonies' separation from Great Britain. Throughout the two and a half centuries since, citizens of the United States have constructed a unique national identity and a set of core values shaped by their rich diversity and complex political history.

During this period, artists have sought to depict the layered and often complicated American experience. American art movements like the Hudson River School, Abstract Expressionism and Modern Graffiti have continually pushed boundaries and challenged the dominant narratives of what art can depict, and whose stories it can tell.

Building on this tradition, Art in a Season of Revolution asks our local creative communities to respond to the evolution of the American promise. Through fresh perspectives and diverse voices, the exhibition offers a compelling exploration of the nation's past, present and future.

For more information, see:
Art in a Season of Revolution (https://artswestchester.org/gallery-exhibit/art-in-a-season-of-revolution/)

 

STATUE OF LIBERTY 250 RELIC MEDAL

Rhode Island's Alchemist Mint, the world's only mint that takes recycled materials through the entire process from melting to finishing, announced its first project today—a limited-edition coin struck with copper removed from the Statue of Liberty during its 1984-1986 restoration which commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States. The Lady Liberty Enlightening the World coin, named for the statue's formal title, gives the public a chance to own an original piece of the monument, literally a piece of history, and pass it on. The coin represents the first time an original element of the Statue of Liberty has been transformed into a coin as a national artifact. It also represents the last time the copper removed from the statue during its restoration will be available to the public—all of the remaining copper that has been meticulously preserved for the past 40-odd years is being devoted to the production of the commemorative artifact.

Each octagonal shaped, 30mm artifact is individually serialized and edge-engraved and is accompanied by museum grade documentation verifying its origin and authenticity, including metallurgical analysis, chain of custody record. With a base price of $250, 20 percent of net proceeds will go to notable nonprofit organizations.

Ten percent will fund the newly established American Liberty Congress, a nonpartisan annual gathering of historians, legal scholars, economists and other relevant thought leaders to assess the state of the country's constitutional freedoms at the federal and state levels; the congress will determine where they are holding and where they're under pressure. The findings will be detailed in a report released to the public. The first congress will meet in 2027 at Belcourt of Newport in Newport, RI, under the sponsorship of Belcourt's museum, a 501(c)(3).

The other 10 percent will go to highly rated charitable partners committed to causes benefitting the military, culture, American history and arts.

On the face of the artifact, 50 stars frame Lady Liberty's profile with her torch over her heart. On the back, a laurel wreath encircles the opening words of the Declaration of Independence in the document's iconic script with an unfurled American flag in the background.

Carolyn Rafaelian, the entrepreneur and philanthropist who founded the Alex and Ani jewelry empire (with which she is no longer associated) and established the Alchemist Mint earlier this year, took over custody of the copper in 2016 from Rick Stocks. Recognizing the historical significance of it and the other metal materials removed from the Statue of Liberty during its restoration, he collected and stored them under archival conditions for nearly 30 years, turning down myriad proposals for their use until finding someone he trusted with the metals.

Since taking on the stewardship of the materials, Rafaelian has been waiting for the right opportunity to share them with the public in a meaningful way. The country's 250th anniversary struck Rafaelian as the perfect time and a commemorative coin made with original Statue of Liberty copper that would fund a new entity devoted to constitutional liberties, while raising funds for other select charitable partners, as the right manner.

Rafaelian is also the steward of Belcourt, the circa 1895 Newport mansion designed by Richard Morris Hunt, who was also responsible for the design of the Statue of Liberty's pedestal. A permanent exhibition of the Statue of Liberty metals collection opens at Belcourt in June 2026.

The artifact is available for reservations by the public now at www.reallibertycopper.com with a $25 deposit. Reservations for specific serialized years carry higher prices and a $50 deposit. Coins will be available for delivery in archival packaging with all provenance documentation during the fourth quarter of 2026.

For more information, visit reallibertycopper.com

About the Alchemist Mint
The Alchemist Mint, founded by Carolyn Rafaelian in Wickford, RI (one of the country's oldest villages) as the world's only mint that takes recycled and reclaimed materials through the entire process from melting to finishing. Also, it is the world's first pop culture mint, designed for collaboration with artists and the public to craft limited-edition coins.

About Real Liberty Copper
Real Liberty Copper is the authentication and registry framework for all artifacts produced from the Statue of Liberty restoration copper.

To read the complete press release, see:
Original Statue of Liberty Copper Forged Into Coin By New Mint To Honor 250th Anniversary of United States (https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/original-statue-of-liberty-copper-forged-into-coin-by-new-mint-to-honor-250th-anniversary-of-united-states-302769867.html)

For other articles, see:
Carolyn Rafaelian Starts Alchemist Mint to Make Lady Liberty Coins (https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/rafaelian-alchemist-mint/)
Americans can own a piece of the Statue of Liberty for $250 — just in time for the country's 250th birthday (https://nypost.com/2026/05/18/lifestyle/americans-can-own-a-piece-of-the-statue-of-liberty-for-250/)

To read the complete article, see:
Want an Old Piece of the Statue of Liberty? This Is the Man to See. (https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/20/nyregion/want-an-old-piece-of-the-statue-of-liberty-this-is-the-man-to-see.html)

To read earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
QUERY: RELIC MEDALS (https://www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v12n16a11.html)
MORE ON RELIC MEDALS (https://www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v12n17a17.html)

TRUMP GOLD COIN DELAYED

New gold coins featuring President Donald Trump's face, issued for the 250th anniversary of United States independence, likely will not be ready until several months afterwards, the U.S. Mint has said in a legal document reviewed by Newsweek.

The delay was revealed in response to a lawsuit that had been filed in a bid to block the creation of the coins altogether, which has ultimately proved unsuccessful.

The U.S. Mint states in the legal document that production on the coins has not yet begun, as the final design has not been approved. After approval has been issued, the production process will still take several months, and their release will not align with the United States' 250th anniversary of independence on July 4.

In the legal filing, April Stafford, the Director of the Office of Design Management at the United States Mint, discussed the production of the coins and outlined delays in their production.

"The Mint is currently in the design stage of a large 24k gold coin depicting President Trump in commemoration of the United States Semiquincentennial," Stafford wrote.

She added in the legal filing, "There is no official on-sale date for this gold coin. While the coin will be minted in celebration of the Semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026, this is not the target date for issuance."

The legal filing then states that the Mint has not begun production, as the final design of the coin has not been approved. Stafford states that her understanding is that the Treasury Department is "still in consultations regarding the design," and as such, it is "possible that changes may be requested."

Once the approval of the design is given, if no significant changes are required, it would take six to eight weeks to begin striking coins.

Then, after Mint begins striking the coins, it is estimated that it will take several months for the coins to be produced.

There will only be a total of 47 gold coins made, and each of them will contain an estimated $90,000 worth of gold.

Each of the coins will be machined individually and will have a variable weight of gold of approximately 19.7 oz each.

To read the complete article, see:
US Mint Says Donald Trump Gold Coins Won't Be Ready for 250th Anniversary (https://www.newsweek.com/us-mint-donald-trump-gold-coins-250-anniversary-delay-11967439)

See also:
Trump coins won't be ready for America's 250th, US Mint document shows (https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5886303-trump-gold-coins-delay-250-anniversary/)

To read the earlier E-Sylum articles, see:
TRUMP COMMEMORATIVE COIN PROPOSED (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n40a25.html)
WOULD THE 2026 TRUMP COIN BE LEGAL? (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n41a26.html)
WASHINGTON, COOLIDGE, TRUMP, LAW AND TRADITION (https://www.coinbooks.org/v28/esylum_v28n45a24.html)

SADDAM HUESSEIN TRIAL BANKNOTES TO SELL

A full set of trial banknotes from the Central Bank of Iraq dating from 1990 featuring Saddam Hussein that were never printed due to the First Gulf War will be offered at Noonans in an auction of World Banknotes on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. They are being sold by private collectors and are expected to fetch a total of £17,000.

As Andrew Pattison, Head of the Banknote Department at Noonans, explains: "This remarkable trio of notes was prepared by De La Rue, the famous British printing firm, for issue in 1990 or 1991. Prior to this date, the relationship between the British and Iraqi states had been cordial, but following Saddam Husseins invasion of Kuwait, and the swift response by the combined forces of the United Nations, known as the First Gulf War, it was no longer politic for De La Rue to continue to print banknotes for Iraq. This ended a relationship that had begun right at the start of the modern Iraqi state in 1932, when Bradbury Wilkinson (later bought by De La Rue) printed banknotes featuring the first King of Iraq, Faisal I."

He continues: "These three ‘specimens' or 'proof' notes featuring Saddam Hussein were in the very late stages of the design process, seemingly with everything ready to go, when the order was put on hold by the war. The 5 and 10 Dinars have been known for several years, but are very rare, with at most a dozen examples of each known in various formats. The 25 Dinars was suspected to exist, but this is the first full printed note ever found, and the first to come to market. As a truly new discovery, a remarkable thing in modern numismatics, it is sure to attract huge interest."

The previously unknown and unadopted 25 Dinars note which is an incredibly rare and a potentially unique note is expected to fetch £5,000-£7,000 [lot 281]; while the specimen 10 Dinars carries an estimate of £4,000-£5,000 [lot 282] and the extremely rare specimen 5 Dinars is estimated at £4,000-£5,000 [lot 283].

LOOSE CHANGE: MAY 24, 2026

The Inspiration for Pistrucci's St. George

To read the complete lot description, see:
https://www.numisbids.com/sale/10607/lot/1582

To read the complete article, see:
Benedetto Pistrucci, the Parthenon frieze, and St. George (https://new.coinsweekly.com/coins-medals-more/benedetto-pistrucci-the-parthenon-frieze-and-st-george/)

The New York Public Library

The idea for the library gained steam in the late 1800s, with the death of former New York governor Samuel J. Tilden. In life he had strongly believed in the need for a public library, and his will left over $2 million for its inception.

For years, New York City had already had two major libraries — the Astor and the Lenox. The Astor Library was purely a reference stock hold, and as such it did not circulate its books. The Lenox was even more exclusive as a collection of rare books intended primarily for scholarship. The Lenox was free, but required tickets of admission.

In 1895, a plan was solidified to combine the Lenox and Astor libraries with the Tilden funds to create a truly public New York library. More than 1 million books were available for checkout. Around 40,000 visitors showed up on opening day. In the following years, Scottish-American steel baron Andrew Carnegie helped to fund branch libraries across the city.

To read the complete article, see:
The Writer's Almanac from Saturday, May 23, 2015 (https://www.writersalmanac.org/index.html%3Fp=10044.html)

To read an earlier E-Sylum article, see:
ARTICLE: THE PUBLIC LIBRARY IS STILL HERE (https://coinbooks.org/esylum_v15n37a20.html)

THE QUARTER ON EDDIE VAN HALEN'S GUITAR

Screwed directly into the wood of Eddie Van Halen's homemade "Frankenstrat" guitar is a 1971 US quarter. It wasn't a lucky charm—it was a makeshift piece of mechanical engineering.

Van Halen revolutionized rock guitar with his aggressive use of the tremolo arm, or "whammy bar," creating dramatic pitch drops known as dive bombs. To achieve this, he utilized a floating tremolo system—specifically, early versions of the double-locking Floyd Rose bridge. A floating bridge balances the tension of the guitar strings against a set of springs in the back of the guitar body. This delicate equilibrium allows the player to bend the pitch both up and down.

However, floating bridges come with a significant drawback: if a single string breaks during a performance, the overall tension is lost, the springs pull the bridge backward, and the entire guitar goes drastically out of tune. Additionally, resting a palm heavily on a floating bridge while playing can inadvertently push the strings out of pitch.

His solution was brilliant in its simplicity. He needed a solid, durable shim of exactly the right thickness to act as a physical stop for the bridge plate. A standard US quarter fit the bill perfectly. By drilling a hole through a 1971 quarter and screwing it into the guitar body just beneath the back edge of the bridge, he created a custom resting plate. The coin prevented the bridge from pulling backward, keeping the instrument perfectly in tune even if he broke a string during a blistering solo.

To read the complete article, see:
Why did Eddie Van Halen put a quarter on his guitar? (https://www.quora.com/Why-did-Eddie-Van-Halen-put-a-quarter-on-his-guitar/answer/OpenBlueprint)

ABOUT THIS ISSUE: MAY 24, 2026

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 pursuing a Master's Degree in Quantitative Economics 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.