The E-Sylum v13#01, January 3, 2010

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    The E-Sylum
  
  An electronic publication of
  The Numismatic Bibliomania Society


Volume , Number 01, January 3, 2010
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WAYNE'S WORDS: THE E-SYLUM JANUARY 3, 2010
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NUMISMATIC LITERATURE DEALER JOHN BURNS AT THE 2010 F.U.N. SHOW
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REMINDER: STACK FAMILY NUMISMATIC LIBRARY SALE JANUARY 9, 2010
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BOOK REVIEW: THE AUTHORITATIVE REFERENCE ON LINCOLN CENTS, SECOND EDITION
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BOOK REVIEW: ALASKA AND YUKON TOKENS BY RON BENICE
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BOOK REVIEW: CHECK LIST AND RECORD BOOK OF UNITED STATES PAPER MONEY   
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BOOK REVIEW: AGRICULTURAL AND MECHANICAL SOCIETY MEDALS OF THE U.S.
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MORE ON COINAGE OF THE ANGLO-HANNOVERIAN PERSONAL UNION 1714-1837
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STEVEN A. MIDDLETON 1952-2009
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THE SCHULMANS AND THE NAZI OCCUPATION OF THE NETHERLANDS
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AUSTRALIA'S MUSEUM VICTORIA MOUNTS ONLINE TOKEN EXHIBIT
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THE ASSOCIATION OF COLLECTING CLUBS
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1933 SAINT-GAUDENS DOUBLE EAGLE DESTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION
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PHOTO: GREG STEMM AND MATT TUCKER WITH ODYSSEY MARINE TREASURE
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MORE ON THE PITTSBURG AND MEXICAN TIN MINING COMPANY MEDAL
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E-SYLUM READERS AT BINION'S HORSESHOW CASINO
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HOW DONATED LAS VEGAS CASINO CHIPS ARE PROCESSED
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A PLEA FOR GOLD MONEY
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U.S. COIN REPLICAS FROM NEAL SHERMAN'S MARYLAND MINT
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PETER ROSA'S COIN REPLICAS
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COIN DEALER TOM NOE'S CONVICTION UPHELD
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PARISIAN ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY ATTENDANCE MEDALS
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ROMAN COIN FLIPPING: HEADS OR SHIPS
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ROYAL AUSTRALIAN MINT STRIKES CENTENNIAL COIN 
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QUERY: JOSEPH WHARTON MEDALS
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ZIMBABWE NOTES IN THE NEWS AGAIN
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GOT CHANGE FOR A MILLION SILVER DOLLARS?
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MALAYSIAN BANKNOTE ERROR DISCOVERED
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AMAZON'S KINDLE MILESTONE: MORE E-BOOKS THAN REAL BOOKS SOLD ON CHRISTMAS
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FUNKY BOOKSHELVES
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FEATURED WEB PAGE: THE NEW YORK NUMISMATIC CLUB YEAR BOOK 
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Click here to read this issue on the web




WAYNE'S WORDS: THE E-SYLUM JANUARY 3, 2010





Among our new subscribers this week are
Mitch Mitchell, 
Paul Cartmill, 
Chris Freeman, 
K. E. Sims, 
Phil Kurjan, 
And Philip Blette.
Welcome aboard! We now have 1,299 subscribers.  


Welcome to the Future.  It's 2010 - so where's my jet-pack and personal robot assistant?   Seriously, though, if anyone had told me in say, 1990 that by 2010 I'd be editing a gazillion pages of numismatic content weekly I'd have looked at them like they had three heads.  But I *do* have a robot army of sorts, in the various computer productivity tools that have emerged.  


First is the personal computer itself, followed by the Internet.  Put them together and one person can publish content to thousands of subscribers and the whole damn world with the click of a mouse.  Sure beats the old days of laying out pages by hand, taking a master copy to a printer, stuffing envelopes and schlepping to the post office.


Other tools like our Flickr image archive make editing and publishing photos a snap.  And having the world's newspapers online and searchable instantly gives me an army of reporters and photographers to draw from.  Not to mention our readers, all available to me via email from everywhere in the world, which constitute the best collection of numismatic talent anywhere.


Combine this with the news from Amazon that on Christmas, the company sold more Kindle books than physical books, and I guess, just maybe, The Future has arrived.


This week we open with Florida travel plans and MULTIPLE great book reviews.
Other topics include the Schulman coin dealer family and the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam, coin replicas of Peter Rosa and Neal Sherman, medals honoring Joseph Wharton, and more.


To learn about Parisian royal agricultural society attendance medals, coin flipping in Roman times, and a million-dollar U.S. banknote, read on.


Wayne Homren
 Numismatic Bibliomania Society





NUMISMATIC LITERATURE DEALER JOHN BURNS AT THE 2010 F.U.N. SHOW


It's been about 20 degrees Fahrenheit all day here, with a howling wind that would chill Satan to the bone.  I guess I should be happy that some of my readers at least, are heading soon to warmer climates, specifically the Florida United Numismatists (FUN) show in Orlando, FL.   
-Editor



Numismatic literature dealer John H. Burns writes:


I will be set up at tables 1247 and 1249 at the F.U.N. show
January 7 to January 10.



Also heading to F.U.N. is Alan V. Weinberg, who writes:



I'm off to Orlando on Tuesday night. Upon my return, I'll send a report on the sale or non-sale of the 1913 Liberty nickel. Frankly, I don't think it'll go past 3 million hammer - in this economy - and thus won't sell. Heck, you can buy a choice gold Brasher doubloon (the Kagin-Contursi specimen or Virgil Brand-Jack Friedberg-Walter Perschke specimen - both currently on the market) for $5 million and neither is moving. The Brasher Doubloon's aesthetics, historical desirability and sale appearance frequency puts the 1913 nickel to shame.
 

I'd love to be proven wrong and have the nickel sell for, say, $5 million, but I don't think so. It's nickel, small and visually unimpressive, not a gem coin, part of a series with only the last date digit difference, historically unimportant, and a sub-rosa Mint product.





REMINDER: STACK FAMILY NUMISMATIC LIBRARY SALE JANUARY 9, 2010


While some are flying south, others will be making a beeline for the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York, where George Kolbe will be auctioning  
the Stack Family Numismatic library.  Here are some excerpts from George's
earlier press release. 
-Editor




On January 9th, 2010, George Frederick Kolbe/Fine Numismatic Books will offer for sale at public auction highlights from the remarkable numismatic library carefully assembled over seven decades by the New York numismatic firm founded by brothers Morton and Joseph and ably carried on by Norman, Benjamin, Harvey, Susan, and Lawrence Stack. 


For over fifty years, the fabled American portion of the library has resided in antique bookcases lining one wall of Harvey Stack's office, and along the opposite wall as well. Other portions of the library were, for many years, located throughout the main floor of the firm's New York City retail location at 123 West 57th Street and many of the great classic works on ancient and foreign coins and medals were carefully arranged on the second floor in the Coin Galleries offices. 


Covering virtually all aspects of numismatics and replete with rarities, it is one of the finest working libraries on numismatics ever formed in the United States.







Key works from this magnificent library will be sold at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City in conjunction with the New York International Numismatic Convention this coming January. The profusely illustrated catalogue will be arranged in two parts: 190 lots of rare and classic works on American coins, medals, and tokens, and 210 key works on ancient, medieval, and modern numismatics. 


Lot viewing will be held at the American Numismatic Society, 75 Varick Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10013. On Thursday, January 7th, lot viewing will be from 8 AM until 7 PM and on Friday, January 8th, from 8 AM to 8 PM. The auction itself, as previously mentioned, will be held at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, 301 Park Avenue between East 49th & 50th Streets, New York, NY 10022.


Some American highlights include: the Stack firm's own complete bound set of their auction sale catalogues, comprising an unparalleled source of data on rare American coins, medals, tokens, and paper money; a photographic record of the fabled collection of $2.50, $5.00, and $10.00 United States gold coins from the collection of Colonel E. H. R. Green, housed in three handsome leather-bound volumes and original inventories and financial details of the collection; 
inventories of the incomparable Louis Eliasberg collection; most of the Chapman brothers auction sale catalogues issued with original photographic plates; classic works on large cents from the library of legendary collector Henry Hines, often filled with letters and research notes assembled by the "Big Three of the Big Cents": Hines, Howard Newcomb, and George Clapp. 





BOOK REVIEW: THE AUTHORITATIVE REFERENCE ON LINCOLN CENTS, SECOND EDITION


Jeffrey P. LaPlante submitted this review on the new edition of 
The Authoritative Reference on Lincoln Cents by John Wexler and Kevin Flynn.
-Editor




Every once in awhile, a numismatic book is written with the audience clearly in mind, and this is that tome. The Authoritative Reference on Lincoln Cents by John Wexler and Kevin Flynn was first written in 1996.
This second edition picks up nicely where that first edition left off and adds an immense amount of valuable material. The information presented encompasses a wide range of topics on the subject written by the authors and includes several additional articles contributed by well respected numismatists Jason Cuvelier, Michael Fahey, Jamie Hernandez, J.P. Martin, and B.J. Neff. 


	The reference begins with the history of the ubiquitous and highly collected Lincoln cent, from Victor David Brenner's iconic wheat back, up to and continuing with the words of Frank Gasparro; the man who designed the memorial cent. The history of the Lincoln cent is very interesting and Flynn and Wexler have not wasted any pages in the discussion. The history is followed by a very valuable section on how to use the book and the reader will need to come back to this reference often. The die variety reference system, cross referencing, identifying characteristics, and pricing guide are explained. 


The next section contains important information on hub and transitional design changes, and a cross referencing section to help the novice as well as the advanced collector. The amount of changes within the Lincoln cent series could lend itself to a small type collection in and of itself. Speaking of collecting the there is also a detailed description of Lincoln cent grading with photographs and example specimen for both hub and transitional design changes. 


The next two hundred or so pages of the volume will become the tomes pièce de résistance and encompass for die variety collectors what amounts to an almost complete study of the hobby. The Lincoln cent variety collector would be less effective without this reference and therefore The Authoritative Reference on Lincolns Cents Second Edition is a must have for the die variety collector. In the past this level of detail and study was left to a small branch of folks within the hobby. It had been the endeavor of very serious and meticulous individuals. However over the past few years this sector has become a very popular pastime for new and re- invigorated collectors. The possibility that a couple of hundred dollar Lincoln cent may be retrieved from pocket change can't hurt either.


In the next section is a well written article on "Trial Dies" by B.J.  Neff. What is a trial die you might ask? Well if you must know they are a die variety much like a doubled die and more which is explained in detail by the authors. The articles that follow explain Lincoln cent authentication, doubled dies, repunched mintmarks, over mint marks, as well as transitional varieties and even give the reader an advance knowledge of where the hobby may be headed in the next few years. This is very well written for the advanced collector with an eye on the future of the coin market.


The authors have hit the bull's eye with this volume, it is fascinating and informative, and presents hundreds of photographs. Flynn and Wexler capitalize on the importance of die varieties in this volume and they do so in a methodical manner. The explanation of the die hub process is spot on and the section which explains the various types of hub issues affecting the planchet are detailed to a fine degree. This is one of the most fascinating aspects of the volume and enlightens the reader on the coin production process. This background material is the perfect way to lead into the subject of die varieties for which this volume might well just stake its claim as the seminal work to date on that subject. For my two cents this book is a must for the Lincoln cent collector. It is an easy book to find your way around and yet the amount of information presented is encyclopedic but more than often to the point.


The Authoritative Reference on Lincoln Cents Second Edition by John Wexler and Kevin Flynn can be found at either

kevinjflynn.com

or

doubleddie.com/120501.html
.




QUICK QUIZ: Why does a 1974 cent rate the cover photo?  What's so special about it?
-Editor





BOOK REVIEW: ALASKA AND YUKON TOKENS BY RON BENICE


Dick Hanscom of Alaska Rare Coins submitted this review of the third edition of Ron Benice's Alaska and Yukon Tokens (previously known as Alaska Tokens).  
-Editor




The third edition of Ron Benice's Alaska and Yukon Tokens has been released.
It was published by McFarland & Company, the price is $49.95 and can be purchased from them at www.mcfarlandpub.com  or 1-336-246-4460.


I have received a review copy and cannot express how pleased I am.
Primarily, this reference lists pre-statehood Alaska tokens (some exceptions are noted).  Added to this edition for the first time are tokens from Canada's Yukon Territory. As with all catalogues of this nature, they are never complete.  New tokens will continue to appear.  This is a great update on the previous edition.


It has been about 15 years since the second edition. Understandably, there are 55 new issuers and 239 previously unlisted tokens.  Rather than re-number the entire catalogue as was done in the second edition, the use of decimals allows new issuers to be placed in alphabetical order. New tokens from previously known issuers are placed at the end of the series with a new letter designation.


The catalogue is profusely illustrated.  While not all tokens are illustrated, the number of illustrations is more than sufficient.  Major rarities are illustrated, as are most of the new issuers' tokens.  When there are varieties, the tokens are illustrated, or at least described in such a manner that it is easy to distinguish between them.


The descriptions of token issuers are expanded and more period photos are used.  This allows the reader to better grasp the historic value of the token. 


Mavericks can be a problem area. When a maverick is generally accepted, because of overwhelming evidence to be from a certain location, it is included without special note. Others are shown as "attribution tentative"
or "attribution speculative."  When a token has a possible alternative attribution, Mr. Benice goes into detail to justify its inclusion or
omission (Juneau comes to mind).   


While the general scope of the catalogue is pre-statehood, all military tokens are included as they are still truly tokens.  In the past 15 years, many previously unreported chits have surfaced. Most are of modest value, but there are exceptions.


Commercial fishing has played a huge role in the development of Alaska. Many of the rarest Alaska tokens are from these companies, and quite a number have come to light since the last edition.  As with the military tokens, many chits used by these companies are now just becoming known and these are included.


Transportation tokens is another area where tokens from the statehood era are also listed. Most are common, but there are some rarities, and these are listed and illustrated.  Food Stamp tokens are listed, but not illustrated.
Prison tokens are included for the first time. Since Alaska is a small state, only a few are known.  Mr. Benice feels this is a trial listing, and that perhaps more are out there.  Rounding out the Alaska section are the Metallic Identification Chits, many issued by companies that also issued tokens.  For others, it is the only metallic numismatic item from the company.


New to this edition are the listings for Yukon tokens.  This is divided into two sections: metallic and modern plastic.  Several Alaska issuers will also be found in the Yukon section.  The history of the two territories was so intermeshed in the gold rush days that the Fourth of July was actually celebrated in Dawson, Yukon.


The addition of 239 new tokens is an achievement, but the changes in pricing since the last edition is really the significant change.


Pricing is always a controversial area.  The values shown in the catalogue are based on sales records. Because of very limited sales records on the rarest items, this is not an easy task. Sellers will think values are too low, while buyers will think they are too high. In the 15 years since the second edition, prices have escalated dramatically. While I might have disagreement with Mr. Benice on individual items, overall, I believe he has done a good job balancing the real world with the hype. 


Many rare tokens have been bringing astounding prices, but if another shows up, is that price going to hold?  As Mr. Benice mentions, eBay has shown how common or scarce a token might really be.  Those tokens from known hoards find their prices reduced in this edition.  Truly scarce and rare tokens have seen significant increases in catalogue price. Common tokens remain inexpensive.  Mid-range tokens have generally stayed the same, with a few moving up or down in value.


Mr. Benice has expressed a prejudice against cardboard tokens.  Most of these tokens are priced at lower levels than a comparably rare metal token (composition is one of his criteria for establishing value). This is unfortunate because they are more subject to deterioration than metal tokens.  It is good to see that the rarer of these have enjoyed a reasonable price increase.


A 14 page index caps off an excellent reference, making it simple to locate that token without a place name.


On the negative side, I have a few minor points.


The third edition is soft bound. Having grown accustomed to hard bound, and worn out a couple copies of the second edition, it seems that I will have to keep sufficient copies on hand just to replace those that I abuse.


Missing from this edition are the short, geographical descriptions of the cities, towns and villages.  I think this will be missed.  Many without an intimate knowledge of Alaska geography will be scrambling to a map to see where the tokens are from.


Food stamp tokens got a brief mention in the second edition. There is a complete listing in the third edition. However, there were more illustrated tokens in the previous edition. It would have been nice to have an obverse photo from each issuer for reference.


Catalogues like this are more than just a list of tokens.  If you go beyond the tokens, and examine the issuers, you get an idea of the people who came to Alaska, rushed from gold rush to gold rush, and settled in the last frontier. Failure to recognize this as a commercial or mercantile history would be a mistake.  While this catalogue is a must for token collectors, it also provides a look into the history of the territories as expressed by the merchants, hoteliers and saloon keepers.


Dick adds:


I expect my shipment to arrive in mid-January. I am preselling at $46,
postpaid. Suggested retail is $49.95.




Thanks for the detailed and well-balanced review.  Dick can be reached at akcoins at mosquitonet.com.
-Editor





BOOK REVIEW: CHECK LIST AND RECORD BOOK OF UNITED STATES PAPER MONEY   


John and Nancy Wilson, NLG, submitted this review of Whitman Publishing's new  Check List and Record Book of United States Paper Money.   
-Editor




We were very pleased to see that Whitman Publishing, LLC has published a very nice check list and record book for United States paper money from 1861 to present.  This soft bound book contains 248 pages and allows you to catalog your U. S. paper money collection utilizing the Friedberg and Whitman numbering systems.  Each entry has a place for a check mark, as well as a space to list the grade and make other comments.  This extra space for comments will be a great place to put important information regarding the notes in our (and your collection).  You can list in the comment space:  price paid, dealer name or auction purchase, serial number, date purchased, or other information such as a graded note.


This check list and record book covers all federal issues from $1 to $10,000, fractional currency (including regular issues, specimen issues and shields), postage currency, encased postage stamps, mule notes (with many star numbers listed) and one page to list your errors.  One page is also available for you to list your miscellaneous items such as War of 1812 issues, or other U. S. paper that might not be listed in this book.  We especially liked seeing the printages of the notes along with rarity and extant of issues known.  To say the least this is invaluable information and can actually be used when you are looking at auction catalogs, dealer stocks at their stores, coin shows or even the Internet.  


Over the past 15 years we have seen many more dealers and collectors come into the market place for U. S. paper money.  This reference has all the information you need regarding all issues and will assist you with your buying and selling of them.  This will be another best seller for Whitman and is available from them for $9.95.  For information on purchasing this check list and record book they may be contacted at:  Whitman Publishing, LLC, 3101 Clairmont Road, Suite C, Atlanta, GA 30329 Phone No. (800) 546 – 2995 or visit their web page at www.whitmanbooks.com.  



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