Ask The Experts: New Jersey Coppers

By Q. David Bowers, Chairman Emeritus

Answers for the Avid Collector

Do you have a question about anything numismatic? Want to know what’s going on here at Stack’s Bowers Galleries? If so, send your inquiries to AnswersfortheAvidCollector@StacksBowers.com and get a response to your important questions from our team of experts!

Question: I am interested in posing questions to someone with an interest specifically in New Jersey coppers. I read about a hoard of NJ coppers in Bowers’ book. It has started me on a quest to learn more. These particular coppers were found while dismantling a fireplace in a house known as "Solitude" and owned by Judge John C. Symmes.  

In addition, I would like to learn more about Walter Mould, but I'm not having a great deal of success. Many thanks!

— Cyndi S.

Answer: Dear Cyndi S., You might want to reread Dave Bowers’ Whitman Encyclopedia of Colonial and Early American Coins, as there are so many varieties listed that a second view will probably give you more information. Beyond that, there is a great deal to read in S.S. Crosby’s 1875 book, Early Coins of America. Original copies are apt to sell in the hundreds of dollars, but reprints are much less. Check around on the Internet or, if you are a member of the American Numismatic Association, you can borrow a copy free from the ANA Library.

Beyond this, check the unequaled offering of New Jersey coppers in our sale of the John J. Ford, Jr. Collection. Much detail is given about history as well as the coins themselves.

For still more, join the Colonial Coin Collectors Club (C4) and ask for back issues of The C4 Journal. Also contact the American Numismatic Society, New York City, and order a file of back issues of The Colonial Newsletter available on CD. Do this and you will be all set for a week of enjoyable reading. And, after that time, you will be as well informed as just about anyone.

Sincerely,

Dave Bowers