By Q. David Bowers, Chairman Emeritus
I hope you are having a very nice holiday season -- celebrating Hanukkah or Christmas as the case may be, or other preference. It is a time to be merry, a time to be happy, a time to rejoice in the advantages we all have as citizens of the United States of America. And, the icing on the cake in terms of enjoyment is numismatics. If collecting coins has been a passion for a long time, you know that it has added a dimension to your life -- what with the thrill of the hunt, friendship with other collectors, exploring possibilities on the Internet and, while I am mentioning things, being a client of Stack’s Bowers Galleries.
From the latest report our New York gallery is busier than ever. Located in the heart of the Art District at 123 West 57th Street, it is a magnet for those seeking coins, gold, or other items for gifts.
If you are contemplating a numismatic present for a member of your family or for a close friend, here are some ideas from me. Of course, you may have some of your own.
One idea is to get a copy of the Guide Book of United States Coins, and add to it an actual coin. A 1909 V.D.B. Lincoln cent in a circulated grade is very affordable and has an interesting story to tell. It could inspire someone to start collecting. Another favorite of mine, but into three figures, would be an MS-63 Carson City Morgan dollar of 1882, 1883 or 1884. These are also incredibly romantic and are attractive. Such a large and brilliant coin will indeed be impressive.
Besides the Guide Book, there are many other numismatic books that make fine gifts. I suggest you visit the Whitman Publishing website, peruse the titles available, and then, due to the late time, go to your nearest bookstore, chain store, or hobby market, review the selection of books on hand, and pick out some titles of interest. These are quite economical and for less than $20 you can have a gift that keeps on giving, so to speak.
Enjoy your holidays and, a bit in advance, Happy New Year!
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