Crossing the Block: The Edgar J. Mandel Collection of Asian Coins, Part 1

By Greg Cohen, Professional Numismatist and Consignment Director, U.S. and World Coins.

In the tradition of offering old time cabinets of fine Asian coins in our Hong Kong venue (Wa She Wong, Chin Family, Demarete, Bressett and others), Stack’s Bowers and Ponterio is very proud to present the Edgar J. Mandel Collection to the current generation of collectors. Mandel, born in 1920. specialized in Asian coins, collecting generally from the 1950s to the  1970s. Not only was he passionate about the coins he collected, but he authored standard references in his areas of interest, filling voids in the numismatic understanding of Asia. In many cases these references were not superseded until very recently and were the main sources of information for an entire generation of collectors of Asian coins. His most famous works were Cast Coinage of Korea, Metal Charms and Amulets, Trial Listings: Korean Charms and Amulets, and The Copper and Brass Coins of Kirin. Mr. Mandel passed in 1976, leaving behind a wonderful numismatic legacy.

The collection will be offered in two parts, Part I, offered in our April 2013 Hong Kong Auction, focuses on struck Asian coins, primarily of China, but also includes coins of Hong Kong, the Straits Settlements, Japan and some pieces from Korea. There are many highlights, including many minor coins that are now either finest or tied for finest certified at NGC. As time passes, serious collectors are realizing how scarce and rare many of these minor coin issues are in high grades. There are wonderful Gem quality silver minors, rare dollar types, a few patterns and proofs. Catalogs will be out in early March, and we are very proud of the fine collections and individual rarities in the offing. If the coins and paper money of Asia are your specialty, be sure to review the listings either online at www.stacksbowers.com , or in the print catalog. If you are not on our mailing list, be sure to contact one of our auction services specialists to reserve your copy.

Part II will anchor our August 2013 Hong Kong auction, and will mainly comprise charms, amulets, and chatelaines, perhaps the most extensive collection ever offered.  We invite you to consign alongside Part II of this important collection. The consignment deadline is May 20, so contact any of our consignment directors soon to discuss placing your Asian coins in this sale.