RCC/Sources of Numismatic Information

Sources of Numismatic Information

by James Hearn

I suspect, as a coin collector; that most of our numismatic information comes from books, dealers and other people who share the same interest. That is most certainly true for me. However, there is another factor that impacts the collection of numismatic information. And that element is the reference library of the collector. One can achieve a library in several different ways.

For me first and foremost, KNOW the specialty that interests you. DO NOT follow the same "path" only on the basis that some one else already has a collection that looks good. Secondly, how in depth do you want to go in your chosen area? Thirdly, how much information is out there already for the collector? (If you are collecting US material, there are many of sources for the collector as well as material for the specialist.) These three considerations should prevent the novice, and the advanced collector, from wasting his/her time and money on assembling a reference library that does not meet the needs of the collector.

That being said, here are several suggestions to help build a strong reference library. Many dealers have a selection of books to look through, or to purchase. In most cases, they will address general numismatic interests. The dealer may have a book distributor that the collector can contact. That is best done when the collector knows what they need. Also in most cases, the book distributor can also be used for the more detailed or in depth works. One also should understand that approach works when book dealer or coin collector is aware of the existence of a useful reference and its' sources. At this point two problems arise. (A) determining which books might be of interest, and (B) to be able to track down the titles that interest the collector. {Thus as a collector, you have a two prong activity. Get the reference work AND the coin itself.}

Identifying book titles which may be useful can be undertaken by writing to authors of general works in your specialty and asking them which sources they used, writing publishers and requesting lists of other books they publish. One can also ask dealers about what references they use in their shop(s)?

There are a number of numismatic periodicals, which have articles dealing with coins. Two general sources are: The American Numismatic Association (ANA) & The American Numismatic Society (ANS). In addition to those sources, auction catalogues can be useful tools to the collector. Generally they can help in pricing particular coin issues as well as serving as a reference tool to the collector as well. Even in this day and time auction catalogues may be the ONLY documented numismatic source for the collector to use. As I stated above the ANA & the ANS are good starting points for the collector. They both maintain libraries and members have access to the sources contained in them. They can be used to locate obscure particular book titles or articles that are in the area of interest to the collector.

The acquisition of books can be a long process, depending on the availability of the book and the availability of cash to the coin collector. As suggested earlier, the coin dealer who specializes in your area(s) may stock the books you seek. Or, if not, may be able to refer you to someone who does have them in stock. When attending local coin shows, look for book sellers to purchase books from or for useful numismatic titles or information about particular materials. They may not have them on hand, but they may be able to give you some insight as to where it could be found. Another way to go would be to find a numismatic book auction house. My personal choices are:

George Kolbe,
P.O.Box Drawer 3100,
Crestline, CA.92325-3100
phone # (909) 338-6527,
Remy Bourne,
509-40th Ave. N.E.,
Minn, MN. 55421-3833.
Phone # (612) 789-7070

That way would be best suited for collectors who already know what they want. Local or area coin dealers may have a auction from some other dealer or collector. In many cases, the more scarce, hard to find books appear in these sales.

These are only suggestions, is not a numismatic "gospel" Do what works and feels comfortable for you.

{REFERENCE NOTE: Taken from sale #57 from the August 5th, 1992 Ponterior & Associates Sale Catalogue "Comments on Reference Libraries" by Stewart J. Westdal}

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