Bowers on collecting: Get ready for two new books!

For much of the past year, going into overdrive in late autumn, the Whitman staff has been working on two new standard references—the 2020 editions of A Guide Book of United States Coins and Mega-Red No. 5, the 1,500+ page, six-pound volume also known as the Deluxe Guide Book.

Both books are collectible in their own right. The first edition of the Guide Book was published in November 1946, so late in the year that it was decided to give it a cover date of 1947—a tradition that has been continued to this day in a variety of other annual or semiannual guidebooks as well. Many people have formed complete sets—an ideal way to study market trends and evolutions.

Mega Red is a relatively new entry started just a few years ago. Each edition has a special section featuring a particular series. No. 4 showcased nickels from the Shield type to date, including many pictures of nickels in use in American life. No. 4 had a large section of dimes from 1796 onward. The forthcoming No. 5 will feature quarters. If you act now you can still get a copy of No. 4 from Whitman and from some book sellers. Nos. 1 to 3 can probably be found on the Internet.

Did you know that Whitman has published over 300 titles and new editions since 2003? It is both true and impressive!

Your key to success in buying, selling, and enjoying numismatics is to have at least a small working library. For the cost of a one-ounce American eagle or common date double eagle you can get a running start.

Get set to have a good time!

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