It is that time of year when we think about the past and contemplate the future, perhaps making a few New Year’s resolutions. Also, for most of us, this is a happy season—with the exchange of greetings, the giving of gifts, and general conviviality.

As we enter 2005, all of us at American Numismatic Rarities are very grateful for recent times. This past year has seen many important coins cross the auction block, record breaking sales, and the like. These, of course, are important, and we look forward to more of the same. However, equally pleasing is the nice feedback we get from our customers.

Just this morning I received an interesting full-page letter from a gentleman who made a modest purchase, a copy of the eighth edition Judd book on patterns, and who sent it to me all the way from Seattle to be autographed and returned, which, of course, I took care of right away. He then went on to explain how he enjoyed patterns, liked the book, and so on.

Perhaps this reflects that in numismatics one does not have to buy a 1793 Strawberry Leaf cent for $414,000, to achieve satisfaction and enjoyment. This can be done easily enough through books and supplies, inexpensive Morgan silver dollars, and in other ways. The hobby opens its borders to everyone. Those who have large budgets can find opportunities to spend their money, but those who have more modest means, say a few hundred or a few thousand dollars a year, can be just as content. Someone putting together a set of large copper cents of the middle date and late date years, 1816 to 1857, in grades such as VF, EF, or low range Mint State, can have just as much enjoyment as someone who collected Proof $20 coins by date sequence. This is not theory, this is fact. Satisfaction occurs at all levels.

As you envision the New Year and the coin collecting hobby, think of new books to read and enjoy, new coins to acquire, and perhaps entire new series to explore. Several books by me will be issued by Whitman Publishing Company, one on United States type coins, probably first out of the door, then one on investing in and enjoying coins. Other announcements will be made. As to the strength of the coin hobby, in a recent conversation with Mary Counts, President of Whitman, she said that sales of the Guide Book of United States Coins are up sharply in 2004. What a great indicator!

From all of here at American Numismatic Rarities, continuing good wishes to you and yours for a happy, healthy and prosperous 2005. We’ll be here when you want to call on us.

Best Wishes,