Curator Karen M. Lee of the National Numismatic Collection housed at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History headlined our 2013 Spring Baltimore Expo. Ms. Lee made a presentation on George T. Morgan’s sketchbook and autographed copies of her book, The Private Sketchbook of George T. Morgan, America’s Silver Dollar Artist.
Expo dealers reported brisk sales at both the retail and wholesale levels. And Legend Numismatic’s Laura Sperber declared they had one of their “BEST EVER” shows!
I heard from a variety of dealers over the course of the Expo, and the overwhelming consensus was business was solid and steady, with regard to both wholesale and particularly retail business.
Among other Expo highlights was the official auction by Stack’s Bowers Galleries and the numismatic exhibits sponsored by the Maryland State Numismatic Association.
The official auction, by Stack’s Bowers Galleries, realized nearly $12 million, Brian Kendrella, director of operations for U.S. collectibles said.
The Numismatic Guaranty Corporation conducted its inaugural grading class, which sold out weeks in advance. NGC grader John Schuch II was the class instructor. There are plans for another class at the June Baltimore Expo.
Retired Bureau of Engraving and Printing plate printer Mike Bean was a hit with attendees. He demonstrated the Spider printing press, and limited-edition intaglio printed souvenir cards were given away free by drawing.
More than 30 Boy Scouts earned their coin-collecting merit badge on Saturday. The clinic was instructed by former American Numismatic Association vice president Patti Finner.
Rounding out the Expo were several organizations within the numismatic community that held their club meetings during the show.
Whitman Coin & Collectibles Expo is the leading producer of coin and currency expos in North America.