Whitman Publishing announces the release of the updated and expanded second edition of A Guide Book of United States Commemorative Coins, a volume in its popular Bowers Series of numismatic titles, available November 1, 2016. The book continues in the tradition of the Guide Book of Morgan Silver Dollars and other best-selling “Official Red Book” guides. The 304-page full-color volume will be available online (including at Whitman.com) and in bookstores and hobby shops nationwide for $19.95.
“Collecting U.S. commemorative coins is like compiling a photo album of our nation’s history,” said award-winning author Q. David Bowers. “These coins represent so many aspects of America—from wartime victories to scientific achievement, from sports heroes to famous inventors. Every collector can build a unique set with its own personal significance.”
Each commemorative coin from 1892 to date is illustrated in full color. Mintages, specifications, and market values in multiple grades add to the book’s reference value. Bowers explores how a commemorative develops from initial concept to final coinage. On the technical and production side he explains die preparation, the coining process, mintages, Proof and assay pieces, packaging, and distribution. On the market side, he shows ways to build an attractive collection, and gives advice on analyzing strike and eye appeal, being a smart buyer, realities of the marketplace, Full Details, registry sets, establishing fair market prices, and more.
A new appendix features an interview with Artistic Infusion Program artist Chris Costello, offering unprecedented artistic insight on how commemorative coins are designed. An extensive new gallery of images in appendix B shows 128 artist sketches that the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee and the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed to choose the 2016 Mark Twain and National Park Service commemorative designs.
“As you collect U.S. commemorative coins, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of each design and the history and lore it imparts,” said former Coin World editor Beth Deisher in the book’s foreword. “Each one has a story and there is no one better to guide you through their ins and outs than Dave Bowers.”
Because Whitman Publishing is the Official Supplier of the American Numismatic Association, ANA members received 10% off when ordering the book directly from the publisher. ANA members can also borrow it for free from the Association’s Dwight N. Manley Numismatic Library.