ds his expertise providing insightful study, rich historical background, and detailed data analysis. Bowersthe

Dean of American Numismatics and the most published

numismatic author of all timelays out everything you

need to know to be a smart collector: how to evaluate

quality, determine value, understand the market, and

make good purchases. You’ll learn the backstage goingson

that led to the coins’ creation, why they barely made a splash when first issued, and why they weren’t mourned

when they passed into history. In recent years the scene

has changedBarber’s silver coinage is among the more

popular of U.S. series, with many enthusiastic collectors

and students.

Bowers provides a wealth of information on each issue:

mintages, existing populations, grading standards, values,

auction records, keys to collecting, and more. Hundreds of

full-color images, thoughtful study, and Bowers’s engaging

narrative make this book a treat for anyone interested in

our nation’s Gilded Age and Progressive Era.