Though the calendar might suggest it is time for outdoor recreation, attendees heading indoors for the Whitman Baltimore Coin and Currency Convention increased by 10 percent at the June 11-14 event as compared to 2008, says David Crenshaw, the general manager.
Perhaps it was the new exhibit area at the show and the first ever Distinguished Lecturer Series sponsored by the Maryland State Numismatic Association that attracted them.
Business, on the other hand, was a little bit subdued.
“Even with the slower market, there have been bright spots,” said Q. David Bowers of Stack’s Rare Coins. “Choice, interesting and rare pieces are seeing auction activity.”
That was a good description for some of the lots in the $4,225,995 Baltimore sale conducted by Bowers and Merena Galleries. (See separate story on Page 1)
Crenshaw said hobby experts at the show reported that the overall slow market has created opportunities for collectors.
“Buyers are more fussy, but there is plenty of money out there. At the same time, if a dealer has something buyers want, they can still get their asking price,” said Jeff Garrett of Mid-American Rare Coin Galleries.
Bowers was also the lead-off speaker in first lecture series event. His topic was, “The Challenge of Colonial Coin Collecting.”
Lawrence Schuffman was the second speaker with a talk entitled, “Patriotism: The Liberty Loan Bond Story, 1917-1923.”
Veteran exhibitor Gerald Kochel took Baltimore’s very first first place award, called the MSNA Best in Show Award, for “The Half Cent Clip Clock.”
Presenting the award to him was exhibit chairman Bryce Doxzon.
Second place, the MSNA Master Award, was given to William Stratemeyer for “The Panic and Depression 1837–1841 Patapsco Savings Fund.”
Third place, the MSNA Superior Award, was taken home by Simcha Kuritzky for “Davidian Depression Scrip.” This also won the Best Exonumia Exhibit recognition from the Maryland Token and Medal Society.
All exhibitors received appreciation awards.
Various groups also met in conjunction with the show and Young Numismatists were given opportunities in “Kid’s Corner.”
The next show is Nov. 12-15.
