coins

Encyclopedia of U.S. Gold Coins, 1795-1933

This comprehensive book on American gold coins is a valuable reference work for the National Numismatic Collection (NNC) at the National Museum of American History, which holds one of the largest collections of U.S. gold coins ever assembled. The coauthors visited the NNC to research the book, and the foreword is written by Richard Doty, the former senior curator of the NNC. This volume provides background information on the history of American monetary systems and the establishment of the U.S. Mint, acknowledging the important roles played by Alexander Hamilton and other Founding Fathers.

Cleaning and Preservation of Coins and Medals

Published in 1976, Gerhard Welter’s (1907-1989) Cleaning and Preservation of Coins and Medals provides insight on the best practices for maintaining and protecting coins against erosion, rust, and decay. In addition to providing instructions, the book also features illustrations of apparatuses used for cleaning coins made from different metals. Welter's work as a numismatist specializing in the study of coins of old noble families in Europe was not his primary career, however. He made his living as a businessman for an office machine company in Germany.