Is it possible to examine coins in the Smithsonian collection?

kranky

While reading the new pattern book, I noticed how many times they mention that examples are in the National Numismatic Collection of the Smithsonian.

How do people get to examine coins in that collection? Political connections? Be a nationally-known numismatist? Just make an appointment?

kieferscoins

You have to call ahead and make an appointment. Ask for Doug Mudd, who is the collections manager for the numismatic section. He is really nice and will let you see some cool coins if he has time.

Cameron Kiefer

MrEureka

Obviously, they can't accommodate everybody. It helps if you're working on some sort of numismatic research.

kranky

MrEureka, if you've been there could you describe how it works? Do you browse the coins, do you have to identify them in advance of your visit so they can be pulled, how many can you see in a day, etc.?

MrEureka

I was there once. I won't tell you how it worked because they might treat you differently than they treated me.

I will say, however, that I got a kick out of simultaneously holding a (raw) gold half union in each of my two hands. If you quote me, I'll deny it, of course.

kranky

Interesting you mentioned the half unions. That was the coin in the book that got me thinking about it!

Newmismatist

<< <i>I will say, however, that I got a kick out of simultaneously holding a (raw) gold half union in each of my two hands. >>



Carefully and by the edges I hope

Raw Huh? - don't they know of the damage that could occur if some careless collector sneezed while holding those babies?
(See the famous coke line scene in Woody Allen's Annie Hall to get an idea of what a sneeze can do to some valuble commodity)

You'd think they's have capital plastics make up a holder for them for $20 or so - Could even put right on the holder what they are.

robertpr

I thought, and somebody correct me if I'm wrong, that they use Kointains?

coinlieutenant

I had no idea that they would let you examine those coins. That would be amazing.

I went to school out east, unfortunately during a time that I was out of the hobby, and never went to that part of the smithsonian.

I really want to go back.

MrEureka

I thought, and somebody correct me if I'm wrong, that they use Kointains?

They might use Kointains for most coins. Honestly, I don't recall. Either way, it's unlikely that there are Kointains big enough for a half union.