If you are refering to the Edgar Souders "Bust Half Fever" (2nd Edition) it is not an attribution guide (at least the 1st edition wasn't) but rather a history, and study of the series by year (subtype design, strikes, mintages, production techniques, etc.) I think it is a must for anyone who is going to collect Bust Halves.
If you want a book to use for Bust Half attribution, you want EARLY HALF DOLLAR DIE VARIETIES. The new 4th edition by Don Parsley, is filled with errors, and is printed on thinner paper. Get the 3rd edition by Overton, likely used.
BUST HALF FEVER is the best book ever written on Capped Bust Half Dollars. It is in no way an attribution book. Order it directly from Edgar Souders, and ask him to autograph it for you.
Dr. Glenn Peterson's THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ATTRIBUTING BUST HALF DOLLARS is highly recommended, but it will not replace the Overton book, unless the coin is in hand and at least XF condition.
I collect Capped Bust series by variety in PCGS AU/MS grades.
Well, I just placed an order for a signed copy of "Bust Half Fever" & I also purchased the RAG booklet. I have an email out for the other 2 books, so hopefully will hear back tomorrow. SM
ANA - J-3139215 SPMC - J-12338 McDCCC - Charter Member
Mozin nails it. I find that the Peterson and Overton work well together and the Souders is just fantastic for filling out a person's understanding of series. We're lucky to have three great books on the capped bust half that compliment each other so well.
It's the only way to learn any thinking way about this kind of coinage. The Overton book is essential for attributing, can't be without that either. You need both books to really understand what's going on with this series. Then you will better understand the shortcomings of TPGa in grading these lovely ladies.
Comments
In honor of the memory of Cpl. Michael E. Thompson
Thanks,
SM
SPMC - J-12338
McDCCC - Charter Member
Announcing: The Numismatic Enquirer - Website
Fantastic book!
BUST HALF FEVER is the best book ever written on Capped Bust Half Dollars. It is in no way an attribution book. Order it directly from Edgar Souders, and ask him to autograph it for you.
Dr. Glenn Peterson's THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ATTRIBUTING BUST HALF DOLLARS is highly recommended, but it will not replace the Overton book, unless the coin is in hand and at least XF condition.
I have an email out for the other 2 books, so hopefully will hear back tomorrow.
SM
SPMC - J-12338
McDCCC - Charter Member
Announcing: The Numismatic Enquirer - Website
102 capped bust half dollars - 100 die marriages
BHNC #198
I look forward to reading it.
SM
SPMC - J-12338
McDCCC - Charter Member
Announcing: The Numismatic Enquirer - Website
The Overton book is essential for attributing, can't be without that either.
You need both books to really understand what's going on with this series.
Then you will better understand the shortcomings of TPGa in grading these lovely ladies.