Whitman Coin Expo, one of the nation’s leading coin and collectible shows, returns to the Baltimore Convention Center November 9-11, 2023, offering attendees unparalleled access to more than 1,000 expert dealers and the chance to explore the world of coin collecting or numismatics.
Open to the public at no cost with a valid photo ID, Whitman Expo is the definitive space for buying, selling, and trading treasured paper money and coins. Independent dealers will guide visitors, helping them understand the value of their paper money, coins, and collectibles.
This year’s expo will feature an appearance by the Honorable Ventris C. Gibson, 40th Director of the United States Mint (Mint), who will be taking part in the opening ceremonies and will be available at the Mint booth on November 9. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to purchase Mint products, view designs for the 2024 American Women Quarters™ Program, and learn more about the 2024 Harriet Tubman Commemorative Coin Program and the 2024 Greatest Generation Commemorative Coin Program, providing a sneak peek into future numismatic releases from the Mint.
With a special focus on nurturing the next generation of collectors, the Whitman Expo includes a Kid’s Korner. Children between the ages of 6 to 12 can dive into fun-filled activities like ‘Fill Your Album,’ embark on a ‘Coin Grab’ challenge, and showcase their artistic side with ‘Coin Coloring.’ Plus, every participating child will receive a goodie bag with select collectibles.
“We’re thrilled to bring the magic of numismatics to Baltimore once again,” says Lori Kraft, general manager of Whitman Expos. “The Whitman Coin Expo is more than just a convention. It’s a bridge that connects history, art, and community. We invite everyone, from curious beginners to seasoned collectors, to come and explore this fascinating world with us.”
Partnering with the esteemed auction house Stack’s Bowers Galleries, the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Winter Expo will feature an exclusive rarities auction.
Among the highlights are rare coins from the collection of famed Baltimorean Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr., once known as the ‘King of Coins.’ These incredibly rare and high-quality United States and World coins were retained or reacquired by the family as personal favorites when most of the collection crossed the block in several different auction events decades ago. They include:
- Undated (ca. 1616) Sommer Islands Sixpence with Large Portholes (EF-45, PCGS): Of the 19 known examples of this variety, the majority are secured in institutional collections, making this exceptional piece a singular attraction for private collectors.
- 1853-O Liberty Seated, No Arrows Half Dollar (Fine-12, PCGS): As the second finest of just four known examples, this rarity’s lineage can be traced back to its discovery by a Chicago trolley car conductor in 1909. It has since passed through the esteemed collections of various numismatists, including Baltimore banker Louis Eliasberg, Sr.
- 1855 Kellogg & Co. $50 (Proof-63 Cameo, PCGS) CMQ-X: Known as the “King of Territorial Gold,” this Gold Rush era specimen has a storied pedigree dating back to Augustus Humbert. With only 14 known examples today, this item is a centerpiece of numismatic excellence.
- 1860 Clark, Gruber & Co. “Mountain $20” (AU-55, PCGS) CMQ-X: This Choice AU specimen, representing one of the finest of this rare type, features a distinctive image of Pikes Peak, making it a must-see for collectors.
- 1907 Baker City, Oregon Two-Ounce Gold Ingot (PCGS Genuine holder): With an estimated mintage of only 100 and likely only five or six traceable examples today, this piece stands as a testament to the rarity and allure of numismatics.
Editor Emeritus Kenneth Bressett has worked on the Red Book since 1959. He wrote about the first 75 years of its history in his memoir A Penny Saved: R.S. Yeoman and His Remarkable Red Book. “I pity anyone looking for auction bargains today!” Bressett said about the current coin market. “Choice coins seem to be high on everyone’s wish list. Condition and rarity prompt the most active bidding, and shocking prices. The stimulated activity has also caused price increases in many lower-grade pieces. Are prices too high? Probably not, even though the expanded competition might not last forever. Markets and collector interests have a habit of changing over the years, but seemingly always in an upward direction over any reasonable period of time. The old adage ‘The time to buy is when the piece you want becomes available’ is as true today as it has ever been. I see nothing but good times ahead.”
