Q. David Bowers
Some people like to collect original folders, holders, brochures, mailing envelopes, boxes, and other memorabilia associated with the issuance of commemorative coins. From time to time these are offered in auctions, price lists, and at conventions. I have enjoyed collecting original letters and documents for inclusion in the Bowers and Merena Galleries Reference Collection.
The Society for U.S. Commemorative Coins, founded by Frank DuVall and several others in 1983, publishes The Commemorative Trail, a newsletter which contains historical information concerning commemoratives, comments on the contemporary scene, auction and convention news, and other contributions from its members. The group provides an excellent forum for the interchange of ideas on the subject.
Storing and Displaying Commemoratives
Years ago the storage and display of commemorative coins was a simple matter. Single coins and duplicates were housed in paper envelopes measuring two inches square. Groups and sets were displayed in cardboard holders with celluloid or acetate slides distributed by Wayte Raymond, Meghrig, the Coin and Currency Institute, Whitman, Dansco, and other firms. Plastic holders made by Kurtzeborn, Leffler, Capital, and others were also very popular.
Since 1986 and the advent of coins in slabs this has changed. Although some albums are still available and Capital plastic holders are as beautiful as ever, their popularity has waned in favor of storing coins in slabs. While for some buyers slabs may be ideal, many old-timers feel that they are not conducive to attractive display. During the formation of a reference collection of commemorative issues here at Bowers and Merena Galleries, we gathered coins from many sources (including coins in slabs) and then ordered custom Capital lucite holders to display them. Coins bought in slabs were broken out. However, I realize that not everyone wants to break coins out of slabs, for there is no guarantee that the same coin, if carefully handled and then sent back to the same grading service later, will be graded the same the second time around. To me, this doesn't make any difference, for I consider the coin itself, not what is printed on a slab. However, a person lacking my confidence may not want to do this.
The problem of forming an attractive collection of coins in slabs has not been solved. The fact that there are many different kinds of slabs does nothing for the situation (PCGS alone has used three different slab designs since 1986). Here is a project for someone to work on.
Enjoying Commemoratives
The best way to enjoy commemoratives is to form a collection. As you do this, read all you can about each issue. Buy as many different reference books as you can. Read about new designs as they are created. Your collection will come alive, and its ownership and growth will be a source of pleasure.