THE FANTASTIC 1804 DOLLAR

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The One Hundred Greatest Items Of United States Numismatic Literature Rank: Number 26

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Clain-Stefanelli 12328, Davis 775

The 1960s version of the “Mythbusters,” Newman and Bressett rewrote the century old fantasy that was the 1804 dollar. Exhibiting keen technical and archival skill, the pair conclusively demonstrated that the coins were struck later than 1804, much to the consternation of those fortunate enough to possess an 1804, some of whom felt that the veil of uncertainty enhanced the value of their treasures. More likely the opposite was true; and the emergence of the King of Siam set in August, 1962, only fueled the publicity. It also necessitated a call by Bressett to “hold the presses” during initial production of the book, and after a short delay the authors were able to include documentation regarding the diplomatic origins of the 1804 . A small number of the first printing (more precisely page proofs bound identically to the “regular” edition) survive and are today highly prized. A useful retrospective was published in Coin World, 10/20/08 and 10/27/08.

1^st Edition, First Printing 'Page Proofs'

NEWMAN, Eric P. & BRESSETT, Ken E. THE FANTASTIC 1804 DOLLAR.
Racine, WI: 1962
144pp, illustrated
Octavo
Hardbound: Tan cloth, lettered in silver

1^st Edition, Second Printing

NEWMAN, Eric P. & BRESSETT, Ken E. THE FANTASTIC 1804 DOLLAR.
Racine, WI: 1962
144pp, illustrated
Octavo
Hardbound: Tan cloth, lettered in silver

2009 Tribute Edition

Racine WI, 2009
208pp, 64 in full color
Octavo
Hardbound: Pictorial boards

Original retail price $19.95

2009 Tribute Edition, Limited

Racine WI, 2009
208pp, 64 in full color
Octavo
Hardbound: Brown leatherette

Original retail price $49.95, Limited to 250 copies.