Watch List notes:

Smith, A.M. [publisher]. COIN COLLECTORS' OF THE UNITED STATES ILLUSTRATED GUIDE. Volume III, Nos. 1–3 (July 1886–January 1887), as published in one issue. 8vo, original printed paper covers. 48 pages, numbering continuing from Volume II, No. 4 and starting at 97 (though mostly unnumbered); illustrated throughout. Minor wear to spine; near fine. Unlisted in Bourne and the only copy we have ever handled. Smith's periodical began life as an interesting publication featuring articles on American coins, notes on various numismatic topics, auction sale reports, biographies of counterfeiters, lists of coins for sale, buying prices, etc. Publication was suspended for four years, resuming with the October 1885 issue, but now liberally padded with coin illustrations and material from his Encyclopaedia. This combined triple number clearly received exceptionally limited distribution and seems to have been entirely unknown until a copy turned up in the Champa Library sales. This final edition includes the following NOTICE on page 99: "All paid up subscriptions end with this number. Don't write. We have fulfilled our promise." Ex Kolbe & Fanning Sale 155, lot 383, where is sold for $2250 hammer following a vigorous bidding war; ex Cardinal Collection Library.