An Inspiration for the Numismatist and the ANA

Nunn, C. Hearn [editor]. THE NUMISMATIC MAGAZINE. A MONTHLY JOURNAL DEVOTED ENTIRELY TO COIN COLLECTORS. Volumes VII–XVIII (Bury St. Edmund’s, 1892–1903), bound in four volumes. 12mo, contemporary brown half calf with marbled sides; spines ruled in gilt; red morocco spine labels, gilt. Most bindings rather worn, with joints weak. Contents generally near fine. A dozen volumes of this scarce British publication, apparently an influence on George Heath’s The Numismatist founded in the United States but two years following its appearance in 1886. Nunn was the founder of the Numismatic Association, and the tone and general approach of the two publications is quite similar: serious in their devotion to the hobby, but at the same time chatty and a bit light. Nunn’s earlier issues, preceding Heath’s Numismatist, commented regularly on American numismatics. By the time of these volumes, Nunn seems to have allowed that area to fall mostly under Heath’s purview, and his Numismatic Magazine primarily focuses on British coins and medals. The October, 1893 issue features an important article on the development of the American Numismatic Association. Signed “A.N.A., Chicago,” and titled American Numismatic Association, it reads in part: “The latest ‘event’ in the numismatic world on this side of the water is the long expected meeting of the American Numismatic Association, which took place here recently, in Douglas Pavilion Corner 35th, and Cottage Grove, Ave. There has been considerable doubt in the minds of some of its members as regards the advisability of holding Conventions of the associations, but all such doubts have now disappeared... Thirty-five members answered the roll call after Dr. Geo. F. Heath, of Munroe (sic), Mich., the president , had called the Convention to order, and some forty more were represented by proxies... A new constitution and bye-laws was unanimously adopted... The affair, taking it all in all, was unique, and we bespeak for this vigorous young association a brilliant series of like occasions in the years to come, and the greatest wish of your correspondent is that he may be able to be present to enjoy them.” Clain-Stefanelli 786.