If so would you care to review the book here? I am on the fence about getting a copy and would like to know what you folks think. Thanks in advance!
Here's a review of it I had previously found from Curtis Clay: http://www.forumancientcoins.com/board/index.php?topic=42349.5;wap2 It's next on my own reference book list.
I have a copy, and rate it highly.In addition to the excellent catalogue, there is some interesting and educational introductory material
I bought a copy of the book shortly after it was available. For the collector of coins from Roman Antioch it's a must have. On a 1-10 scale I'd give it 11.
That's why I've personally been on the fence about it ($100)... And opted to get Butcher's Syria book instead first ($65).
I wanted a copy of one or the other but I too wasn't sure which was best. I usually go for the cheap. Haven't found any cheap ones on ebay over the past few years either.
Mat, McAlee's book is a newer compilation, was printed on better paper, has better photos & overall a superior book. That's just my opinion .
CNG is the publisher and it is currently on sale from $150 to $100. Honestly its just the cost of one or more coins. If anyone is interested in the series they should buy the book and skip the next coin or two. You will not only gain vast amounts of information (I know many now these days want everything for free, but that is not how the real world works) but you will gain a better understanding of the coins themselves. After 35 years of this I can tell you to jump on those books while they are still around. Sometimes books are eventually released to the public, but by then it may be too late. Right now I am working with pdf's of Dumbarton Oaks. I'd rather have the printed set. Honestly it is much easier to use on paper than the alternative. Anyone have a set for sale?
There is wisdom in this post @Ken Dorney . I cannot think of too many coin books that I've bought and later thought "I wish I had not bought this," but there are certainly those that I didn't buy when published that I later was happy to buy at several times the published price. My numismatic library adds greatly to my enjoyment and appreciation of my collection. I just bought the Kevin Butcher book on the coinage of Roman Antioch, but Butcher does not list the silver and isn't complete on the bronze, so McAlee should make a nice additional resource. I ordered a copy for $100 from Kolbe & Fanning, I am sure I will not regret it.
I don't think anyone is looking for this book for free... but $100 "on sale" is very expensive to some. I know there is not a huge market for many of these books so they need to figure out how to profit somehow. However the downside is that knowledge is restricted to those who can afford it... most small libraries won't be buying either.
Having received the book, I can attest that it is well worth even the list price of $150. The scope is well beyond what is covered in Butcher's book on the same subject. It is nice to have both books, but honestly McAlee is the one I'll be reaching for most of the time.
