Hey there all! I have long been a fan of Judaean coins and am looking to finally buy a copy of David Hendin's "Guide to Biblical Coins," which seems to me is the best reference there is out there. I am looking for advice on two fronts: 1) I assume the 6th edition would be the best one to purchase, but I am wondering if the 5th edition numbering system is more widely used since the 6th is newer. I will probably buy the 6th edition, but figured some input on this would be good. 2) Where would be a good place to purchase a copy of the book (probably the 6th edition) at a good price? I noticed it is available on the American Numismatic Society (ANS) site for $90, but was curious if anyone knew of another place to purchase it (perhaps for cheaper). Thanks all
Definitely get the 6th edition...it has a concordance where you can look up the older reference numbers.
@SorenCoins, I've discovered some hidden gems when it comes to books. If you live in a university town, check out if they have a surplus supply store where they dispose of brand new sporting apparel, used electronics/computers, furniture, and books. I've bought several reference books in good condition from my local university's supply store. Another resource is Goodwill, Restore, and used bookstores. There's a bunch of donated books. I noticed that those types of establishments that received books are typically from those who either moved away or due to a family death.
Yes, definitely get the 6th if you only get one. It's new, so I haven't seen many used copies of the 6th edition yet. Anything substantially below the list price is probably a good deal. I procrastinated and missed the signed copies (first 100) from ANS, but he signs a lot of his books, so it's worth keeping an eye out. (They usually don't cost much more. I've bought 2 or 3 others signed/inscribed by him.) Dealers/auctions now usually cite the new 6th ed. The later eds. have tables showing how older numbers correspond, so you can usually understand older references. (Sometimes dealers even specify GBC6, GBC5 etc., occasionally even giving both.) I still keep an eye out for the older ones (trying to get signed copies of 1st & 3rd), since he switches "plate coins" from edition to edition. (I believe the 1976 "first edition" was called Guide to Ancient Jewish Coins & the name changed w/ the 1987 2nd ed.) The "plate coins" are often from his collection, many of which he has auctioned. That's how I got this one, illustrated in the 2nd edition (160a). He consigned it to Goldberg in 2003, I think. I got it at CNG in May: Not sure yet if it's in the 3rd or 1st editions (I plan to get copies). But I was sure glad to have the "obsolete" copy when I saw this coin at auction!
I would agree on the 6th if you are serious about the series, but older books for just a small amount of money, say $20, are good too. I love his books for the great historical info in them. If someone cannot afford the latest ones, cheaper older versions are also great pickups.
I unequivocally concur that you should lasso the 6th edition. And since you have "long been a fan of Judaean coins" you will find it worth every lepton! On top of it being a reference book, it is a good read as well! (I have all 6 editions -- each autographed by David. It's one of my favorite stretches of bookshelf space in my coin library.)
Hi @SorenCoins, Remember that ANS members get 30% off the list prices of books. So, $90 list = $63 for members. - Broucheion
