When I was 13 or 14 years old, little else interested me as much as coin collecting. For my birthday I had asked for the book, How to Grade U.S. Coins, and I don't recall exactly what happened, but I think my parents were unable to find the book or it was going to be late, or something to that effect. They contacted the author, James Halperin, and not only did he send them the book in time for my birthday, but he sent a poster along with it.

I wish I could say I'm now a multi-millionaire and just bought him a brand new Porsche, but alas, I am not.

In any case, Jim is now the CEO of Heritage Coins, and in addition to his numismatic endeavors, he is a novelist, and judging from all the reviews on Amazon, a well-liked one at that. You can also read his novels for free at truthmachine.com and firstimmortal.com.

I want to publicly thank Jim for being willing to help a young lad from New Hampshire who wanted to buy his book.

I recently e-mailed him to thank him and he replied with some excellent links from Heritage Coin Galleries that I wanted to share with everyone.

Coin Grading (Mint State and Proof)

Auction Results Archive

Coins for Sale

Coins & Currency at Auction

Numismatic Articles

Coin Glossary

Virtual Coin Collection

The Collectors Handbook (free download)

Price Guide for Beginners

Price Guide for Numismatists