Metropolitan Coin Club of Atlanta

We are collectors of coins, paper money, tokens, and medals.

David Crenshaw

Historic Space-Flown and Anniversary Gold Sacagawea Dollars Up for Auction

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Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, coin collectors! Stack’s Bowers Galleries is hosting a historic auction on September 12, 2025, featuring an extraordinary selection of gold Sacagawea dollars, including seven 2000-W 22 Karat gold coins that traveled nearly 2 million miles aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in July 1999 and the very first struck 2025-W 24 Karat gold Sacagawea dollar commemorating the series’ 25th anniversary. This auction is a landmark event for numismatists, space enthusiasts, and collectors of American artifacts alike.

Space-Flown 2000-W 22 Karat Gold Sacagawea Dollars

Legendary Space Flown 2000-W Sacagawea Dollars

These 22 Karat gold Sacagawea dollars are no ordinary coins. Struck in a Proof format on 1/2oz gold planchets originally intended for American Eagle bullion coins, they feature the rare “engraved tailfeathers” reverse design, shared with the coveted “Cheerios” variety. Only 39 were initially minted to promote the new Golden Dollar and celebrate the first space shuttle mission commanded by a woman, USAF Col. (ret.) Eileen Collins. Of those, just 12 were selected for the Columbia flight, with the remaining 27 destroyed. Now, only seven of these space-flown coins will be available for public ownership, as the United States Mint will archive the remaining five in its heritage collection.

Ranked #5 among the Top 100 Modern Coins by PCGS, these coins are true numismatic legends, having been stored at the Fort Knox Bullion Depository for over two decades. Each coin will be monetized as legal tender upon sale, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity signed by Acting Mint Director Kristie McNally. Certified by PCGS with bespoke labels, they’ll also be eligible for inclusion in the PCGS Set Registry, offering collectors a chance to compete for the coveted #5 slot in the Top 100 Modern Coins set.

First-Struck 2025-W 24 Karat Gold Sacagawea Dollar

Adding to the excitement, the auction includes the #1 struck 2025-W 24 Karat gold Sacagawea dollar, minted to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the series. With a limited mintage of just 7,500, these coins sold out quickly upon release. This first-struck example is a crown jewel for any modern coin collection, also accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity signed by Kristie McNally. Following Stack’s Bowers’ record-setting $440,000 sale of the #1 struck 2024 Flowing Hair gold $1, expectations are high for another blockbuster result.

Auction Details

The live auction kicks off at 12:00 PM EDT (9:00 AM PDT) on September 12, 2025, hosted on Stack’s Bowers Galleries’ website (www.StacksBowers.com) and broadcast from their Costa Mesa, California headquarters. In a rare move, the Buyer’s Premium will be waived, so the highest bid (hammer price) will be the final amount paid, excluding shipping fees.

This marks the fourth time Stack’s Bowers has been chosen by the United States Mint for a special auction, a testament to their expertise in handling historic numismatic treasures. Previous sales include the 1933 Saint-Gaudens $20 ($7.5 million), 35th Anniversary American Eagle coins ($4.6 million), and 230th Anniversary Flowing Hair coins ($8.2 million).

Why This Matters

These coins are more than just collectibles—they’re pieces of American history, blending numismatics, space exploration, and cultural milestones. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, this auction offers a rare chance to own coins that have orbited Earth or mark a significant milestone in the Sacagawea series.

For more details or to consign your own collection, contact Stack’s Bowers Galleries at 800-458-4646 or email info@stacksbowers.com. Don’t miss this historic event!

Celebrate the Holidays with the First Dr. Seuss Grinch Coin Launching This Green Friday

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This holiday season, the iconic Grinch from How the Grinch Stole Christmas! takes center stage in a new and exciting way. The first officially licensed Dr. Seuss coin series debuts on Green Friday—November 29, 2024—with a special limited-edition Grinch coin, marking the start of an eight-coin collection. These stunning, legal tender coins are crafted from one ounce of .999 fine silver, with a vibrant, green-colorized depiction of the Grinch on the obverse, alongside the cheeky motto “E PLURIBUS FUN ‘EM.” The reverse features an illustration from Oh, The Places You’ll Go! with the phrase “Dr. Seuss” forming a playful background. Each coin measures 38.6 millimeters, slightly larger than a U.S. silver dollar, and is minted by The Commonwealth Mint & Philatelic Bureau under the sovereign authority of the Fort Sill, Chiricahua, and Warm Springs Apache Tribe.

2025 Grinch coin

With a mintage capped at just 5,000 pieces, these coins are destined to become highly sought-after collector’s items. Each is certified by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and includes a specially designed Dr. Seuss insert label, ensuring authenticity and quality. Proceeds from royalties will benefit charitable organizations supporting education, health, animal conservation, and the arts, as part of Dr. Seuss Enterprises’ mission to give back to the community.

Rare Collectibles TV (RCTV) is the exclusive distributor of this first-of-its-kind Dr. Seuss coin series. “We’re thrilled to offer fans and collectors the opportunity to own something truly special,” said RCTV Co-Founder Jack McNamara. “These coins aren’t just collectibles; they’re a way to preserve cherished memories for future generations.” Each coin comes with a unique certificate of authenticity (COA) puzzle piece. When combined with the COAs from the other seven coins in the series, they form an image of a beloved Dr. Seuss character.

Collectors can also join the Dr. Seuss Coin Club to automatically receive each coin in the series, including a ninth, exclusive “mystery coin” available only to club members. This marks the first time since its founding in 1993 that Dr. Seuss Enterprises has authorized the use of its characters on legal tender coins. With the Grinch leading the way, fans can look forward to additional coins featuring iconic characters like The Cat in the Hat and more.

The Grinch coin launches on Green Friday, November 29, 2024. For more details, visit DrSeussCoins.com or call Rare Collectibles TV at 800-233-4145. Celebrate the magic of Dr. Seuss with this timeless collectible series—perfect for fans, collectors, and families alike!

2026 Red Book Cover Revealed on The Coin Show Podcast

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In a special episode recorded at the Whitman Expo on November 14, 2024, Whitman Brands CEO John Feigenbaum joins Mike and Matt of the Coin Show Podcast to dive into a range of numismatic topics. The trio discusses everything from the role of Greysheet and updates from the Whitman Expo to the eagerly anticipated re-designed cover of the 2026 Red Book, along with insights into pricing and more.

Don’t miss this fascinating conversation that blends expert perspectives on the coin collecting industry and its future.

This episode originally appeared on Greysheet.com, courtesy of CDN Publishing, and was published on November 16, 2024.

MCCA’s First Ever All Bourse Event – November 2!

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We’re shaking things up this November with something brand new! Instead of our usual meeting, the MCCA will be hosting its First Ever All Bourse Event, and trust us—you don’t want to miss it!

This exciting idea, brought to life by member John Phipps, will give members a chance to buy, sell, and trade their coins and collectibles while also raising some funds for the club. Whether you’ve got items you no longer collect or a stash of coins you’re ready to part with, this is your chance to lighten your collection and make a little extra cash!

Here’s the Scoop

  • Tables are still available!
    Reserve a whole table for $15 or a half table for $10. No contracts, and payment will be collected at the event. With only 10 tables left, don’t wait—grab yours while you can! You can sign up at one of our October meetings or by contacting John at phippsjo2002@yahoo.com.
  • When & Where?
    The event kicks off at 4 PM and goes until 9:30 PM. Come prepared for an evening full of wheeling and dealing!
  • What about refreshments?
    Thanks to Gordan and Sandy, there will be a concession stand available so you can grab a snack while you browse the bourse.

Spread the Word!

Publicity for this event is entirely by word of mouth, so let your collector friends know about this unique opportunity. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply browsing, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Mark your calendars, reserve your table, and get ready for a fun and exciting evening. Let’s make MCCA’s first-ever All Bourse Event a huge success!

Discovering Numismatic Art at the Booth Western Art Museum

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One of our very own Metropolitan Coin Club of Atlanta (MCCA) members, Norman Thomas, who recently visited the Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville, Georgia, has graciously shared his experience and photos of a remarkable piece of numismatic art that will surely pique the interest of our community.

The Booth Western Art Museum, renowned as the world’s largest permanent exhibition space dedicated to Western art, spans an impressive 120,000 square feet. The museum’s extensive collection features over a dozen galleries showcasing the works of legendary artists such as Frederic Remington and Charles Russell, as well as contemporary masters like Howard Terpning and Andy Warhol. In addition to its art collection, the museum is home to the Millar Presidential Gallery, which proudly displays a portrait and original hand-signed letter from each U.S. President, from George Washington to Joe Biden.

Among the treasures at the Booth, Norman discovered an exquisite bronze artwork titled “Indian Head Penny” by the talented artist Greg Woodard. This piece pays homage to the iconic Indian Head Cent, a coin that has captured the hearts of collectors and history enthusiasts alike since its minting from 1859 to 1909. Woodard’s bronze interpretation beautifully encapsulates the intricate design and historical significance of the Indian Head Cent, bringing the beloved coin to life in a new and artistic medium.

Indian Head Penny Obverse Greg Woodard
Bronze artwork Indian Head Penny (Obverse)
Indian Head Penny Reverse Greg Woodard
Bronze artwork Indian Head Penny (Reverse)

Norman’s photos highlight the detailed craftsmanship and artistic flair of Woodard’s work, offering us a glimpse into how numismatic art can transcend its original form and find a place within the broader context of Western art. This fusion of coin collecting and fine art provides a unique perspective on the cultural and historical narratives embedded within our collections.

We extend our thanks to Norman for sharing his experience and photos, enriching our appreciation for the intersection of numismatics and art. If you find yourself near Cartersville, a visit to the Booth Western Art Museum is highly recommended—not only for its remarkable Western art collection but also for the chance to see Woodard’s “Indian Head Penny” in person.

Note: All photos and information provided by Norman Thomas. Thank you, Norman, for your invaluable contribution to our coin club news!

Bill Fivaz’s 90th Birthday Celebration with MCCA

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The Metropolitan Coin Club of Atlanta is delighted to announce the successful celebration of esteemed numismatist Bill Fivaz’s 90th birthday at their recent club meeting on February 17. The event, organized by the club where Bill serves as a member and on its board of directors, was a memorable occasion filled with camaraderie, reflections, and heartfelt tributes.

MCCA Iconic Fivaz
Cheers to 90 Years! Metropolitan Coin Club members gather around Bill and Marilyn Fivaz, joined by their loving family, to celebrate Bill’s remarkable milestone birthday. (Photo by Barry Inman.)

The celebration, which took place during the club meeting, deviated from the usual agenda to mark this significant milestone in Fivaz’s life. Attendees were treated to a delightful spread of refreshments provided by club newsletter editor David Crenshaw and club secretary Marvin Dudek, ensuring a festive atmosphere for all.

Among the highlights of the celebration was a sumptuous vanilla sheet cake with fudge icing, complemented by other snacks and sodas. Plastic champagne glasses filled with non-alcoholic sparkling white grape juice cocktail were raised in a special toast to honor Fivaz.

Dudek enhanced the culinary experience with a selection of savory treats including turkey, ham, and roast beef, along with a fresh fruit platter and a cheese party tray. Other members also contributed additional snacks, and several contributed monies to help cover the expenses. The venue was adorned with birthday decorations, creating a joyous ambiance fitting for the occasion.

The evening’s program included heartfelt remarks about Fivaz, delivered by Crenshaw, followed by a toast to honor him.

Bill and Marilyn Fivaz share a special moment with emcee David Crenshaw (left) and their cherished family members Jeanne, John (back), Diane, and Jake, amidst the joyous celebration of Bill’s 90th birthday. (Photo by Barry Inman.)

Bill Fivaz beams with delight as he admires his birthday cake, exclaiming, ‘Hey, the baker spelled my last name correctly!’ A sweet moment captured during the celebration of Bill’s 90th birthday. (Photo by David Crenshaw.)

“I was deeply honored last night at our coin club (MCCA) meeting to have the members participate in celebrating the 50th anniversary of my 40th birthday, complete with a (non-alcoholic) toast, a food spread that was absolutely 5-star, and a delicious birthday cake. It was so nice to see everyone, even several that came from over a hundred miles away, join in the festivities. I thank everyone involved in the party and shall have very fond memories of it forever,” commented Fivaz.

A special surprise organized by board of directors member and YN director, John Phipps, added to the excitement of the celebration.

John Phipps
John Phipps presents a surprise to Bill Fivaz, a specially labeled wooden nickel holder commemorating the occasion. The holder, approximately 8″ x 8″, showcases the most recent MCCA wooden nickel with a grade of MS-90, adorned with five-star stickers symbolizing quality. Bill’s trademark red ink pricing is visible in the corner, but as Bill says, ‘There is quality in every grade.’ Even with his discount sign reading ‘10% off price as marked,’ Bill remains truly ‘priceless’ to the Metropolitan Coin Club of Atlanta. (Photo by David Crenshaw.)

Attendees had the opportunity to join in the festivities by raising their glasses in a collective toast to Fivaz, expressing gratitude for his immense contributions to the numismatic community. The celebration culminated in a group picture capturing the moment before the lighting of the “90” candles on the cake and a rendition of Happy Birthday to commemorate this milestone.

Fivaz’s wife, Marilyn, daughter Diane and her husband John, and daughter-in-law Jeanne, and grandson Jake were also in attendance, adding to the warmth and joy of the celebration.

Crenshaw, in his remarks to the club members, highlighted the significance of Fivaz’s contributions to the world of numismatics, emphasizing his dedication, expertise, and enduring impact on the hobby. Crenshaw led a heartfelt toast, celebrating Fivaz’s achievements and wishing him continued joy and fulfillment in his 90th year.

“I am proud to see our members come together to honor Bill Fivaz on his 90th birthday. His dedication to numismatics has left an indelible mark on our club and the entire numismatic community,” said Tom Youngblood, president of the Metropolitan Coin Club of Atlanta.

The Metropolitan Coin Club of Atlanta extends its sincere thanks to all who attended and contributed to making Fivaz’s 90th birthday celebration a memorable success. Let us continue to celebrate the life and legacy of a true icon in the world of coins.