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Whitman Publishing Unveils Ambitious 7th Edition of Cherrypickers’ Guide with Noal White as Co-Editor

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On June 5, 2025, Whitman Publishing announced a significant milestone for numismatic enthusiasts: the appointment of respected numismatist Noal White as co-editor of the Cherrypickers’ Guide to Rare Die Varieties of United States Coins. The highly anticipated 7th edition is now in development, promising a reimagined, comprehensive single-volume reference that will redefine this beloved series.

A Unified Vision for the 7th Edition

Breaking from the tradition of multi-volume releases, the 7th edition will consolidate its coverage into one all-encompassing book. This edition will span U.S. coinage from half cents to double eagles, including classic commemoratives, bullion coinage, and U.S.-Philippine coins. This ambitious scope aims to make the guide an indispensable tool for collectors seeking rare die varieties, offering unmatched depth and accessibility.

Noal White: A Numismatic Expert at the Helm

Noal White brings over 20 years of numismatic expertise to his role as co-editor. Widely recognized for his keen eye and deep knowledge, White is frequently consulted by collectors and dealers for his insights into U.S. coin varieties and mint errors. As Attributor for the Combined Organization of Numismatic Error Collectors of America (CONECA), he is uniquely positioned to curate and evaluate the varieties featured in the guide.

“I am both honored and humbled to be selected to build upon the exceptional work started by Bill Fivaz and J.T. Stanton,” White said. “With over two decades of experience, I’m committed to making this the most compelling edition yet.” White will work closely with Whitman’s President and CEO, John Feigenbaum, and Chief Publishing Officer, Patrick Ian Perez, to ensure the guide maintains its authoritative standards while appealing to both seasoned collectors and newcomers.

Elevating a Numismatic Classic

The Cherrypickers’ Guide is a cornerstone of numismatic literature, ranking among Whitman’s top five bestsellers alongside titles like the Red Book and Blue Book. Known for its role in helping collectors “cherrypick” rare or undervalued die varieties from circulation or dealer inventories, the guide has a dedicated following. The 7th edition aims to enhance this legacy by streamlining the identification process and delivering accurate, comprehensive content.

“We truly believe we can transform the Cherrypickers’ Guide into something even more special,” said Feigenbaum. “Varieties have a strong following, and this edition is the first step in making the identification and selection process more accessible and authoritative.”

A New Chapter in Whitman’s Professional Series

The 7th edition will be rebranded under Whitman’s Professional Series, joining other specialized titles such as United States Paper Money Errors and United States Pattern Coins. This series is tailored for advanced collectors, offering rich historical context, technical data, and market pricing. The single-volume approach aligns with Whitman’s strategy to release the guide on a more predictable schedule, ensuring continuity and relevance for collectors.

“The idea behind the single-volume approach is to develop and release the Cherrypickers’ Guide more efficiently,” said Perez. “Noal’s technical and organizational expertise will be key to delivering wholesale improvements to this iconic product.”

The Thrill of Cherrypicking

For those new to the term, “cherrypicking” refers to the exciting process of discovering rare or valuable die varieties in everyday coinage or dealer stocks. The Cherrypickers’ Guide equips collectors with the knowledge to spot these hidden treasures, making it a vital resource for hobbyists at all levels.

Collectors can look forward to updates as the 7th edition takes shape. For more details about the Cherrypickers’ Guide and other Whitman publications, visit whitman.com.

Whitman Brands Unveils Prestige

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Whitman Brands, a trusted name in numismatic literature, has launched Whitman Prestige, a premium coin album line designed to elevate the collecting experience. Aimed at modern collectors, Prestige combines sophisticated design with practical functionality, setting a new standard for coin storage and display.

Whitman Prestige Album

A Modern Upgrade to a Classic Legacy

Building on the success of the Whitman Classic line, Prestige albums offer a bold, collector-focused upgrade. Measuring 7.8 x 9.4 inches, these albums feature durable, soil-resistant grained leatherette covers in black or burgundy, with embossed finishes for a refined look. Each album includes a protective slipcase, ensuring both style and security. Priced starting at $69.95, Prestige albums are accessible to collectors of all levels.

“We wanted to create something elegant yet functional,” said John Feigenbaum, President and CEO of Whitman Brands. “Prestige is bold, beautiful, and designed with the collector in mind. It’s the new benchmark for coin albums.”

Key Features of Prestige Albums

Prestige albums are crafted for both aesthetics and usability:

  • Durable Design: Larger and sturdier than traditional albums, with three spine widths based on page count.
  • Collector-Friendly Details: Clear plastic slides protect both sides of each coin, with thumb notches for easy removal.
  • Educational Value: Labeled openings include historical context, mintage data, and series specifications.
  • Improved Organization: Current series are updated, Proof coins are separated from circulating issues, and terminology is standardized for clarity.

Patrick Ian Perez, Chief Publishing Officer, noted, “We’ve made subtle but impactful improvements, ensuring collectors have an organized, up-to-date, and practical storage solution.”

Initial and Upcoming Titles

The Prestige line launches with a selection of popular U.S. coin series:

  • Lincoln Cents (1909–1958, 1959–2008, Starting 2009)
  • Statehood Series Quarters (1999–2009)
  • Liberty Walking Half Dollars (1916–1947)
  • Kennedy Half Dollars (1964–1996, 1997–2026)
  • Morgan Dollars (1878–1891, 1892–1921)
  • Peace Dollars (1921–1935)
  • American Silver Eagles (1986–2021, Starting 2021)

Additional titles, set to release soon, include:

  • Buffalo Nickels (1913–1938)
  • Jefferson Nickels (1938–2003, Starting 2004)
  • Mercury Dimes (1916–1945)
  • Roosevelt Dimes (Starting 1945)
  • Washington Quarters (1932–1964, 1965–1998)
  • Franklin Half Dollars (1948–1963)

“We’re proud to continue Whitman’s legacy of accuracy and innovation,” said Mike Pfeiffer, Chief Operating Officer. “Based on community feedback, we’re already planning new series and sets to expand the Prestige line.”

Availability and Future Expansion

Whitman Prestige albums are available now at Whitman.com, Whitman’s Official eBay Store, bookstores, hobby shops, and authorized retailers nationwide. The line will continue to grow with new titles, themes, and global series based on collector input.

For a closer look at the albums, visit Whitman’s website.

Whitman Prestige is more than an album—it’s a celebration of the art and history of coin collecting, designed to inspire collectors for years to come.

PNG Honors Numismatic Leaders at 2025 Awards Dinner

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James Halperin
James Halperin, co-founder of Heritage Auctions, receives the prestigious 2025 PNG Abe Kosoff Founders Award for his lifelong dedication to numismatics.

The Professional Numismatists Guild (PNG) celebrated outstanding contributions to the numismatic community during its annual membership dinner on April 23, 2025, held in conjunction with the Central States Numismatic Society Convention in Schaumburg, Illinois. The event highlighted the achievements of several industry leaders, including David Crenshaw, a proud member of the Metropolitan Coin Club of Atlanta (MCCA), Georgia Numismatic Association, Rockdale Coin Club, and Classic City Coin Club.

David Crenshaw, executive director of the National Coin & Bullion Association, received the Significant Contribution Award for his years of dedication and impactful contributions to numismatics. His work has strengthened the hobby and profession, making him a respected figure in the numismatic community. The MCCA is thrilled to celebrate one of our own for this well-deserved recognition.

The evening’s highest honor, the Abe Kosoff Founders Award, was presented to James Halperin, co-founder of Heritage Auctions, the world’s largest rare coin and collectibles auction firm. Halperin, a 35-year PNG member, was recognized for his lifelong dedication to numismatics, including pioneering standardized coin grading through the Numismatic Certification Institute (NCI) in 1984.

Other notable PNG award recipients included:

  • Sol Kaplan Award: Kenneth Mullins, a former NYC police officer, for his efforts in combatting numismatic crimes through his security firm, Positive Protection, Inc.
  • Robert Friedberg Award: John W. Dannreuther, a PNG member and researcher, for his book United States Proof Coins Volume II: Nickel.
  • Harvey G. Stack Lifetime Achievement Award: Dean Oakes and Greg Roberts for their extraordinary service as a paper money dealer and CEO of A-Mark Precious Metals, respectively.
  • Art Kagin Ambassador Award: Robert Campbell, former ANA President and owner of All About Coins, Inc., for advocating numismatic goodwill.
  • Distinguished Service Award: Wayde Milas, president of RARCOA, for a decade of service on the PNG Board.
  • nexGen Future Numismatist Award: Frank Sawin, a Bentley University student and employee at Northeastern Numismatics, for his promise as an up-and-coming coin dealer.

PNG also honored four dealers for 50 years of membership: Jack Beymer, Dieter Gorny, Malcolm Varner, and Fred Weinberg.

The Professional Numismatists Guild, a nonprofit representing top rare coin and paper money dealers, upholds a strict Code of Ethics in all transactions. For more information about PNG and its members, visit www.PNGdealers.org or call (951) 587-8300.

The MCCA congratulates David Crenshaw and all award recipients for their remarkable contributions to the numismatic world!

Beware of Misleading Coin Value Claims: Expert Advice from the Professional Numismatists Guild

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In recent months, viral stories and social media posts have claimed that certain rare coins—such as a penny worth $124 million or a 1976 Bicentennial quarter valued at $1.5 billion—are circulating among unsuspecting collectors. However, according to the Professional Numismatists Guild (PNG), these claims are completely false or grossly exaggerated.

The Truth Behind the Hype

John Feigenbaum, Executive Director of PNG, warns that these misleading reports often raise false hopes for people who believe they have stumbled upon a fortune. “Unfortunately, these clickbait stories and videos with absurdly inflated rare coin values often get picked up by major search engines,” Feigenbaum explains. “The truth is, while some coins can be valuable, the extreme claims about common coins being worth millions or billions are pure fantasy.”

The highest price ever paid for a rare coin at auction is $18.9 million—far from the wild figures touted in online articles. Additionally, some of the coins featured in these misleading stories are either misrepresented or haven’t been in general circulation for decades.

How to Determine Your Coin’s Real Value

For those who genuinely want to assess their coins’ value, it’s essential to rely on trusted sources. PNG President James Sego emphasizes the importance of expert evaluation:

“For consumer protection and education, it is important to rely only on expert sources, such as long-time hobby and trade publications, established price guides, and professional numismatists.”

One of the most reliable resources for coin valuation is the Numismatic Guaranty Company’s (NGC) free online price guide, available at:
👉 www.NGCcoin.com/price-guide/united-states

If you suspect you have a rare coin, consulting a reputable coin dealer is the best course of action. The Professional Numismatists Guild maintains a directory of experienced, ethical dealers who adhere to strict industry standards. You can find a verified PNG member-dealer here:
🔎 www.PNGdealers.org

A Cautionary Tale: When Hype Meets Reality

Damaged 1926 Peace Dollar
Misleading information led the owner of this silver dollar to believe it was a valuable mint error. In reality, post-mint damage reduced its worth to just its silver content—about $25.
(Photo courtesy of JMS Coins.)

Sego recalls a recent incident where a collector thought he had struck gold with a 1926 silver dollar. After watching a misleading online video, he believed the severe gouges on his coin indicated a rare minting error worth tens of thousands of dollars. Unfortunately, expert evaluation revealed the scratches occurred after the coin left the U.S. Mint, reducing its value to merely its silver melt price—about $25.

This example highlights why accurate information is crucial for collectors.

Final Advice: Trust the Experts

For anyone looking to buy, sell, or evaluate coins, reputable expertise is key. The Professional Numismatists Guild was founded in 1955 with the motto: “Knowledge, Integrity, Responsibility.” PNG members must adhere to a strict code of ethics, ensuring fair dealings in numismatic transactions.

📩 For more information or to connect with a trusted expert, contact PNG at:
📧 Email: info@PNGdealers.org
📞 Phone: 951-587-8300

Bottom line: Don’t fall for exaggerated claims—get your coins evaluated by professionals. As PNG President James Sego puts it:
“If you don’t know rare coins, you better know your rare coin experts.”

Whitman Brands Unveils New Editions of Coin Reference Guides and Expands Red Book Series

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Whitman Brands a leading name in numismatic publishing, has announced the release of updated editions of two bestselling reference guides—Washington Quarters and Shield and Liberty Head Nickels—alongside a brand-new addition to its acclaimed Red Book Series, Private and Pioneer Gold Coins. These releases reaffirm Whitman’s commitment to providing collectors with authoritative, richly detailed resources to explore America’s coinage history.

Red Book Series Book Covers

Washington Quarters, 3rd Edition: A Modern Classic Evolves

The third edition of Washington Quarters offers an expansive look at one of the nation’s most beloved coin series. Covering the silver quarters of 1932–1964 and all modern iterations—from the Bicentennial quarters to the recent American Women Quarters—this fully updated guide features over 850 listings, including every new issue since 2017. Market values, now aligned with the Collector’s Price Guide (CPG) Retail pricing, are presented across up to nine grades, alongside Greysheet Identification (GSIDSM) catalog numbers for seamless cross-referencing.

This edition dives deep into the series’ history with vibrant narratives, including a biography of George Washington, the origins of the quarter dollar, and a year-by-year breakdown of the coins from 1932 to 1998. A dedicated section explores the last 25 years of modern programs, such as the State Quarters, America the Beautiful, and Crossing the Delaware series. Enhanced with over 750 images, the book covers circulating, Proof, and Special Mint Set coins from the Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, and West Point mints.

Adding a personal touch, John Feigenbaum, President and CEO of Whitman Brands, pens a new foreword reflecting on his lifelong connection to the Washington Quarter. “The only book I’ve authored is The Complete Guide to Washington Quarters (1994),” Feigenbaum writes. “Now, as Publisher at Whitman Brands, my career has come full circle. It’s an honor to contribute my insights—and pricing—to the 2025 edition of such a rich reference work.”

Washington Quarters, 3rd Edition is available now at Whitman.com, Whitman’s eBay Store, Amazon, Walmart.com, and various retailers nationwide.

Shield & Liberty Head Nickels, 2nd Edition: A Fresh Take on Early Nickels

The second edition of Shield & Liberty Head Nickels revisits America’s first two five-cent pieces with a comprehensive update. This guide details the Shield nickels (1866–1883) and Liberty Head (V) nickels (1883–1913), including proofs and varieties, across more than 200 listings. Collectors will appreciate the date-by-date analysis, historical context, and refreshed market values based on CPG Retail pricing and GSIDSM catalog numbers. A new foreword by Patrick Ian Perez, Editor of Greysheet and Greensheet magazines, adds further depth to this essential reference.

Jeff Garrett, Senior Editor of A Guide Book of United States Coins (Red Book), praised the evolving landscape of Whitman’s publications: “The ecosystem being formed—with the all-new, reimagined 2026 Red Book, Red Book Quarterly, The Red Book Podcast, and major updates in the Red Book Series—is truly special to watch.”

Shield & Liberty Head Nickels, 2nd Edition will be available for pre-order later this month.

Private and Pioneer Gold Coins, 1st Edition: A New Frontier in the Red Book Series

The Red Book Series welcomes Private and Pioneer Gold Coins, a groundbreaking exploration of coins minted outside federal authority from 1786 to 1862. Authored by industry experts Donald Kagin and David McCarthy, this volume uncovers the stories behind these rare pieces—from Brasher doubloons to fractional gold to hefty $50 slugs—crafted during America’s gold-rush era. The book highlights the ingenuity of private mints that filled a critical gap in early commerce, offering collectors a window into a pivotal chapter of U.S. history.

“Kagin and McCarthy are true professionals and experts in the field of private and territorial gold,” said Feigenbaum. “This resource is an overdue addition to an ever-growing Red Book Series.” Set for release this spring, Private and Pioneer Gold Coins complements the expanded “Private and Territorial Gold” section in the forthcoming 2026 Red Book, which now boasts 580 listings and BG (Breen-Gillio) attribution numbers.

The Red Book Series: A Growing Legacy

With nearly 30 volumes, Whitman’s Red Book Series remains a cornerstone for collectors, offering in-depth coverage of U.S. coin types and programs. Each book blends stunning photography, historical insights, pricing data, mintage figures, and collecting tips. Upcoming releases include Flying Eagle and Indian Head Cents, 4th Edition and United States Type Coins, 4th Edition, alongside the titles announced today.

Published by Whitman, a trusted authority in numismatic literature, these guides are designed for collectors of all levels. For more details or to purchase, visit whitman.com. Stay tuned for pre-order opportunities and further updates on these exciting releases!

New Edition of United States Currency Now Available – A Must-Have for Paper Money Collectors!

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Ninth edition of United States Currency cover

Attention collectors! The newly revised ninth edition of United States Currency is here, now featuring expert market values powered by Greensheet®. Published by Whitman Brands™, this essential guide offers a deep dive into the history, identification, and valuation of U.S. paper money—from the early 1800s to today.

What’s Inside?
✅ Complete listings of U.S. currency, organized by the trusted Friedberg Numbering System™
✅ Market values in up to seven collectible grades, now updated with industry-standard pricing
✅ High-quality images and details on large-size notes, fractional currency, error notes, World War II issues, and more
✅ Expert insights on grading, counterfeit detection, and collecting tips

With a new foreword by Patrick Ian Perez, this guide is a valuable resource for both beginners and seasoned collectors. It’s part of Whitman’s Collector Series™, which includes must-have references like Coin Collecting: An Introduction to the World of Numismatics and The Official ANA Grading Standards for U.S. Coins.

📖 United States Currency is available now at Whitman.com, Amazon, Walmart.com, eBay, and major bookstores. Don’t miss out on this updated edition—perfect for expanding your collection and knowledge!