February 2005.

Next club meeting Monday 7^th March 2005.

• This will be a talk on The Story of the SS Great Britain and associated medallions by J. Robert-Lewis.

Meetings are held at the Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square, commencing at 7.00 p.m.

February meeting.

The last meeting was the annual club auction. Thirteen persons submitted 255 lots comprising coins, medals, tokens, books and paper money. A total of £1306 was paid for the 181 lots that sold, which means a significant 28% of lots (69) did not sell. The club funds benefited to the tune of £127 from both commissions and donated lots.

This years auction was boosted by the 72 lots from past member Kerry Underwood who sadly died last year. The good news for Kerry's wife is that all but 4 of his lots sold.

The top prices obtained on the night were for an 1857 1d in very nice condition and an 1865/3 1/2d, both of which made £40. Many of the minor coins were well contested and made good money.

Other than those already paid, persons expecting monies from the sale of their lots will find a cheque enclosed with this newsletter

Speakers

The committee is beginning to put together next years speaker programme. We would like to hear suggestions for speakers - what are you interested in? or are you prepared to give a talk? If you have suggestions please discuss with the programme secretary David (or any other committee member) at the next meeting.

The speaker for the May meeting was to be Mr David Symons from the Birmingham museum. Unfortunately David has had to cancel due to a clash with family arrangements. The good news however, is that David will be speaking at the July meeting. In the meantime the committee is arranging an alternative speaker.

Library

Club members are reminded we do have an extensive numismatic library. It has recently been relocated to the side room adjacent to our meeting room. It is there to be used. If you are not sure of the borrowing arrangements our librarian Henry will be more than happy to assist.

The committee has recently been considering what would be suitable additions to the library. It has been decided that we will be progressively updating the volumes of Krause at the rate of one per year. If members have suggestions for other books with a wide appeal please share your thoughts with a committee member.

Future Events.

The Spring Social skittles evening is being planned for Saturday 9th April, at the Red Lion in Theale. Those who have indicated interested and sign up at the last meeting should pay the monies to David at the March or April meeting, preferably the former.

The cost is £12 per head including food and prizes. Drinks are extra.

Future Events.

DNW Auction, Great queens St London - 16th March

Croydon Coin Auction - 8th March

London Coin Auctions - 6th March Hilton Hotel, Dartford Crossing Kent, adjacent M25 Junction 1a.

Past Events

30 years ago D Crowther spoke to members on some old coin auctions

In 1984 a club bourse was held.

Ten years later 25 members attended a skittles evening.