From: "MPCgram" To: Subject: MPCkiloGram Date: Friday, August 29, 2003 2:47 PM =========================================== MPC GRAM =========================================== Covering the entire World of Military Numismatics Series 004 - Number 1000 Friday August 29, 2003 Financing War by Warner Talso I have just finished reading "Neither Friend Nor Foe" by Jerrold M. Packard. This book is about the five European countries that were neutral in WWII. I can enthusiastically recommend this book as very interesting history. As part of the discussion on commerce and financing between the belligerents and the neutrals, I was introduced to "navigation certificates" or "navicerts." This was a system of permits by which the Allies controlled neutral state imports of foreign goods. When Great Britain and France declared war on Germany, they immediately instituted an economic blockade of Germany. The coercion used by the Allies to enforce the blockade lay in the Royal Navy and it was the navicert system that was the most powerful weapon. Later the U.S. Navy employed the same system. The navicert system was very successful. If a country wished to sell goods to a European neutral, such as Argentine beef to Switzerland, the vending country's agent was required to consult with the local British or American consult to determine whether or not that shipment was within the Allies' predetermined ration for that commodity for the receiving nation. If everything was in order, the consul would issue the navicert, allowing the goods to pass through the Allied naval blockade guarding the sea-lanes to the neutral country. Without a navicert, the consignment was subject to interception and seizure. Should any suspicion arise, a search could go on for days, with cargo being offloaded and thoroughly probed. Being caught with unauthorized goods meant virtual ostracization in international ports for the ship and its owners. Consider that any ship leaving an international port without a navicert was automatically singled out for attention. The amount of goods allowed through the blockades was the subject of intensive negotiations. All were motivated to reach agreements. For example, the Swiss needed coal and iron for its industries. The U.S. imported large numbers of Swiss "sport" watches that just happened to be reassembled into effective aviator timepieces. The Germans wanted Swiss foodstuffs and clothing. The Allies controlled the Atlantic and the North Seas. The Germans controlled the Baltic Sea (and Switzerland was surrounded by Axis controlled counties) and had their own blockade and trade rules. The German equivalent of the navicert was known as Geleitscheine. Additionally both sides had counter-blockade strategies. It got very complicated. All parties were motivated by the opportunity gain some advantage in the international commerce. To my knowledge, no navicerts have survived to present times. What would they look like? Letters of marquees? In fact I have found nothing written except as a peripheral issue to other discussions. The subject is not mentioned "in the book". It would be very interesting if more could be learned about this unique facet of financing war. =========================================== Editorial/opinion =========================================== Here we are Gram 1000. Ok, no one is quite sure how many Grams we have had, but 1000 is close. That it took a long time is obvious, and no, I did not think that we would ever get here. On the other hand, once we got going, I guess that it was inevitable. It has been a wonderful experience. I think that we have had a great time and learned a lot too. How significant is 1000 issues of a numismatic publication? I think that only three American periodicals have had more issues: The Numismatist, Numismatic News, and Coin World (in order of founding). TN was founded in 1893. At twelve issues per year, something like 1340 issues have been published. They are in range. We should be able to catch them in 2004. At more than 2500 issues each NN and Coin World are by far the leaders. It will take six years to catch them! (Hopefully a bibliophile will set us straight on the exact status of the leaders in this area.) Certainly all of these competitors are more significant to the overall numismatic scene. Most of their 6000 combined issues are larger than even our largest issue. However, few of the 6000 combined issues have more information on military numismatics than virtually every one of our issues has! That is something of which I think that we can and should be proud. We have point out our columnists of special praise on many occasions. This is only because it is true. Without our columnists, we would not have the Gram that we do. Joe Boling is the king of columnists. [Ed Beaman, can we figure out how many columns Joe has had?] Larry Smulczenski had a very long run. Marcus Turner might be returning [what do you say, Marcus?]. Our newest columnist--Warner Talso--appears in this special issue. Sparky Watson is developing his column and Al Glaser has agreed to make his column a regular part of the monthly schedule. Howard Daniel, David Klinger, and Jim Downey are very regular contributors who have resisted the call to column status because of the deadlines, but their work has been critical and wonderful--I overuse this word (Joe pointed this out to me)--but it is just so darn appropriate! Doug Bell has been the technical wizard who has kept many problem to a minimum and been very innovative with www.papermoneyworld.net, the MPC database, and other things. On top of that he has taken on one of the greatest collecting challenges of all time. Having completed the chest beating, what will the future bring? Of course I do not know. While the first 1000 issues have been a collaborative effort, the next 1000 must be so to an even greater extent if we are to continue to publish and to improve. Some innovations are around the corner and some others are over the horizon not even imaginable. The hobby is growing in remarkable ways with new events and discoveries. This is critical--and wonderful. =========================================== MAIL CALL =========================================== Dear Editor,     Gram number nine, nine, eight         was certainly very great,         but I wait for number nine, nine, nine.     It hasn't come on time.     If it had been here yesterday,         Gram Kilo would be here today ! Bill Dear Gramsters, Because of the extended power outage in my neighborhood, yesterday, today, and probably tomorrow, I have not been able to enter any bids into the Mailbid Sale. Power is expected to be up Thursday evening except more storms are expected late today and may cause more problems. In any case, I don't expect to have revised current high bids on my web site(http://mywebpages.comcast.net/cjcpi ) until this Saturday, the 30th. Therefore I have also decided to extend close of the sale to Tuesday, the 2nd of September. Please submit your bids if you haven't done so already. Thanks, Ray Czahor Cookie Jar Collectibles Editor: Correction to Dallas souvinier card, #1 IS NOT AVAILABLE. Sorry, I did not understand the numbering system. Harold Dear Editor, I will be at the Columbus show on Satuday.......Hope to see some Gramsters..... Gary (Who has Fours?) Hicks Dear Gary, Be sure to take your challenge coin. Leo May will be there for sure and certainly you should challenge each other. Good luck. How about a show report for your favorite Gram? Editor Dear Editor, Well, I tried twice to send my column - both times it bounced as you were over quota. I finally sent it to the kilogram address, so you can put it there. Joe Dear Joe, Sorry about the quota, but I had this great offer to launder $25,000,000 from an African prince! You Tuesday column will appear today or tomorrow. Editor ================================= Special Section--Letters for KiloGram 1 ================================= Dear Gramsters, The following letters were sent to MPCGram1000 for inclusion in this very special issue of the Gram. I think that I can resist responding to the letter letting them speak for themselves. In addition to gratitude for the submissions, I must admit to being a bit surprised on several counts. I probably should not have been because Gramsters never cease to amaze me! You are all wonderful! Just about everything happened. Some responded immediately, the last letter came in within moments of publication. Some even sent two (or more letters and/or revisions, but no one (yet) recanted. This special section was the idea of Ed Beaman and it was a good one. His ideas almost always are. That there are some barbs in the letters is no surprise (that I am not responding might be, but I still have another 1000 Grams to take aim). Is Bill Murray?s submission the first Gram poem? I have tried to remove most of the comments about me that might be misinterpreted as praise. Not only does my head not need that, but this is not about me--it is about us, all of us--and most people would not believe such praise anyway. For that part that got through, I apologize. For those of you who intended to write a comment to kiloGram, please do not wait for #2000. Send your letter now! The following letters are in the order received. If I somehow lost at letter or it otherwise went astray in cyberspace, please send it again or at the very least complain that I goofed it up! Thank you all. Dear Editor, Congratulations! 1000 Grams! Wow! The education factor alone speaks volumes. Keeping up with old friends, a plus. Deciphering Fred's wit, priceless!!!!!! Hang in there y'all! Bob Reed Editor 1000 GRAMS proves dedication. For that I send congratulation. There?s WW II Remembered stuff,      and letters written, some quite rough. Occasionally some real great scoops. At other times just silly poop. Sometimes an issue missed -- or two. Those made up with dups ? a few. We?ve read things from Harold and Howard, Warner, Marcus and ?Sarg,? no cowards. Then there?s Joe, the actor, and good friend ?Ski,?       MPC experts -- the epitome. Undoubtedly I?m missing some,      but the list would go ad nauseam. Finally, thanks to Fred the Ed,      And Judy, the Boss, no figurehead. We?ve had some fun and learned a bit. There?s no doubt the GRAM?s been quite a hit.             Bill Murray Dear Editor, Congratulations to Fred and all those who have so diligently published the Gram 1000 times.   A 'snippet'  for 1000Gram. The August Lyn Knight Auction lot #599 is a 10 cent East Africa Command WWII Token Money. No researcher has yet clarified their origin. If it helps I have a 1/- note. and written on the back in is pencil is written :-              P.O.W >From Misure Alfredo           3.5.45           E.A.C   I wonder how significant it is? Anyone got a 5 cent note, I've never seen one?   Tom W Dear Gram, Congratulations Fred and to all who have had a part in getting the MPC Gram to 1000 issues. I have been a part of many organizations and groups over the years, but I have never had the pleasure of being involved with a group of people so dedicated in sharing their knowledge and love for their hobby (passion). I have always in the past been the type of person who pays their fee and expects others to make the arrangements, and provide my entertainment. All the work, the hours of time invested by all of you for the entertainment of all Gramsters, Festers, Seminarians has actually inspired a person like me to get involved. Keep up the great work. Regards, Al Glaser Dear Gram, Congratulations on a significant milestone!!  I did some checking and best as I can tell, the first issue of the Gram I received was number 177 dated 26Nov00.  How time flies!  I also realize how much the Gram has enriched my numismatic life.  It has been a valuable source of networking, learning, information, conversation, humor, discussion, inspiration, and friends.  I wish the Gram the best of luck and good fortune in the next 1000 issues. Warner Dear Editor,           ..."WoW"..."1000"...        I gave myself plenty of time to get this completed. I thought 14 days would do the trick. Knowing all along that I wanted to choose the perfect wording. Maybe that is why I'm havin' a rugged time with it.   I just wanted to sincerely, Thank You !  The Gram staff and you have given many of us our daily "fix," for over 3 years. Not only have I learned alot, but I have had the opportunity to meet some "Great Folks"....THANK YOU     Ooh yeah...you "required" that this be related....so....my favorite Gram, was this last year.  You sent it out on April Fools Day. I must admit, you had me....I fell for it. You were selling out ...packing it up..."back up the truck full of money". I will always remember it as the, BIG BS GRAM. Although it was laced with a bit of truth, we all found out later. It is that truth, that made it so believable.   I will be first in line to renew my subscription. Congratulations !   Respect, Ed Beaman Dear Editor, Congratulations to Fred and "The Boss".  I have been a subscriber since I first read about the MPCGram in Bank Note Reporter. While serving in Kosovo, Macedonia, Afghanistan, and Uzbekistan I have always depended on the Gram to keep me current with my hobby and help provide me some sense of civilization. Thank you, Bob Unger Dear Editor, Congratulations to all for the 1000th issue! Special note, and comcurrent Medal of Great Merit, to our editor, Fred Schwan, and the Boss, Judy, for putting up with him. Special honors to Doug, Joe, Warner, Ski, Sgt. Howard, Al! and every one else who has given of their time and knowledge to further this wonderful project. I have had many delightful hours reading and rereading the 'Gram gaining much in knowledge of our hobby and deepening my appreciation for my fellow collectors for their unselfish sharing of knowledge. To us! Hip! Hip! Hooray! Jay in Garrison, TX Dear GRAM,  I would like to use this special occasion of the KILO-GRAM to announce a collecting goal of mine. If I reach this goal I think that I will be the only Gramster ever to do so. I am pretty sure I'm presently the only one even trying to do it. My goal, simply stated is to accumulate a type set of all Issued MPC, without spending any FRN (green backs). All notes will be paid for with MFC, and other collectibles which were either given to me or which were obtained with MFC. I attended the first ANA seminar owning only one piece of MPC - a series 681 10c note, which was given to me.   My definition of a type set of issued MPC, is the basic set of 13 series - minus the series 651 fractionals. I challenge any Gramster to "prove" that these fractionals were ever issued! I am convinced that they were not issued. In any case that is my definition of a "basic set" of MPC. I'm sure many of you are by now saying to yourselves that I have set an impossible goal. Well, I have attended 5 MFC pay events ( 3 ANA seminars - 2 mini fests), and have so far accumulated 52 notes of the basic MPC set. That means that I am more than half way to my goal! And, although the majority of my notes are circulated, there are no "rags", and 11 of the notes are in UNC condition. I have been lucky in my MFC paydays (replacement notes, low serials, dual denomination, etc.)   In any case, I have no time line for this collection goal - I'm sure it will take a few years. But I am well on my way - and enjoying every minute of it.  By the way, if I do reach this goal, it is my intention to donate to the ANA museum, any notes from my collection which they need to complete the ANA collection. The ANA collection already has the series 691 & 701 notes (donated by Mr 691), so all they would then need would be the series 651 fractionals to complete a full type set.   David Klinger Dear Editor, Well, I guess if Ed's not gonna print my earlier message (it being my expression of pure dee-light with the folks who run this outfit), I guess I'm gonna have to brag and/or reminisce about stuff. I believe that one of my my favorite things is having previously-owned-by-me items illustrated in WW II Remembered. On Page 134 are shown some French Oceania notes I found. On Page 277 is shown an Italian 100 lire AMC with a huge shift of the overprint that once was a part of my collection. Finally, on Page 326, are listings for Series 2, Foreign Trade Payment Certificates indicating the 5-cent and 25-cent denominations as being 'not observed.' Well, I found'em!! Lastly, if there is an item I'd like to locate, it would be the still (AFAIK) 'not observed' 10-cent of that issue. Anyway, thanks for all the good times!! Jay in Garrison, TX P. S. Ed, feel free to combine my two messages, if ya'want, or run'em back-to-back, or whatever. It is your show!! Dear Editor, Am sure that most gramsters would feel that CONGRATULATIONS are in order on Gram 1000 to you and the other columnists.   Was wondering if you located my email invitation for a mini-fest on weekend of 3-5 October 03 @ the old Air Field at former Ft Ord, CA.  WWII airplanes, WWII pilot aces, seminar, dinner, MPC stories, silent auction, etc.  Marina Rotary puts on an Air Faire free for the public on 4 OCT 03.  Trader Al, what do you think? Editor, I am very concerned over the subscription hiatus between 977-996.  Help, please replace the missing grams.  Having withdrawal symptoms, etc.....   Regards, webfootbob Dear Editor, Reading all the encouragement to write something for Gramkilo, and being bereft of any sensible ideas, I started to think about how I became a subscriber. I guess it was still B.G. (Before Gram), way back last century (possibly early 1999), and I was trying to acquire a copy of a book I had seen advertised in an IBNS Journal (I was a very new member). The book was called something like a "Comprehensive Catalog of Military Payment Certificates." The advertisement suggested ordering by voice or fax so I tried the latter and waited....and waited...and waited...etc. I was not on the web (at home) at that stage so I think I tried another fax, wrote a letter and even stayed up very late one night (overseas time) to try phoning BNR Press direct during US daylight hours (Cannot remember whether I got no answer or left a recorded message). All these attempts were interspersed with long periods of waiting (see above). Alas, it seemed all contact was an impossible dream (which I gather may not come as a surprise to those gramsters who know our illustrious editor personally - unfortunately, I have not had that pleasure). After a few months had passed I acquired a new computer, accessed the web and discovered Amazon Books which advertised the book I was seeking, so I ordered through them. After another month or so Amazon advised they were having difficulty obtaining a copy of the book for me, so I advised them of the publisher's name, address, fax and telephone numbers and acquainted them of the difficulties I had faced, and wished them luck. Much further time passed but I was confident I would eventually have my order filled. Seemingly months, years or even millennia had passed since my initial attempt to acquire a copy of this comprehensive catalog. I began to assume it was now well and truly out of print, or perhaps BNR Press no longer existed, or perhaps I had imagined the advertisement in the Journal, when suddenly I received an email from the book's author asking whether I still wanted a copy, apologizing for the delay and, I think as part apology, an advice that I had been signed up to receive the MPC Gram. So in fact I never actually subscribed to the Gram - I think the term might be press-ganged. However, congratulations to all for the 1000 milestone. While I have not read all 1000, I must have ploughed through more than 900 by now (probably close to 1000 when I allow for duplicate and triplicate grams which I felt obliged to read in case it included extra material and was designed to replace the previous emailing). Best wishes and here is to the next 1000, Gramme A (The pen name came from Fred too, as a misspelling of my name, but that is another story) Dear Gram, Well it sure seems like yesterday that I got involved with MPC but about 3 years ago I was sitting in an auction at Chicago's Rosemont center and the story is worth telling twice it goes like this.  I was bidding on some fractional currency and two guys that were sitting next to me were discussing the upcoming auction at the break and the note that was on the screen in front of us was a sweet set of fractional notes that I recall,  they were beautiful.  I was overhearing their discussion about the notes it sparked my curiosity as to what they were so I asked them? Well story has it that these two hobo-looking characters (one looked like Archie Bunker aka Fred) and the other looked like he just got done working on his car (aka MPCKID Harold)  were more than happy to elaborate on the history of the notes and they seemed to really know what they were talking about.  The two of them went on and on about this stuff called MPC.  Right before the break ended I had a good idea that I was hooked but what took place next took me by surprise because the guy next to Bunker with the glasses says to me you are sitting next to the author of the "MPC book" and if you give him $40 bucks he will send you a copy signed? The first thought that popped in my head was right I am going to give Bunker $50 bucks and he and Clem are going to lunch on me?  I felt comfortable talking to them so I thought if they are scamming me, so be it, they must need the cash more then I and I forked over the money. I never thought I would see my cash back let alone a book, but then Bunker shoves a napkin (Fred's book order form) in front of me and says write your address here and I will send it out when I get home? Now I am convinced I just got taken? One week goes by and no book! Two weeks goes by and no book!  But the third week here comes a package and sure enough it was a book known to all of us as the comprehensive catalog on MPC by Fred Schwan but it was not signed? I was just glad to get it and that was the start of my collecting MPC.  Now I gave this guy money not knowing about the black hole in Port Clinton and from what I hear I was very lucky to get the book so quick or at all but I am sure glad I did because the camaraderie of MPC collectors and the Gram is second to none! All of you are what makes this hobby so much fun and the Gram is a big part of that. The insight of these two guys to recruit me into the hobby is what it is all about.  If more of us share the things we know and love to others that do not know about it our hobby will surly grow and  at a faster pace then most other numismatic areas.   I recently sat in on Bond Blast 1 @  the mini fest in Dallas and because of Larry Smulzinski sharing his bond collection it has inspired me to collect those too! So the next time you are enjoying your collection invite a neighbor, relative, a youngster or a loved one over and share it with them they may be the next Gramster to start writing resourceful material and articles to the next Gram all because of you!  For what it's worth I am sure that it must be very enjoyable for the Kid (Harold) and Archie Bunker (Fred) to watch how excited I get showing a new note or new purchase knowing that they are the ones that got me into this bug of MPC collecting and Gramster camaraderie! You cant beat the Gram and its worth with all the announcements of the Mini-Fests and Fest events and its articles good and bad so here is to 10,000 more happy trading and happy reading to all of you that make the Gram so special in every way  "Proud to be a Gramster!" Kevin Herr Grammeister Now would be good time to reflect on my very FIRST exposure to Fred Schwan.  This was 2Feb00 when I bid on a "MPC Series 641 $1 Vietnam issue GEM CU" note via EBay.  At this point, Fred was no more than an EBay address.  Immediately thereafter I bid on, and won, a "Series 541 25 c beautiful CU" note and a "641 5 cents Vietnam CU first print" note also sold by papermoneyworld@yahoo.com .  I sent Fred a check on 6Feb00.  I followed up several times until 28Mar00.  At which time, Fred sent me an email that said he would "ship by Thursday".  I am still waiting.  On the other hand, he has yet to cash my check! For some reason, I nevertheless decided to attend FEST II despite serious misgivings.  I had to cancel because of a medical emergency.  I then decided to attend FEST III with my wife, in case I needed company and a respite from the irresponsible miscreants I expected to meet.  The rest is history.  I had a great time.  My wife no longer accompanies me, unless for other reasons, because I have no time for her!!   Warner Dear Steamed Freditor, Congratulations on Number 1000! In thinking over all the wild enthusiasm I saw and took part in before, during and after the Mini-fest at Lyn Knight's Dallas convention last week, I am not surprised. In my opinion this group epitomizes the ideals of real fun and camaraderie that can still be had in this hobby, though it certainly has its serious moments. But I do not know of any other endeavor in the whole field where you would even come close to the feeling you get with this bunch, with all its spinoffs including learning about the various military and related kinds of notes, issuing and trading the various MFC, and discussions along many lines. Moreover, as you yourself pointed out to me, it is based generally on actual events relating to issuance and exchange of military currencies in various situations. A lot of learning goes on this way just because of the activities each participant engages in, and it is all a lot of fun to boot. I strongly encourage any interested individuals to join in - you will really enjoy it! Neil S. Dear Editor: After reading Gram 991 I decided it was time to reflect back on the other 990 Grams and the issuance of the 1000th Gram, can you believe it, 1000 Grams, well give or take one or two. I can recall when the first Gram was sent out, in fact I printed out the first one and did so until about number 400. I quit doing this when I was able to receive all these grams on discs. Now they are archived on the PMW site and are available to all, thanks to the great efforts of Doug Bell, Fred Schwan for the website and David Seelyes support. The Gram has opened up the collecting world of MPC for old and new collectors as never before through any other medium. Sure there are books, catalogs and a wealth of other printed matter, but the Gram is daily information. It is hard to think of going back to snail mail or even relying on the phone. We have had a lot of great experiences from receiving the Gram and a few not so good also. A few of us have been called beer guzzling drunks, one collector was accused of doing wrong in trying to get some gas coupons and should have been arrested and jailed, another accused of being a thief with case still pending, a ton of heated discussions on a wide variety of subjects, and more than I can think of while doing this article. With all the above considered, the friendship, the knowledge, the camaraderie and just pure enjoyment out of the Gram far out weighs any and all negatives we have had. I'm looking forward to reading the 2000th Gram in the future to see where this arena of collecting has grown From the editor, and staff, the weekly columnists and all the who contributed information and articles, it is you that have made the Gram such a huge success, to borrow a line from WWII Remembered, History In Your Hands. Thanks to all. Harold Kroll Dear Editor, I think most people are collectors, of one sort or another, and most are interested in the history associated with the specimens in their collections. Numismatics probably offers the best opportunity to collect items, at an afforable cost, that cover the longest period of time - from ancient Lydia to the present. It lets us, in our own minds, experience a little of that history. Something that happens to most of us over the years is a loss of interest in our collecting speciality, usually because our collection is complete or new material and information is seldom seen. This area of Military Numismatics, WWII and later, that we are involved in is a little different. Many of us actually lived through some or all of this period and experienced the history we are studying. It covers a wide range of collectibles and new information is being uncovered each year, by many individuals - from the "new" collector to the "old" collector. But the real stimulus for any collector is being exposed to these collectibes and information on a regular basis. The MPCGram provides this forum, on a daily basis, and the MPC Fests give us the opportunity to actually re-live some of these experiences. I think both are unique in our hobby. The development of MFC's, the WWII data base and the military scholarship fund provide a means for us to participate at different levels. It's not one great article or one major discovery - it's the concept and the people that make it happen. Rather than congradulations, I think "THANK YOU" is more appropriate. Ron Waddell Dear Editor, Many Congratulations for the kilogram. I write this from Holocaust Museum Houston where Charleton Meyer's magnificent collection of Holocaust money went on exhibit yesterday. It will remain on exhibit until November 9. If you are anywhere near Houston I recommend a visit. Some of the highlights of the exhibit include: A uniquie note from Natzweiler, a half dozen Auschwitz notes, a rare note from Sokolka ghetto, A tremendous collection of Isle of Man internment camp notes, an equally impreesive set of 5 different Hay notes and more. See the feature article in the I.B.N.S. Journal. Finally for now I'll mention that the museum produced a catalog of the exhibit in full color which I helped out with. It contains full sized images of each note and coin in the exhibit. All the best Fred for another kilogram of grams! Steve Feller Dear Esteeemed Editor, In 1964, I met an Air Force NCO who convinced me to collect, research and write about Southeast Asia, which included MPC and other military pieces. He also taught me about our great capitalist system and how to save and invest in it so my wife and I now have a very comfortable life. So I must admit there are a few good people outside of the Army, but please do not tell Marvin Mericle about this. I had almost seven years of active duty in the Army before I saw my first live MPC in January 1966. While in Viet Nam from then to January 1973, except for about a year, I regularly supplied an old paper money dealer with the last name of Wilson (no, not the John Wilson) with AU and UNC MPC from the series that had been replaced and had "no value" in Viet Nam. I bought them for ten cents on the dollar in places I cannot describe here and sold them for ten percent over face to him. It does make me feel very good to know that those nice notes are in many Gramsters' collections. By the way, I kept the replacements. Not long after Viet Nam, I ran into Joe Boling and he introduced me to you when all three of us were still on active duty. This was a tragic time in my life and I have tried to wipe you from my memory ever since, but you kept popping up here and there, and now almost daily in the MPCGram! The MPCGram often gives me a shot from that part of my life when I had the greatest times and challenges. Many of the MPCGram writers participated in those times and challenges, and they have brought back many of them to me. Now, I do not want to wipe you out of my life because of this almost daily MPCGram appearing in my computer. Was this your plan all along to keep me in your groove? Most civilians will never know the rough times we military experienced that have bonded us for life, no matter if there was MPC or not. But we now have many Gramsters, who are civilians, and they have definitely bonded with us because they enjoy military numismatics. And many of them are doing some fantastic research and writing that has contributed greatly to the store of knowledge. So again, I must admit there are some good people outside of the Army, but please do not tell Pam West and other civilians about this. I guess it is about time for me to wrap this up before I start getting sentimental. Keep up the good work and I am looking forward to another 1000 MPCGrams, and I will keep looking for more subscribers so you can have 1000 of them too. Sincerely, The Master Sergeant Daniel Dear Editor, Congratulations on number 1000! Many of us never thought we would see it, but you sure have delivered. I have thoroughly enjoyed receiving, reading, participating, and even on occasion beating you up a little with the gram. Please renew my subscription for 1000 more. You have made an OUTSTANDING contribution to the numismatic community. Marcus Turner Dear Gram, Congratulations on reaching the big 1-0-0-0! I hope there will be many more grams to come. Max Spiegel Dear Editor, With less than 30 minutes to go before the publisher's deadline, I figure I had better get going. With this milestone of 1000 MPCGRAMS sent, I will celebrate by putting most of the text in my next MPC Fixed Price list. There are a number of MPC Collectors who do not have access to the internet. This will let them know about the vast network of similarly minded collectors across the country and around the globe. Perhaps a few more will attend MPCFEST V where we have our annual pilgrimage. With special rites of passage only "our" devotees understand, (I am talking about Pay Day, "C" day, chits for pop and water, and the camaraderie that grows event to event), it is a natural place for the "plugged in" to meet with the non internet users face to face. See You There!! David E. Seelye Dear Gramsters, There were multiple life-altering events I lived through in 1996 and the one relating to Fred Schwan was the penultimate. With a chance evening encounter at the P.C. coffeehouse, my world: 1)rocketed into a life full of chess, 2) became subjugated to the alter-world of Fred and Judy with immense enrichment of both worlds (presumptive but true, I hope) and 3) resumed a peripheral dance with numismatics (which had begun when I immigrated to America) only to be seduced by the twinkle in the eye of the MPC world (its culture, history, marvels, characters, events, FESTS, buffoonery, cameraderie, enslavery of neophytes, trickery, deception, support of reasons to travel near and far, the Gram (eventually), my first paybook of known record, poker side events, and on and on). Who would have thought that it would be after my first fest (IV) [Cuneyd had a cameo appearance at Fest I--ed] that I would study the thick document of my own Turkish Birth Certificate only to find that it CONTAINED A BLANK TURKISH MILITARY PAYBOOK (mine, unused) and that no Turk I knew here in the US or in Turkey had one like it anymore because there had been a mandatory forced exchange of the old document for the new modernized plastic one-piece card? And that all Turks who had become naturalized US citizens had been forced to turn in their old documents to the Turkish General Consul? And that mine was still in my hand because somehow I never gave it up? And who would have further thought that this thing which I carried, guarded, hid, looked at sometimes with contempt and sometimes with glee could drag me in from the periphery even deeper into the gramster world? xxxWho would have thought? And now. And now I look forward to EVERY SINGLE GRAM, every single tale of woe or splendor, every single discovery and report. As if I did not already stick my nose into all kinds of business but LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, this world is above all, above anything, FUN, FUN, FUN, FUN, and more FUN! And though we have all of us together to thank for the GRAM because it IS what we all MAAKE it, I must salute my friend, partner-in-crimes, malfeasant, and doppelganger, Fred Schwan for being the father of this thing we are marking for the 1000th issue as the "MPCGRAM." Look for it in your emailbox, give the extras away, harass and kickass to make it better, and thank the father who art in the black hole of P.C. for this bite of the kilogram! May many more kilos follow! May we have KiloFests for generations to follow! Cuneyd Tolek =========================================== CALENDAR OF EVENTS =========================================== PCDA National and World Paper Money Convention. November 19-23, 2003. St. Louis Hilton Airport Hotel, 10330 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis, MO 63134. Lyn Knight auction, consignment deadline September 30, 2003 2004 CPMX February 26-28, Lyn Knight auction. Consignment deadline January 10, 2004. March 5-7, MPCFest V, reservations now being accepted. Reservations entered in order received: Roger Urce#$$, John Cheney#$, David Seelye, Harold Kroll, Gail Baker#, Leo May$$$, Kevin Neidy, Cuneyd Tolek, Warner Talso, Cameron Bueschel, Wendell Wolka, John V. Craig#, John Cheney#, Steve Swoish, Joe Bissell#, Sparky Watson, Nick Schrier, Loretta Freyser, Dick Freyser, Ron Waddell, Robert Drew, Ed Arrich#, Neil Shafer#, Fred Schwan. # new Fester, $ paid. $$ paid single occupancy. Running totals: total 24, new festers 8. Standard rate $148, single occupancy $198, payments may be made by mailing paper instruments of any kind to BNR Press (or MPCFest or even Fred Schwan) at 132 E. Second St., Port Clinton, OH 43452. Payments may also be sent via PayPal ( fredschawan@yahoo.com ). Once you have sent your payment, monitor the above list to ensure that it has been received and posted). Show n tell: Gail Baker ( education@money.org ) Travel coordination: Sparky Watson ( mcwatson@yahoo.com ) Auction items: Larry Smulczenski ( skifla@prodigy.net ) Exhibits: Joe Boling ( joeboling@aol.com ) Masstricht April 23-25, Valkenburg, The Netherlands, contact Jos Eijsermans, Box 3240, NL 5930 Tegelen Netherlands ======================================== 2004 scholarship fund Donations of cash and numismatic material will be gladly accepted. Generally the numismatic material is auctioned at MPCFest, but might be sold via ebay or other places. Your scholarship donations help the hobby by sending qualified individuals to the ANA summer seminar military money class. Except for unavoidable charges like ebay fees, 100% of your donation goes to scholarships. Al Glaser RA Medina Warner Talso David Seelye Russ Walsh Joe Boling Harold Kroll Pam West Ed Hoffman Ron Wadell Wes Hardy Dick Freyser Robert Drew Brett Irick Kevin Neidy Brian Giese 2003 Scholarship Donors Ed Hoffman ? RA Medina ? Dick Freyser ?Larry Smulczenski ? David Seelye ? Howard Daniel ? Steve Feller ? Warner Talso ? Pam West ? Mr. 691 ? Leo May ? John & Nancy Wilson ? Max Spiegel ? Gail Baker ? Chris Connell ? Bill Haines ? Joel Shafer ? Mikhail (Misha) Istomin ? Gary Hicks ? Robert Drew ? Tom Warburton ? Larry Lee ? Fred Schwan ? Mark Watson ? Harold Kroll ? Ian Marshall ? Marcus Turner ? Neil Shafer ? Keith & Sue Bauman Contact me at: "Marcus Turner" mailto: maturner@indy.rr.com Checks should be made out to the "Military Numismatists Scholarship." or Marcus Turner 8103 East US Highway 36 Suite 163 Avon, Indiana 46123 USA IMPORTANT SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION Additional information can be found at the link below. We encourage everyone to print copies of this information and distribute it to those who might be interested. Further you are encouraged to e-mail the pdf document to anyone you see fit. Thank you http://www.papermoneyworld.net/news/Military Numismatists Scholarship Fund 2003.pdf Marcus Turner Scholarships from the ANA: See the following location for an application for financial aid to the summer seminar: http://www.money.org/sumsemfin.html =========================================== MPC ANA Museum Project =========================================== ANA collection of MPC: Thanks to donations from Douglas Bell, Dick Fryser, Ed Beaman, Bruce Peacock, David Seelye, Michael Cummings, Ray Czahor, David Pitchford and Mr 691the ANA MPC collection is current as follows: Series 100 - [50 sen], [1Y, 5Y, 10Y, 20Y all A underprint] Series 461 - 5, [10] cents, [$1] Series 471 - [5, 10, 25, 50 cents, $10] Series 472 - [5, 10 cents], [$1, $10] Series 481 - 5 cents, [10, 25 cents], 50 cents, $1, [$5] $10 Series 521 - 5, 10, 25, 50 cents, [$10] Series 541 - 5, 10, 25 cents Series 591 - [5, 10, 25, 50 cents, $1] Series 611 - [5, 10, 25 cents, $1] Series 641 - 5, 10, 25, 50 cents, $1, $5, $10 Series 651 - [$1] Series 661 - [10, 25, 50c], [$5], [$1, $5] $10 Series 681 - 5, 10, 25, 50 cents, $1, [$5], [$20] Series 691 - [$1, $5, $10, $20] Series 692 - 5, 10, 25, 50 cents, $1 Series 701 - [$1, $5, $10, $20] [50c etc.] = notes donated by Gramsters --Chris Connell =========================================== RESEARCH =========================================== New modification to the database you can now retrieve your password if you have forgotten at the main logon screen. Keep in mind syntax is important. The mpc database has changed its name it now going to be referred as, WW II P a p e r M o n e y D a t a B a s e This is just a hint of things to come If you are having trouble logging on please inform Doug Bell At doug@papermoneyworld.net Papermoneyworld maintains an innovative interactive data base of all military payment certificates. Everyone is invited to enter notes in their possession or that they have observed. Visit the site at: http://www.papermoneyworld.net/user/default.asp this project is financially supported by David Seelye http://www.thempcman.net/ , mailto: coinman@rochester.rr.com =========================================== Subscription information: =========================================== You can enter an email address to receive the gram by using the link below. Use this to change your address (add the new one), add a friend or enemy. http://www.papermoneyworld.net/WebMailList/Default.asp ========================================= HOT CONTACT LIST - DEALER & RESOURCE LIST Below is the BNR Press Hot Contact List. This list serves several functions. Obviously it is an outreach by the dealers listed for your business. Most of them buy and sell MPC. Others organize shows or publish periodicals, or furnish information dedicated to this field. They have supported the new Comprehensive Catalog of Military Payment Certificates with their advertising. They deserve your support and patronage! Name phone fax / cell email Allens (614) 882-3937 (614) 882-0662 info@allens.com American Coins & Collectibles (800) 865-3562 American Numismatic Ass'n (800) 367-9723 ana@money.org Guy Araby (562) 945-7891(310) 508-0018 guyaraby@earthlink.net Bob Baker(713) 864-3122 Ken Barr (408) 272-3247 ken@kenbarr.com Fred Bart (810) 979-3400 Dick Balbaton (508) 699-2266 (508) 643-1154 RBalbaton@aol.com Keith and Suzanne Bauman (248) 647 8938 tnaksbauman@earthlink.net Joe Bissell (602) 440-0442 (602) 494-9103 BNR Press (419) 732-6683 (419) 732-6683 fredschwan@yahoo.com Remy Bourne (800) 789-7070 (763) 789-4747 Ed Carne (614) 882-3937 (614) 882-0662 info@allens.com Champion Stamp (212) 489-8130 (212) 581-8130 Cookie Jar Collectibles (301) 604-9225 cjcpi@comcast.net Guido Crapanzano [39] 2-8056228 [39] 2-4459856 Currency Dealer Newsletter (310) 515-7369 David F. Cieniewicz (205) 852-7015 CGC (602) 493-4758 (602) 494-9103 sales@gradedcurrency.com Mike Cummings (863) 603-9899 (863) 603-9880 mpccoin@hotmail.com Cygnet Charters (419) 734-2422 Ray Czahor (301) 604-9225 cjcpi@comcast.net Denlys of Boston (617) 482-8477 denlys@aol.com Doric Coins & Currency (508) 699-2266 (508) 643-1154 FUN (407) 321-8747 Great Lakes Bank Note Company (419) 732-6683 IBNS joeboling@aol.com Essie Kashani (909) 627-3996 (909) 627-2776 kashani10@aol.com Lowel Horwdel (765) 583-2748 (765) 583-4584 horwdel@inshightbb.com Lyn Knight (800) 243-5211 Krause Publications (715) 445-2214 (715) 445-4087 bnr@krause.com Harold Kroll(251) 649-5134 HARBONS@aol.com Leo May (305) 720-0659 LeoMayEnt@aol.com Ian Marshall (416) 445-0286 (416) 445-0286 iam@total.net Memphis Coin Club (901) 757-2515 MPCGram (419) 732-6683 MPCGram@yahoo.com Pomexport Ltd. 1-201-641-6641 / Fax: 1-201-641-1700 E-Mail: Info@pomexport.com // website: http://www.Pomexport.com Bob Reed(504) 361-5684 bobreed@rrcoins.net Fred Schwan (419) 732-6683 (419) 732-6683 FredSchwan@yahoo.com David Seelye (585) 594-1987 (585) 594-2311 coinman@rochester.rr.com Richie Self (318) 868-9077 R. M. Smythe (800) 622-1880 (212) 908-4047 www.smytheonline.com Mel Steinberg & Son (415) 897-1654 (voice and fax) melsteinberg@mindspring.com Military Trader (800) 334-7165 Scott Winslow Associates (603)472-7040 (603) 472-8773 scott@scottwinslow.com George Warner(307) 672-3700 Pam West [44] 0208 641 3224[44] 0208 641 3224 pamwestbritnotes@compuserve.com ======================================= POST / BASE EXCHANGE(PX/BX/NEX) Dump your dupes! Your classified advertisement for items for sale, purchase or trade will be run here for free. Send your ads to the gram. This service is for everyone, most humble dealer or most advanced collector. The point is to make the gram more interesting. In all cases confirm your order via email first. FOR SALE I have a few duplicates from the R. A. Median collection auctioned by Lyn Knight at Dallas last weekend: 20 yen A series 100, this is the series used as trial MPC. This is a classic VF note (most would call EF, some AU, but I did not check to see what the auction called it). It has a modest stain on the right side. A nice, pleasing note: $150 1 yen B REAPLCEMENT SN H00186518A F-VF, no edge damage, it looks real nice, in demand [sold] 1 yen B AU-CU, A16316923A. There is no justification to include this note in such a listing, EXCEPT that it is from the Medina collection and therefore of interest. $4 1000 AM marks, Soviet printing. This is an average uncirculated example but is particularly desirable for two reasons 1) it is from the Medina collection 2) the first three characters (-31) of the serial number are offset UP in addition to laterally (a diagnostic of the Soviet printings). [sold] 100 AM marks, Soviet printing. A routine unc note, but once again from the Medina collection: [sold]. Contact fred@papermoneyworld.net or fredschwan@yahoo.com WANTED SECTION: Collectors may submit lists of items wanted for their collections for listing here. Dealers and collectors who have these items, are then encouraged to list them for sale in the above section as a reply. Wanted listings will run for a period of 1 month. WANTED 01; =========================================== MPC Gram Staff: Publisher, editor: Fred Schwan - MPCGram@yahoo.com Subscription Manager:Doug Bell- doug@papermoneyworld.net Tuesday Columnist : JoeBoling - JoeBoling@aol.com Friday Columnis: Warner Talso: wtalso@aol.com Fest Auctioneer: Larry "Ski" Smulczenski - skifla@prodigy.net Critic:Harold Kroll - HARBONS@aol.com Scholarship Coordinator: Marcus Turner - maturner@indy.rr.com Webmaster & Technical Advisors:Doug Bell "Wiz" - doug@papermoneyworld.net Russ Walsh - russ.walsh@gte.net Fact Checker: Warner Talso -Calendar Coordinator: John & Nancy Wilson - The Boss: Judy Schwan ===== MPC Gram is published by BNR Press and papermoneyworld.com as a free service to the community of military money collectors. Your suggestions, criticisms, complaints, editorial contributions, letters, and even praise are very welcome. The entire contents including linked illustrations are copyright protected by the publishers. In the case of contributors, the copyright is protected on behalf of the creators. Please send all correspondence regarding the gram to MPCgram@yahoo.com. Thank you very much for your participation. __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! SiteBuilder - Free, easy-to-use web site design software http://sitebuilder.yahoo.com