The New York-built screw steamer METIS of the New York and Providence Line was in collision with the schooner NETTIE CUSHING off Stonington on the night of August 30, 1872 during a heavy gale and drenching rain. It was first thought that the steamer was not much damaged and she spent some time looking for the schooner. However, it was later discovered that she was leaking badly and although headed shoreward, she never made it and sank amid great confusion, mishandling of lifeboats and other mismanagement. Fortunately, the hurricane deck of the steamer floated off and served as a life rafe. Captain J.S. Crandall of the Watch Hill, R.I., Lifesaving Station sent out a lifeboat and rescued 17 persons from the water. His fishing boat was also sent out and rescued others. Meanwhile the shore near Watch Hill was strewn with wreckage of the steamer and those who were able to float themselves in on boxes and other wooden part of the ship. There was heavy loss of life.

A new addition to my ephemera collection has an interesting back story. Although it is undated, I believe the B. Max Mehl advertising flier dates to the end of 1909, likely around the end of the 1909 Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition. “Alaska Gold,” “Just Issued” refers to Jules Charbneau’s AYPE three gold token set released in early 1909. You can read more about the tokens in the January 2013 issue of The Numismatist in an article by Jeff Shevlin and myself, “Jules Charbneau’s 1909 AYPE Gold Dollars.”

The first medals designed by Charles Barber were in collaboration with his father William Barber who was his predecessor as Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint from 1869 to 1879.

Charles E. Barber (1840-1917) was a master steel engraver and the sixth Chief Engraver of the U.S Mint in Philadelphia. He designed more United States coins and medals than any other artist.

The “Great White Fleet” Medal commemorates the goodwill voyage around the world made by 28 U.S. warship. This medal was produced in the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia in 1907.