June 18,1998

Harry W. Bass, Jr. brought a rare combination to numismatics in the United States: collector; researcher; and benefactor. His passion was for U.S. gold coins and with his typical business acumen he assembled one of the unparalleled collections in this area. Unsatisfied at being merely a dilettante collector he thoroughly researched the area of federal gold coinage becoming the recognized authority in the field. His library, which he built to complement his collection, is recognized as being the most complete and outstanding one on U.S. gold coinage. His greatest contribution, however, was his willingness to give of his knowledge, energies, and resources to the world of numismatics. There are few numismatic organizations in the United States that did not benefit from his support, advice and counsel. In this way he hoped to perpetuate interest in numismatics, a hobby that had brought him so much pleasure and appreciation for the development of our Republic. His death leaves a void in the world of numismatics; one that will not be easily filled, if ever.

As Curator of the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian, I always looked forward to our conversations. He was such a font of knowledge and was ever ready with kind and supportive words. He supported the National Numismatic Collection by loaning materials for special exhibits and with much needed financial support. I will always appreciate the fact this was done unstintigly and with no restrictions. The National Numismatic Collection has lost a great supporter and wonderful friend.

I count Harry W. Bass, Jr. as one of the great numismatic personalities I have had the pleasure and honor to know in my nearly sixty years as a professional numismatist here and in Europe.



E Clain-Stefaneni

Curator, National Numismatic Collection
Washington, D.C.