Born in Hamilton, Madison County, New York. Married with one daughter. He was employed in the wholesale fruit business until 1876.

Affiliated with Henry G. Sampson in Smith & Sampson. They conducted four auction sales 1880 to 1881. Under his own name conducted 21 auction sales 1881 to 1887. In 1887 he entered a partnership with David Proskey in New York Coin and Stamp. Smith provided most of the capital and Proskey did most of the cataloging. The partnership continued until the death of Smith. He died in New York City.

Collection sold at auction by S. H. and H. Chapman May 8-11, 1906. An 1822 Half Eagle sold to to W. F. Dunham for $2165. At the time it was the highest price paid for a U. S. coin. The 2416 lots realized $22,615.10.

obit: AJN 37 Jul 1902 page 31