The new book World War II Savings Bonds and Stamps will be of interest toGramsters and many in the numismatic and philatelic collecting fields. Thelarge-format, full-color book covers the subject area in detail not found in anyother reference book.

In the area of World War II bonds, the book covers in detail Series E, Series Fand Series G bonds that were issued first as defense bonds, then after PearlHarbor as war bonds. Later in the war all three series were reduced in size.That seems like a simple enough, three different series in two size of course inseveral denominations, but the field is actually more complex--beautifully so.For the first time the book describes and illustrates new varieties that havebeen previously unknown to collectors.

For example, the bonds formerly known as large size are now known to exist intwo sizes! Furthermore, the change is size was accompanied by a shift in thelocation of the perforations of the bonds from left to top. This is only themost important new variety discovered and listed--there are others as well.The system as it was introduced in 1940 was supplemented with two additionaldenominations as the war progressed. The first was a Series E low $10denomination known as the soldiers' bond because it was introduced to make iteasier for the common solider to participate in the savings system. Later, afterthe death of President Roosevelt, a $200 denomination was added to the programwith the portrait of the late president. The $10 bonds are scarce and the $200rare.

Defense and war savings stamps were part of the overall savings system. Theywere issued in denominations from as low as ten cents to $5. Their use isdescribed and the stamps listed in detail in the catalog.

The stamps were saved in small albums that were provided free to the public.Allow the albums are fairly well-well known to the collecting communities, nolisting of them has ever been attempted--until now. These listings are based onthe efforts of Fester and Gramster Bruce Potter.

The listings and the book itself are based on the 1995 one-page listings anddescriptions by Fred Schwan and Joe Boling in World War II Remembered. From thathumble beginning the field has grown to the point where this complete book isboth necessary and desirable if not necessary. This new book also has thefingerprints of these two collectors--Schwan as coauthor and Boling as generaleditor.

The balance of the editorial platoon consists of collectors Larry Smulczenski,Jim Downey, and Mark Watson as authors. Bond collector and promoter Warner Talsoprovides a thoughtful foreword.

The book is being released at MPCFest XII where the entire editorial team wasscheduled to to be present. Unfortunately, authors Downey and Watson weresidelined by medical problems.

Nonetheless, Schwan, Smulczenski, Talso and Boling are available at the Fest tosign the new book which they saw for the very first time as the other assembledFesters.

The full-color, large-format, soft cover, 48 page, limited-production book isavailable for $20 (plus $2) postage to Gramsters now. Furthermore, If youreserve your book by 2300 hrs Saturday, you will receive your book autographedper your request. All books reserved this way will be autographed by theeditorial team present in Port Clinton either personally to you or genericallyat your request. It will include other unannounced features (and some notthought of yet). Send your reservations to MPCGram@yahoo.com.

An addition special collector's edition is being prepared. This edition includesall of the autographs mentioned, extra pages for note taking, spiral binding,special numbering, and a variety of stamps (rubber and postage). This specialversion which will be mailed later includes a standard edition which will bemailed promptly so that you do not have to wait to receive and use your book.The special edition is $85 (postpaid). Again, make your reservations atMPCGram@yahoo.com.