John Highfill, the 'silver dollar guru,' passed away at 82, leaving behind a legacy in numismatics and beyond. We delve into his life, contributions, and the mark he left on the coin collecting world.
John Highfill, a name synonymous with silver dollar expertise, recently passed away at the age of 82. But who was this 'silver dollar guru,' and what made him such a pivotal figure in the world of numismatics?
A Life Beyond Coins: From Elvis to Silver Dollars
Highfill's journey wasn't your typical numismatist's tale. Before diving into the world of coins, he was a record company executive, rubbing shoulders with music legends like Elvis Presley, Karen Carpenter, and Kenny Rogers. Imagine going from protecting Donny Osmond from adoring fans to becoming the go-to guy for silver dollar knowledge – quite the career shift!
The Silver Dollar Encyclopedia: A Landmark Achievement
Highfill's most significant contribution to the numismatic world was undoubtedly his 1,200-page reference book, The Comprehensive U.S. Silver Dollar Encyclopedia. This wasn't just another book; it was a landmark achievement that cemented his reputation as a leading authority on silver dollars. Updated in 2017, it even snagged an award from the Numismatic Literary Guild, proving its lasting value.
More Than Just a Dealer: A Pillar of the Community
Beyond his encyclopedic knowledge, Highfill was a true pillar of the numismatic community. He founded the National Silver Dollar Round Table, served on the American Numismatic Association Board of Governors, and presented countless educational seminars. He was honored with awards like the Q. David Bowers Award and the renaming of the National Silver Dollar Roundtable's Lifetime Achievement Award in his honor.
A Humble and Kind Guru
What truly set Highfill apart was his character. As PNG Executive Director John Feigenbaum noted, he was “humble and kind to everyone,” always willing to help advance the hobby. In a world often filled with ego and competition, Highfill's approach was a breath of fresh air.
The Legacy Continues
John Highfill's passing leaves a void in the numismatic world, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure. His book will continue to educate and inspire collectors for generations to come, and his contributions to the community will be remembered fondly. He was more than just a coin dealer; he was a teacher, a mentor, and a friend to many.
So, the next time you hold a silver dollar, take a moment to remember John Highfill, the 'silver dollar guru' who dedicated his life to sharing his passion and knowledge with the world. And who knows, maybe he's up there right now, negotiating the perfect trade with St. Peter for a rare Morgan dollar!
