Dealers Books

This book was given to me as a gift. I was not prepared for the story and the very eloquent talents of the author. I felt seduced. At many times, I felt as though I was part of the story, part of the group, traveling throughout Turkey, Cyprus, and Amsterdam. I took the book on vacation with me and when I got home, I immediately went to Amazon.com to see what else Hofstadter has written. Wonderful book!

As a silversmith, any reference that will make me more knowledgeable about my field, is essential reading. Such is the case with the Guide to Evaluating Gold & Silver Objects by Scott V. Martin. This book offers what others don't: detailed, clear and simple technical information on the precious metals and the best method(s) for determining actual precious metal content. Even a metallurgist will find this book useful. Mr. Martin appraises, researches, lectures and writes about antique silver. His perspective provides the reader with a refreshing and practical approach on the subject of how to best evaluate objects made of gold and silver. In this guide, Mr. Martin shows us that there are many ways for readers to make a precious metal determination. He begins with non-invasive methods and then presents variations on the most commonly used invasive acid tests and proceeds to the new advanced scientific methods. His approach is very practical, such that the reader will be able to accomplish most of the testing methods themselves. He has also simply and clearly laid out his personal philosophy: if you are going to test an object for precious metal content, then know why a test is necessary and how to select the most appropriate testing method. I keep this 100 page laminated cover spiral-bound reference close at hand. It is full of useful information, techniques and guidance. The Guide to Evaluating Gold and Silver Objects is a "must" for anyone involved in collecting, making, and identifying gold and silver. The following summarizes this book: Chapter one give us an understanding of gold and silver in historical as well as scientific and mythological terms. You will find some interesting facts and information about gold and silver which can be use to dazzle your friends and clients. Chapter two deals with how to visually inspect the most often appraised objects: flatware, holloware, coins, and jewelry. This is obviously the most non-invasive method of determining an object's composition, and when used in conjunction with the extensive list of reference books in the appendix and the information in chapter three, the reader may be able to eliminate the need for any sort of invasive testing (i.e., nitric acid test). Chapter three discusses marks of standard, referring to the marks generally found on an object signifying its metal composition, such as "sterling" (92.5% fine silver and 7.5% copper), or the lower fine silver content of "coin" silver (90% fine silver and 10% copper), also known as "pure coin," "dollar," ".900," or "standard." This chapter also delves into the lesser understood electroplate marks, defining their terms and corresponding thicknesses. The foreign quality marks section is also very useful, for not all countries use the same terminology or alloys as the United States. Chapter four, the longest in the book, deals with gold and silver testing. The chapter starts by introducing us to the most simple and common empirical tests such as "feel", "flex", "heft", "ring-ping" and even "smell." The reader will find out how to properly administer these common field tests; it is also revealed which of these should not be relied upon. The balance of this chapter deals with 14+ tests, from the most commonly used but invasive acid tests, to the advanced electronic and scientific tests. Also included is the often overlooked but very informative specific gravity test. Most of these tests can be performed by or arranged by the reader. Chapter five discuses the various reasons for evaluating a precious metal object, such as for curiosity's sake, selling or acquiring a piece, insurance replacement, collectability, etc. Chapter six gives one a thorough understanding of both the art and science of cleaning/polishing precious metal objects. The step by step instructions will insure that the seemingly elemental act of cleaning doesn't leave the object ruined and/or effect any of the test results. The appendix discusses the U.S. stamping laws, has very helpful tables and equivalents for units of measure, conversion formulas, melting points, specific gravity tables, and comparative weights of equal volumes. There are also appendixes which present recommended references, books, associations, and an extensive glossary. Jeffrey Herman (jherman@silversmithing.com), Providence, RI

I have a copy of High Adventure and was thinking how much I enjoyed it. I've never lent it to anyone and now that I see it is out of print, I realize I made a sound decision.

If you like a fun yarn with a con, a scam, and a sting then you should look for this book.

HOW TO BUY A CAR WITHOUT GETTING TAKEN FOR A RIDE

This book provides an "insider's view" of exactly what goes on when auto dealership managers and their salespeople set out to deceive and defraud the public. The author, an attorney who also worked as an auto salesperson and manager for five years, takes the reader step-by-step through the process of victimization from the moment the buyer first enters the dealership until he or she finally walks out--sometimes hours later--"signed, fleeced, and laid away," as the dealers so aptly put it.

These startling revelations will confirm the public's worst fears--from the enticement of false and misleading advertising to the devious machinations of the finance department to the time the buyer goes back for repairs. The reader learns that the confusion, distortion, intimidation, and in many instances actual fraud, are practices condoned and encouraged by management. Mr. Rothman pulls no punches in exposing the secret business policies--many of which are illegal--in order to educate the public to the tricks they will inevitably encounter.

Most importantly, the author hopes (as will the reader) that the information provided will not only help the prospective buyer find his or her way through the mine field of auto dealerships, but will prove to be an impetus for legislative reform that is long overdue.

Very complete index for a world wide results of auction sales for the last season. Absolutely necessary for dealers, auctioneers and for valuation purpose. Easy to find and understand.Referenses to day of the sale and lot number as well as auctionhouse.

This book is absolutely amazing.It is down to earth and truthful in the accounts of how one man was plunged into the depths of the drug underworld and emerged to find victory in the unlikeliest of places, a prison. It is a truly inspirational and uplifting book that shows how anyone can rise above the circumstances of life, whatever they may be, and can make positive choices which will put them on the path to happiness and absolute fulfillment in life. Woven throughout the chapters are tidbits of humour and profound insights which make for entertaining reading. This is one of the top books that I would recommend for teens and young adults!!! Other books by the same author include the "High on Adventure" series about how to life life to the extreme and have fun while you're at it.

this book by constantine is a good book for anyone who wants to get an eye full of the wood that grows on our earth . the book gives you a review of all the proporties of the wood and or if the wood is safe to use or if there is a toxisity in the wood that is harmfull to us such as osasge orange (maclura pomifera). this can get dermititis on contact with certain individuals . the dust is very fine if sanded and can be harmful if inhailed. this is a native tree of arkansas to texas and is olso in southwestern ontario. if you can get a copy in your hands for a short period of time read it from cover to cover again and again to familurize yourself with the woods around you .

The best book I have read. You can feel the humidity in the air in Columbia where you learn how the cartels operate and the expertise of a body carrier out smarts them.....and the government. Outstanding, entertaining and captivating book.

Here is a concise chronology of a great art family of the 20th century. Crisp pictures help you visualize the glory of not only the foundation museum but their creative output and how they lived.

If you are interested in how FDR turned the country around and infused it with a sense of optimism, replacing fear and confusion with purpose and concrete plans, read this book. A more descriptive title would be "Voices of the New Deal," because this is a book of the recollections of many of the prime architects of Roosevelt's programs.