Whitlow Larry LTD

Information may not be reliable

from Joseph O'Connor
O'Connor Numismatics LLC has completed the purchase of Larry Whitlow Ltd's Rare Coin division. This purchase does not include Larry Whitlow Ltd's Modern Commemoratives division which, along with Larry's bullion and wholesale clients, will remain with Larry Whitlow Ltd.
Why is Larry selling?
At 68 years young, Larry's looking to do a lot more fishing, hunting and vacationing with his wife, Eva. As many of us who are "lifers" in the rare coin business, I don't expect that Larry can truly quit being a coin dealer, but the 50+ hour workweeks will be coming to an end.
Most importantly, Larry knows that his customers and clients will be in good hands. Larry, Donna, Eva and I know each other well. Over these past five weeks, we've all had to plow through a lot of work, yet working closely together again has been very enjoyable. Going forward, I'll still maintain a limited schedule at Larry's office for local clients, and to visit my new best friend, Larry's younger dog Kiley.
What is happening with the Whitlow website?
Most of Whitlow's active rare coin inventory has been sold off by O'Connor Numismatics over the past few weeks. The best of what remains has been integrated into the O'Connor Numismatics inventory, while the rest will be sold into the wholesale market. New rare coin inventory will no longer be added to the whitlowltd.com website. If you are a Modern Commemorative collector, that section of whitlowltd.com is still live and active. I will continue to maintain Larry's website, with any necessary changes made every few days. Please call Larry or Donna with any Modern Commemorative orders or questions at (630) 792-1900.
As a Whitlow rare coin customer, what changes can I expect from O'Connor Numismatics?
First, you can expect a lot more inventory to choose from. My sales mix has become more wholesale oriented over the years, as my retail efforts have focused upon the great rarities. However, I'll now make a point of holding the best of this inventory a little longer to offer on my website, in order you give you a shot at some really good buys.
Secondly, you can expect lower prices. While I am an aggressive buyer from clients, other collectors, fellow dealers, and at auction, my margins are among the lowest in the business. For Gallery2 offerings, margins are typically between 8% and 10% after shipping, while my final margins on U.S. Rarities are typically from 3% to 8%. U.S. Generic Gold margins are even lower at only 2% to 3%. More choice at lower prices equals better value.
Additionally, I think that you'll find my photos and descriptions to be a bit more critical. I believe that the photos should be true, and not unrealistically favorable, as over flattering photos seem to be the trend these days. It would be easy to attach fancy descriptions to every coin that crosses my path, but how does that help you make a decision? A description should explain those aspects of the coin that affect the grade, some of which you might not notice. It should also provide the facts about a coin's variety, known provenance, and established condition census ranking when appropriate.
Do I need to re-establish credit?
If you had credit with Larry Whitlow, you have at least that same credit availability with O'Connor Numismatics, whether it's for coins on approval or extended payment terms when needed.
How do I get started?
First, read through the O'Connor Numismatics website, rareassets.com, and become a little more familiar with the coins that I carry. Spend some time in the Archives to see many of the more important coins that I've handled in the past. If I haven't already spoken with you, either on the telephone, through email, or at the Boston ANA, a call, text or email is a good place to start. I'll also have a mailing that will go out over the next few weeks. Please take a moment to fill it out and return it to me by mail or fax.
I look forward to speaking with each of you in the very near future.