Lester Merkin

Lester Merkin (March 17, 1916–July 26, 1992) was an American jazz saxophonist and mid‑20th‑century numismatist. He later moved to New York City, where he and his wife Selma participated actively in the city's arts and antiques circles.

Sessionography The following entries summarize Merkin's verifiable studio and ensemble appearances as documented in commercial releases and discographic databases:

Claude Thornhill Orchestra – studio recordings (alto saxophone, clarinet), various sessions later reissued on compilation albums. His August 14, 1964 sale of the Lou Helfenstein collection introduced the first full‑color cover used in a major American coin‑auction catalog, a design that became widely influential.

Later life and death In the 1980s Merkin experienced significant medical difficulties affecting his eyesight and mobility, though he remained active in the numismatic community and continued to receive visits from colleagues and clients. In 2013 he was inducted into the PCGS CoinFacts Coin Dealer Hall of Fame.

Legacy Merkin is remembered as an ethical and influential figure in American numismatics, praised by contemporaries for his professionalism and generosity. His auction catalogs remain valued references for collectors and researchers, and his early musical career places him among the many jazz musicians who transitioned into other artistic and commercial fields in mid‑century New York.

Bibliography and further reading Breen, Walter. Auction Catalogs of Lester Merkin Coins, Inc. Various dates, 1964–1979. Kolbe, George F. Auction Sale of the Library of Lester Merkin. George Frederick Kolbe, 1984. Newman, Eric P. Correspondence with Lester Merkin, 1968. Newman Numismatic Portal. Bowers, Q. David. American Coin Dealers and Auctioneers of the 20th Century. Whitman Publishing. Thornhill, Claude. Complete Studio Recordings. Compilation releases featuring Merkin's reed‑section performances.