Customer Reviews

Treasure in the Cellar: A Tale of Gold in Depression-Era Baltimore

5 star:		(6)
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3 star:		(1)
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Len does a terrific job weaving history, numismatics, law, and lore, backed by extensive research to spin a masterful tale. As the story goes, two poor boys find a sizable accumulation of gold coins from 1834 through 1856 (including the mega-coin, an 1856-O $20) in the basement of a slum in Baltimore in 1934. Naturally, the coins change their fortunes, along with those of their families, forever, but in ways which are not entirely expected. The book deals a lot with the legal challenges for ownership of the coin, which are indeed complex, but fascinating. There are twists and turns in the story line, and while you never know exactly what is going to happen in the end (and I am not going to tell you), a Hollywood ending never really seems in the cards.

Len has a polished, professional writing style that is very smooth and readable. The research goes deep and touches upon many aspects of the history of the City of Baltimore from the early 1800's through the Depression. Despite that the subject is relatively esoteric, anyone who enjoyed Tripp's Illegal Tender or Frankel's Double Eagle (both written about the 1933 Saint) would find this book to be equally pleasing.

This book was a page turner. It's a true and interesting story that is well written. I'm very satisfied and looking for more books by this author.

I was not sure what to expect when I started my read. Within a few pages I felt like I was part of the 1930's. Len brings the reader through the time period as if you are traveling in a time capsule. Soon you are living the story. The historical facts, intertwined with the personal story of events, presents an educational history lesson of real life in 1930's Baltimore in an extremely entertaining fashion. Unlike "National Treasure" the movie this story is plausible and true. Excellent work Len!

Treasure in the Cellar is a real page turner and fascinating read. I was captivated by the story and drawn into the drama surrounding the coins. The smooth writing style and narrative account make the characters and the time period come alive. The author provides just enough detail and historical background to set the stage and to put the story into context without getting bogged down with too many obscure facts. The author does an excellent job of revealing how the effects of historical events such as the Civil War, the 1918 flu epidemic, and the Gold Recall Act along with treasure trove law impact the fate of the boys and the gold coins. A real gem of a book!

Treasure in the Cellar is a beautifully written true-life adventure. Len Augsburger's writing style makes you want to keep reading to uncover the next twist and turn as you root for these disadvantaged kids to keep their treasure. Meticulously researched, the book brings depression-era Baltimore and its characters to life.

I just loved this book. I am a coin collector and live near Baltimore. I finished reading the book as soon as I received it. The book is an easy read and an interesting story for anyone interested in coins, Baltimore history and the legal aspects of finding a treasure trove!! The mystery about who originally buried the coins, the legal proceedings and the human interest perspective as to what happened to the boys and their families really made a great story. I wish there were more books that combined coins and history out there. Len has really set the bar high!

Was a good read, a little wordy in places but reflected an excellent amount of research which added to the credibility of the tale. Not for all, but still historical and throws a good light on greed.