It is widely held that the first modern era New Orleans Mardi Gras occurred in 1857. The 2006 Mardi Gras, if one takes place, will be either the 149th or 150th, depending on who you ask and how good a mathematician you are. I think that 2006 will be the 150th anniversary of Mardi Gras, but then I’m mathematically challenged so what do I know? This may be irrelevant anyway because some historians think the first Mardi Gras in New Orleans started in the 1700’s.
It’s widely accepted that the first Mardi Gras doubloon was thrown from a float during the 1960 Rex parade. Since then, the various Krewes have minted their own throws made from metals ranging from aluminum to almost pure silver. These throws are dated and have become collector’s items. While I can’t swear to my math, there is one thing that I am sure of. 2005 doubloons and 2006 doubloons will quickly be scarfed up by collectors because both years represent a milestone in New Orleans history – the end of one era and the beginning of another. http://www.ericwilder.com http://energyissues.blogharbor.com http://ericwilder.blogspot.com
