There are actually 8 different thumbnails, 4 from the 1997 reunion and 4 from the 1998 reunion. Approx 2000 of each of the first 4 were made, and 1200 each of the second 4. They were never for sale at retail, but only handed out as sets at the reunions. The remaining pieces were then passed out by Bill (one at a time) to children at signings whenever desired. The first set is long gone, but Bill still may have a few of the second set?. Most people on the secondary market have been selling them as sets, but occasionally individuals pop up on e-bay, etc.
The spyglass set of 4 you are referencing was the original set that was released. It was the "Collectors Society" annual gift for the 1996-1997 society year at an edition size of around 13,000. The 4 pieces were not from a particular geographic area. (Hatteras, Sandy Hook, Admiralty Head, and West Quoddy). They are usually sold as sets on the secondary market, and come in a blue box with velveteen lining. The New England spyglass set of 7 & the Southern Belles spyglass set of 7 were released later on as sets for sale at retail, and are still available.
Check the Harbour Lights Catalog pages for more info:
Thumbnail series pictures: http://www.harbourlights.com/catalog/catalog_thumb.htm Spyglass series pictures: http://www.harbourlights.com/catalog/catalog_spyglass.htm Yearly Tables: Click on 1996 for original spyglass info, 1997 & 1998 for thumbnail and remaining spyglass info
http://www.harbourlights.com/catalog/tables.htm
-RodW[This message has been edited by Rod Watson (edited 03-01-99).]
