Friday 18th September 2026

Christie in Metal and Paper: Numismatic and Philatelic Commemorations of the Queen of Crime

Jeff Rock

Jeff Rock is a staunch supporter of the Festival so we are thrilled that he has kindly agreed to give a talk for us this year.

The talk takes a look at the coins, tokens, medals, paper money, and stamps issued to honour Agatha Christie, mostly in the half-century since her death.  Like Christie's books, which were worldwide sensations, these collectible issues also span the globe. There will be a few surprises that have never been seen before - by neither coin collectors nor Christie specialists!

Having discovered the joys of Agatha Christie and coin collecting at the exact same time, at 8 years old, Jeff became a full-time coin dealer in the United States, specialising in the colonial-era coinage of North America, beginning when they were under British control. He also collects British tokens of the 18th century, further cementing his ties to England. Jeff says, 'It is an honour to give a talk that unites two of my most passionate interests.'

Venue: Spanish Barn, Torre Abbey

Accessibility

There is a drop-off point and limited parking within the grounds for disabled visitors. Entry to the Spanish Barn is relatively level, but there are a few cobble stones to cross, before entering the completely flat interior. We have space for wheelchairs, although if you let us know in advance, we can ensure that there is ample dedicated space for the number of wheelchair users. We have again raised the height of the main stage this year, so that guest speakers can easily be seen and have a hearing loop in the front half of the Barn nearest the stage. We also have two TV screens midway down the barn screening what is happening on the stage. There is a disabled toilet available to the rear of the Spanish Barn.

If you have any particular access requirements or enquiries, do please get in touch and we will do whatever we feasibly can to accommodate you. Please email admin@iacf-uk.org

Getting there

Getting to the venue

The Spanish Barn is in the grounds of Torre Abbey. This is on Torquay seafront and walkable from most hotels in the area. It is also right next to Torquay Train Station.

Parking

There is no parking in the grounds of Torre Abbey except for disabled parking. The nearest car park is Torre Valley - Torbay Council. This is a five-minute walk from the Spanish Barn.

Toilets

Toilets are available to the rear of the Spanish Barn for the duration of the Literary Festival.

Inside the Spanish Barn

Whilst we only have one evening event in the Spanish Barn this year, it can get cold so please dress with this in mind.

Food and Drink

The cafe at Torre Abbey is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am till 4pm and is dog friendly.

A short 10-minute walk away from the Spanish Barn are a variety of cafes, bars and takeaways.

Dogs

Dogs, except for assistance dogs, are not allowed in the Spanish Barn.

If you have any further questions, please email admin@iacf-uk.org

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