1. Blue Ridge launch

The U.S. Mint offiically launched into circulation the Blue Ridge Parkway quarter Thursday during a ceremony at Pack Square Park in Asheville, NC.

"This new quarter stands now as a tribute to this national scenic byway—a cross section of Appalachian mountain history essential to the story of our nation, tying together diverse landscapes and rich history," U.S. Mint Associate Director of Manufacturing David Croft said.

The coin is the 28th in the America the Beautiful series. A coin exchange during which attendees could trade in their cash for the newly launched quarters took place Thursday as well.

2. eBay ban

How will the new eBay policy banning the buying and selling of Confederate flags and items that feature it affect coin and paper money buyers? 

Paul Gilkes has some answers.

3. Young Numismatist of the Year

Steve Roach was named the American Numismatic Association's Young Numismatist of the Year at Summer Seminar. 

No, not that Steve Roach. This Steve Roach.

4. Heritage headed to Hong Kong

"Heritage Auctions has announced that it will officially open in Hong Kong in late 2015, and that it has hired Kenneth Yung as its Director of Asian Operations."

5. Precious metals pricing

Kitco.com listed the following prices per ounce as of 2:53 p.m. ET Thursday:

• Gold: $1,173.10
• Silver: $15.86

6. Hot topics

Check out the three most-read stories of the last seven days:

1. United States Mint releases image mock-ups for 2016 gold dime, quarter dollar, half dollar
2. Here's what people are saying about putting a woman on the $10 bill
3. 2015-W American Liberty, High Relief gold coin to be 1-ounce, $100 face value issue

7. Something social