Mark, I too had some difficulty locating good coal. I finally found it at Aubachon Hardware, which is probably local to the norhteast U.S. I would try local hardware stores, see if they can get it for you, or find a smith and bribe him to tell you his source. I have found it on the internet for $20 U.S. plus shipping for a 50 lb. bag. It is only $7.50 at the hardware store. You need low-ash bituminous coal (good, clean soft coal). Anthracite, or hard coal, will work ok for forging, but will give you trouble when you try to forge weld, in my experience. The propane forges are a great alternative as they light right up and don't offend the neighbors. I make a lot of hooks and I also made a nail header so I can make nails to go with them. I am going to try making some door hardware soon. Good luck.

Dave