We simply use real coal in the scuttles near our fireplaces.  We 
purchased it from a local dealer (last time I checked it was about 
$14.00 a 50 lb bag for what they call fire place coal (Blacksmith coal, 
also offered is much smaller pieces) Both options are Biturnimus.

Historically there would have been many more options, including 
anticite, one brand of which was painted blue, and a brand identification.

Decent fireplace coal is is pretty stable, not commonly greasy (it 
shouldn't be).  We even hand it around to the school groups, discussing 
heating the house with a "rock that burns".  We do wash the coal 
annually to get rid of the dust (plain water).

Randy Hees
Patterson House at Ardenwood Farm
Fremont, CA

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