Collectors often spend decades building their collections, using their coins to capture specific eras from different countries. In every great collection, there are both rare and common coins that showcase history. Maison Gadoury Numismatique has decided to celebrate seven such collectors in their upcoming auction. Rather than blending all the coins together, Gadoury has catalogued each collection separately to preserve its uniqueness.
The auction, set to take place in Monaco on October 25 and 26, 2024, promises an incredible range of coins. These coins have been estimated to range from the lower three-digit prices to five-figure sums, making it a highly anticipated event for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
European Coins Collections Featured in the Gadoury Auction
The Monsieur F. Collection of Ancient Coins
Monsieur F. was a dedicated collector with a passion for ancient coins, particularly those from Sicily and the Punic Wars. His collection is filled with treasures from Syracuse and Leontinoi, with 176 lots on offer. The highlights include several gold and electrum coins, as well as tetradrachms of exceptional quality. Each coin has been graded by the NGC, ensuring the best possible standards for collectors.
Example Lots:
- Leontinoi Tetradrachm (440-430 BC) – Estimated at 3,000 euros
- Syracuse Gold 100 litrae (405-395 BC) – Estimated at 10,000 euros
- Syracuse Electrum 100 litrae (317-310 BC) – Estimated at 5,000 euros
The Monsieur L. Collection of Coins from Brittany
Monsieur L. has a smaller, but remarkable, collection of 28 lots. His collection includes ancient coins and rare pieces from Brittany minted between 1442 and 1547. The highlight is an écu d’or by Louis XII, a unique coin that celebrates the union of France and Brittany. All coins in this collection were graded by NGC.
Example Lot:
- Louis XII écu d’or Ier type (1498-1515) – Estimated at 4,000 euros
The Monsieur R. Collection of French Gold Coins
Monsieur R. has a large collection featuring 159 lots of French gold coins, with items dating back to Charles V (1364-1380). This collection showcases rare pieces like the double Henri d’or à la Gallia and a piéfort featuring Louis XIV, making it a must-see for collectors interested in French history.
Example Lots:
- Henry II Double Henri d’or à la Gallia (1554) – Estimated at 30,000 euros
- Louis XIV Piéfort (1644) – Estimated at 30,000 euros
Other Notable Collections
Coins from Marseilles – Monsieur T. Collection
With 78 lots from Marseilles, this collection offers coins from the Merovingian period to the Second Empire. Collectors will find a wide array of historical pieces, some available in affordable multiple lots.
Papal Coins – A Collection of a Coin Lover
For those interested in papal coinage, this collection presents a variety of papal piastres, half-piastres, and testons with intricate designs on their reverses.
Example Lot:
- Urban VIII Piastre (1623-1644) – Estimated at 3,000 euros
Habsburg Empire Coins – The “Francis” Collection
The “Francis” collection focuses on 19th-century coins from the Habsburg Empire but also includes earlier rarities. The collection offers coins from various mints, including Vienna, Prague, and Venice.
Example Lots:
- Rudolf II Gold Medal (1599) – Estimated at 5,000 euros
- Francis I Gold Medal (1816) – Estimated at 5,000 euros
Transylvanian Coins – The “Beyond the Woods” Collection
The most exciting part of the auction is the 85 lots of Transylvanian coins, including extremely rare pieces from the 17th century. Highlights include a 10 ducat coin from Sigismund Rákóczi (1607) and a 1629 double taler from Gabriel Bethlen. These coins capture the rich history of a region caught between major powers.
Example Lots:
- Sigismund Rákóczi 10 Ducats (1607) – Estimated at 75,000 euros
- Gabriel Bethlen Double Taler (1629) – Estimated at 30,000 euros
Table of Top Coins in the Auction
| Lot Number | Coin Description | Estimated Price (euros) |
|---|---|---|
| 67 | Leontinoi Tetradrachm (440-430 BC) | 3,000 |
| 91 | Syracuse Gold 100 litrae (405-395 BC) | 10,000 |
| 212 | Henry II Double Henri d’or à la Gallia (1554) | 30,000 |
| 246 | Louis XIV Piéfort (1644) | 30,000 |
| 516 | Rudolf II Gold Medal (1599) | 5,000 |
| 688 | Sigismund Rákóczi 10 Ducats (1607) | 75,000 |
| 720 | Gabriel Bethlen Gold Medal (1620-1621) | 75,000 |
The upcoming Gadoury auction is a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire rare and historically significant coins. With a wide range of collections, from ancient coins to French and Habsburg gold coins, the auction offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in the rare 10 ducat coin from Sigismund Rákóczi or papal coins with detailed reverse depictions, this auction promises to be one of the highlights of the numismatic world.
FAQ’s
When and where is the auction taking place?
The auction will be held in Monaco on October 25 and 26, 2024.
Are all coins graded by professionals?
Yes, all coins are graded by NGC or PCGS, ensuring authenticity and quality.
Can I view the coins before bidding?
Yes, the auction house offers depictions of every piece, especially for multiple lots.