The recent Heritage Auctions held from August 12 to August 18 showcased a remarkable display of rare coins and ancient artifacts, collectively amassing a whopping $53,525,663. The event, which featured both U.S. and World Coins, drew the attention of collectors globally, setting new records and creating an exciting atmosphere for those bidding on these historic pieces. This article will guide you through the highlights of this fascinating auction, including some of the rarest and most valuable coins ever sold.
Highlights of the Heritage Auction
1876-CC Twenty-Cent Piece MS65 PCGS
One of the key highlights of the auction was the sale of an 1876-CC Twenty-Cent Piece, which fetched an astonishing $690,000. This piece, known as one of the finest examples in U.S. silver coin history, attracted 118 bids from elite collectors. According to Todd Imhof, Executive Vice President at Heritage Auctions, this coin is truly a treasure in numismatic circles.
George V Gold Sovereign 1920-S MS63 PCGS
Another notable sale was a George V gold Sovereign, dated 1920 and minted in Sydney. This rare piece sold for $552,000, making it one of the highest-selling coins in Heritage’s World and Ancient Coins auction. This coin holds significant importance as it is considered the rarest Australian sovereign ever minted.
1794 S-28 Head of 1794 Cent MS66 Brown NGC
A rare 1794 S-28 Head of 1794 Cent, double-struck and in remarkable condition, sold for $588,000. Despite its slight imperfections, the coin’s rarity and grade made it highly desirable among collectors. This coin was one of the finest examples of the S-28 pair, tied at the top in terms of quality.
1931-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle MS66 PCGS
The 1931-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle made headlines, selling for $360,000. With only 125 known surviving specimens, this coin is considered the second-rarest from the Denver Mint, making it a true gem for collectors.
1887 and 1883 Liberty Double Eagles
The Benedict Family Collection, a highlight of the auction, featured two Liberty Double Eagles from 1887 and 1883. These pieces sold for $360,000 and $348,000 respectively, both breaking previous auction records.
1920-S Indian Ten MS64+ PCGS. CAC
A 1920-S Indian Head Eagle sold for $312,000 after receiving 29 bids. This coin, with only a small number of survivors, was one of the rarest issues from the San Francisco Mint, with most coins melted after the Gold Recall Act of 1933.
Philippines Pesos from the Byron Milstead Collection
Another remarkable sale was a 1906-S Philippines Peso MS63 PCGS, which sold for $156,000, setting a new auction record for U.S. Philippines business strike coins.
Rare World Coins and Ancient Treasures
George V Gold Sovereign from the Wolfensohn Collection
From the James D. Wolfensohn Collection, a George V gold 1920 Sydney Sovereign sold for $552,000. This sovereign is considered the rarest circulating sovereign from Australia and is a key piece in the numismatic history of the British Commonwealth.
Romanian Coins from the Carpathian Collection
A Carol I gold Specimen Pattern 20 Lei 1868 SP63 Deep Cameo PCGS from the Carpathian Collection of Romanian coins sold for $456,000, setting a new world record for a Romanian coin. This example is among the finest known.
Ancient Roman Coins Set Records
Ancient coins also took center stage, with a Maximinus I aureus (AD 235-238) selling for $408,000 and a Vespasian aureus (AD 69-79) fetching $168,000. These coins not only brought in substantial bids but also set new records in the auction world.
A Look at Cryptocurrency
One unique item at the auction was a Casascius gold-plated brass “Storage Bar” loaded with 3 Bitcoins (BTC), which sold for $180,000. This was part of the Otoh Collection, highlighting the growing interest in physical cryptocurrency in auctions.
Table of Top Auction Results
| Coin Description | Grade | Winning Bid |
|---|---|---|
| 1876-CC Twenty-Cent Piece | MS65 PCGS | $690,000 |
| George V Gold Sovereign 1920-S | MS63 PCGS | $552,000 |
| 1794 S-28 Head of 1794 Cent | MS66 Brown NGC | $588,000 |
| 1931-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | MS66 PCGS | $360,000 |
| 1887 Liberty Double Eagle | PR65 Deep Cameo PCGS CAC | $360,000 |
| Carol I Gold Specimen Pattern 20 Lei | SP63 Deep Cameo PCGS | $456,000 |
Conclusion
This August Heritage Auction will be remembered for its record-breaking sales and remarkable display of rare coins. From U.S. silver pieces to ancient Roman gold coins, the event drew in collectors from around the globe, with several coins selling for far more than expected. As the world of numismatics continues to grow, auctions like these provide valuable insights into the enduring appeal and value of historical coins.
FAQ’s
What was the highest-selling coin in the auction?
The highest-selling coin was the 1876-CC Twenty-Cent Piece, which sold for $690,000.
How rare is the George V 1920 Sydney Sovereign?
The George V 1920 Sydney Sovereign is extremely rare, often referred to as “Australia’s rarest circulating Sovereign.”
Did any ancient coins break records at the auction?
Yes, a Maximinus I aureus set a new record by selling for $408,000, tripling the previous world record for a Maximinus aureus.