The results are in from the first great numismatic auctions of the year! The NYINC World Coin auction in New York realized nearly $12 million. Combined with nearly $45 million in the FUN US Coin auction in Orlando, close to $13 million in the FUN Currency auction also in Orlando, and over $2 million in the January 15-16 NYINC non-floor session, the grand total came very close to $72 million. All prices realized include a 17.5% Buyer’s Premium.
Easily the most prominent item to sell during the January festivities was the 1792 Half Disme SP67 PCGS, which realized $1,410,000. This coin, which attracted national media attention, is an example of the first circulating coin struck under authority of the Mint act of 1792. It is the only example designated a Specimen by one of the major grading services, and is exceeded in numerical grade by only one other coin. This coin was a part of the fabulous Greensboro Collection, Part II. Another 1792 Half Disme, this one graded Mint State 64 and from the Liberty Collection, sold for $528,750.
A proof silver dollar dated 1803, also from The Greensboro Collection Part II, sold for $851,875. This coin is termed a Novodel because it is believed to have been struck in the 1870s and was not a restrike of a legitimate Mint issue. With only four examples known, it is far rarer than the much more famous 1804 dollar, and its numerical grade of Proof-66 is unsurpassed.
Great pieces from the Greensboro collection dominated the results in the Currency auction as well. An example of Fr. 185l, one of just five Bruce-Roberts signed Series 1880 $500 Legal Tender notes to exist, sold for $411,250. This is the only example available to collectors, with three are in the collections of Federal Reserve Banks, and one residing permanently in the Smithsonian Institution.
The next Heritage US Coin signature auction is scheduled for February 7-10 in Long Beach, CA. Previews are available now at HA.com/Coins, with bidding scheduled to open soon.