John Brush President of David Lawrence Rare Coins www.davidlawrence.com email: John@davidlawrence.com 2022 ANA Dealer of the Year, Past Chair of NCBA (formerly ICTA), PNG Treasurer, Instructor at Witter Coin University, former Instructor/YN Chaperone ANA Summer Seminar, Coin World Most Influential, Curator of the D.L. Hansen Collection
Well...we didn’t make an announcement on it, but we did buy the 54-S $5 with another partner. It sold for exactly what we expected.
We were thrilled to purchase it and I have to admit, it’s one of my favorite items, historically, that we’ve ever purchased. It’s a truly significant numismatic rarity and it was really quite thrilling to have been involved.
That being said, there is always more to the Story from the overall ANA show. But, that’ll come later in the week once we’ve had a chance to catch up and get a little bit of rest.
Hmmm. Interesting. I wonder what could be more to the Story. Could it be the story behind the wild and crazy listing on eBay that just disappeared, the controversial GW pocketpiece, or maybe something big found on the show floor? Story with a big S, anyone got an idea?
@GoBust said:
I will miss those two lovely ladies, but happy to put you over the top as the all time finest ever. What a great collection of Barber Half Dollars, reaching a historic status of quality, grade and eye appeal. Congratulations Del!
GoBust - is correct, We both spent some time with Del and I complimented on his Seated Dollar display and he wanted to see my display of Capped Bust coinage and he loved it as well. Del has that collector bug that we all have and enjoyed speaking to us collectors. Added to the ANA experience!
This coin has been well documented and featured several times in this thread. It sold in the Heritage August 16th 2018 - ANA WFOM US Coins Signature Auction. The coin realized $2,160,000. PCGS Coin Guide Price for this coin is $1,750,000. The online pre-bidding was strong for this coin leading up to the late night live portion of the sale. There were no additional bids in the live auction.
Transaction description by Laura in Market Reports: Legend Numismatics wishes to congratulate our friend John Albanese on his purchase of the 1854S $5 for $2,160,000.00. As typical these days, it did not take long for the coin to see action. Having left what he felt was a low bid for sport, John was surprised when he found out he bought the coin. The next morning he partnered it with John Brush of DLRC. Within hours the coin was privately sold again!
This link has a very good detail description of this coin and its very brief 164-year history.
Good work Currin!
I think going forward readers would be very interested in the DLH upgrades.
I mentioned before that it seeems that this is his focus. Great upgrades that are priced right.
They will pay for,the best but only so much. That is evident by DLH seemingly passing on the two top coins and also a few other gems in the sale that were priced very high .
I,own the top PR Morgan set. A Pop 1 1881 DCAM 68 sold for 105k. I,wanted it but passed at
That price.
@Currin said: Count Down 28 --- The Ultra-Rare 1854-S $5 Liberty Half Eagle
The last countdown coin was the 1857-D Quarter Eagle on July 28th. The pace is about one countdown coin per month. This is a big time addition that we have been watching for several months. There are only two 1854-S $5 Liberty Half Eagle available for private ownership. They are this specimen that is now in Hansen Collection and the Pogue Specimen that has resided with the Pogue family since 1982. The reported asking price for Pogue is approx. $8M. The Pogue Specimen is a PCGS AU58+.
1854-S $5 XF45 NGC
This coin has been well documented and featured several times in this thread. It sold in the Heritage August 16th 2018 - ANA WFOM US Coins Signature Auction. The coin realized $2,160,000. PCGS Coin Guide Price for this coin is $1,750,000. The online pre-bidding was strong for this coin leading up to the late night live portion of the sale. There were no additional bids in the live auction. This link has a very good detail description of this coin and its very brief 164-year history.
There are 28 remaining coins in the Eliasberg Quest. The 14 coins that are not listed in “complete registry set” are Bold below.
Top 10 1870-S Half Dime (Unique Coin in Tom Bender PCGS Registry Collection) 1873-CC "No Arrows" Dime (Unique Coin in an anonymous collection) 1870-S Three Dollar Only (Unique Coin owned by the Bass Foundation displayed at the ANA) 1866 "No Motto" Dollar Proof Only (2 Minted, Unique Private Coin in Simpson Collection)
1822 Half Eagle (Survival 3, Unique Private Owned Coin in the Pogue Collection) 1933 Double Eagle (Known Survival 16, Unique Legally Owned Coin - anonymous collection)
1798 "Small Eagle" Half Eagle (Survival 7, Only 2 maybe 3 examples could be privately purchased) 1913 Liberty Head Nickel Proof Only (5 Minted, 3 private owned) 1885 Trade Dollar Proof Only (Minted known 5) 1838-0 Half Dollar BM Only (Survival 9, six known for private purchase)
Next 10
1819 “No Variety” Half Eagle (Survival 7) 1880 Four Dollar Gold "Stella’s" (Coiled Hair) Proof Only (Survival 8) 1827 "Original" Quarter Dollar Proof Only (Survival 9) 1841 Quarter Eagle (Survival 11) 1894-S Barber Dime BM Proof Only (Survival 13)
1797 "Large Eagle” Half Eagle (Survival 20) 1880 Four Dollar Gold "Stella’s" (Flowing Hair) Proof Only (Survival 24)
1802 Half Dime (Survival 25)
1864-S Half Eagle (Survival 32, only 7 known in AU)
1933 Ten Dollar (Survival 40, rarest issue in series)
Always enjoy the updates/ upgrades. As for the 54-S, I was thinking we would see the big press release that it was crossed over during the ANA (maybe we still will now that we know who the high bidder was)
Collector and Researcher of Liberty Head Nickels. ANA LM-6053
@cameonut2011 said: "It could take decades before he is able to snag many of these."
Do you think so? Perhaps that is why It's called collecting. There a plenty of folks in the world with more money. What fun would it be if every coin he needed could be bought all at once and the task over with a swipe of a pen on a check?
Congratulations on the two big rarities going to people/collectors I admire who are willing to share their precious baubles with the rest of the collecting world.
On the 1854-S, can someone explain what is going on between 9 and 12 on the reverse? Heritage made a point of mentioning it and included a close-up but from the photos, it is not apparent what is going on there
Love this thread and that some of the big dogs take the time to post to it.
"Look up, old boy, and see what you get." -William Bonney.
On the 1854-S, can someone explain what is going on between 9 and 12 on the reverse? Heritage made a point of mentioning it and included a close-up but from the photos, it is not apparent what is going on there
We know the two big coins to watch in the ANA auctions in a couple weeks. What are some of the others? In a quick look at Stack’s Bowers, several potentials upgrades can be found. There really are not any “coins needed for the quest”, except the big two. As for upgrades, there are too many to discuss, and we really don’t know what DLH/JB is really looking to upgrade. Just because a particular coin is a half grade, or more better, don’t necessarily mean there’s any interest to purchase. Although, I think one of Hansen’s weaker series is the Peace Dollar. There are a handful of upgrade opportunities for the Peace series.
There is one coin that caught my eye. This is not a spectacular coin, by no means. It is very much worn and may have been cleaned in the past. It is a coin that was on the brink of extinction, and someone 100 years ago found this rare specimen in pocket change (or change jar) and saved it. Most of the coin in this series were destroyed in the melting pot. Something about the low survival coins interest me a lot.
I have been watching Hansen’s progress with Major Variety Set for a while now. He has made tremendous progress without much fanfare. He is down to needing about 70 coins to complete the 1792-1964 Major Variety set. If he does, I am pretty confident this will be a first time in history achievement. I am planning to start a countdown when he gets down to about 40-50 remaining. The coin that caught my eye is one of these remaining coins.
This is a very rare Capped Bust $5: Type 1 - Large Bust Major Variety Specimen. The 1810 year produced mini-set of 4 Major Half Eagle Varieties; this coin is one of the ultra-rare ones. The Pogue Extraordinary Rarity 1810 Type 1, Large Date, Small 5 Specimen is one of only three known specimens. According to the description: When assembling his superlative cabinet, D. Brent Pogue did not acquire many circulated coins, but the ones he did are some of its greatest rarities. Choice Mint State specimens of many of the rarest American coins simply have not survived. The 1810 Large Date, Small 5 half eagle is one such rarity. It is remarkable in any grade, with a total confirmed population of only three pieces, just two of which are in private hands. Even the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution, replete with gold rarities from the Lilly Collection, lacks this variety. The finest 1810 Large Date, Small 5 half eagle is the Harry W. Bass, Jr. Core Collection coin, generally considered About Uncirculated but presently uncertified and impounded in the American Numismatic Association museum.
The grade on this coin is VF-25. PCGS POP reports one finer VF-30 that last appeared in auction in 1999. The finest specimen known is owned by Harry W. Bass, Jr. Foundation. The coin has an AU53 estimated grade and is off the market. This may be one of those one-shot opportunities. It will be interesting to see if DLH/JB is as interested in this coin as I would be. Open for discussion if anyone is interested. If you were doing what Hansen is doing, would you pass on this coin?
This rare Pogue Specimen sold for $78,000. Anyone know the details of the sale?
@breakdown said:
Congratulations on the two big rarities going to people/collectors I admire who are willing to share their precious baubles with the rest of the collecting world.
On the 1854-S, can someone explain what is going on between 9 and 12 on the reverse? Heritage made a point of mentioning it and included a close-up but from the photos, it is not apparent what is going on there
Love this thread and that some of the big dogs take the time to post to it.
PCGS registry description: The early gold coins of the United States are among the most coveted and rarest items in the numismatic world. This is due both to extremely limited original mintages as well as prolific melting that took place during the late 1820s and early 1830s when the bullion value of the coins exceeded their face value. The first Half Eagles struck between 1795 and 1798 appeared with both a small and large eagle reverse; the former being the rarest. A literal handful of 1798s were struck with the Small Eagle reverse, and it is today one of the most famous and highly publicized U.S. Half Eagles. It has always been held in high esteem by collectors. A mere seven pieces are known today, with prices well into the mid-six figures. No mint state pieces are known. The Large Eagle reverse pieces dated 1798 and later are more widely available, but with AU and better examples worth over $10,000, they can hardly be called "common."
In this series, D. Brent Pogue Collection is the king of early half eagles, with The Number One Finest Set of All Time. The registry only list three complete sets, Pogue, Eliasberg, and Garrett collections. For this series, Hansen is missing 2 coins, 1798 Small Eagle and 1797 Large Eagle. Also, the quality of the Hansen set is more than three grade points below the Pogue set. This upgrade is only the first replacement that Hansen would need to attempt to equal the Pogue set. He would need to replace most of the existing 12 remaining coins. This PCGS 1/0 coin is a start.
1804 $5 Small 8 MS64+ CERT POP 1/0 - Replaces 1804 MS61 PCGS POP 29/62
This new addition is to the Draped Bust $5 Gold Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1795-1807). This is great specimen, finest known by PCGS. There is not a history on this coin that I can find. PCGS Price Guide values this upgrade at $80,000. If anyone has any additional info, please provide.
On the 1854-S, can someone explain what is going on between 9 and 12 on the reverse? Heritage made a point of mentioning it and included a close-up but from the photos, it is not apparent what is going on there
The only thing "unusual" I see is a gouge in the denticals (looks like an "S") below the 2 parallel scratches on the rim. What did heritage say?
We are back to the half eagles again today. After posting the superb 1804 MS64+ early half eagle upgrade, there are three additional Liberty Half Eagles to feature today. As discussed yesterday, D. Brent Pogue is the king of early half eagles, and Harry W. Bass is the king of Liberty Head half eagles. Let me note these claims as being in the registry era. Harry W. Bass assembled The Number One Finest Set of All Time of Liberty Head $5 Gold Basic Specimens, Circulation Strikes (1839-1908). This is a massive set of 201 coins. His completion was 99.5% with a weighted average grade of 59.77. His one missing coin was the 1854-S, and we discussed that in detail a couple weeks ago. Hansen recently acquired the 1854-S, so he should be on target for 100% completion in just a matter of time. The only competed set listed in the registry belongs to the Louis Eliasberg Collection. The Eliasberg weighted average grade is only 53.01. Although the Hansen Collection may be 100% completed at some point, his weighted average grade is a solid point and half below the leading Bass set. His three new upgrades can help close the gap if he seeks to equal Bass in quality.
BASS 1854-O $5 MS63 Cert 27798107 PCGS POP 1/0 – Replaces 1854-O $5 MS61 POP 5/4
The first coin is a rare 1854-O $5 that is the finest known PCGS specimen. The coin last appeared in the Heritage Auction on April 2018 April CSNS US Coins Signature – Chicago. PCGS Price Guide Value is $33,500. The coin realized $30,000 in the Heritage Auction. If Hansen purchased the coin in the auction, it has taken a usual long time to update. Maybe he purchased the coin privately since the auction in April. According to the Heritage description: This is the finest surviving example from the 46,000-coin mintage. It is the first of two coins that Winter describes as the best pieces known to him. This Select Mint State representative features a bold strike and highly lustrous yellow-gold surfaces with splashes of coppery-orange toning on each side.
In other references, the specimen is described:
Doug Winter identified only one variety in his New Orleans gold reference, although the Heritage numismatic staff has identified a second variety with a different mintmark position. This New Orleans issue is a major rarity in Mint State grades, and the present piece is the only example that PCGS has certified MS63, with none finer. That service has graded a mere 11 Mint State examples at all levels from 60 to 63.
David Akers (1975/88): Next to the 1844-O, the 1854-O is the least rare of the New Orleans Mint No Motto Half Eagles. However, it is a very scarce coin in all grades and VF or EF coins make up the majority of the population. Strictly uncirculated specimens are very rare and gems are of the highest rarity. Most 1854-O Half Eagles are quite well struck.
Provenance: Ex: Paramount (8/1969), lot 1935; Harry W. Bass, Jr. (Bowers and Merena, 10/1999), lot 1061; Superior (2/2001), lot 4594. From The Barry F. Smith Collection
A Numismatic Treasure from the Bass Collection
1859 $5 MS64+ Cert 35805880 PCGS POP 1/0 – Replaces 1859 $5 AU58+ POP 2/2
This POP 1/0 specimen is the most interesting upgrade due being a mystery coin. There is no history on the coin. The year 1859 is a true rarity. There are no PCGS coins listed in Coin Facts with a higher grade than MS62. NGC has one MS63 coin. The NGC coin was last sold in 2005 and described as: The single finest graded example of this scarce Philadelphia Half Eagle, with an impressively low mintage of only 16,814 pieces.
Well, that is not true anyone. The new Hansen Specimen is a near gem MS64+. PCGS Cert Verification page values this specimen at $37,500. So where did this coin come from? Expert comments from Ron Guth: The 1859 Half Eagle is a rare, low-mintage date. Akers claimed to have known of a Gem example, but nothing even remotely close has shown up since he wrote decades ago. The finest certified example is a Prooflike NGC MS63. The best of the rest rank only MS62 and the PCGS Condition Census dips into the AU58 range. This is a true condition-rarity that will pose a considerable challenge for the quality-minded collector.
David Akers (1975/88) added this to the mystery: The 1859 is more rare than the 1858 or any of the other Philadelphia Mint Half Eagles from 1843 to 1857 with the possible exception of the underrated 1850. Most known specimens are well worn with VF or EF being typical. A few uncirculated specimens exist but they are extremely rare. I do know, however, of at least one of gem quality.
I do not have a picture of this great specimen. Also, the provenance is unknown. If anyone can share some light on the mystery, please do so. I hope John Bush would comment to this mystery.
1885-S $5 MS66 CAC Cert 35687664 PCGS POP - Replaces 1885-S $5 MS65+ POP 3/7
The last upgrade that I will discuss is a very nice CAC MS66. Hansen picked up this beauty at the Heritage 2018 August ANA WFOM US Coins Signature - Philadelphia Auction. The realize price was $10,800. PCGS values this coin at $11,500, so it appears Hansen did not do badly on a CAC purchase. Heritage describes the coin as: From a mintage of 1.2 million coins, the 1885-S half eagle is relatively collectible through the Gem grade level. It is rarely seen in this grade, however, and only three Premium Gems have been awarded a green sticker by CAC. Peach-gold surfaces are smooth and frosted. Complete strike detail occurs on each side.
The 1859 $5 in 62 was gold stickered in an old ngc fatty. @steveben was the owner at a point. Could be that the coin was cracked an upgraded but unlikely as that coin seemed more like a 63 vs a 64+ to me.
@Boosibri said:
The 1859 $5 in 62 was gold stickered in an old ngc fatty. @steveben was the owner at a point. Could be that the coin was cracked an upgraded but unlikely as that coin seemed more like a 63 vs a 64+ to me.
Doesn't look like that 62 Gold CAC is the same coin - comparing the 2015 Heritage auction of the 62 to the TrueView above is definitive. There's a flaw between obverse stars 8-9 on the 64+ that's clearly not on the 62.
With Hansen's continuous upgrade of his liberty gold, he has gone from having one of everything (or close to it) to having an amazing and nearly complete collection of stunning coins.
@Currin said:
Nice. Thanks. Do anyone recognize the specimen? What is the pedigree?
Here's the pedigree on the 1859 $5:
Dempsey & Baxter, a newly discovered Finest Known example, sold on the Coin Dealers Helping Coin Dealers website on 8/3/2018 - Numismatic Financial Corporation, Inc., sold privately in 8/2018 - D.L. Hansen Collection
@Currin said:
Nice. Thanks. Do anyone recognize the specimen? What is the pedigree?
Here's the pedigree on the 1859-S $5:
Dempsey & Baxter, a newly discovered Finest Known example, sold on the Coin Dealers Helping Coin Dealers website on 8/3/2018 - Numismatic Financial Corporation, Inc., sold privately in 8/2018 - D.L. Hansen Collection
Great reach! Do you think this is the same specimen that Akers viewed and referenced decades ago. When you say newly discovered, then maybe not.
@Currin said:
Nice. Thanks. Do anyone recognize the specimen? What is the pedigree?
Here's the pedigree on the 1859-S $5:
Dempsey & Baxter, a newly discovered Finest Known example, sold on the Coin Dealers Helping Coin Dealers website on 8/3/2018 - Numismatic Financial Corporation, Inc., sold privately in 8/2018 - D.L. Hansen Collection
Great reach! Do you think this is the same specimen that Akers viewed and referenced decades ago. When you say newly discovered, then maybe not.
According to Chris Dempsey of Dempsey and Baxter, this coin came in over the counter and is a previously unknown example. He calls the source "The Sandwich Bag" deal!
This is the 3rd day of featuring Liberty Half Eagles. There are other series that I could feature, but the half eagles are just getting amazingly better. There appear to be an endless flow of new PCGS POP 1/0 $5 Liberties. There are more to come. If you have not been stun yet, wait for tomorrow.
1850 $5 MS63 Cert 35568386 PCGS POP 1/0 – Replaces 1850 $5 AU55 POP 11/25
This is an amazing specimen to be a lowly choice MS63. This is another coin that does not have a history. Maybe someone walked off the street in Richmond and handed this raw coin over the counter to John. From the last story, I would not be surprised. Jokes aside, this is a really nice coin. I think this is a very recent certified coin (maybe cross-over or re-cert). Coins Facts History shows the finest PCGS graded specimens as MS62s. The finest known example may be the Earle-Eliasberg-Milas NGC MS65 specimen. The last auction for the NGC MS65 states: NGC lists two MS65 coins, with no finer examples, supported by three MS61 pieces and two MS62 coins. However, we have only been able to trace this sole MS65 coin, with no other appearances in any auction exceeding MS62 in certified grade.
As stated, this MS63 could be a MS62 upgrade, or a coin off the street as we seen with the 1859. If anyone can find additional information, please share. For your view, I will share this new Hansen coin and the Earle-Eliasberg-Milas. You be judge if you think the MS65 example is two points better.
Provenance: unknown
Hansen’s 1850 $5 MS63 PCGS POP 1/0 PCGS Price Guide Value $20,000
@Currin said:
Nice. Thanks. Do anyone recognize the specimen? What is the pedigree?
The 1859 $5 has an interesting pedigree. It sold in an auction on the facebook group "Coin Dealers Helping Coin Dealers" and was bought over the counter in a sandwich bag in a coin shop in Erie, PA...
It was purchased and graded by NFC and then we placed it with Mr. Hansen at the show...
John Brush President of David Lawrence Rare Coins www.davidlawrence.com email: John@davidlawrence.com 2022 ANA Dealer of the Year, Past Chair of NCBA (formerly ICTA), PNG Treasurer, Instructor at Witter Coin University, former Instructor/YN Chaperone ANA Summer Seminar, Coin World Most Influential, Curator of the D.L. Hansen Collection
@Currin said:
Nice. Thanks. Do anyone recognize the specimen? What is the pedigree?
The 1859 $5 has an interesting pedigree. It sold in an auction on the facebook group "Coin Dealers Helping Coin Dealers" and was bought over the counter in a sandwich bag in a coin shop in Erie, PA...
It was purchased and graded by NFC and then we placed it with Mr. Hansen at the show...
Interesting is one way to put it. If I could find nice coins in sandwich bags, I'd likely be a billionaire by now.
@Currin said:
Nice. Thanks. Do anyone recognize the specimen? What is the pedigree?
The 1859 $5 has an interesting pedigree. It sold in an auction on the facebook group "Coin Dealers Helping Coin Dealers" and was bought over the counter in a sandwich bag in a coin shop in Erie, PA...
It was purchased and graded by NFC and then we placed it with Mr. Hansen at the show...
LOL @Hobosapian please bring the rest of the coins from the bag to our next show!
I see that Northeast Numismatics has an 1802 Half Dime listed on their site. While only VG10, I know this is an impossible to find coin. This is also the last non-gold coin needed for the 1793-1964 set.
Collector and Researcher of Liberty Head Nickels. ANA LM-6053
That would be a grade higher than his 1823/2 in G4, the other show stopper for early silver. The 1817/4 is not listed in this set which focuses on each date and mint mark not overdates. Really a breathtaking collection of American regular issue silver coinage. How many gold coins still needed for this set? And copper is complete? Wow
Day 4 of the half eagles. The Hansen Collection has upgraded 11 half eagles since ANA last week. I did not intend to spend so much time on half eagles, but with such great upgrades, it had to be done. I hope to finish today with a great run of Carson City half eagles. The run is complete from 1872 to 1876. This is not an easy run; it contains five very difficult half eagles to acquire in high grade. The upgrade contains one each: PCGS POP 1/0, PCGS 3/0, and the other three have a less than a hand full of finer examples. So, here they are, enjoy!
David Akers (1975/88) - The 1872-CC is of comparable overall rarity to the 1871-CC although, in my opinion, it is a little more rare than the 1971-CC in full EF or better. I have not heard of one even close to uncirculated. Most known specimens are well worn with Fine and VF being typical.
This specimen last appeared in Heritage August 2012 Philadelphia ANA Auction where is sold for $29,375. No recent history is known and where Hansen acquired this coin is not publicly known. The PCGS Price Guide Value is $35,000.
Provenance: From the Battle Born Collection. Earlier from our (Stack's) Public Auction Sale of May 1989, lot 394; ex: Doug Winter and Lee Minshull, September 1998; and the Nevada Collection. The plate coin for the issue on page 30 of the 2001 book Gold Coins of the Carson City Mint by Douglas Winter and James L. Halperin.
**1872-CC Liberty Half Eagle. Winter 1-B. AU-58 (PCGS) **
David Akers (1975/88) - The 1873-CC has the second lowest mintage of any Carson City Half Eagle. It is a very rare date in any condition and extremely rare as high as EF. I have seen one piece that was very close to uncirculated but none that have actually reached that level. As a date, the 1873-CC is more rare than the 1871-CC, 1872-CC, 1874-CC, 1876-CC and 1877-CC and is comparable to the 1875-CC. It is not quite as rare as either the 1870-CC or the 1878-CC. When available, the 1873-CC is almost always well worn, i.e. VF or less. All 1873-CC Half Eagles have a Closed 3 in the date.
This is the mystery coin of the run. There is not much known. PCGS Price Guide Value for this coin is $115,000. The one finer 1873-CC is the Bass-Battle Born MS62.
David Akers (1975/88) - In overall rarity, the 1874-CC is possibly the most common of the very rare Carson City Mint issues in the 1870-1878 period. (At least it had more auction appearances in my 337 catalogue survey and I have personally seen more of this date than of any of the others.) Most known specimens of the 1874-CC are well circulated and VF examples are typical. A few AU coins are known but only one 1874-CC catalogued as uncirculated has ever been offered at public auction. That coin was in the Robison Sale (Stack's 2/79) and it brought $19,000.
This coin was sold recently on Douglas Winter Numismatics website for $22,500. Described as: This is a very choice coin with just a tiny amount of friction seen on the high spots. The strike is sharp and the surfaces are very choice save for two thin, short scratches between the 8 and the 7 in the date. The color is a rich orange-gold hue which is seen on both sides and which adds considerable appeal to an already-choice presentation. The PCGS Price Guide Value price the coin at $26,000.
CONDITION CENSUS 1874-CC HALF EAGLE, PCGS/CAC AU58
David Akers (1975/88) -Most 1875-CC Half Eagles are in lower circulated grades from VG to VF. I have seen only one piece that graded full AU, and none in strictly uncirculated condition. As a date, the 1875-CC is comparable to the 1873-CC and more rare than the 1871-CC, 1872-CC, 1874-CC, 1876-CC and 1877-CC. All specimens I have seen were rather weakly struck, particularly on the obverse.
The last public appearance was the Heritage August 2012 Philadelphia ANA auction and sold for $38,187.50. The auction description: Charming surfaces are aglow with even olive-orange patina and vibrant, satiny mint luster. We note an uncommonly smooth appearance for the grade, there being no sizeable or otherwise individually distracting abrasions on either side. Striking quality varies for this issue depending upon the exact die marriage encountered, although as a whole the 1875-CC is among the more softly defined half eagles from this mint. The present example is actually quite sharp on the obverse, there being only a touch of weakness to the central high points (namely the hair curls and tresses above and below Liberty's ear). The reverse is typically softer and actually quite blunt in the center, although one will see sharp to full detail toward the periphery. There are no readily evident pedigree markers.
There is one finer non-PCGS certified example, the NGC MS-63 specimen from Cutler Collection.
Provenance: From the Battle Born Collection. Earlier ex: our (Stack's) sale of the Robison Collection of United States Gold Coins, February 1979, lot 498; our (Stack's) sale of the Reed Hawn Collection, October 1993, lot 995; Dr. Larry Cutler Collection; Doug Winter and Lee Minshull, November 1996; and the Nevada Collection. The plate coin for the issue on page 36 of the 2001 book, Gold Coins of the Carson City Mint, by Douglas Winter and James L. Halperin.
1875-CC Liberty Half Eagle. Winter 1-B. MS-61 (PCGS) CAC
David Akers (1975/88) - The 1876-CC has the lowest mintage of any Carson City Mint Half Eagle. It is not the rarest, however, but is of approximately the same rarity as the 1871-CC, 1872-CC and 1877-CC and a little more rare than the 1874-CC. It is not as rare as the 1870-CC, 1873-CC, 1875-CC, or 1878-CC. Almost all known specimens are well circulated with VF being typical.
This coin last appeared in the Heritage 2016 September Twelve Oaks Collection Signature Auction and sold for $37,600. The auction description: This coin boasts an impressive array of toning shades for a gold coin, ranging from canary-yellow through reddish-orange, ruddy cherry-red, lilac, and brownish-charcoal, complementing the considerable remaining luster and a decent strike. A few scattered ticks are of little consequence. A prominent die lump on Liberty's throat, just below the jawline, is typical of these dies.
There is only one certified mint state specimen for the 1876-CC, and it is a mind blower. The finest specimen is Eliasberg - Battle Born PCGS MS66, last sold in Stacks Bower 2012 for $487,625. If there is one half eagle that Hansen should have and need to seek is this one. The specimen was in the famous Eliasberg collection, and deserves to be in the Hansen Collection.
@dbldie55 said:
I see that Northeast Numismatics has an 1802 Half Dime listed on their site. While only VG10, I know this is an impossible to find coin. This is also the last non-gold coin needed for the 1793-1964 set.
This is the 3rd day of featuring Liberty Half Eagles. There are other series that I could feature, but the half eagles are just getting amazingly better. There appear to be an endless flow of new PCGS POP 1/0 $5 Liberties. There are more to come. If you have not been stun yet, wait for tomorrow.
1850 $5 MS63 Cert 35568386 PCGS POP 1/0 – Replaces 1850 $5 AU55 POP 11/25
This is an amazing specimen to be a lowly choice MS63. This is another coin that does not have a history. Maybe someone walked off the street in Richmond and handed this raw coin over the counter to John. From the last story, I would not be surprised. Jokes aside, this is a really nice coin. I think this is a very recent certified coin (maybe cross-over or re-cert). Coins Facts History shows the finest PCGS graded specimens as MS62s. The finest known example may be the Earle-Eliasberg-Milas NGC MS65 specimen. The last auction for the NGC MS65 states: NGC lists two MS65 coins, with no finer examples, supported by three MS61 pieces and two MS62 coins. However, we have only been able to trace this sole MS65 coin, with no other appearances in any auction exceeding MS62 in certified grade.
As stated, this MS63 could be a MS62 upgrade, or a coin off the street as we seen with the 1859. If anyone can find additional information, please share. For your view, I will share this new Hansen coin and the Earle-Eliasberg-Milas. You be judge if you think the MS65 example is two points better.
Provenance: unknown
Hansen’s 1850 $5 MS63 PCGS POP 1/0 PCGS Price Guide Value $20,000
The PCGS MS63 1850 Half Eagle has the following pedigree:
Pontchartrain Rarities, sold privately in 4/1993 - A.J. Vanderbilt Collection - Stack's/Bowers 3/2018:10338, $8,400 - D.L. Hansen Collection
Day 4 of the half eagles. The Hansen Collection has upgraded 11 half eagles since ANA last week. I did not intend to spend so much time on half eagles, but with such great upgrades, it had to be done. I hope to finish today with a great run of Carson City half eagles. The run is complete from 1872 to 1876. This is not an easy run; it contains five very difficult half eagles to acquire in high grade. The upgrade contains one each: PCGS POP 1/0, PCGS 3/0, and the other three have a less than a hand full of finer examples. So, here they are, enjoy!
David Akers (1975/88) - The 1872-CC is of comparable overall rarity to the 1871-CC although, in my opinion, it is a little more rare than the 1971-CC in full EF or better. I have not heard of one even close to uncirculated. Most known specimens are well worn with Fine and VF being typical.
This specimen last appeared in Heritage August 2012 Philadelphia ANA Auction where is sold for $29,375. No recent history is known and where Hansen acquired this coin is not publicly known. The PCGS Price Guide Value is $35,000.
Provenance: From the Battle Born Collection. Earlier from our (Stack's) Public Auction Sale of May 1989, lot 394; ex: Doug Winter and Lee Minshull, September 1998; and the Nevada Collection. The plate coin for the issue on page 30 of the 2001 book Gold Coins of the Carson City Mint by Douglas Winter and James L. Halperin.
**1872-CC Liberty Half Eagle. Winter 1-B. AU-58 (PCGS) **
David Akers (1975/88) - The 1873-CC has the second lowest mintage of any Carson City Half Eagle. It is a very rare date in any condition and extremely rare as high as EF. I have seen one piece that was very close to uncirculated but none that have actually reached that level. As a date, the 1873-CC is more rare than the 1871-CC, 1872-CC, 1874-CC, 1876-CC and 1877-CC and is comparable to the 1875-CC. It is not quite as rare as either the 1870-CC or the 1878-CC. When available, the 1873-CC is almost always well worn, i.e. VF or less. All 1873-CC Half Eagles have a Closed 3 in the date.
This is the mystery coin of the run. There is not much known. PCGS Price Guide Value for this coin is $115,000. The one finer 1873-CC is the Bass-Battle Born MS62.
David Akers (1975/88) - In overall rarity, the 1874-CC is possibly the most common of the very rare Carson City Mint issues in the 1870-1878 period. (At least it had more auction appearances in my 337 catalogue survey and I have personally seen more of this date than of any of the others.) Most known specimens of the 1874-CC are well circulated and VF examples are typical. A few AU coins are known but only one 1874-CC catalogued as uncirculated has ever been offered at public auction. That coin was in the Robison Sale (Stack's 2/79) and it brought $19,000.
This coin was sold recently on Douglas Winter Numismatics website for $22,500. Described as: This is a very choice coin with just a tiny amount of friction seen on the high spots. The strike is sharp and the surfaces are very choice save for two thin, short scratches between the 8 and the 7 in the date. The color is a rich orange-gold hue which is seen on both sides and which adds considerable appeal to an already-choice presentation. The PCGS Price Guide Value price the coin at $26,000.
CONDITION CENSUS 1874-CC HALF EAGLE, PCGS/CAC AU58
David Akers (1975/88) -Most 1875-CC Half Eagles are in lower circulated grades from VG to VF. I have seen only one piece that graded full AU, and none in strictly uncirculated condition. As a date, the 1875-CC is comparable to the 1873-CC and more rare than the 1871-CC, 1872-CC, 1874-CC, 1876-CC and 1877-CC. All specimens I have seen were rather weakly struck, particularly on the obverse.
The last public appearance was the Heritage August 2012 Philadelphia ANA auction and sold for $38,187.50. The auction description: Charming surfaces are aglow with even olive-orange patina and vibrant, satiny mint luster. We note an uncommonly smooth appearance for the grade, there being no sizeable or otherwise individually distracting abrasions on either side. Striking quality varies for this issue depending upon the exact die marriage encountered, although as a whole the 1875-CC is among the more softly defined half eagles from this mint. The present example is actually quite sharp on the obverse, there being only a touch of weakness to the central high points (namely the hair curls and tresses above and below Liberty's ear). The reverse is typically softer and actually quite blunt in the center, although one will see sharp to full detail toward the periphery. There are no readily evident pedigree markers.
There is one finer non-PCGS certified example, the NGC MS-63 specimen from Cutler Collection.
Provenance: From the Battle Born Collection. Earlier ex: our (Stack's) sale of the Robison Collection of United States Gold Coins, February 1979, lot 498; our (Stack's) sale of the Reed Hawn Collection, October 1993, lot 995; Dr. Larry Cutler Collection; Doug Winter and Lee Minshull, November 1996; and the Nevada Collection. The plate coin for the issue on page 36 of the 2001 book, Gold Coins of the Carson City Mint, by Douglas Winter and James L. Halperin.
1875-CC Liberty Half Eagle. Winter 1-B. MS-61 (PCGS) CAC
David Akers (1975/88) - The 1876-CC has the lowest mintage of any Carson City Mint Half Eagle. It is not the rarest, however, but is of approximately the same rarity as the 1871-CC, 1872-CC and 1877-CC and a little more rare than the 1874-CC. It is not as rare as the 1870-CC, 1873-CC, 1875-CC, or 1878-CC. Almost all known specimens are well circulated with VF being typical.
This coin last appeared in the Heritage 2016 September Twelve Oaks Collection Signature Auction and sold for $37,600. The auction description: This coin boasts an impressive array of toning shades for a gold coin, ranging from canary-yellow through reddish-orange, ruddy cherry-red, lilac, and brownish-charcoal, complementing the considerable remaining luster and a decent strike. A few scattered ticks are of little consequence. A prominent die lump on Liberty's throat, just below the jawline, is typical of these dies.
There is only one certified mint state specimen for the 1876-CC, and it is a mind blower. The finest specimen is Eliasberg - Battle Born PCGS MS66, last sold in Stacks Bower 2012 for $487,625. If there is one half eagle that Hansen should have and need to seek is this one. The specimen was in the famous Eliasberg collection, and deserves to be in the Hansen Collection.
The PCGS MS63 1850 Half Eagle has the following pedigree:
Pontchartrain Rarities, sold privately in 4/1993 - A.J. Vanderbilt Collection - Stack's/Bowers 3/2018:10338, $8,400 - D.L. Hansen Collection
Thanks for solving the mystery. It was a upgrade from a PCGS MS62 OGH specimen. He turned a $8500 purchse into a $20K investment. John knows what he is doing.
@dbldie55 said:
I see that Northeast Numismatics has an 1802 Half Dime listed on their site. While only VG10, I know this is an impossible to find coin. This is also the last non-gold coin needed for the 1793-1964 set.
We actually made an offer indirectly on this piece to fill the hole, but it was not accepted.
There are actually 2-3 others that are "available" on the market right now and we'd rather have a higher grade example than simply a hole-filler at the moment, but we'll see if any of those work out in the coming weeks.
If not, we can be patient on it.
The 1802 Half Dime is an under-appreciated rarity over the years, but I would suggest that due to its size, it's not a very "sexy" coin to hold on to. They seem to trade hands more often than one would expect...
John Brush President of David Lawrence Rare Coins www.davidlawrence.com email: John@davidlawrence.com 2022 ANA Dealer of the Year, Past Chair of NCBA (formerly ICTA), PNG Treasurer, Instructor at Witter Coin University, former Instructor/YN Chaperone ANA Summer Seminar, Coin World Most Influential, Curator of the D.L. Hansen Collection
The 1802 Half Dime is an under-appreciated rarity over the years, but I would suggest that due to its size, it's not a very "sexy" coin to hold on to. They seem to trade hands more often than one would expect...
It might also have something to do with most of the coins being kind of ugly and messed with. A gem VF - if it were to turn up - would probably find buyers lined up around the block. And I’d be in the line!
Andy Lustig
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
The 1802 Half Dime is an under-appreciated rarity over the years, but I would suggest that due to its size, it's not a very "sexy" coin to hold on to. They seem to trade hands more often than one would expect...
It might also have something to do with most of the coins being kind of ugly and messed with. A gem VF - if it were to turn up - would probably find buyers lined up around the block. And I’d be in the line!
Exactly.
John Brush President of David Lawrence Rare Coins www.davidlawrence.com email: John@davidlawrence.com 2022 ANA Dealer of the Year, Past Chair of NCBA (formerly ICTA), PNG Treasurer, Instructor at Witter Coin University, former Instructor/YN Chaperone ANA Summer Seminar, Coin World Most Influential, Curator of the D.L. Hansen Collection
Comments
Thanks!
President of David Lawrence Rare Coins www.davidlawrence.com
email: John@davidlawrence.com
2022 ANA Dealer of the Year, Past Chair of NCBA (formerly ICTA), PNG Treasurer, Instructor at Witter Coin University, former Instructor/YN Chaperone ANA Summer Seminar, Coin World Most Influential, Curator of the D.L. Hansen Collection
Hmmm. Interesting. I wonder what could be more to the Story. Could it be the story behind the wild and crazy listing on eBay that just disappeared, the controversial GW pocketpiece, or maybe something big found on the show floor? Story with a big S, anyone got an idea?
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
GoBust - is correct, We both spent some time with Del and I complimented on his Seated Dollar display and he wanted to see my display of Capped Bust coinage and he loved it as well. Del has that collector bug that we all have and enjoyed speaking to us collectors. Added to the ANA experience!
The Ultra-Rare 1854-S $5 Liberty Half Eagle
This coin has been well documented and featured several times in this thread. It sold in the Heritage August 16th 2018 - ANA WFOM US Coins Signature Auction. The coin realized $2,160,000. PCGS Coin Guide Price for this coin is $1,750,000. The online pre-bidding was strong for this coin leading up to the late night live portion of the sale. There were no additional bids in the live auction.
Transaction description by Laura in Market Reports:
Legend Numismatics wishes to congratulate our friend John Albanese on his purchase of the 1854S $5 for $2,160,000.00. As typical these days, it did not take long for the coin to see action. Having left what he felt was a low bid for sport, John was surprised when he found out he bought the coin. The next morning he partnered it with John Brush of DLRC. Within hours the coin was privately sold again!
This link has a very good detail description of this coin and its very brief 164-year history.
https://www.heritagestatic.com/c/d/cms/330/927/1278-platinum236-241.33092729.pdf
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My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Good work Currin!
I think going forward readers would be very interested in the DLH upgrades.
I mentioned before that it seeems that this is his focus. Great upgrades that are priced right.
They will pay for,the best but only so much. That is evident by DLH seemingly passing on the two top coins and also a few other gems in the sale that were priced very high .
I,own the top PR Morgan set. A Pop 1 1881 DCAM 68 sold for 105k. I,wanted it but passed at
That price.
It could take decades before he is able to snag many of these.
Always enjoy the updates/ upgrades. As for the 54-S, I was thinking we would see the big press release that it was crossed over during the ANA (maybe we still will now that we know who the high bidder was)
@cameonut2011 said: "It could take decades before he is able to snag many of these."
Do you think so? Perhaps that is why It's called collecting. There a plenty of folks in the world with more money. What fun would it be if every coin he needed could be bought all at once and the task over with a swipe of a pen on a check?
Congratulations on the two big rarities going to people/collectors I admire who are willing to share their precious baubles with the rest of the collecting world.
On the 1854-S, can someone explain what is going on between 9 and 12 on the reverse? Heritage made a point of mentioning it and included a close-up but from the photos, it is not apparent what is going on there
Love this thread and that some of the big dogs take the time to post to it.
"Look up, old boy, and see what you get." -William Bonney.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
I saw Dell Loy at the PCGS luncheon
The only thing he forgot was a wheelbarrow to carry out all his awards
This rare Pogue Specimen sold for $78,000. Anyone know the details of the sale?
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Could not agree with you more sir. K
My 1866 Philly Mint Set
$5 “Heraldic Eagle” Half Eagles Upgrade
PCGS registry description: The early gold coins of the United States are among the most coveted and rarest items in the numismatic world. This is due both to extremely limited original mintages as well as prolific melting that took place during the late 1820s and early 1830s when the bullion value of the coins exceeded their face value. The first Half Eagles struck between 1795 and 1798 appeared with both a small and large eagle reverse; the former being the rarest. A literal handful of 1798s were struck with the Small Eagle reverse, and it is today one of the most famous and highly publicized U.S. Half Eagles. It has always been held in high esteem by collectors. A mere seven pieces are known today, with prices well into the mid-six figures. No mint state pieces are known. The Large Eagle reverse pieces dated 1798 and later are more widely available, but with AU and better examples worth over $10,000, they can hardly be called "common."
In this series, D. Brent Pogue Collection is the king of early half eagles, with The Number One Finest Set of All Time. The registry only list three complete sets, Pogue, Eliasberg, and Garrett collections. For this series, Hansen is missing 2 coins, 1798 Small Eagle and 1797 Large Eagle. Also, the quality of the Hansen set is more than three grade points below the Pogue set. This upgrade is only the first replacement that Hansen would need to attempt to equal the Pogue set. He would need to replace most of the existing 12 remaining coins. This PCGS 1/0 coin is a start.
1804 $5 Small 8 MS64+ CERT POP 1/0 - Replaces 1804 MS61 PCGS POP 29/62
This new addition is to the Draped Bust $5 Gold Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1795-1807). This is great specimen, finest known by PCGS. There is not a history on this coin that I can find. PCGS Price Guide values this upgrade at $80,000. If anyone has any additional info, please provide.
Hansen’s set without 1804 upgrade
https://www.pcgs.com/setregistry/gold/early-5-gold-major-sets/draped-bust-5-gold-basic-set-circulation-strikes-1795-1807/alltimeset/156949
Superb non-gem 1804 Eagle
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
That is a great coin
Latin American Collection
What a beautiful gold coin.
Later, Paul.
I was slightly surprised that the 13V did not sell for $5M. Congrats Laura.
Do we know the buyer of the Washington "Pocket Piece"?
Beautiful 1804 $5!
The only thing "unusual" I see is a gouge in the denticals (looks like an "S") below the 2 parallel scratches on the rim. What did heritage say?
More Half Eagle Updates
We are back to the half eagles again today. After posting the superb 1804 MS64+ early half eagle upgrade, there are three additional Liberty Half Eagles to feature today. As discussed yesterday, D. Brent Pogue is the king of early half eagles, and Harry W. Bass is the king of Liberty Head half eagles. Let me note these claims as being in the registry era. Harry W. Bass assembled The Number One Finest Set of All Time of Liberty Head $5 Gold Basic Specimens, Circulation Strikes (1839-1908). This is a massive set of 201 coins. His completion was 99.5% with a weighted average grade of 59.77. His one missing coin was the 1854-S, and we discussed that in detail a couple weeks ago. Hansen recently acquired the 1854-S, so he should be on target for 100% completion in just a matter of time. The only competed set listed in the registry belongs to the Louis Eliasberg Collection. The Eliasberg weighted average grade is only 53.01. Although the Hansen Collection may be 100% completed at some point, his weighted average grade is a solid point and half below the leading Bass set. His three new upgrades can help close the gap if he seeks to equal Bass in quality.
BASS 1854-O $5 MS63 Cert 27798107 PCGS POP 1/0 – Replaces 1854-O $5 MS61 POP 5/4
The first coin is a rare 1854-O $5 that is the finest known PCGS specimen. The coin last appeared in the Heritage Auction on April 2018 April CSNS US Coins Signature – Chicago. PCGS Price Guide Value is $33,500. The coin realized $30,000 in the Heritage Auction. If Hansen purchased the coin in the auction, it has taken a usual long time to update. Maybe he purchased the coin privately since the auction in April. According to the Heritage description: This is the finest surviving example from the 46,000-coin mintage. It is the first of two coins that Winter describes as the best pieces known to him. This Select Mint State representative features a bold strike and highly lustrous yellow-gold surfaces with splashes of coppery-orange toning on each side.
In other references, the specimen is described:
Doug Winter identified only one variety in his New Orleans gold reference, although the Heritage numismatic staff has identified a second variety with a different mintmark position. This New Orleans issue is a major rarity in Mint State grades, and the present piece is the only example that PCGS has certified MS63, with none finer. That service has graded a mere 11 Mint State examples at all levels from 60 to 63.
David Akers (1975/88): Next to the 1844-O, the 1854-O is the least rare of the New Orleans Mint No Motto Half Eagles. However, it is a very scarce coin in all grades and VF or EF coins make up the majority of the population. Strictly uncirculated specimens are very rare and gems are of the highest rarity. Most 1854-O Half Eagles are quite well struck.
Provenance: Ex: Paramount (8/1969), lot 1935; Harry W. Bass, Jr. (Bowers and Merena, 10/1999), lot 1061; Superior (2/2001), lot 4594. From The Barry F. Smith Collection
A Numismatic Treasure from the Bass Collection
1859 $5 MS64+ Cert 35805880 PCGS POP 1/0 – Replaces 1859 $5 AU58+ POP 2/2
This POP 1/0 specimen is the most interesting upgrade due being a mystery coin. There is no history on the coin. The year 1859 is a true rarity. There are no PCGS coins listed in Coin Facts with a higher grade than MS62. NGC has one MS63 coin. The NGC coin was last sold in 2005 and described as: The single finest graded example of this scarce Philadelphia Half Eagle, with an impressively low mintage of only 16,814 pieces.
Well, that is not true anyone. The new Hansen Specimen is a near gem MS64+. PCGS Cert Verification page values this specimen at $37,500. So where did this coin come from? Expert comments from Ron Guth: The 1859 Half Eagle is a rare, low-mintage date. Akers claimed to have known of a Gem example, but nothing even remotely close has shown up since he wrote decades ago. The finest certified example is a Prooflike NGC MS63. The best of the rest rank only MS62 and the PCGS Condition Census dips into the AU58 range. This is a true condition-rarity that will pose a considerable challenge for the quality-minded collector.
David Akers (1975/88) added this to the mystery: The 1859 is more rare than the 1858 or any of the other Philadelphia Mint Half Eagles from 1843 to 1857 with the possible exception of the underrated 1850. Most known specimens are well worn with VF or EF being typical. A few uncirculated specimens exist but they are extremely rare. I do know, however, of at least one of gem quality.
I do not have a picture of this great specimen. Also, the provenance is unknown. If anyone can share some light on the mystery, please do so. I hope John Bush would comment to this mystery.
1885-S $5 MS66 CAC Cert 35687664 PCGS POP - Replaces 1885-S $5 MS65+ POP 3/7
The last upgrade that I will discuss is a very nice CAC MS66. Hansen picked up this beauty at the Heritage 2018 August ANA WFOM US Coins Signature - Philadelphia Auction. The realize price was $10,800. PCGS values this coin at $11,500, so it appears Hansen did not do badly on a CAC purchase. Heritage describes the coin as: From a mintage of 1.2 million coins, the 1885-S half eagle is relatively collectible through the Gem grade level. It is rarely seen in this grade, however, and only three Premium Gems have been awarded a green sticker by CAC. Peach-gold surfaces are smooth and frosted. Complete strike detail occurs on each side.
Provenance: unknown
1885-S $5 MS66 CAC
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
thanks for the updates----I start getting anxiety when I don't see a new addition every several days!
The 1859 $5 in 62 was gold stickered in an old ngc fatty. @steveben was the owner at a point. Could be that the coin was cracked an upgraded but unlikely as that coin seemed more like a 63 vs a 64+ to me.
Latin American Collection
That 1804 $5 is stunning, wow
@Currin - here is the image of the 1859 $5 in PCGS MS64+. Beautiful half eagle!
Doesn't look like that 62 Gold CAC is the same coin - comparing the 2015 Heritage auction of the 62 to the TrueView above is definitive. There's a flaw between obverse stars 8-9 on the 64+ that's clearly not on the 62.
Nice. Thanks. Do anyone recognize the specimen? What is the pedigree?
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Great additions by Hansen. That 1804 is superb! It's great that he's focusing on quality in addition to quantity. Such a great set.
With Hansen's continuous upgrade of his liberty gold, he has gone from having one of everything (or close to it) to having an amazing and nearly complete collection of stunning coins.
Here's the pedigree on the 1859 $5:
Dempsey & Baxter, a newly discovered Finest Known example, sold on the Coin Dealers Helping Coin Dealers website on 8/3/2018 - Numismatic Financial Corporation, Inc., sold privately in 8/2018 - D.L. Hansen Collection
Ron Guth, Chief Investigator
The Numismatic Detective Agency
I have that same coin! (only 11 points lower)
My YouTube Channel
Great reach! Do you think this is the same specimen that Akers viewed and referenced decades ago. When you say newly discovered, then maybe not.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
That 59 is stunning
Latin American Collection
According to Chris Dempsey of Dempsey and Baxter, this coin came in over the counter and is a previously unknown example. He calls the source "The Sandwich Bag" deal!
Ron Guth, Chief Investigator
The Numismatic Detective Agency
Half Eagle Updates - Episode 3
This is the 3rd day of featuring Liberty Half Eagles. There are other series that I could feature, but the half eagles are just getting amazingly better. There appear to be an endless flow of new PCGS POP 1/0 $5 Liberties. There are more to come. If you have not been stun yet, wait for tomorrow.
1850 $5 MS63 Cert 35568386 PCGS POP 1/0 – Replaces 1850 $5 AU55 POP 11/25
This is an amazing specimen to be a lowly choice MS63. This is another coin that does not have a history. Maybe someone walked off the street in Richmond and handed this raw coin over the counter to John. From the last story, I would not be surprised. Jokes aside, this is a really nice coin. I think this is a very recent certified coin (maybe cross-over or re-cert). Coins Facts History shows the finest PCGS graded specimens as MS62s. The finest known example may be the Earle-Eliasberg-Milas NGC MS65 specimen. The last auction for the NGC MS65 states: NGC lists two MS65 coins, with no finer examples, supported by three MS61 pieces and two MS62 coins. However, we have only been able to trace this sole MS65 coin, with no other appearances in any auction exceeding MS62 in certified grade.
As stated, this MS63 could be a MS62 upgrade, or a coin off the street as we seen with the 1859. If anyone can find additional information, please share. For your view, I will share this new Hansen coin and the Earle-Eliasberg-Milas. You be judge if you think the MS65 example is two points better.
Provenance: unknown
Hansen’s 1850 $5 MS63 PCGS POP 1/0 PCGS Price Guide Value $20,000
The Earle-Eliasberg-Milas 1850 Half Eagle, MS65 - 4/15 Heritage Auction realized $54,050
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Perhaps the reverse scratch from the stem down and right on the MS-63 limits its grade.
Otherwise the surfaces look amazing.
The 1859 $5 has an interesting pedigree. It sold in an auction on the facebook group "Coin Dealers Helping Coin Dealers" and was bought over the counter in a sandwich bag in a coin shop in Erie, PA...
It was purchased and graded by NFC and then we placed it with Mr. Hansen at the show...
President of David Lawrence Rare Coins www.davidlawrence.com
email: John@davidlawrence.com
2022 ANA Dealer of the Year, Past Chair of NCBA (formerly ICTA), PNG Treasurer, Instructor at Witter Coin University, former Instructor/YN Chaperone ANA Summer Seminar, Coin World Most Influential, Curator of the D.L. Hansen Collection
Interesting is one way to put it. If I could find nice coins in sandwich bags, I'd likely be a billionaire by now.
LOL @Hobosapian please bring the rest of the coins from the bag to our next show!
"You Suck Award" - February, 2015
Discoverer of 1919 Mercury Dime DDO - FS-101
I see that Northeast Numismatics has an 1802 Half Dime listed on their site. While only VG10, I know this is an impossible to find coin. This is also the last non-gold coin needed for the 1793-1964 set.
That would be a grade higher than his 1823/2 in G4, the other show stopper for early silver. The 1817/4 is not listed in this set which focuses on each date and mint mark not overdates. Really a breathtaking collection of American regular issue silver coinage. How many gold coins still needed for this set? And copper is complete? Wow
Half Eagle Updates - Episode 4
Day 4 of the half eagles. The Hansen Collection has upgraded 11 half eagles since ANA last week. I did not intend to spend so much time on half eagles, but with such great upgrades, it had to be done. I hope to finish today with a great run of Carson City half eagles. The run is complete from 1872 to 1876. This is not an easy run; it contains five very difficult half eagles to acquire in high grade. The upgrade contains one each: PCGS POP 1/0, PCGS 3/0, and the other three have a less than a hand full of finer examples. So, here they are, enjoy!
1872-CC $5 AU58 Cert 24078980 PCGS POP 3/0 – Replaces 1872-CC $5 AU55 7/3 CAC
David Akers (1975/88) - The 1872-CC is of comparable overall rarity to the 1871-CC although, in my opinion, it is a little more rare than the 1971-CC in full EF or better. I have not heard of one even close to uncirculated. Most known specimens are well worn with Fine and VF being typical.
This specimen last appeared in Heritage August 2012 Philadelphia ANA Auction where is sold for $29,375. No recent history is known and where Hansen acquired this coin is not publicly known. The PCGS Price Guide Value is $35,000.
Provenance: From the Battle Born Collection. Earlier from our (Stack's) Public Auction Sale of May 1989, lot 394; ex: Doug Winter and Lee Minshull, September 1998; and the Nevada Collection. The plate coin for the issue on page 30 of the 2001 book Gold Coins of the Carson City Mint by Douglas Winter and James L. Halperin.
**1872-CC Liberty Half Eagle. Winter 1-B. AU-58 (PCGS) **
1873-CC $5 MS61 Cert 84025617 PCGS POP 1/1 – Replaces 1873-CC $5 AU53 1/6
David Akers (1975/88) - The 1873-CC has the second lowest mintage of any Carson City Half Eagle. It is a very rare date in any condition and extremely rare as high as EF. I have seen one piece that was very close to uncirculated but none that have actually reached that level. As a date, the 1873-CC is more rare than the 1871-CC, 1872-CC, 1874-CC, 1876-CC and 1877-CC and is comparable to the 1875-CC. It is not quite as rare as either the 1870-CC or the 1878-CC. When available, the 1873-CC is almost always well worn, i.e. VF or less. All 1873-CC Half Eagles have a Closed 3 in the date.
This is the mystery coin of the run. There is not much known. PCGS Price Guide Value for this coin is $115,000. The one finer 1873-CC is the Bass-Battle Born MS62.
Provenance: unknown
1873-CC $5 MS61
1874-CC $5 AU58 Cert 25631144 PCGS POP 8/3 CAC – Replaces 1874-CC $5 AU55 17/11 CAC
David Akers (1975/88) - In overall rarity, the 1874-CC is possibly the most common of the very rare Carson City Mint issues in the 1870-1878 period. (At least it had more auction appearances in my 337 catalogue survey and I have personally seen more of this date than of any of the others.) Most known specimens of the 1874-CC are well circulated and VF examples are typical. A few AU coins are known but only one 1874-CC catalogued as uncirculated has ever been offered at public auction. That coin was in the Robison Sale (Stack's 2/79) and it brought $19,000.
This coin was sold recently on Douglas Winter Numismatics website for $22,500. Described as: This is a very choice coin with just a tiny amount of friction seen on the high spots. The strike is sharp and the surfaces are very choice save for two thin, short scratches between the 8 and the 7 in the date. The color is a rich orange-gold hue which is seen on both sides and which adds considerable appeal to an already-choice presentation. The PCGS Price Guide Value price the coin at $26,000.
CONDITION CENSUS 1874-CC HALF EAGLE, PCGS/CAC AU58
1875-CC $5 MS61 CERT 24078982 PCGS POP 1/0 – Replaces 1875-CC $5 AU55 6/1
David Akers (1975/88) -Most 1875-CC Half Eagles are in lower circulated grades from VG to VF. I have seen only one piece that graded full AU, and none in strictly uncirculated condition. As a date, the 1875-CC is comparable to the 1873-CC and more rare than the 1871-CC, 1872-CC, 1874-CC, 1876-CC and 1877-CC. All specimens I have seen were rather weakly struck, particularly on the obverse.
The last public appearance was the Heritage August 2012 Philadelphia ANA auction and sold for $38,187.50. The auction description: Charming surfaces are aglow with even olive-orange patina and vibrant, satiny mint luster. We note an uncommonly smooth appearance for the grade, there being no sizeable or otherwise individually distracting abrasions on either side. Striking quality varies for this issue depending upon the exact die marriage encountered, although as a whole the 1875-CC is among the more softly defined half eagles from this mint. The present example is actually quite sharp on the obverse, there being only a touch of weakness to the central high points (namely the hair curls and tresses above and below Liberty's ear). The reverse is typically softer and actually quite blunt in the center, although one will see sharp to full detail toward the periphery. There are no readily evident pedigree markers.
There is one finer non-PCGS certified example, the NGC MS-63 specimen from Cutler Collection.
Provenance: From the Battle Born Collection. Earlier ex: our (Stack's) sale of the Robison Collection of United States Gold Coins, February 1979, lot 498; our (Stack's) sale of the Reed Hawn Collection, October 1993, lot 995; Dr. Larry Cutler Collection; Doug Winter and Lee Minshull, November 1996; and the Nevada Collection. The plate coin for the issue on page 36 of the 2001 book, Gold Coins of the Carson City Mint, by Douglas Winter and James L. Halperin.
1875-CC Liberty Half Eagle. Winter 1-B. MS-61 (PCGS) CAC
1876-CC $5 AU58 CERT 03363556 PCGS POP 3/1– Replaces 1876-CC $5 AU55 7/4
David Akers (1975/88) - The 1876-CC has the lowest mintage of any Carson City Mint Half Eagle. It is not the rarest, however, but is of approximately the same rarity as the 1871-CC, 1872-CC and 1877-CC and a little more rare than the 1874-CC. It is not as rare as the 1870-CC, 1873-CC, 1875-CC, or 1878-CC. Almost all known specimens are well circulated with VF being typical.
This coin last appeared in the Heritage 2016 September Twelve Oaks Collection Signature Auction and sold for $37,600. The auction description: This coin boasts an impressive array of toning shades for a gold coin, ranging from canary-yellow through reddish-orange, ruddy cherry-red, lilac, and brownish-charcoal, complementing the considerable remaining luster and a decent strike. A few scattered ticks are of little consequence. A prominent die lump on Liberty's throat, just below the jawline, is typical of these dies.
There is only one certified mint state specimen for the 1876-CC, and it is a mind blower. The finest specimen is Eliasberg - Battle Born PCGS MS66, last sold in Stacks Bower 2012 for $487,625. If there is one half eagle that Hansen should have and need to seek is this one. The specimen was in the famous Eliasberg collection, and deserves to be in the Hansen Collection.
PCGS Price Guide Value: $35,000
Provenance: From The Twelve Oaks Collection
1876-CC Half Eagle, Elusive AU58
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Currin- they need to hire you as their publicist
There are about 9 fairly nice 1802 half dimes, and they come up for sale relatively often these days.
from
https://forums.collectors.com/discussion/937249/1802-half-dime-provenance-top-9-specimens
The PCGS MS63 1850 Half Eagle has the following pedigree:
Pontchartrain Rarities, sold privately in 4/1993 - A.J. Vanderbilt Collection - Stack's/Bowers 3/2018:10338, $8,400 - D.L. Hansen Collection
Ron Guth, Chief Investigator
The Numismatic Detective Agency
The pedigree on the PCGS MS61 1873-CC $5 is as follows:
Charley Tuppen Collection - Doug Winter - Nevada Collection - Stack's/Bowers 8/2018:1277, $168,000 - D.L. Hansen Collection
Ron Guth, Chief Investigator
The Numismatic Detective Agency
Thanks for solving the mystery. It was a upgrade from a PCGS MS62 OGH specimen. He turned a $8500 purchse into a $20K investment. John knows what he is doing.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
We actually made an offer indirectly on this piece to fill the hole, but it was not accepted.
There are actually 2-3 others that are "available" on the market right now and we'd rather have a higher grade example than simply a hole-filler at the moment, but we'll see if any of those work out in the coming weeks.
If not, we can be patient on it.
The 1802 Half Dime is an under-appreciated rarity over the years, but I would suggest that due to its size, it's not a very "sexy" coin to hold on to. They seem to trade hands more often than one would expect...
President of David Lawrence Rare Coins www.davidlawrence.com
email: John@davidlawrence.com
2022 ANA Dealer of the Year, Past Chair of NCBA (formerly ICTA), PNG Treasurer, Instructor at Witter Coin University, former Instructor/YN Chaperone ANA Summer Seminar, Coin World Most Influential, Curator of the D.L. Hansen Collection
Thanks TDN. I am hoping he give me his duplicates.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
It might also have something to do with most of the coins being kind of ugly and messed with. A gem VF - if it were to turn up - would probably find buyers lined up around the block. And I’d be in the line!
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
Exactly.
President of David Lawrence Rare Coins www.davidlawrence.com
email: John@davidlawrence.com
2022 ANA Dealer of the Year, Past Chair of NCBA (formerly ICTA), PNG Treasurer, Instructor at Witter Coin University, former Instructor/YN Chaperone ANA Summer Seminar, Coin World Most Influential, Curator of the D.L. Hansen Collection