I haven't commented much lately, but just wanted to say that I enjoyed the write-up on the Diana Collection.
Dell Loy has certainly added a number of really quality #2 sets. They are a work in progress, so you might see some major changes when we swap coins for the overall #1 in our opinion, etc but these were put together recently with a number of the duplicates where the coins were just too nice to put up for sale!
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 PR gold was sucked up by two huge telemarketers from japan. This was years ago. I sold them a monster 1891 SET all 66/67 DC!! They would only buy real cam's or Dcameos
@Catbert said:
As you catalogue his collection and comment upon the number of registry collections for which he participates, what is the total number of coins that he owns from the information you've gathered?
This is completely uncomfirmed, but there are somewhere around 10-12,000 total. I don't have access to the exact number at the moment as the PCGS software isn't quite built for that kind of quantity...
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
Today, we reached 50K views. Thank you for riding along the past seven months that we have been watching this set grow. I did the last one of these updates at 25K on Aug 12th. I think this is a good time to recap some of what we have seen.
Let’s talk about the misses first. The auctions at August ANA presented an opportunity to acquire two of the ultra-rarities needed in the quest, the 1913 Eliasberg Nickel and the newly discovered 1854-S Half Eagle. Hansen did not end up with either; although, he has added three countdown coins to his collection along the way. All are southern gold rarities from branch mints.
Countdown #28 was the 1841-D Quarter Eagle
Countdown #27 was the 1864-S Half Eagle
Countdown #26 was the 1856-D Quarter Eagle
We also saw Hansen put effort, time and money in the modern portion of the collection. He completed the modern proofs including the major varieties, with the exception of two great modern ultra-rarities. They are the 1975 No S Proof Dime (Two Known) and the 1976-S Type 2 Unique Silver Eisenhower Dollar. The best modern addition was the 1971-S TY1 Rev PR69DCAM Silver Ike that was obtain from Justin Spivack (Monster Coin).
Eliasberg Quest (classic style)
This is the collection that gets the most attention at this time. According to my count, The Hansen Collection has 26 coins left. A complete collection have not been achieved but once before by Louis Eliasberg. Many experts say it will never be accomplished again. I say that only time will tell.
Hansen Challenge
I am coining (pun intended) the term, Hansen Challenge for this first time. I personally think of this collection as more than just a Quest to match Eliasberg, or just a better grade. It appear to me, Hansen is on a mission to collect every date, mint mark, major variety, and proof in the US issues from 1793-Present (or as close to every as possible). With the 2018 issues, we are talking about approx. 6300 coins. The Hansen Collection master set reached 90% complete on October 6th. This is a massive effort that maybe no one has ever made a serious attempt to achieve before. PCGS has a registry set that represents this effort.
This is a colossal set with about 6300 coins that increase every year. PCGS describes the set as: Every U.S. coin in Circulation Strike and Proof from 1792 to present, every date, every Mintmark, every major variety, this set is the ultimate challenge. A collection of this size could take years to assemble. The collector who completes this set in high grade would make numismatic history. Are you up to the challenge? To be honest, after studying the set, in some ways it is a fantasy set. There are a few proofs that are not available for private purchase and a couple major variety gold coins. I think the set could be could be completed to aprox. 99.9% and Hansen is approaching 91% rapidly. It is going to interesting to watch and see how close he can meet the Hansen Challenge
. Breakdown of the Hansen Challenge
CS Pre 1964 Basic – 15 left coins left (down 3 from last update)
CS Pre 1964 Major Varieties -65 coins left (down 7 from last update)
CS Modern Basic – Complete (down 32 from last update)
CS Modern Major Varieties – 123 coins left (down 78 from last update)
Proof Pre 1964 Basic – 330 coins left (13 down from last update)
Proof Pre 1964 Major Varieties – 24 coins left (6 down from last update)
Proof Modern (including Major Varieties) – 2 coins left (53 coins down from last update)
Total – approx. 560 coins left of 6300. Roughly 90%. (Added approx. 175 coins in the last 3 months)
@Currin said:
To be honest, after studying the set, in some ways it is a fantasy set. There are a few proofs that are not available ?for private purchase and a couple major variety gold coins. I think the set could be could be completed to aprox. 99.9% and Hansen is approaching 91% rapidly. It is going to interesting to watch and see how close he can meet the Hansen Challenge
IMHO and I could be wrong, just because a coin is in a museum somewhere doesn't mean a deal couldn't be made to extract said coin from a private holding.
Museums need $$$ too.
It is very unusual to see two countdown coins in five days. This brings the Eliasberg Quest countdown to only 25 coins. The 1846-C Half Eagle was the last coin needed to complete the Basic Charlotte Gold Set. DLH still needs a couple Major Varieties including the ultra-rare 1849-C Open Wreath Dollar. The strange thing about the addition is not the timing of a new update, but timing of the sale. The sequence of events makes no sense to me. Maybe someone can explain to me what I saw. It was not an UFO, but in the numismatics world it was strange. Before we get into that, let’s discuss the coin, because it is a very nice coin and a great addition.
This 1846-C is a tough date to find in nice certified condition. The total PCGS POP for this coin is 74, with presently only five certified in MS condition. Four in the group are MS60-MS62. The only choice coin is the Eliasberg PCGS MS64. The Eliasberg specimen last appeared in auction was 1982. The coin has changed hands privately several times. Expert Doug Winter describes 1846-C HAlf Eagle this way: After having been closed for more than a full year because of a fire, the Charlotte Mint reopened in October 1846. It is probable that the quarter eagles and the half eagles produced during this year saw especially strong demand due to the shortage caused by the absence of production for a year. The surfaces on most examples are heavily marked. This is an issue that appears to have been actively used in commerce. As a result, deep obtrusive marks are commonly seen in the fields and on the devices as well. Many have been cleaned with hairlines seen in the fields. This is an extremely hard coin to find with original surfaces.
This is the only PCGS POP AU55+ PCGS graded coin. The history of the coin is not stated. The auctioneer states the coin is “fresh to the market”. Anyone know what that means? The coin is very nice and described as high end. PCGS Price Guide lists this coin as having a value of $7,900. There is one MS60 PCGS graded coin that is valued at $19,000. This AU55+ just sold in a Legend Auction for $18,212.50!
The coin was purchase in Legend’s Regency Auction 29 that took place Thursday, November 15, 2018 at 5:30PM CT in San Antonio, TX. I give you the time and date because it is important later. Legend estimated the coin at $7,500 - $8,000. If you have been a constant watcher, you would know that Hansen has paid well above the Legend estimate on several coins recently. Legend describes the coin as: Looks are deceiving. At first glance we thought his coin was Uncirculated. No, we don't need stronger glasses. The coin actually looks that good. It is HIGH END for sure. Amazing surfaces are almost full Mint State quality. Save for one small tick, the surfaces are super clean. The surfaces also have a thick satiny texture. A surprising luster beams vividly from all over. You can tell nothing has ever been done to this coin. Both sides are a wonderful and totally original deeper yellow gold color. The clear reason why this is not an AU 58+, there is some weakness in the strike on the eagle’s neck. All other details are super frosty and are fully struck. The eye appeal is beyond exceptional especially since this is C mint! This is the ONLY PCGS AU55+ graded. It has never been sold via auction. The consignor told us it is fresh to the market. It should be known that the last AU55 sold in 2006! The rarity of this date and grade cannot be disputed. We think the Collector’s Universe estimate of $7,900 is way off as are all the AU values. If you collect C Mint $5 or just $5, this is a coin that will thrill you. It belongs in a great collection! It appear to me that DLH and John likes what they saw in this coin. There are nine certified coins that are technically better. I am not sure how many of them have the CAC sticker. This coin is outside of being a condition consensus coin, but it could be top 5 on looks and appeal. I am not one that can judge. Here is the coin (#25) for you to see.
1846-C Half Eagle AU55+ CAC
Now, here the strange piece of the puzzle. I have to admit, if you can solve the riddle you are better than me. I first saw this coin added to the Hansen set Wednesday night. The PCGS Revision Time Stamp was 11/14/2018 3:05 PM. As I do most of the time, I try for find some history on the specimen, i.e. last auction, pedigree, really anything I can find traced to the certification number. I could not find anything from a historical perspective. This is not usual for Hansen’s coins. I was stun when I discovered the coin to be in an active auction! This coin entered in Hansen’s inventory on 11/14 was a coin that was in an auction that does not close until 11/15. So, Wednesday night, the last time that I check the auction, the bid was $11K. We know the when the bidding closed on Thursday, the coin sold for $18K. Was Hansen so confident in his bid, that he listed the coin early in his update? Is there another possibility that I am missing. I decided not the post the update in thinking Hansen may have entered this coin in error. As of this morning, the coin is still in his set, and he made three other updates since entering this coin on Wednesday. Does anyone else find this to be strange? Or know a solution to the puzzle?
@AllCoinsRule said:
I've noticed at least 2 times now Hansen has registered a coin while it is still up for auction. Is this just an absent minded oversight or a purposely planned statement to others that maybe they shouldn't try to bid against him?
If it were JUST 2 times, it would things easier. Many times it's adding a coin to see how it would improve a set...the problem is when we don't win it...
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
This is a fine Eagle. If you are an old gold coin guy, you can’t get better than this upgrade. This is a very tough date with only one coin certified as mint state (disputed). According to Coin Facts, this is not only the finest grade, but it is a full 5 points better that the #2. It is the only 1863 Eagle graded higher than an AU58, and this one is much better, a choice specimen! Doug Winter in his write-up mentions a MS62 from the S.S. Republic, but Coins Facts list the Republic specimen as an estimated AU58.
The PCGS price guide lists PCGS MS63 specimen as $200,000. This coin lasted appeared in a Bowers & Merena Auction 18 years ago where it sold for $52,900. This specimen is the auction record holder for 1863 Eagles, when this coin sold in the Cornerstone Sale for $104,500. At that time, the coin was in a NGC MS63. Hansen’s acquisition appears to be a recent private transaction with the terms not being public.
Doug Winter describes the coin this way: All of the Civil War era Liberty Head eagles are scarce (with the exception of the 1861) but the 1863 is a key rarity in this subset. In fact, I regard it as among the very rarest 19th century Philadelphia gold coins. Only 1,248 business strikes were issued of which an estimated 30-40 are known. The finest is the superb Bass lV: 683 ex: MARCA 8/91 that brought $52,900 in its last appearance (an amazing bargain) after Harry Bass had paid $104,500 for it back in 1991. The second finest known is an NGC MS62 from the S.S. Republic that is owned by a prominent Western collector. Almost every example that I have seen grades EF45 or below and is characterized by excessively abraded surfaces. The luster is either soft or frosty or, less often, semi-prooflike and the strike tends to be bold with the exception of the curl directly above Liberty's ear.
1863 $10 MS63 CERTIFICATION#: 05652511 PCGS POP 1/0 CAC replaces 1863 AU53 PCGS POP 3/4
Provenance: Heck Dodson Collection - MARCA 8/1991:755, $104,500 - Harry Bass Collection - Bowers & Merena 11/2000:683, $52,900
In comparing to Eliasberg’s specimen, his circulating coin was an XF45 assumed grade from Randall (1897); Clapp Collection (1942). Sold by Bowers & Ruddy Oct '82 price realized $30,800.
I was not able to find a picture of this coin. I too would love to see this coin. If someone can find a picture of this coin, please post.
The 1863 $10 is indeed a very special item. It was offered to me by a good friend, but I'm not sure that I can disclose the seller. The coin had been put away for quite some time with a collector and when it was offered to me, I knew that it was a piece that I had to buy, whether or not Mr. Hansen would want it or not. Thankfully, he did and it now resides in the perfect collection. This is actually one of my favorite coins in the collection now as it's something that is irreplaceable and underappreciated. In the words of my colleague, Paul Nugget, "If you're looking for a high quality Eagle from 1863, you'll go decades looking for one. This is a special coin indeed!"
Edited to add: I'll try to post an image here tomorrow if I can figure it out. There's no trueview as the holder is a bit older, but we imaged this one ourselves this afternoon.
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
@JBatDavidLawrence said:
The 1863 $10 is indeed a very special item. It was offered to me by a good friend, but I'm not sure that I can disclose the seller. The coin had been put away for quite some time with a collector and when it was offered to me, I knew that it was a piece that I had to buy, whether or not Mr. Hansen would want it or not. Thankfully, he did and it now resides in the perfect collection. This is actually one of my favorite coins in the collection now as it's something that is irreplaceable and underappreciated. In the words of my colleague, Paul Nugget, "If you're looking for a high quality Eagle from 1863, you'll go decades looking for one. This is a special coin indeed!"
Edited to add: I'll try to post an image here tomorrow if I can figure it out. There's no trueview as the holder is a bit older, but we imaged this one ourselves this afternoon.
Thanks John, The picture will be nice. I was somewhat surprisesd not being able to find a picture.
@JBatDavidLawrence said:
The 1863 $10 is indeed a very special item. It was offered to me by a good friend, but I'm not sure that I can disclose the seller. The coin had been put away for quite some time with a collector and when it was offered to me, I knew that it was a piece that I had to buy, whether or not Mr. Hansen would want it or not. Thankfully, he did and it now resides in the perfect collection. This is actually one of my favorite coins in the collection now as it's something that is irreplaceable and underappreciated. In the words of my colleague, Paul Nugget, "If you're looking for a high quality Eagle from 1863, you'll go decades looking for one. This is a special coin indeed!"
Edited to add: I'll try to post an image here tomorrow if I can figure it out. There's no trueview as the holder is a bit older, but we imaged this one ourselves this afternoon.
John
how active do you see Mr. Hansen being over the next few years given what he already has and what he has accomplished?
This coin came to me from John Albanese (CAC). It's even more amazing in-hand. Maybe we'll bring it to the FUN show to display.
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
how active do you see Mr. Hansen being over the next few years given what he already has and what he has accomplished?
I wish that I had an answer to this, but I can say that he hasn't slowed down at all. In fact, I've spoken to him about coins more often in the last few weeks than I had in a while. When he has extra time, coins are his most serious hobby, so if he isn't working with something (whether it be work or charity, etc), he's looking at coins.
Improving certain sets, building secondary sets, or just checking out what's going on in coins, he's still enjoying it now as much as ever.
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
Improving certain sets, building secondary sets, or just checking out what's going on in coins, he's still enjoying it now as much as ever.
Thanks for sharing John. Does Mr. Hansen still watch this theard from time to time? If so, I hope he enjoys us in the community watching his progression.
@skier07 said:
That’s a beautiful 1863 $10. JA doesn’t sticker his own coins?
Honestly, I didn't ask him why he didn't sticker this coin. There are certain coins that might not quite pass CAC's muster, but they are so significant it really doesn't matter.
To know John is to know that if he didn't think this coin should have CAC'd 10 years ago, he's not going to change it now that he's selling it. That's why he's one of the few people in this business that I would trust completely.
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
Improving certain sets, building secondary sets, or just checking out what's going on in coins, he's still enjoying it now as much as ever.
Thanks for sharing John. Does Mr. Hansen still watch this thread from time to time? If so, I hope he enjoys us in the community watching his progression.
I know that he pops in and sees this occasionally. His daughter does as well. It really excites him that so many other people are involved in watching the collection's growth!
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
I am sorry to hear also. Prayers with you and family John. You only have one Mom in a lifetime. You really don’t know just how much you will miss her until it happens...
1868 Quarter Eagle is latest addition to Hansen Basic Proof set. This increases his completion percentage to about 71.5%. He has 326 coins left to obtain. The mintage for this proof is published to be 25. PCGS places the survival to be 16 to 20 known. The PCGS POP reports 9 total certified Proofs and 3 certified Cameo Proofs. The finest specimen is this PF65CAM. The other two other specimens are certified as PR64CAMs. The PCGS PF65CAM last appeared in the January 2009 Orlando Rarities Sale auctioned by Bowers & Merena. The coin sold for an auction record price of $43,700 that stood until one of the PCGS PR64CAM specimens sold for $48,000 earlier this year. That coin had an estimated value of$20,000 to $22,000 before it was hammered at $48K. That coin did have the CAC sticker. It would be curious to know if Hansen was the under bidder for that coin.
1868 Quarter Eagle PR65CA Cert 25695135 PCGS POP 1/0
This quarter eagle is finest known specimen of the 9 PCGS certified 1868 proofs. This coin was sold in the auction 2003 and again 2009, where the coin brought $24,725 and $43,700 respectively. I have no real knowledge of the value, but could we assume the present value of this specimen could be $100,00? It appears DLH may have purchased this coin in a private transaction. There is not much history or story that I can find on this coin.
Coin Facts price this coin at $42,500. As suggested above, I do not feel this to be even close to the true value. The coin that sold early this year (PF64CA) brought more than the current PCGS value of this coin. I am not sure if this coin has the CAC sticker. When updated in Hansen’s set, it was not indicated in the note that it was. Therefore, I would lend toward that it is more probable that it is not. I wish I could share more on this coin and have a picture, but I cannot do either. The coin is a very nice addition to the Proof Set.
I think this Hansen specimen Is much nicer coin that the Eliasberg specimen. The Eliasberg registry set describes his specimen as assumed graded Choice Proof, Ex. Parmelee Collection; NY Stamp & Coin (1890); Woodin; Elder (1911); Clapp Collection (1942). Sold by Bowers & Ruddy Oct '82 price realized $5,720.
1868 Quarter Eagle is latest addition to Hansen Basic Proof set. This increases his completion percentage to about 71.5%. He has 326 coins left to obtain. The mintage for this proof is published to be 25. PCGS places the survival to be 16 to 20 known. The PCGS POP reports 9 total certified Proofs and 3 certified Cameo Proofs. The finest specimen is this PF65CAM. The other two other specimens are certified as PR64CAMs. The PCGS PF65CAM last appeared in the January 2009 Orlando Rarities Sale auctioned by Bowers & Merena. The coin sold for an auction record price of $43,700 that stood until one of the PCGS PR64CAM specimens sold for $48,000 earlier this year. That coin had an estimated value of$20,000 to $22,000 before it was hammered at $48K. That coin did have the CAC sticker. It would be curious to know if Hansen was the under bidder for that coin.
1868 Quarter Eagle PR65DC Cert 25695135 PCGS POP 1/0
This quarter eagle is finest known specimen of the 9 PCGS certified 1868 proofs. This coin was sold in the auction 2003 and again 2009, where the coin brought $24,725 and $43,700 respectively. I have no real knowledge of the value, but could we assume the present value of this specimen could be $100,00? It appears DLH may have purchased this coin in a private transaction. There is not much history or story that I can find on this coin.
Coin Facts price this coin at $42,500. As suggested above, I do not feel this to be even close to the true value. The coin that sold early this year (PF64CA) brought more than the current PCGS value of this coin. I am not sure if this coin has the CAC sticker. When updated in Hansen’s set, it was not indicated in the note that it was. Therefore, I would lend toward that it is more probable that it is not. I wish I could share more on this coin and have a picture, but I cannot do either. The coin is a very nice addition to the Proof Set.
I think this Hansen specimen Is much nicer coin that the Eliasberg specimen. The Eliasberg registry set describes his specimen as assumed graded Choice Proof, Ex. Parmelee Collection; NY Stamp & Coin (1890); Woodin; Elder (1911); Clapp Collection (1942). Sold by Bowers & Ruddy Oct '82 price realized $5,720.
This Lincoln upgrade helps us view a little sliver of the methodology that is being used to build this historic collection. John has been telling us for some time now, that they are not chasing coins. I guess we can think about it this way, in building a collection of maybe 10-15 thousand coins, chasing every coin may not be possible. The coin in this upgrade is for a not very exciting dated Lincoln cent. In fact, for a 1933-D uncirculated specimen it could be said they are a dime a dozen. The upgrade is replacing a MS67RD PCGS POP 38/1 specimen with a MS67+RD POP 1/0. The value of the coin increased from $1,750 to $13,500. Is it really worth it? The change in the set is so small that it is not measurable. If this is done one time, I feel it would be meaningless. If this is the system for building the collection, then over a longer period of time when all these upgrades add up, then it will turn into some very special. As we know, the way the coins are being acquired is by offers for private purchase or auctions. By John’s account, if the offer is fair, and coin will improve the collection, then he may be interested. With that being said, this coin was purchased in a David Lawrence Auction. That may give some insight on overall transaction. To me, it appears Hansen was willing to lose this coin, but if coin sold for his price, he would purchase this specimen in the open auction.
This coin is fairly common with close to 1800 certified by PCGS alone; although, the Hansen specimen is unique in condition census. The coin is described by Ron Guth this way: According to a notice in the June 1934 issue of The Numismatist (p. 416), collectors could still purchase Uncirculated 1933-D Cents for "the face value of the coins and an amount sufficient to cover the mail charges by first-class mail."
1933-D Lincoln RD MS67+ RD CAC Cert 81341130 – Replaces 1933-D PCGS MS67 POP 38/1
This origin of this coin appears to have a recent history. This coin was first auctioned in a 2016 Stack’s and Bowers Auction. The coin was described as Finest Known 1933-D Lincoln Cent. The coin carried a CAC sticker. The auctioneer describe the coin this way: This is a breathtakingly beautiful Superb Gem that really needs to be seen to be fully appreciated. Vivid salmon pink and lilac iridescence rings the obverse periphery, a splash of similar color also decorating the central reverse. Otherwise bright orange luster with a sharp strike and smooth texture from rim to rim. Struck in the depths of the Great Depression, the slightly more than six million Lincoln cents that rolled off of the Denver Mint's presses were not in demand at the time and many were retained by the Treasury. Few examples could be found in circulation, but collectors could purchase a pair of the coins from the government for face value and First Class postage. As the economy revived, so too did demand for coins and the 1933-D cents finally entered circulation in earnest. Large numbers were saved by speculators hoping to cash in on a premium for Mint State coins. As a result, almost a tenth of the entire mintage are thought to remain extant, including a significant quantity of uncirculated coins. Despite this, finding appealing Gem Mint State specimens often can present a challenge, and certainly in grades above MS-66. While there is a limited number of MS-67 examples to fill collector requirements, only one of these has earned the vaunted Plus designation. As the sole representative of the issue to gain entry into that illustrious club, there will be considerable attention among Registry Set collectors and Lincoln cent specialists when this coin crosses the auction block. The coin realized $10,575 at the November 2016 Baltimore Rarities Night sale.
Jump forward to the present, DLH purchased this coin in an internet auction on November 4th. The auction had just a simple description: Underrated date in full red. Rare this nice. Hints of orange-magenta enhance the look of this beauty which drips with a lustrous patina. CAC approved for quality. PCGS+ grade for premium quality at the top of end of the assigned grade. DLH paid a new auction record price of $12,900, slightly below the PCGS Guide Price of $13,500. This coin is credited to be from the Stiel Collection (PCGS Set Registry). I am not familiar with this collection, but some of you may. To me, the coin is a spectacular specimen. The color is amazing. Feel free to comment on your thoughts on this coin.
Provenance: Stiel Collection (PCGS Set Registry)
In comparing to Eliasberg’s specimen, his registry set describes his specimen as estimate grade MS65RD, The Eliasberg coin was sold by Bowers & Ruddy May '96 as part of a large lot. This circle us back to the start of the discussion. The DLH is assembling some of the finest common coins, if they come available at a fair price. The Eliasberg collection had the finest ultra-rarities for sure, but I don’t think he spent time on hunting down the finest common coins. The Hansen Collection is being built during the registry era, then his common coins are going to be some of the finest examples known. As he did with this upgrade, removing a specimen tied for second finest and replacing with the finest known!
This is a new addition that really stands out from recent upgrades and additions. For the folks that have been tracking this thread the past six months can confirm, we have seen some great coins added this year. With the 2019 January 9 - 14 FUN Signature Auction in Orlando that some great early proof dimes and quarters, I thought DLH might take is foot off the gas the last few weeks this year. This new coin suggests that is not what going to take place. This is an early proof Double Eagle that is very expensive and rare. This addition is a very nice specimen going into the last month of the year.
Proof Double Eagles are rare. Early Proof Double Eagles are double as rare. We know the series started in 1850. There is one known 1949 Proof Double Eagle that is in the Smithsonian. Many professionals believe the coin would sell for a record of $20 Million Dollars if it was to enter the market. The PCGS registry set starts with 1859 Double Eagle Proof series; because 1850-1858 proofs were not minted for the collecting community. Only a hand full of known specimens is known representing all of these years. This is from a 2014 auction description: Although none are identified today, it is likely that a small number of proof 1850 double eagles were coined. There are no known Philadelphia Mint proofs of 1851 through 1857, although one 1854-S exists, and a remarkable 1856-O is called proof by some, specimen by others. There are currently four 1858 proof double eagles known, including three in museums. Seven or eight known 1859 proof double eagles include three in museums, and eight known 1860 proofs also include three in museums. The 1859 and 1860 double eagles are the earliest collectible examples.
Census of 1860 Proof Double Eagles (If the POP reports are correct, there may be others)
Privately Held Specimens
PR66 Cameo NGC -Garrett Collection (Finest Private Specimen, may be finest overall)
PR64 Deep Cameo PCGS - Wolfson Collection (Coin is no longer listed in PCGS POP report, why?)
PR64 Cameo PCGS - Ed Trompeter Collection (I believe to be Hansen's new coin)
PR64 Cameo NGC - Slotkin Family Trust Collection
PR64 NGC - Henry Miller Collection
Museum Specimens
PR67 Cameo - Mehl / Alto / Bass, on loan to the ANA (May be finest, but grade not certified)
PR63 Deep Cameo. Smithsonian. (Acquired in 1985 to complete only known 1859-1907 set)
PR63. J.P. Morgan (1908); American Numismatic Society.
Hansen’s new 1860 Double Eagle CA Proof is tied for the finest (2 specimens). The missing PCGS PR64DAM is puzzling. I cannot make a direct link to confirm the history of this coin. In comparing pictures of Hansen’s coin and previous auctions, I believe this coin is the Ed Trompeter Specimen. If anyone disagrees, please let us know. This coin has been sold in several auctions in last couple decades. The coin was sold in a Heritage 2000 auction. The coin brought specimen record of $189,750 in a 2005 Superior auction. It appears the coin may have sold in a Bowers & Merrena and another Heritage auction. In the 2004 Heritage auction, the coin was described as: The scintillating surfaces show rich, yellow-gold coloration. Richly frosted, the devices contrast nicely with the bottomless fields. Both sides reveal a few inconspicuous hairlines, although we stress that the surfaces are free of unduly distracting impairments and are premium quality for the grade. This is a simply stunning upper Condition Census proof that shares the PR64 Cameo level with only 1 other NGC example. While the current Guide Book lists this issue's mintage at 59 pieces, we caution against putting too much faith in this number when evaluating the rarity of extant representatives. In his Encyclopedia, Walter Breen asserts that fewer than 10 examples survive in all grades. The total number of pieces is probably much less as the two major grading services have graded only 7 pieces in all grades including Cameos. We feel confident in concluding that the proof 1860 production is one of the premier rarities in the entire Double Eagle series.
Coin Facts price this coin at $280,000. Being this coin was purchased privately; it is hard to say what price the coin sold. The last PR64CA in a NGC holder sold in a 2011 Heritage auction for $230,000. The coin did not have a CAC sticker at the time of the sale. I think the Hansen coin looks much better than that coin. (Do you agree?) I hope DLH continues to work on his early proofs. This new coin is another very nice addition to the Proof Collection.
Provenance: Ed Trompeter Collection
In comparing to Eliasberg, he did not have this coin. It is perhaps a strong statement that the world famous Eliasberg collection did not contain a proof example of this issue. Neither did the Pittman and Norweb collections. With its absence from these and other important collections of gold coinage, it is clear that this issue is a prominent rarity in proof format.
from a 2014 auction description: Although none are identified today, it is likely that a small number of proof 1850 double eagles were coined.
The 1850 proof double eagle has been discussed on a few forum threads; in particular this one: https://forums.collectors.com/discussion/993882/1850-proof-double-eagle-inquiry
My understanding is that there is a proof 1850 $20 in a Paris museum, verified by several people.
A forum member also has the ex- Dr. C.W. Green 1850 in a SEGS holder graded PR-62. This one appears to be "close to" a proof, although B. Max Mehl called it not a proof.
I know some people say you measure a collection like this by just a few of the top rarities (i.e 1804 dollar, 1913 Nickel, etc) but for me its coins like the 1860 $20 Gold Proof that amaze me. Assuming that Hansen gets one of everything, I am more impressed with coins like this proof gold example that abound in this collection as opposed to whether he has the fourth best 1913 nickel vs the best. Coins like the 1860 Proof Gold are just as rare in many instances (and I believe undervalued) and Hansen has been picking up many of these "unsung heros".
Comments
MacArthur was...right.
We shudda KEPT Japan.
I haven't commented much lately, but just wanted to say that I enjoyed the write-up on the Diana Collection.
Dell Loy has certainly added a number of really quality #2 sets. They are a work in progress, so you might see some major changes when we swap coins for the overall #1 in our opinion, etc but these were put together recently with a number of the duplicates where the coins were just too nice to put up for sale!
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 PR gold was sucked up by two huge telemarketers from japan. This was years ago. I sold them a monster 1891 SET all 66/67 DC!! They would only buy real cam's or Dcameos
This is completely uncomfirmed, but there are somewhere around 10-12,000 total. I don't have access to the exact number at the moment as the PCGS software isn't quite built for that kind of quantity...
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
Today, we reached 50K views. Thank you for riding along the past seven months that we have been watching this set grow. I did the last one of these updates at 25K on Aug 12th. I think this is a good time to recap some of what we have seen.
Let’s talk about the misses first. The auctions at August ANA presented an opportunity to acquire two of the ultra-rarities needed in the quest, the 1913 Eliasberg Nickel and the newly discovered 1854-S Half Eagle. Hansen did not end up with either; although, he has added three countdown coins to his collection along the way. All are southern gold rarities from branch mints.
Countdown #28 was the 1841-D Quarter Eagle
Countdown #27 was the 1864-S Half Eagle
Countdown #26 was the 1856-D Quarter Eagle
We also saw Hansen put effort, time and money in the modern portion of the collection. He completed the modern proofs including the major varieties, with the exception of two great modern ultra-rarities. They are the 1975 No S Proof Dime (Two Known) and the 1976-S Type 2 Unique Silver Eisenhower Dollar. The best modern addition was the 1971-S TY1 Rev PR69DCAM Silver Ike that was obtain from Justin Spivack (Monster Coin).
Eliasberg Quest (classic style)
This is the collection that gets the most attention at this time. According to my count, The Hansen Collection has 26 coins left. A complete collection have not been achieved but once before by Louis Eliasberg. Many experts say it will never be accomplished again. I say that only time will tell.
Hansen Challenge
I am coining (pun intended) the term, Hansen Challenge for this first time. I personally think of this collection as more than just a Quest to match Eliasberg, or just a better grade. It appear to me, Hansen is on a mission to collect every date, mint mark, major variety, and proof in the US issues from 1793-Present (or as close to every as possible). With the 2018 issues, we are talking about approx. 6300 coins. The Hansen Collection master set reached 90% complete on October 6th. This is a massive effort that maybe no one has ever made a serious attempt to achieve before. PCGS has a registry set that represents this effort.
https://www.pcgs.com/setregistry/complete-sets/master-sets/u-s-coins-complete-set-major-varieties-circulation-strikes-proof-1792-present/3072
This is a colossal set with about 6300 coins that increase every year. PCGS describes the set as: Every U.S. coin in Circulation Strike and Proof from 1792 to present, every date, every Mintmark, every major variety, this set is the ultimate challenge. A collection of this size could take years to assemble. The collector who completes this set in high grade would make numismatic history. Are you up to the challenge? To be honest, after studying the set, in some ways it is a fantasy set. There are a few proofs that are not available for private purchase and a couple major variety gold coins. I think the set could be could be completed to aprox. 99.9% and Hansen is approaching 91% rapidly. It is going to interesting to watch and see how close he can meet the Hansen Challenge
.
Breakdown of the Hansen Challenge
CS Pre 1964 Basic – 15 left coins left (down 3 from last update)
CS Pre 1964 Major Varieties -65 coins left (down 7 from last update)
CS Modern Basic – Complete (down 32 from last update)
CS Modern Major Varieties – 123 coins left (down 78 from last update)
Proof Pre 1964 Basic – 330 coins left (13 down from last update)
Proof Pre 1964 Major Varieties – 24 coins left (6 down from last update)
Proof Modern (including Major Varieties) – 2 coins left (53 coins down from last update)
Total – approx. 560 coins left of 6300. Roughly 90%. (Added approx. 175 coins in the last 3 months)
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
IMHO and I could be wrong, just because a coin is in a museum somewhere doesn't mean a deal couldn't be made to extract said coin from a private holding.
Museums need $$$ too.
Later, Paul.
Count Down 25 – Unusual and Very Strange
It is very unusual to see two countdown coins in five days. This brings the Eliasberg Quest countdown to only 25 coins. The 1846-C Half Eagle was the last coin needed to complete the Basic Charlotte Gold Set. DLH still needs a couple Major Varieties including the ultra-rare 1849-C Open Wreath Dollar. The strange thing about the addition is not the timing of a new update, but timing of the sale. The sequence of events makes no sense to me. Maybe someone can explain to me what I saw. It was not an UFO, but in the numismatics world it was strange. Before we get into that, let’s discuss the coin, because it is a very nice coin and a great addition.
This 1846-C is a tough date to find in nice certified condition. The total PCGS POP for this coin is 74, with presently only five certified in MS condition. Four in the group are MS60-MS62. The only choice coin is the Eliasberg PCGS MS64. The Eliasberg specimen last appeared in auction was 1982. The coin has changed hands privately several times. Expert Doug Winter describes 1846-C HAlf Eagle this way: After having been closed for more than a full year because of a fire, the Charlotte Mint reopened in October 1846. It is probable that the quarter eagles and the half eagles produced during this year saw especially strong demand due to the shortage caused by the absence of production for a year. The surfaces on most examples are heavily marked. This is an issue that appears to have been actively used in commerce. As a result, deep obtrusive marks are commonly seen in the fields and on the devices as well. Many have been cleaned with hairlines seen in the fields. This is an extremely hard coin to find with original surfaces.
1846-C Half Eagle AU55+ CAC Cert 35824486 PCGS POP 1/9 (Survival approx. 300)
This is the only PCGS POP AU55+ PCGS graded coin. The history of the coin is not stated. The auctioneer states the coin is “fresh to the market”. Anyone know what that means? The coin is very nice and described as high end. PCGS Price Guide lists this coin as having a value of $7,900. There is one MS60 PCGS graded coin that is valued at $19,000. This AU55+ just sold in a Legend Auction for $18,212.50!
The coin was purchase in Legend’s Regency Auction 29 that took place Thursday, November 15, 2018 at 5:30PM CT in San Antonio, TX. I give you the time and date because it is important later. Legend estimated the coin at $7,500 - $8,000. If you have been a constant watcher, you would know that Hansen has paid well above the Legend estimate on several coins recently. Legend describes the coin as: Looks are deceiving. At first glance we thought his coin was Uncirculated. No, we don't need stronger glasses. The coin actually looks that good. It is HIGH END for sure. Amazing surfaces are almost full Mint State quality. Save for one small tick, the surfaces are super clean. The surfaces also have a thick satiny texture. A surprising luster beams vividly from all over. You can tell nothing has ever been done to this coin. Both sides are a wonderful and totally original deeper yellow gold color. The clear reason why this is not an AU 58+, there is some weakness in the strike on the eagle’s neck. All other details are super frosty and are fully struck. The eye appeal is beyond exceptional especially since this is C mint! This is the ONLY PCGS AU55+ graded. It has never been sold via auction. The consignor told us it is fresh to the market. It should be known that the last AU55 sold in 2006! The rarity of this date and grade cannot be disputed. We think the Collector’s Universe estimate of $7,900 is way off as are all the AU values. If you collect C Mint $5 or just $5, this is a coin that will thrill you. It belongs in a great collection! It appear to me that DLH and John likes what they saw in this coin. There are nine certified coins that are technically better. I am not sure how many of them have the CAC sticker. This coin is outside of being a condition consensus coin, but it could be top 5 on looks and appeal. I am not one that can judge. Here is the coin (#25) for you to see.
1846-C Half Eagle AU55+ CAC
Now, here the strange piece of the puzzle. I have to admit, if you can solve the riddle you are better than me. I first saw this coin added to the Hansen set Wednesday night. The PCGS Revision Time Stamp was 11/14/2018 3:05 PM. As I do most of the time, I try for find some history on the specimen, i.e. last auction, pedigree, really anything I can find traced to the certification number. I could not find anything from a historical perspective. This is not usual for Hansen’s coins. I was stun when I discovered the coin to be in an active auction! This coin entered in Hansen’s inventory on 11/14 was a coin that was in an auction that does not close until 11/15. So, Wednesday night, the last time that I check the auction, the bid was $11K. We know the when the bidding closed on Thursday, the coin sold for $18K. Was Hansen so confident in his bid, that he listed the coin early in his update? Is there another possibility that I am missing. I decided not the post the update in thinking Hansen may have entered this coin in error. As of this morning, the coin is still in his set, and he made three other updates since entering this coin on Wednesday. Does anyone else find this to be strange? Or know a solution to the puzzle?
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
@Currin
I would guess that some people are more confident in their bids than others
Sounds like someone was pretty confident...however in running it is considered bad luck to wear the official race t-shirt on or before race day...
Coin World is reporting that the "Walton" specimen of the 1913 Lib. Nickel is up for auction on eBay of all places for $3.49 Million.
Link: https://www.ebay.com/itm/1913-LIBERTY-HEAD-NICKEL-WALTON-SPECIMEN-PCGS-PROOF-63/264020041214?hash=item3d78d21dfe:g:FggAAOSwNqJbaYwB:rk:1:pf:0
Later, Paul.
If Hansen gets the nickel, he can get $100 in eBay bucks!
Later, Paul.
Hey, Del Loy - buy this and we can get our pics taken with our 1913s in one hand and 1804s in the other.
If it were JUST 2 times, it would things easier. Many times it's adding a coin to see how it would improve a set...the problem is when we don't win it...
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
...gotta wait for the race to finish before you can cash your ticket
New Upgrade Breakaway Coin (1863 Liberty Eagle)
This is a fine Eagle. If you are an old gold coin guy, you can’t get better than this upgrade. This is a very tough date with only one coin certified as mint state (disputed). According to Coin Facts, this is not only the finest grade, but it is a full 5 points better that the #2. It is the only 1863 Eagle graded higher than an AU58, and this one is much better, a choice specimen! Doug Winter in his write-up mentions a MS62 from the S.S. Republic, but Coins Facts list the Republic specimen as an estimated AU58.
The PCGS price guide lists PCGS MS63 specimen as $200,000. This coin lasted appeared in a Bowers & Merena Auction 18 years ago where it sold for $52,900. This specimen is the auction record holder for 1863 Eagles, when this coin sold in the Cornerstone Sale for $104,500. At that time, the coin was in a NGC MS63. Hansen’s acquisition appears to be a recent private transaction with the terms not being public.
Doug Winter describes the coin this way: All of the Civil War era Liberty Head eagles are scarce (with the exception of the 1861) but the 1863 is a key rarity in this subset. In fact, I regard it as among the very rarest 19th century Philadelphia gold coins. Only 1,248 business strikes were issued of which an estimated 30-40 are known. The finest is the superb Bass lV: 683 ex: MARCA 8/91 that brought $52,900 in its last appearance (an amazing bargain) after Harry Bass had paid $104,500 for it back in 1991. The second finest known is an NGC MS62 from the S.S. Republic that is owned by a prominent Western collector. Almost every example that I have seen grades EF45 or below and is characterized by excessively abraded surfaces. The luster is either soft or frosty or, less often, semi-prooflike and the strike tends to be bold with the exception of the curl directly above Liberty's ear.
1863 $10 MS63 CERTIFICATION#: 05652511 PCGS POP 1/0 CAC replaces 1863 AU53 PCGS POP 3/4
Provenance: Heck Dodson Collection - MARCA 8/1991:755, $104,500 - Harry Bass Collection - Bowers & Merena 11/2000:683, $52,900
In comparing to Eliasberg’s specimen, his circulating coin was an XF45 assumed grade from Randall (1897); Clapp Collection (1942). Sold by Bowers & Ruddy Oct '82 price realized $30,800.
I was not able to find a picture of this coin. I too would love to see this coin. If someone can find a picture of this coin, please post.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
amazing upgrade. 1863 in AU53 is extremely rare but in MS63 is just jaw dropping. These types of upgrades are very special.
The 1863 $10 is indeed a very special item. It was offered to me by a good friend, but I'm not sure that I can disclose the seller. The coin had been put away for quite some time with a collector and when it was offered to me, I knew that it was a piece that I had to buy, whether or not Mr. Hansen would want it or not. Thankfully, he did and it now resides in the perfect collection. This is actually one of my favorite coins in the collection now as it's something that is irreplaceable and underappreciated. In the words of my colleague, Paul Nugget, "If you're looking for a high quality Eagle from 1863, you'll go decades looking for one. This is a special coin indeed!"
Edited to add: I'll try to post an image here tomorrow if I can figure it out. There's no trueview as the holder is a bit older, but we imaged this one ourselves this afternoon.
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 John, The picture will be nice. I was somewhat surprisesd not being able to find a picture.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Just fantastic.
Coin's for sale/trade.
Tom Pilitowski
US Rare Coin Investments
800-624-1870
This coin sounds amazing. Would love to see it.
Later, Paul.
Yes, and 1863 $10 is impossible.. congrats JB
John
how active do you see Mr. Hansen being over the next few years given what he already has and what he has accomplished?
Here's the 1863 $10 PCGS MS63 ex: Bass, Albanese, etc.
davidlawrence.com/product/1677360
This coin came to me from John Albanese (CAC). It's even more amazing in-hand. Maybe we'll bring it to the FUN show to display.
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
I wish that I had an answer to this, but I can say that he hasn't slowed down at all. In fact, I've spoken to him about coins more often in the last few weeks than I had in a while. When he has extra time, coins are his most serious hobby, so if he isn't working with something (whether it be work or charity, etc), he's looking at coins.
Improving certain sets, building secondary sets, or just checking out what's going on in coins, he's still enjoying it now as much as ever.
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 for sharing John. Does Mr. Hansen still watch this theard from time to time? If so, I hope he enjoys us in the community watching his progression.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
That’s a beautiful 1863 $10. JA doesn’t sticker his own coins?
That 1863 is 10/10 cool
Latin American Collection
Wow!!!
Honestly, I didn't ask him why he didn't sticker this coin. There are certain coins that might not quite pass CAC's muster, but they are so significant it really doesn't matter.
To know John is to know that if he didn't think this coin should have CAC'd 10 years ago, he's not going to change it now that he's selling it. That's why he's one of the few people in this business that I would trust completely.
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
I know that he pops in and sees this occasionally. His daughter does as well. It really excites him that so many other people are involved in watching the collection's growth!
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
OT:
Lets take a break for a minute and say a prayer for John Brush and his family. His mom just passed away after battling a short illness
May she rest in peace and may he have strength during this tough time
Prayers. Wish all the best.
So sorry to hear this John
Life is not fair at times
R
Dang John, so sorry to hear. Your mother was a wonderful person! She will be missed.
I am sorry to hear also. Prayers with you and family John. You only have one Mom in a lifetime. You really don’t know just how much you will miss her until it happens...
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
So sorry to hear about your mother John. She will be in our prayers. I hope you and your family are doing OK during this very difficult time.
Proof Gold Quarter Eagle Addition
1868 Quarter Eagle is latest addition to Hansen Basic Proof set. This increases his completion percentage to about 71.5%. He has 326 coins left to obtain. The mintage for this proof is published to be 25. PCGS places the survival to be 16 to 20 known. The PCGS POP reports 9 total certified Proofs and 3 certified Cameo Proofs. The finest specimen is this PF65CAM. The other two other specimens are certified as PR64CAMs. The PCGS PF65CAM last appeared in the January 2009 Orlando Rarities Sale auctioned by Bowers & Merena. The coin sold for an auction record price of $43,700 that stood until one of the PCGS PR64CAM specimens sold for $48,000 earlier this year. That coin had an estimated value of$20,000 to $22,000 before it was hammered at $48K. That coin did have the CAC sticker. It would be curious to know if Hansen was the under bidder for that coin.
1868 Quarter Eagle PR65CA Cert 25695135 PCGS POP 1/0
This quarter eagle is finest known specimen of the 9 PCGS certified 1868 proofs. This coin was sold in the auction 2003 and again 2009, where the coin brought $24,725 and $43,700 respectively. I have no real knowledge of the value, but could we assume the present value of this specimen could be $100,00? It appears DLH may have purchased this coin in a private transaction. There is not much history or story that I can find on this coin.
Coin Facts price this coin at $42,500. As suggested above, I do not feel this to be even close to the true value. The coin that sold early this year (PF64CA) brought more than the current PCGS value of this coin. I am not sure if this coin has the CAC sticker. When updated in Hansen’s set, it was not indicated in the note that it was. Therefore, I would lend toward that it is more probable that it is not. I wish I could share more on this coin and have a picture, but I cannot do either. The coin is a very nice addition to the Proof Set.
I think this Hansen specimen Is much nicer coin that the Eliasberg specimen. The Eliasberg registry set describes his specimen as assumed graded Choice Proof, Ex. Parmelee Collection; NY Stamp & Coin (1890); Woodin; Elder (1911); Clapp Collection (1942). Sold by Bowers & Ruddy Oct '82 price realized $5,720.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Condolences to John and his family.
Hansen's coin is cameo not deep cameo correct?
Yes, that is correct. PCGS does not show any DCAMs graded for this Quarter Eagle date.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
So you could edit your post:
old:
1868 Quarter Eagle PR65DC Cert 25695135 PCGS POP 1/0
new:
1868 Quarter Eagle PR65CA Cert 25695135 PCGS POP 1/0
Sorry, I missed that. Thanks
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Lincoln Upgrade
This Lincoln upgrade helps us view a little sliver of the methodology that is being used to build this historic collection. John has been telling us for some time now, that they are not chasing coins. I guess we can think about it this way, in building a collection of maybe 10-15 thousand coins, chasing every coin may not be possible. The coin in this upgrade is for a not very exciting dated Lincoln cent. In fact, for a 1933-D uncirculated specimen it could be said they are a dime a dozen. The upgrade is replacing a MS67RD PCGS POP 38/1 specimen with a MS67+RD POP 1/0. The value of the coin increased from $1,750 to $13,500. Is it really worth it? The change in the set is so small that it is not measurable. If this is done one time, I feel it would be meaningless. If this is the system for building the collection, then over a longer period of time when all these upgrades add up, then it will turn into some very special. As we know, the way the coins are being acquired is by offers for private purchase or auctions. By John’s account, if the offer is fair, and coin will improve the collection, then he may be interested. With that being said, this coin was purchased in a David Lawrence Auction. That may give some insight on overall transaction. To me, it appears Hansen was willing to lose this coin, but if coin sold for his price, he would purchase this specimen in the open auction.
This coin is fairly common with close to 1800 certified by PCGS alone; although, the Hansen specimen is unique in condition census. The coin is described by Ron Guth this way: According to a notice in the June 1934 issue of The Numismatist (p. 416), collectors could still purchase Uncirculated 1933-D Cents for "the face value of the coins and an amount sufficient to cover the mail charges by first-class mail."
1933-D Lincoln RD MS67+ RD CAC Cert 81341130 – Replaces 1933-D PCGS MS67 POP 38/1
This origin of this coin appears to have a recent history. This coin was first auctioned in a 2016 Stack’s and Bowers Auction. The coin was described as Finest Known 1933-D Lincoln Cent. The coin carried a CAC sticker. The auctioneer describe the coin this way: This is a breathtakingly beautiful Superb Gem that really needs to be seen to be fully appreciated. Vivid salmon pink and lilac iridescence rings the obverse periphery, a splash of similar color also decorating the central reverse. Otherwise bright orange luster with a sharp strike and smooth texture from rim to rim. Struck in the depths of the Great Depression, the slightly more than six million Lincoln cents that rolled off of the Denver Mint's presses were not in demand at the time and many were retained by the Treasury. Few examples could be found in circulation, but collectors could purchase a pair of the coins from the government for face value and First Class postage. As the economy revived, so too did demand for coins and the 1933-D cents finally entered circulation in earnest. Large numbers were saved by speculators hoping to cash in on a premium for Mint State coins. As a result, almost a tenth of the entire mintage are thought to remain extant, including a significant quantity of uncirculated coins. Despite this, finding appealing Gem Mint State specimens often can present a challenge, and certainly in grades above MS-66. While there is a limited number of MS-67 examples to fill collector requirements, only one of these has earned the vaunted Plus designation. As the sole representative of the issue to gain entry into that illustrious club, there will be considerable attention among Registry Set collectors and Lincoln cent specialists when this coin crosses the auction block. The coin realized $10,575 at the November 2016 Baltimore Rarities Night sale.
Jump forward to the present, DLH purchased this coin in an internet auction on November 4th. The auction had just a simple description: Underrated date in full red. Rare this nice. Hints of orange-magenta enhance the look of this beauty which drips with a lustrous patina. CAC approved for quality. PCGS+ grade for premium quality at the top of end of the assigned grade. DLH paid a new auction record price of $12,900, slightly below the PCGS Guide Price of $13,500. This coin is credited to be from the Stiel Collection (PCGS Set Registry). I am not familiar with this collection, but some of you may. To me, the coin is a spectacular specimen. The color is amazing. Feel free to comment on your thoughts on this coin.
Provenance: Stiel Collection (PCGS Set Registry)
In comparing to Eliasberg’s specimen, his registry set describes his specimen as estimate grade MS65RD, The Eliasberg coin was sold by Bowers & Ruddy May '96 as part of a large lot. This circle us back to the start of the discussion. The DLH is assembling some of the finest common coins, if they come available at a fair price. The Eliasberg collection had the finest ultra-rarities for sure, but I don’t think he spent time on hunting down the finest common coins. The Hansen Collection is being built during the registry era, then his common coins are going to be some of the finest examples known. As he did with this upgrade, removing a specimen tied for second finest and replacing with the finest known!
Finest Known 1933-D Lincoln RD MS67+ RD CAC
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Great write up. Thanks!
New Gold Proof Double Eagle Addition
This is a new addition that really stands out from recent upgrades and additions. For the folks that have been tracking this thread the past six months can confirm, we have seen some great coins added this year. With the 2019 January 9 - 14 FUN Signature Auction in Orlando that some great early proof dimes and quarters, I thought DLH might take is foot off the gas the last few weeks this year. This new coin suggests that is not what going to take place. This is an early proof Double Eagle that is very expensive and rare. This addition is a very nice specimen going into the last month of the year.
Proof Double Eagles are rare. Early Proof Double Eagles are double as rare. We know the series started in 1850. There is one known 1949 Proof Double Eagle that is in the Smithsonian. Many professionals believe the coin would sell for a record of $20 Million Dollars if it was to enter the market. The PCGS registry set starts with 1859 Double Eagle Proof series; because 1850-1858 proofs were not minted for the collecting community. Only a hand full of known specimens is known representing all of these years. This is from a 2014 auction description: Although none are identified today, it is likely that a small number of proof 1850 double eagles were coined. There are no known Philadelphia Mint proofs of 1851 through 1857, although one 1854-S exists, and a remarkable 1856-O is called proof by some, specimen by others. There are currently four 1858 proof double eagles known, including three in museums. Seven or eight known 1859 proof double eagles include three in museums, and eight known 1860 proofs also include three in museums. The 1859 and 1860 double eagles are the earliest collectible examples.
Census of 1860 Proof Double Eagles (If the POP reports are correct, there may be others)
Privately Held Specimens
PR66 Cameo NGC -Garrett Collection (Finest Private Specimen, may be finest overall)
PR64 Deep Cameo PCGS - Wolfson Collection (Coin is no longer listed in PCGS POP report, why?)
PR64 Cameo PCGS - Ed Trompeter Collection (I believe to be Hansen's new coin)
PR64 Cameo NGC - Slotkin Family Trust Collection
PR64 NGC - Henry Miller Collection
Museum Specimens
PR67 Cameo - Mehl / Alto / Bass, on loan to the ANA (May be finest, but grade not certified)
PR63 Deep Cameo. Smithsonian. (Acquired in 1985 to complete only known 1859-1907 set)
PR63. J.P. Morgan (1908); American Numismatic Society.
1860 Double Eagle Proof Cameo PR64CA CAC (CERTIFICATION#: 06663059) PCGS POP 2/0
Hansen’s new 1860 Double Eagle CA Proof is tied for the finest (2 specimens). The missing PCGS PR64DAM is puzzling. I cannot make a direct link to confirm the history of this coin. In comparing pictures of Hansen’s coin and previous auctions, I believe this coin is the Ed Trompeter Specimen. If anyone disagrees, please let us know. This coin has been sold in several auctions in last couple decades. The coin was sold in a Heritage 2000 auction. The coin brought specimen record of $189,750 in a 2005 Superior auction. It appears the coin may have sold in a Bowers & Merrena and another Heritage auction. In the 2004 Heritage auction, the coin was described as: The scintillating surfaces show rich, yellow-gold coloration. Richly frosted, the devices contrast nicely with the bottomless fields. Both sides reveal a few inconspicuous hairlines, although we stress that the surfaces are free of unduly distracting impairments and are premium quality for the grade. This is a simply stunning upper Condition Census proof that shares the PR64 Cameo level with only 1 other NGC example. While the current Guide Book lists this issue's mintage at 59 pieces, we caution against putting too much faith in this number when evaluating the rarity of extant representatives. In his Encyclopedia, Walter Breen asserts that fewer than 10 examples survive in all grades. The total number of pieces is probably much less as the two major grading services have graded only 7 pieces in all grades including Cameos. We feel confident in concluding that the proof 1860 production is one of the premier rarities in the entire Double Eagle series.
Coin Facts price this coin at $280,000. Being this coin was purchased privately; it is hard to say what price the coin sold. The last PR64CA in a NGC holder sold in a 2011 Heritage auction for $230,000. The coin did not have a CAC sticker at the time of the sale. I think the Hansen coin looks much better than that coin. (Do you agree?) I hope DLH continues to work on his early proofs. This new coin is another very nice addition to the Proof Collection.
Provenance: Ed Trompeter Collection
In comparing to Eliasberg, he did not have this coin. It is perhaps a strong statement that the world famous Eliasberg collection did not contain a proof example of this issue. Neither did the Pittman and Norweb collections. With its absence from these and other important collections of gold coinage, it is clear that this issue is a prominent rarity in proof format.
Hansen – Trompeter 1860 Double Eagle Proof Cameo PR64CA - Extremely Rare
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Must be in a rattler or OGH with that cert number and old style true view. What a coin.
Holy Crap!!!!!!!!
The 1850 proof double eagle has been discussed on a few forum threads; in particular this one:
https://forums.collectors.com/discussion/993882/1850-proof-double-eagle-inquiry
My understanding is that there is a proof 1850 $20 in a Paris museum, verified by several people.
A forum member also has the ex- Dr. C.W. Green 1850 in a SEGS holder graded PR-62. This one appears to be "close to" a proof, although B. Max Mehl called it not a proof.
I know some people say you measure a collection like this by just a few of the top rarities (i.e 1804 dollar, 1913 Nickel, etc) but for me its coins like the 1860 $20 Gold Proof that amaze me. Assuming that Hansen gets one of everything, I am more impressed with coins like this proof gold example that abound in this collection as opposed to whether he has the fourth best 1913 nickel vs the best. Coins like the 1860 Proof Gold are just as rare in many instances (and I believe undervalued) and Hansen has been picking up many of these "unsung heros".
Agree 100%. Quality, eye appeal and interesting coins make for the best collections