Something else that I appreciate about Mr Hansen is that he is building a historic collection in public and with transparency. Some major collections will always be private and others are only made public after completion or when sold. What Hansen is doing is a bit unique. The downside for him is we see all the mistakes, we often know the price paid, we know the coins he needs, etc. Others who have built major collections certainly have made mistakes or may have overpaid but we don't see it. Mr. Hansen seems to be confident enough not to worry about any of this. The upside for Mr Hansen is I believe he is having a blast sharing this with everyone and the upside for collectors is having a ringside seat for this remarkable achievement.
there are a few I miss like 1794 half cent, the 1796 cent and the 1795 Eagle. At the same time its fun for me to think about what to do next in the coin universe
there are a few I miss like 1794 half cent, the 1796 cent and the 1795 Eagle. At the same time its fun for me to think about what to do next in the coin universe
there are a few I miss like 1794 half cent, the 1796 cent and the 1795 Eagle. At the same time its fun for me to think about what to do next in the coin universe
there are a few I miss like 1794 half cent, the 1796 cent and the 1795 Eagle. At the same time its fun for me to think about what to do next in the coin universe
@Gazes said:
Something else that I appreciate about Mr Hansen is that he is building a historic collection in public and with transparency. Some major collections will always be private and others are only made public after completion or when sold. What Hansen is doing is a bit unique. The downside for him is we see all the mistakes, we often know the price paid, we know the coins he needs, etc. Others who have built major collections certainly have made mistakes or may have overpaid but we don't see it. Mr. Hansen seems to be confident enough not to worry about any of this. The upside for Mr Hansen is I believe he is having a blast sharing this with everyone and the upside for collectors is having a ringside seat for this remarkable achievement.
Well said. Fine if he doesn't have the best collection ever yet. He's showing very few signs of slowing down.
I enjoy the critiques from different members that may know particular series better than Hansen or any of us. It has the potential to elevate the discussion.
there are a few I miss like 1794 half cent, the 1796 cent and the 1795 Eagle. At the same time its fun for me to think about what to do next in the coin universe
If one doesn’t know that market, one won’t realize that one almost always has to ‘overpay’ to get a great early coin. One might be more comfortable ‘overpaying’ less for a 19th century condition rarity or stepping up big for a transient pop 1 semi modern.
Am I the only one turned off by the continued promotion of the monetary value of the Tyrant collection?
It’s obviously a terrific collection, and has some spectacular ancient and world coins, to go along with US. I am particularly in awe of the British coins. But it’s not all about monetary value and worth.
Like it or not, it grabs the general public’s attention and is what non collectors pay attention to...so it’s good for the hobby in that it might attract some new collectors
@Nap said:
Am I the only one turned off by the continued promotion of the monetary value of the Tyrant collection?
It’s obviously a terrific collection, and has some spectacular ancient and world coins, to go along with US. I am particularly in awe of the British coins. But it’s not all about monetary value and worth.
@tradedollarnut said:
Like it or not, it grabs the general public’s attention and is what non collectors pay attention to...so it’s good for the hobby in that it might attract some new collectors
That might be true but is that on topic for this particular thread?
Perhaps there could be another thread on the best way to capture entice collectors with big dollar collections, especially as it relates to collections other than Hansen's?
@tradedollarnut said:
If one doesn’t know that market, one won’t realize that one almost always has to ‘overpay’ to get a great early coin. One might be more comfortable ‘overpaying’ less for a 19th century condition rarity or stepping up big for a transient pop 1 semi modern.
I agree this is the case, especially in a mature market with strong hands, but I've also seen a few major rarities sell for less after previous buyers ‘overpaid’. Timing, opportunity, and desire all go into how much one is willing to or needs to ‘overpay’.
@tradedollarnut said:
Forgive me - I didn’t know that I needed permission to respond to a post here. /eyeroll
Well, we all need permission from our hosts. I like your posts and don't want to see anything happen here, especially after all the Simpson posts in this thread previously, which was unfortunate.
@tradedollarnut said:
Forgive me - I didn’t know that I needed permission to respond to a post here. /eyeroll
Well, we all need permission from our hosts. I like your posts and don't want to see anything happen here, especially after all the Simpson posts in this thread previously, which was unfortunate.
@tradedollarnut said:
Forgive me - I didn’t know that I needed permission to respond to a post here. /eyeroll
Well, we all need permission from our hosts. I like your posts and don't want to see anything happen here, especially after all the Simpson posts in this thread previously, which was unfortunate.
Pffft. Apples and oranges
I see more than a passing resemblance but post away. I was just offering a suggestion.
Generally Speaking
Tyrant continually exhibits his coins
at the Long Beach for the public to see
Hansen really only exhibits his coins
On the PCGS message boards and the PCGS Set Registry web site.
Like I said before , perhaps it is time for Hansen to exhibit some of his sets at major shows and invite people with same sets to exhibit
their sets.
Someone asked where the 1795 $10 is... I responded with a pertinent link. And my other responses were pertinent to questions raised in others’ posts. If you think that’s out of line, then take it up with the people posting the questions and don’t focus on the person answering them appropriately.
@RedCopper said:
Generally Speaking
Tyrant continually exhibits his coins
at the Long Beach for the public to see
Hansen really only exhibits his coins
On the PCGS message boards and the PCGS Set Registry web site.
Like I said before , perhaps it is time for Hansen to exhibit some of his sets at major shows and invite people with same sets to exhibit
their sets.
I think having Hansen display his set publicly is a great discussion and could be very beneficial for the hobby. I think your idea of having a few sets displayed together could be very interesting.
However, just because one person does something, that isn't necessarily a reason for someone else to do the same. For example, if Hansen collects non-anonymously, should Tyrant do the same? If Hansen has public registry sets, should RSD and Blay do the same?
DLH displayed a set last year at fun. I think it was seated dollars.
I also believe his trade dollars were at one show.
Who cares,if this is goes off ,topic at times. So what. This is probably one of the most read posts so why not discuss other topics within reason. I rarely read other posts.
Yes one usually must over pay and yes if that person sells too soon the coin can go for lass.
Just saw the Pogue sale email. I did not realize there were more coins. Anyone know the highlights? Maybe that is off,topic? -:)
@btcollects said:
I gotta ask... How does that conversation go? "John Brush, I'm selling my HOF type set, does your client want to buy anything?" How did we get to the point where the biggest buyer of top end coins doesn't buy most of these once-every-10-or-20-year coins? Is it a clash of personalities, or is it as simple as a matter of price? In the land of quarter million dollar mercury dimes, the price explanation doesn't make sense to me. Is that the point?
I really dont know, but no clash of personalities. He bought for about a million or so, but mostly more modern coins.
@tradedollarnut said:
Like it or not, it grabs the general public’s attention and is what non collectors pay attention to...so it’s good for the hobby in that it might attract some new collectors
Tyrant is an example really on how collecting done right. And its the biggest and greatest contemporary coin collection in existence.
@tradedollarnut said:
Like it or not, it grabs the general public’s attention and is what non collectors pay attention to...so it’s good for the hobby in that it might attract some new collectors
Tyrant is an example really on how collecting done right. And its the biggest and greatest contemporary coin collection in existence.
There are many "right" ways to collect. Personally, I love what Hansen is doing because it's much easier to enjoy and discuss online like we're doing, and the trend is towards more online participation than offline. I actually think it's pretty hard to enjoy the Tyrant collection online. For example, when I go to their website and click the menu for "The Collection", I'm not sure where to find the United States as it appears US coins are not part of the collection. The collection has 5 top level categories for geographic areas but nothing for the Americas.
@Perfection said:
DLH displayed a set last year at fun. I think it was seated dollars.
I also believe his trade dollars were at one show.
Who cares,if this is goes off ,topic at times. So what. This is probably one of the most read posts so why not discuss other topics within reason. I rarely read other posts.
Yes one usually must over pay and yes if that person sells too soon the coin can go for lass.
Just saw the Pogue sale email. I did not realize there were more coins. Anyone know the highlights? Maybe that is off,topic? -:)
The Pogue collection is / was amazing. We used to have rich Pogue threads here but perhaps it's a testament to the "Hansen Effect" on collecting that people want to talk about Pogue, Tyrant, and others in the context of Hansen's collection?
@tradedollarnut said:
Like it or not, it grabs the general public’s attention and is what non collectors pay attention to...so it’s good for the hobby in that it might attract some new collectors
Tyrant is an example really on how collecting done right. And its the biggest and greatest contemporary coin collection in existence.
@tradedollarnut said:
Like it or not, it grabs the general public’s attention and is what non collectors pay attention to...so it’s good for the hobby in that it might attract some new collectors
Tyrant is an example really on how collecting done right. And its the biggest and greatest contemporary coin collection in existence.
He has the EID MAR Roman ancient, doesn't he?
Yes, he has arguably the nicest one. I had hoped that example would come back on the market... alas.
He's still building his ancient collection too (I've sold him a handful of pieces) - it'll be exciting to see where he takes it!
Learn about our world's shared history told through the first millennium of coinage: Colosseo Collection
It appear that some of us enjoy watching Hansen grow this collection. If I feel at some point there is not a healthy demand to watch and follow, I will stop the postings. Also, it is Mr. Hansen’s call if we continue, I hope he continues to let us ride along. I can see why he would close his sets to the public, but I hope not. There have been a few times that I expected he would go private. If so, it will bring the end to this thread.
I don’t think we will see anyone to try to duplicate the way Hansen has made his collection public. If someone try to build a personal set “outside the self appointed experts of the market” approval and advice, that collector too will have to ride out similar storms that we have seen Hansen had to ride out. Why not avoid that happening.
When did we get to the point that the buyer does not have the option to choose what he/she should buy or not buy? If Mr. Hansen must buy at any price the seller wants, is that not called extortion? So, we know that’s not going to happen. If you are a seller and have coins that you have priced more that Hansen desire to pay, then move on and find a new buyer. When you are holding coins that you want to sell, but can’t find a buyer, then maybe you are not the market expert that you think you are.
This past year, there appear to be a massive unhealthy obsession by a few folks, which lead to the banning one out of control member. If you are not impressed with D.L. Hansen Collection, which you have the right to your opinion, keep making your case. I think Mr. Hansen can handle anything that is being shoveled. Just try to keep it professional for the people in the business. So, still post here if desire, just be polite and professional, please don’t berate other dealers. They are trying to feed their families too.
BTCollects, I wish I could public share some of the information that you seek. If you have noticed, Mr Hansen and JB makes his coins public, but the transactions are keep private. They honor confidentiality. That a great character trait that should be demonstrated more, but it does lead to you only seeing a one-side bias view. If you get an opportunity set down and talk with JB and Mr. Hansen, you would see things much more clearly.
My last comment is that I do believe in the free speak environment that we have. I appreciate PCGS for allowing us to continue this discussion. I know PCGS would like for “peace in the family”. I think sometimes when comments are made as; “they don’t know the market”, when you are tossing the comments directly at some of the leading folks in business, it can be damaging and hurtful. It amazing that Mr. Hansen and DLRC don’t respond. They walk the walk as professionals.
In reviewing all the great purchases that Mr. Hansen made in 2019, I think this coin is my favorite. I had the opportunity to hold the coin in my hand a couple months ago. Mr. Hansen getting his hands on this coin, drove a few people insane. They may never recovery.
1885 Proof Trade Dollar, PR65+ CA PCGS Coin #87065 / PCGS Serial #36982251 / POP 1/0
Ex: Superintendent of the Philadelphia Mint Archibald Loudon Snowden in 1885; possibly William Woodin in 1910; William Cutler Atwater; Atwater Collection (B. Max Mehl, 6/1946), lot 378; Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr.; Eliasberg Collection, Part II (Bowers and Merena, 4/1997), lot 2354, realized $907,500; Jay Parrino; Bruce Morelan via Legend for $1.5 million in 1999; Bruce Morelan traded this coin and the Eliasberg 1884 Trade dollar in 2006-2007 to John Albanese; both the 1884 and 1885 Trade dollars were then sold to Heritage by John Albanese; the 1885 was sold privately by Heritage Auctions for $3.3 million in January 2006; (Heritage 2019 January 9 - 14 FUN US Coins Signature Auction - Orlando #1291: Lot 4553, realized $3,960,000), DL Hansen Collection
Thanks Perfection for your appreciation for this thread. Also, thanks to Gaze, Zions, and YOS, you guys have been there since day one. I special thanks to Chuck, and being a good friend and giving the best expert advice. Thanks to you too Bruce, have a great New Year. JB thanks for all the times that you have been available. Lastly, Thanks to Dell Loy for my invitation to come to Salt Lake. I know I may be missing someone, so thanks to everyone that has followed and contributed to this endeavor.
Let’s enjoy and see what happens in 2020. FUN is just a few days away...
I believe the vast majority appreciate Mr Hansen making his collection public for all to enjoy. Always the 1st thread I read. And to you Currin, for the work you put into this thread, I thank you.
Who among us would not love to be able to do what Mr Hansen is doing ?
I agree. When I was a young collector going to local shows I thought the Barber series was the ugliest ever. That's because I never saw any high-grade coins. My opinion changed completely in the early 1970's when a 100% flawless, white, fully original, frosty half dollar (forgot the date) with no trace of friction under my microscope was sent to the service for authentication.
PS I think it is pure NONSENSE that the TPGS will not assign the DCAM designation to DCAM coins that are toned. However, I am beginning to see their side.
I agree. When I was a young collector going to local shows I thought the Barber series was the ugliest ever. That's because I never saw any high-grade coins. My opinion changed completely in the early 1970's when a 100% flawless, white, fully original, frosty half dollar (forgot the date) with no trace of friction under my microscope was sent to the service for authentication.
PS I think it is pure NONSENSE that the TPGS will not assign the DCAM designation to DCAM coins that are toned. However, I am beginning to see their side.
I believe I have seen toned coins labeled DCAM and/or UCAM
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
Thank you Currin for this outstanding thread and your brilliant commentary! I have truly enjoyed being a spectator to Mr. Hansen’s chase for for completion of the greatest collection in history!
Yes there are toned dcams but very few. I assume the problem is how to know it is a dcam if it is well toned? White frosty original dcams are ok but most are not.
Again the scoring favors dcams over toned cams so people have to buy them to score more.
The scoring needs to be totally revamped but that is for another day. It is antiquated and just plain wrong.
Happy New Year Currin and everyone on the blog! Let's build a great year in our hobby. I love the diversity of opinions expressed and discussed and appreciate greatly PCGS sponsorship of the site. Let's always express our thoughts unvarnished on our coin opinions, but of course continue to keep our golden rule with each other. Of course the collectors on the board know and love US coins more than most anyone living, so let's continue to embrace that fellowship in 2020!!! Safe travels to FUN everyone.
I'd think it only natural that someone building a collection like Hansen's would have to slow down.
He's acquired more coins than are in most dealer ...inventories.
I do hope the thread continues with his newps and upgrades.
It's entertaining and educational.
@Perfection said:
can we discuss registry scoring just a little
if a majority agree we can preset to pcgs
I will send the major problem with it tomorrow
Hopefully, if you do so, it will be in a new thread.
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
@Perfection said:
can we discuss registry scoring just a little
if a majority agree we can preset to pcgs
I will send the major problem with it tomorrow
Hopefully, if you do so, it will be in a new thread.
@tradedollarnut said:
Like it or not, it grabs the general public’s attention and is what non collectors pay attention to...so it’s good for the hobby in that it might attract some new collectors
Tyrant is an example really on how collecting done right. And its the biggest and greatest contemporary coin collection in existence.
Does this include when there are “known” mechanical error(s) listed in the set(s) being displayed?
As we start a New Year, sometimes we engage in reflection. The last couple weeks, have been a great time for me spend time with family and, in my thoughts. After reading some of the recent postings, it appears to me that very smart people in the numismatics community can be very puzzling to a novice as I. One explanation is that when you are so involved in a life time endeavor (profession) and have such an invested interest (financial livelihood), it is hard to overcome your personal biases (my way is the only way) when someone does something so inverse to what is considered normal. This leads to the question to consider: How do you compare uniqueness?
I recently purchased an old auction catalog on eBay tilted: William Cutter Atwater Collection (1946). This was an early attempt by a collector to complete the US Issues Collection (As Hansen is attempting to do today). He can close. B. Max Mehl, cataloger and seller, described Atwater’s attempt as: comprising of each date and branch mint coins minted in gold, silver, copper from the first year of mintage in 1793 to 1920 (with only three or four exceptions) including the celebrated Stickney 1804 Dollar and the Idler 1804 Dollar, Second Variety (first time in numismatic history when both varieties of this great coin are offered in one sale). The sale was held June 11th, 1946. The grand total of this celebrated sale was $153,514.60. This is the largest sum ever realized for a Coin Collection ever sold at auction in the United Sates. And as far as I know in the world. (B. Max Mehl).
PCGS has only 15 Inductees in the Hall of Fame for Complete US Collections, with only a handful would qualify in the past 50 years, Eliasberg, Garrett, Norweb, and Pittman. The only collector this century is Hansen (so far). Recently, there have been numerous attempts to compare Hansen to the specialist collectors of today. One expert ranked The D. L. Hansen Collection at number 9. My question, how can you make that comparison with any degree of unbiased objectivity? You can pick portions of The D. L. Hansen Collection and compare, i.e., you could compare Hansen’s early collection to Pogue, or patterns to Simpson, or his ancient collection to Tyrant (yes, Hansen has a nice collection of ancient coins). But, my question, who do you compare “The Total Collection” to anyone other than Eliasberg, Atwater, or the other dozen of Hall of Famers for Complete Sets? When you think of Tyrant (Ancient), Simpson (Patterns), Hansen (US Issues), all which have great collections, they really have uniqueness when trying to compare to other collectors today. If you disagree, please elaborate.
The last few weeks, Mr. Hansen and team have been cleaning up and organizing. I have not reported much about it, because there in not much new. One year ago, Hansen spent during this time cleaning up his moderns. This year they have been a cleaning up sets. A few mint sets was added to registry the past couple days. I thought I would show a couple to you. It is a good demonstration of the Hansen uniqueness. He added two complete sets 145 years apart! One an early coinage set, and the other is considered a Complete Condition Census Top 5 Modern Set. Who is anther collector today that can we compare this too?
1970 Mint Set with Major Varieties
This 12 coin set: The mint set for 1970 was rather oddly made up. It contained three cents from the major mints, nickels from Denver and San Francisco, dimes and quarters from Philadelphia and Denver, and a 1970-D half dollar, struck only for mint sets. The Major Variety set includes both the Small and Large dates for the 1970-S cent, the Small Date being the key. PCGS values this set at $22,500. Yes, you read that correctly, the modern 12 coin set is valued at $22,500! The most inexpensive coin is the 1970 Philadelphia cent at $185. The most valuable is the half dollar at $5,000.
1825 Mint Set with Gold
The Mint Set for 1825 is a nice, well balanced set with five coins. The Half Cent returned after a 14-year hiatus but the fairly low mintage makes this a slightly better date, especially in higher grade. Likewise, the Cent, Dime and Quarter are also slightly scarcer than the most common dates, but are by no means rare. The Half is common. Of course the gold will naturally be a challenge as the two denominations, the Quarter and Half Eagle, were struck on a weight standard that resulted in them being worth slightly more than face value shortly after their manufacture, and consequently nearly all were melted in the late 1820s and early 1830s.
This set has a PCGS value of $160,000. The most inexpensive coin is the 1825 half cent at $2,000. The most valuable is the gold quarter eagle at $50,000. After looking at these two years, just keep any mind, Hansen have another 225 years to cover in his near complete collection. I will be interested to see who you will make this comparison with. Is there anybody?
In this second installment of the challenge, we will be looking at 5 Liberty Quarter Eagles. We will see that one of only a few of Hansen’s circulated coins will show up in this comparison. Hansen’s 1854-S quarter eagle (little sister of the famous 1854-S half eagle) is a nice circulated VF35, with a PCGS POP of 2/2. In comparison, the Eliasberg coin was a POP 1/6, G6. The Hansen, 1863 Proof, Top POP PCGS Pop 1/0 MS66+ DCAM just beats out Eliasberg’s PR64 CAM. Eliasberg obtained a great “Little Princess”, The Eliasberg-Bass PR64 POP 1/0 specimen. In rounding out the five coins, Hansen has the better specimen for the 1856-D, and Eliasberg has the better 1848 CAL specimen. The total value for Hansen’s five coins is $1,122,500. The result is another 3-2 win by Hansen.
1841 Quarter Eagle:Were they all struck as Proofs or were some made as business strikes? Regardless, an important rarity in this series. Also, known as “The Little Princess”.
Hansen Coin: 1841 Quarter Eagle PCGS AU58 PCGS POP 1/4
Eliasberg Coin: 1841 Quarter Eagle PCGS PR64 PCGS POP 1/0,
Eliasberg Won (0-1)
1848 CAL Quarter Eagle:The first commemorative American coin and a wonderful Gold Rush relic.
Hansen Coin: 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle PCGS MS63+ PCGS POP 1/12
Eliasberg Coin: 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle EST. MS67 POP 1/0
Eliasberg Won (0-2)
1854-S Quarter Eagle:The first SF quarter eagle and a rarity with around a dozen known from a mintage of just 254.
Hansen Coin: 1854-S Quarter Eagle PCGS VF35 PCGS POP 2/2
Eliasberg Coin: 1854-S Quarter Eagle EST. G6 POP 1/6
Hansen Won (1-2)
1856-D Quarter Eagle:With 874, the lowest recorded mintage for any Dahlonega issue. The hardest US gold coin to properly grade, in my opinion.
Hansen Coin: 1856-D Quarter Eagle PCGS AU53 PCGS POP 6/11
Eliasberg Coin: 1856-D Quarter Eagle EST. XF40 POP 2/29
Hansen Won (2-2)
1863 Quarter Eagle:Only 30 struck, all as Proofs, and a coin made doubly desirable by its Civil War issuance.
Hansen Coin: 1863 Quarter Eagle PCGS PR66+DCAM PCGS POP 1/0
Eliasberg Coin: 1863 Quarter Eagle EST. PR64 - POP 10 finer
Hansen Won (3-2)
Hansen WOW Coins
1841 “The Little Princess” Quarter Eagle, AU58 (Gold Shield) PCGS Coin #87720 / PCGS Serial #15544272 PCGS POP 1/4, PCGS Price Guide Value $400,000
Ron Guth Comments: The 1841 Quarter Eagle, also known as the "Little Princess" is one of the rarest of all United States coins, with 16 examples known. The 1841 Quarter Eagle was long considered a Proof-only issue, but the large number of circulated examples implied that a small quantity was minted for circulation. Unfortunately, Mint Reports give no indication that such a mintage occurred, however, this is also true for coins such as the 1870-S Half Dime, the 1870-S Silver Dollar, and others. On February 28, 2012, PCGS announced it would distinguish between circulation strike and Proof 1841 Quarter Eagles. This decision, while not unanimous among numismatic experts, represented a major policy shift, with profound implications for value and desirability of an already famous U.S. coin.
.
. 1848 CAL. Quarter Eagle, MS63+ (Gold Shield) PCGS Coin #7749 / PCGS Serial #27639982 PCGS POP 4/18, PCGS Price Guide Value $195,000
Ron Guth Comments: On January 24, 1848, James Wilson Marshall noticed some small flakes of yellow metal near the Sutter's Mill project outside Coloma, California. Marshall's discovery turned out to be gold, touching off one of the largest voluntary migration of humans the world has ever known -- the California Gold Rush.
In December 1848, the Military Governor of California, Col. R.B. Mason, sent 228 ounces of newly mined gold to the Secretary of War, William L. Marcy. Marcy forwarded the gold to the Philadelphia Mint, with instructions to use the gold for Congressional Medals for Generals Zachary Taylor and Winfield Scott. Any leftover gold was to be turned into specially marked Quarter Eagles. 1,389 1848-dated Quarter Eagles were struck from the California gold shipment, each one stamped with a small "CAL." in the upper reverse field. The stamping appears to have been done while the coins were still in the press, as none of the obverse features appear to have been flattened. At least one example (the James F. Lindsay - 1978 GENA, Lot 1839 example) shows triple punching.
.
. 1854-S Quarter Eagle VF35 (Gold Shield) PCGS Coin #7773/ PCGS Serial #31408871 PCGS POP 2/2, PCGS Price Guide Value $295,000
David Akers comments: The 1854-S is one of the rarest of all U.S. gold coins. Its low mintage of only 246 pieces is the third lowest of any regularly issued U.S. gold coin. (Only the 1875 eagle and half eagle have lower mintages.) All known specimens are very low grade, and I have not seen one that would fully grade extremely fine, although according to Stanley Kesselman, the one purchased by Harry Bass from Stack's comes very close. I would estimate that no more than 12 to 15 specimens are known.
.
. 1856-D Quarter Eagle AU53 (Gold Shield) PCGS Coin #7779/ PCGS Serial #3682578 PCGS 6/11, PCGS Price Guide Value $32,500
David Akers comments: This is the lowest mintage coin from the Dahlonega Mint and also one of the rarest. However, the 1856-D, although it brings far higher prices than the 1854-D or 1855-D, is actually easier to obtain in high grade. There are several uncirculated pieces known, but I am unaware of any fully mint state 1854-D and only one uncirculated 1855-D. Nevertheless, this is a very rare and desirable date that is extremely popular due to its very low mintage. All specimens that I have seen are very poorly struck with flat stars, weak denticles and little or on detail on the head of Liberty or on the neck and right leg of the eagle.
.
. 1863 Quarter Eagle, DCAM PR66+ DCAM (Gold Shield) PCGS Coin #97889/ PCGS Serial #34485019 PCGS POP 1/0, Estimate price $200,000
Ron Guth Comments: The 1863 Quarter Eagle is extremely popular with collectors because it is a Proof-only issue and, thus, the only option available to anyone seeking a Quarter Eagle of this date from the Philadelphia Mint. With a mintage of only 30 examples, this date creates excitment whenever it appears on the market. Probably half of the original mintage survives. I know of thirteen demonstrably different examples, including two circulated examples and two in the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution. Most examples are cameos, though there are several that were certified before PCGS recognized the Cameo designation and which would receive either a CAM or a DCAM designation upon re-examination. The finest 1863 Quarter Eagle is a PCGS PR66DCAM which sold for a record price of $195,500 in 2012. It currently reposes in the Simpson Collection. (This Simpson comment is outdated)
Hansen continues his streak with a second stage win by 3 to 2. As stated before, I have not looks ahead and do not know the results. He takes a two coin lead at this point at 6-4. It will be fascinating to watch as we have 40 more coins to compare. These will be the five coins that we will look at next week.
1854-D Three Dollar:The only Dahlonega-issued coin of this type and a hugely popular coin. 1875 Three Dollar:A Proof-only issue with a reported mintage of just 20. This was the first US gold coin to eclipse the $100k price barrier, all the way back in the 1970’s. 1879 Flowing Hair Stella:Always in demand as a Trophy coin and an issue with an interesting back story. 1795 Small Eagle Half Eagle:The very first date of this long-lived denomination and an issue which is more available than one might expect. 1798 or 1799 Small Eagle Half Eagles:The two most affordable 18th century US gold coins and available in nice AU for a low five-figure cost.
@Currin said: 1848 CAL. Quarter Eagle, MS63+ (Gold Shield) PCGS Coin #7749 / PCGS Serial #27639982 PCGS POP 4/18, PCGS Price Guide Value $195,000
The CAL quarter eagle is a very interesting coin. This might be the first coin I've seen in CoinFacts where there are no photos of any of the Condition Census coins. The 10 coins in the Condition Census range from MS68 to MS65 and the top photographed coin is a MS64.
The Eliasberg coin also is not noted in the PCGS Coin Facts Condition Census but it listed in the original Coin Facts Condition Census as the following:
PCGS MS-66 (illustrated above). Ex - Clapp - Eliasberg, Lot 145, sold for $41,800.00 - Auction '85, Lot 923, sold for $46,200.00 - Hanks & Associates - Great Lakes collection - Mike Storeim
Heritage offered this coin in their 1992 ANA Sale.
I am hoping 2020 will be as exciting to watch the Hansen Collection as was 2019. Tonight kicks off the 2020 numismatic season with the Heritage FUN US Coins Signature Auctions in Orlando. If you recall a year ago, Mr. Hansen drove a few in the community crazy with his Countdown #23 purchase of the 1885 Trade Dollar Ex: Atwater-Eliasberg Specimen. The coin ended up realizing almost 4 Million Dollars. We will not see anything like that this year. There are no Countdown coins in this sale, although, there are coins that could upgrade several series in the collection. The one more prevailing is The Rollo Fox Collection of $20 Saint-Gaudens Gold. I don’t know where the upgrading the Saint-Gaudens series falls on Mr. Hansen’s priority list. There are a few nice high grade proofs that he could added. As previous stated, I don’t see anything happening as crazy as last year, but there are a handful of Mercury Dimes in the auction, so anything is possible I guess.
1833 Half Dime MS67+
This upgrade appeared in the current #1 Capped Bust Half Dimes Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1829-1837) sets a couple days ago. I am not sure when it was acquired, but it has been in his major sets for some time now. I am posting a weekly series highlighting some of Hansen’s gold collection, so I was looking for a stunning silver issue to share with you. I think I found it with this half dime.
This is PCGS POP 2/0 specimen with CAC Approval. Expert Ron Guth described the coin as: The 1833 Half Dime is a very common coin in circulated condition and in most Mint State grades, up to and including MS-64. Gem examples are semi-scarce and even superb examples can be found with little effort. The PCGS CoinFacts Condition Census consists almost entirely of MS67 examples, and the finest known example is a single PCGS MS67+ (illustrated above). Most 1833 Half Dimes show a frosty luster and a strong, evenly balanced strike. The date this was written is not referenced, but it is a little dated. The single PCGS MS67+ that Mr. Guth referenced is a not Mr. Hansen’s. The reference coin is not as toned and colorfully as this one now in the D. L. Hansen Collection.
We don’t know how John Brush acquired this coin. The coin was auctioned about a year ago in a Legend Auction as a PCGS MS67. It could have been purchased JB, and the coin was upgrade by Hansen, or the coin may have obtained privately after the upgrade. Presently, the Hansen’s MS67+ specimen is not listed in the CoinFacts Condition Census report. The Hansen coin is the featured coin in CoinFacts, so we can tell the images have been updated.
In the 1/2019 Legend Regency Auction 30, the coin was described as: Having built the Law Set, the #1 all time Bust Half Dime collection, we are highly experienced in how these can come. If you really think hard, how many really nice PCGS CAC MS67 1833's have you ever seen? We sure have not seen many. This coin is absolutely worthy of the finest collection! Remarkable surfaces are pristine. We used a very strong glass and looked hard all over and found zero problems of any size. Interestingly, there is a slight trace of semi prooflike mirrors. Amazing and totally original colors of deep blue/aqua blue/auburn/antique white swirl all over. You do not need an imagination or a glass to see the perfection of the strike. The eye appeal is tremendous! This coin will make a fabulous addition to any GEM Type or Half Dime Collection. Good luck!
1833 PCGS MS67 CAC specimen realized $15,275 in the Legend Auction a year ago. The estimated give for the coin was $12,000 - $13,500, so it was an overachiever. PCGS now values the coin at $20,000.
In an Eliasberg comparison, his coin was an estimated graded coin cataloged as a Proof. Sold by Bowers & Merena May '96 price realized $8,800. Lot #923.
Comments
It's like Better Call Saul. We need new episodes.
Word is DLH will be making an appearance at FUN. Perhaps we’ll hear more about some of his new purchases after the show .
Something else that I appreciate about Mr Hansen is that he is building a historic collection in public and with transparency. Some major collections will always be private and others are only made public after completion or when sold. What Hansen is doing is a bit unique. The downside for him is we see all the mistakes, we often know the price paid, we know the coins he needs, etc. Others who have built major collections certainly have made mistakes or may have overpaid but we don't see it. Mr. Hansen seems to be confident enough not to worry about any of this. The upside for Mr Hansen is I believe he is having a blast sharing this with everyone and the upside for collectors is having a ringside seat for this remarkable achievement.
I thought you were keeping the 1795 $10?
Andrew Blinkiewicz-Heritage
https://coinweek.com/us-coins/50-million-gold-eagle-tyrant-collection-exhibit-at-february-long-beach-expo/
...
side bar to that read:
Amazing in this day and age, how anyone could remain anonymous, with a fifty million dollar collection. Amazingly cool.
That’s a small part of the overall collection. One of the Greatest Ever...
Well said. Fine if he doesn't have the best collection ever yet. He's showing very few signs of slowing down.
I enjoy the critiques from different members that may know particular series better than Hansen or any of us. It has the potential to elevate the discussion.
IG: DeCourcyCoinsEbay: neilrobertson
"Numismatic categorizations, if left unconstrained, will increase spontaneously over time." -me
decided to keep the 1838 ten instead.
If one doesn’t know that market, one won’t realize that one almost always has to ‘overpay’ to get a great early coin. One might be more comfortable ‘overpaying’ less for a 19th century condition rarity or stepping up big for a transient pop 1 semi modern.
Am I the only one turned off by the continued promotion of the monetary value of the Tyrant collection?
It’s obviously a terrific collection, and has some spectacular ancient and world coins, to go along with US. I am particularly in awe of the British coins. But it’s not all about monetary value and worth.
Like it or not, it grabs the general public’s attention and is what non collectors pay attention to...so it’s good for the hobby in that it might attract some new collectors
That might be true but is that on topic for this particular thread?
Perhaps there could be another thread on the best way to capture entice collectors with big dollar collections, especially as it relates to collections other than Hansen's?
Forgive me - I didn’t know that I needed permission to respond to a post here. /eyeroll
I agree this is the case, especially in a mature market with strong hands, but I've also seen a few major rarities sell for less after previous buyers ‘overpaid’. Timing, opportunity, and desire all go into how much one is willing to or needs to ‘overpay’.
Well, we all need permission from our hosts. I like your posts and don't want to see anything happen here, especially after all the Simpson posts in this thread previously, which was unfortunate.
Pffft. Apples and oranges
I see more than a passing resemblance but post away. I was just offering a suggestion.
Generally Speaking
Tyrant continually exhibits his coins
at the Long Beach for the public to see
Hansen really only exhibits his coins
On the PCGS message boards and the PCGS Set Registry web site.
Like I said before , perhaps it is time for Hansen to exhibit some of his sets at major shows and invite people with same sets to exhibit
their sets.
Someone asked where the 1795 $10 is... I responded with a pertinent link. And my other responses were pertinent to questions raised in others’ posts. If you think that’s out of line, then take it up with the people posting the questions and don’t focus on the person answering them appropriately.
I think having Hansen display his set publicly is a great discussion and could be very beneficial for the hobby. I think your idea of having a few sets displayed together could be very interesting.
However, just because one person does something, that isn't necessarily a reason for someone else to do the same. For example, if Hansen collects non-anonymously, should Tyrant do the same? If Hansen has public registry sets, should RSD and Blay do the same?
DLH displayed a set last year at fun. I think it was seated dollars.
I also believe his trade dollars were at one show.
Who cares,if this is goes off ,topic at times. So what. This is probably one of the most read posts so why not discuss other topics within reason. I rarely read other posts.
Yes one usually must over pay and yes if that person sells too soon the coin can go for lass.
Just saw the Pogue sale email. I did not realize there were more coins. Anyone know the highlights? Maybe that is off,topic? -:)
I really dont know, but no clash of personalities. He bought for about a million or so, but mostly more modern coins.
Tyrant is an example really on how collecting done right. And its the biggest and greatest contemporary coin collection in existence.
There are many "right" ways to collect. Personally, I love what Hansen is doing because it's much easier to enjoy and discuss online like we're doing, and the trend is towards more online participation than offline. I actually think it's pretty hard to enjoy the Tyrant collection online. For example, when I go to their website and click the menu for "The Collection", I'm not sure where to find the United States as it appears US coins are not part of the collection. The collection has 5 top level categories for geographic areas but nothing for the Americas.
The Pogue collection is / was amazing. We used to have rich Pogue threads here but perhaps it's a testament to the "Hansen Effect" on collecting that people want to talk about Pogue, Tyrant, and others in the context of Hansen's collection?
He has the EID MAR Roman ancient, doesn't he?
Yes, he has arguably the nicest one. I had hoped that example would come back on the market... alas.
He's still building his ancient collection too (I've sold him a handful of pieces) - it'll be exciting to see where he takes it!
As 2019 comes to an end, some closing thoughts
It appear that some of us enjoy watching Hansen grow this collection. If I feel at some point there is not a healthy demand to watch and follow, I will stop the postings. Also, it is Mr. Hansen’s call if we continue, I hope he continues to let us ride along. I can see why he would close his sets to the public, but I hope not. There have been a few times that I expected he would go private. If so, it will bring the end to this thread.
I don’t think we will see anyone to try to duplicate the way Hansen has made his collection public. If someone try to build a personal set “outside the self appointed experts of the market” approval and advice, that collector too will have to ride out similar storms that we have seen Hansen had to ride out. Why not avoid that happening.
When did we get to the point that the buyer does not have the option to choose what he/she should buy or not buy? If Mr. Hansen must buy at any price the seller wants, is that not called extortion? So, we know that’s not going to happen. If you are a seller and have coins that you have priced more that Hansen desire to pay, then move on and find a new buyer. When you are holding coins that you want to sell, but can’t find a buyer, then maybe you are not the market expert that you think you are.
This past year, there appear to be a massive unhealthy obsession by a few folks, which lead to the banning one out of control member. If you are not impressed with D.L. Hansen Collection, which you have the right to your opinion, keep making your case. I think Mr. Hansen can handle anything that is being shoveled. Just try to keep it professional for the people in the business. So, still post here if desire, just be polite and professional, please don’t berate other dealers. They are trying to feed their families too.
BTCollects, I wish I could public share some of the information that you seek. If you have noticed, Mr Hansen and JB makes his coins public, but the transactions are keep private. They honor confidentiality. That a great character trait that should be demonstrated more, but it does lead to you only seeing a one-side bias view. If you get an opportunity set down and talk with JB and Mr. Hansen, you would see things much more clearly.
My last comment is that I do believe in the free speak environment that we have. I appreciate PCGS for allowing us to continue this discussion. I know PCGS would like for “peace in the family”. I think sometimes when comments are made as; “they don’t know the market”, when you are tossing the comments directly at some of the leading folks in business, it can be damaging and hurtful. It amazing that Mr. Hansen and DLRC don’t respond. They walk the walk as professionals.
In reviewing all the great purchases that Mr. Hansen made in 2019, I think this coin is my favorite. I had the opportunity to hold the coin in my hand a couple months ago. Mr. Hansen getting his hands on this coin, drove a few people insane. They may never recovery.
1885 Proof Trade Dollar, PR65+ CA
PCGS Coin #87065 / PCGS Serial #36982251 / POP 1/0
Ex: Superintendent of the Philadelphia Mint Archibald Loudon Snowden in 1885; possibly William Woodin in 1910; William Cutler Atwater; Atwater Collection (B. Max Mehl, 6/1946), lot 378; Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr.; Eliasberg Collection, Part II (Bowers and Merena, 4/1997), lot 2354, realized $907,500; Jay Parrino; Bruce Morelan via Legend for $1.5 million in 1999; Bruce Morelan traded this coin and the Eliasberg 1884 Trade dollar in 2006-2007 to John Albanese; both the 1884 and 1885 Trade dollars were then sold to Heritage by John Albanese; the 1885 was sold privately by Heritage Auctions for $3.3 million in January 2006; (Heritage 2019 January 9 - 14 FUN US Coins Signature Auction - Orlando #1291: Lot 4553, realized $3,960,000), DL Hansen Collection
Thanks Perfection for your appreciation for this thread. Also, thanks to Gaze, Zions, and YOS, you guys have been there since day one. I special thanks to Chuck, and being a good friend and giving the best expert advice. Thanks to you too Bruce, have a great New Year. JB thanks for all the times that you have been available. Lastly, Thanks to Dell Loy for my invitation to come to Salt Lake. I know I may be missing someone, so thanks to everyone that has followed and contributed to this endeavor.
Let’s enjoy and see what happens in 2020. FUN is just a few days away...
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
I believe the vast majority appreciate Mr Hansen making his collection public for all to enjoy. Always the 1st thread I read. And to you Currin, for the work you put into this thread, I thank you.
Who among us would not love to be able to do what Mr Hansen is doing ?
Happy New Year!
Thank you Mr. Hansen, Currin and PCGS for the best thread of 2019! Looking forward to it continuing in 2020.
I agree. When I was a young collector going to local shows I thought the Barber series was the ugliest ever. That's because I never saw any high-grade coins. My opinion changed completely in the early 1970's when a 100% flawless, white, fully original, frosty half dollar (forgot the date) with no trace of friction under my microscope was sent to the service for authentication.
PS I think it is pure NONSENSE that the TPGS will not assign the DCAM designation to DCAM coins that are toned. However, I am beginning to see their side.
I believe I have seen toned coins labeled DCAM and/or UCAM
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
Thank you Currin for this outstanding thread and your brilliant commentary! I have truly enjoyed being a spectator to Mr. Hansen’s chase for for completion of the greatest collection in history!
Yes there are toned dcams but very few. I assume the problem is how to know it is a dcam if it is well toned? White frosty original dcams are ok but most are not.
Again the scoring favors dcams over toned cams so people have to buy them to score more.
The scoring needs to be totally revamped but that is for another day. It is antiquated and just plain wrong.
Happy New Year Currin and everyone on the blog! Let's build a great year in our hobby. I love the diversity of opinions expressed and discussed and appreciate greatly PCGS sponsorship of the site. Let's always express our thoughts unvarnished on our coin opinions, but of course continue to keep our golden rule with each other. Of course the collectors on the board know and love US coins more than most anyone living, so let's continue to embrace that fellowship in 2020!!! Safe travels to FUN everyone.
I'd think it only natural that someone building a collection like Hansen's would have to slow down.
He's acquired more coins than are in most dealer ...inventories.
I do hope the thread continues with his newps and upgrades.
It's entertaining and educational.
can we discuss registry scoring just a little
if a majority agree we can preset to pcgs
I will send the major problem with it tomorrow
Hopefully, if you do so, it will be in a new thread.
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
Could not agree more.
My 1866 Philly Mint Set
Does this include when there are “known” mechanical error(s) listed in the set(s) being displayed?
How do you compare uniqueness?
As we start a New Year, sometimes we engage in reflection. The last couple weeks, have been a great time for me spend time with family and, in my thoughts. After reading some of the recent postings, it appears to me that very smart people in the numismatics community can be very puzzling to a novice as I. One explanation is that when you are so involved in a life time endeavor (profession) and have such an invested interest (financial livelihood), it is hard to overcome your personal biases (my way is the only way) when someone does something so inverse to what is considered normal. This leads to the question to consider: How do you compare uniqueness?
I recently purchased an old auction catalog on eBay tilted: William Cutter Atwater Collection (1946). This was an early attempt by a collector to complete the US Issues Collection (As Hansen is attempting to do today). He can close. B. Max Mehl, cataloger and seller, described Atwater’s attempt as: comprising of each date and branch mint coins minted in gold, silver, copper from the first year of mintage in 1793 to 1920 (with only three or four exceptions) including the celebrated Stickney 1804 Dollar and the Idler 1804 Dollar, Second Variety (first time in numismatic history when both varieties of this great coin are offered in one sale). The sale was held June 11th, 1946. The grand total of this celebrated sale was $153,514.60. This is the largest sum ever realized for a Coin Collection ever sold at auction in the United Sates. And as far as I know in the world. (B. Max Mehl).
PCGS has only 15 Inductees in the Hall of Fame for Complete US Collections, with only a handful would qualify in the past 50 years, Eliasberg, Garrett, Norweb, and Pittman. The only collector this century is Hansen (so far). Recently, there have been numerous attempts to compare Hansen to the specialist collectors of today. One expert ranked The D. L. Hansen Collection at number 9. My question, how can you make that comparison with any degree of unbiased objectivity? You can pick portions of The D. L. Hansen Collection and compare, i.e., you could compare Hansen’s early collection to Pogue, or patterns to Simpson, or his ancient collection to Tyrant (yes, Hansen has a nice collection of ancient coins). But, my question, who do you compare “The Total Collection” to anyone other than Eliasberg, Atwater, or the other dozen of Hall of Famers for Complete Sets? When you think of Tyrant (Ancient), Simpson (Patterns), Hansen (US Issues), all which have great collections, they really have uniqueness when trying to compare to other collectors today. If you disagree, please elaborate.
The last few weeks, Mr. Hansen and team have been cleaning up and organizing. I have not reported much about it, because there in not much new. One year ago, Hansen spent during this time cleaning up his moderns. This year they have been a cleaning up sets. A few mint sets was added to registry the past couple days. I thought I would show a couple to you. It is a good demonstration of the Hansen uniqueness. He added two complete sets 145 years apart! One an early coinage set, and the other is considered a Complete Condition Census Top 5 Modern Set. Who is anther collector today that can we compare this too?
1970 Mint Set with Major Varieties
This 12 coin set: The mint set for 1970 was rather oddly made up. It contained three cents from the major mints, nickels from Denver and San Francisco, dimes and quarters from Philadelphia and Denver, and a 1970-D half dollar, struck only for mint sets. The Major Variety set includes both the Small and Large dates for the 1970-S cent, the Small Date being the key. PCGS values this set at $22,500. Yes, you read that correctly, the modern 12 coin set is valued at $22,500! The most inexpensive coin is the 1970 Philadelphia cent at $185. The most valuable is the half dollar at $5,000.
1825 Mint Set with Gold
The Mint Set for 1825 is a nice, well balanced set with five coins. The Half Cent returned after a 14-year hiatus but the fairly low mintage makes this a slightly better date, especially in higher grade. Likewise, the Cent, Dime and Quarter are also slightly scarcer than the most common dates, but are by no means rare. The Half is common. Of course the gold will naturally be a challenge as the two denominations, the Quarter and Half Eagle, were struck on a weight standard that resulted in them being worth slightly more than face value shortly after their manufacture, and consequently nearly all were melted in the late 1820s and early 1830s.
This set has a PCGS value of $160,000. The most inexpensive coin is the 1825 half cent at $2,000. The most valuable is the gold quarter eagle at $50,000. After looking at these two years, just keep any mind, Hansen have another 225 years to cover in his near complete collection. I will be interested to see who you will make this comparison with. Is there anybody?
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
If you are seeking the most recent collector to try completeness, I believe that would be ‘Richmond’ from the early 2000s.
Hansen-Eliasberg Challenge II – Part II
In this second installment of the challenge, we will be looking at 5 Liberty Quarter Eagles. We will see that one of only a few of Hansen’s circulated coins will show up in this comparison. Hansen’s 1854-S quarter eagle (little sister of the famous 1854-S half eagle) is a nice circulated VF35, with a PCGS POP of 2/2. In comparison, the Eliasberg coin was a POP 1/6, G6. The Hansen, 1863 Proof, Top POP PCGS Pop 1/0 MS66+ DCAM just beats out Eliasberg’s PR64 CAM. Eliasberg obtained a great “Little Princess”, The Eliasberg-Bass PR64 POP 1/0 specimen. In rounding out the five coins, Hansen has the better specimen for the 1856-D, and Eliasberg has the better 1848 CAL specimen. The total value for Hansen’s five coins is $1,122,500. The result is another 3-2 win by Hansen.
1841 Quarter Eagle: Were they all struck as Proofs or were some made as business strikes? Regardless, an important rarity in this series. Also, known as “The Little Princess”.
Hansen Coin: 1841 Quarter Eagle PCGS AU58 PCGS POP 1/4
Eliasberg Coin: 1841 Quarter Eagle PCGS PR64 PCGS POP 1/0,
Eliasberg Won (0-1)
1848 CAL Quarter Eagle: The first commemorative American coin and a wonderful Gold Rush relic.
Hansen Coin: 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle PCGS MS63+ PCGS POP 1/12
Eliasberg Coin: 1848 CAL Quarter Eagle EST. MS67 POP 1/0
Eliasberg Won (0-2)
1854-S Quarter Eagle: The first SF quarter eagle and a rarity with around a dozen known from a mintage of just 254.
Hansen Coin: 1854-S Quarter Eagle PCGS VF35 PCGS POP 2/2
Eliasberg Coin: 1854-S Quarter Eagle EST. G6 POP 1/6
Hansen Won (1-2)
1856-D Quarter Eagle: With 874, the lowest recorded mintage for any Dahlonega issue. The hardest US gold coin to properly grade, in my opinion.
Hansen Coin: 1856-D Quarter Eagle PCGS AU53 PCGS POP 6/11
Eliasberg Coin: 1856-D Quarter Eagle EST. XF40 POP 2/29
Hansen Won (2-2)
1863 Quarter Eagle: Only 30 struck, all as Proofs, and a coin made doubly desirable by its Civil War issuance.
Hansen Coin: 1863 Quarter Eagle PCGS PR66+DCAM PCGS POP 1/0
Eliasberg Coin: 1863 Quarter Eagle EST. PR64 - POP 10 finer
Hansen Won (3-2)
Hansen WOW Coins
1841 “The Little Princess” Quarter Eagle, AU58 (Gold Shield)
PCGS Coin #87720 / PCGS Serial #15544272
PCGS POP 1/4, PCGS Price Guide Value $400,000
Ron Guth Comments: The 1841 Quarter Eagle, also known as the "Little Princess" is one of the rarest of all United States coins, with 16 examples known. The 1841 Quarter Eagle was long considered a Proof-only issue, but the large number of circulated examples implied that a small quantity was minted for circulation. Unfortunately, Mint Reports give no indication that such a mintage occurred, however, this is also true for coins such as the 1870-S Half Dime, the 1870-S Silver Dollar, and others. On February 28, 2012, PCGS announced it would distinguish between circulation strike and Proof 1841 Quarter Eagles. This decision, while not unanimous among numismatic experts, represented a major policy shift, with profound implications for value and desirability of an already famous U.S. coin.
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1848 CAL. Quarter Eagle, MS63+ (Gold Shield)
PCGS Coin #7749 / PCGS Serial #27639982
PCGS POP 4/18, PCGS Price Guide Value $195,000
Ron Guth Comments: On January 24, 1848, James Wilson Marshall noticed some small flakes of yellow metal near the Sutter's Mill project outside Coloma, California. Marshall's discovery turned out to be gold, touching off one of the largest voluntary migration of humans the world has ever known -- the California Gold Rush.
In December 1848, the Military Governor of California, Col. R.B. Mason, sent 228 ounces of newly mined gold to the Secretary of War, William L. Marcy. Marcy forwarded the gold to the Philadelphia Mint, with instructions to use the gold for Congressional Medals for Generals Zachary Taylor and Winfield Scott. Any leftover gold was to be turned into specially marked Quarter Eagles. 1,389 1848-dated Quarter Eagles were struck from the California gold shipment, each one stamped with a small "CAL." in the upper reverse field. The stamping appears to have been done while the coins were still in the press, as none of the obverse features appear to have been flattened. At least one example (the James F. Lindsay - 1978 GENA, Lot 1839 example) shows triple punching.
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1854-S Quarter Eagle VF35 (Gold Shield)
PCGS Coin #7773/ PCGS Serial #31408871
PCGS POP 2/2, PCGS Price Guide Value $295,000
David Akers comments: The 1854-S is one of the rarest of all U.S. gold coins. Its low mintage of only 246 pieces is the third lowest of any regularly issued U.S. gold coin. (Only the 1875 eagle and half eagle have lower mintages.) All known specimens are very low grade, and I have not seen one that would fully grade extremely fine, although according to Stanley Kesselman, the one purchased by Harry Bass from Stack's comes very close. I would estimate that no more than 12 to 15 specimens are known.
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1856-D Quarter Eagle AU53 (Gold Shield)
PCGS Coin #7779/ PCGS Serial #3682578
PCGS 6/11, PCGS Price Guide Value $32,500
David Akers comments: This is the lowest mintage coin from the Dahlonega Mint and also one of the rarest. However, the 1856-D, although it brings far higher prices than the 1854-D or 1855-D, is actually easier to obtain in high grade. There are several uncirculated pieces known, but I am unaware of any fully mint state 1854-D and only one uncirculated 1855-D. Nevertheless, this is a very rare and desirable date that is extremely popular due to its very low mintage. All specimens that I have seen are very poorly struck with flat stars, weak denticles and little or on detail on the head of Liberty or on the neck and right leg of the eagle.
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1863 Quarter Eagle, DCAM PR66+ DCAM (Gold Shield)
PCGS Coin #97889/ PCGS Serial #34485019
PCGS POP 1/0, Estimate price $200,000
Ron Guth Comments: The 1863 Quarter Eagle is extremely popular with collectors because it is a Proof-only issue and, thus, the only option available to anyone seeking a Quarter Eagle of this date from the Philadelphia Mint. With a mintage of only 30 examples, this date creates excitment whenever it appears on the market. Probably half of the original mintage survives. I know of thirteen demonstrably different examples, including two circulated examples and two in the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution. Most examples are cameos, though there are several that were certified before PCGS recognized the Cameo designation and which would receive either a CAM or a DCAM designation upon re-examination. The finest 1863 Quarter Eagle is a PCGS PR66DCAM which sold for a record price of $195,500 in 2012. It currently reposes in the Simpson Collection. (This Simpson comment is outdated)
Hansen continues his streak with a second stage win by 3 to 2. As stated before, I have not looks ahead and do not know the results. He takes a two coin lead at this point at 6-4. It will be fascinating to watch as we have 40 more coins to compare. These will be the five coins that we will look at next week.
1854-D Three Dollar: The only Dahlonega-issued coin of this type and a hugely popular coin.
1875 Three Dollar: A Proof-only issue with a reported mintage of just 20. This was the first US gold coin to eclipse the $100k price barrier, all the way back in the 1970’s.
1879 Flowing Hair Stella: Always in demand as a Trophy coin and an issue with an interesting back story.
1795 Small Eagle Half Eagle: The very first date of this long-lived denomination and an issue which is more available than one might expect.
1798 or 1799 Small Eagle Half Eagles: The two most affordable 18th century US gold coins and available in nice AU for a low five-figure cost.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
The CAL quarter eagle is a very interesting coin. This might be the first coin I've seen in CoinFacts where there are no photos of any of the Condition Census coins. The 10 coins in the Condition Census range from MS68 to MS65 and the top photographed coin is a MS64.
https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1848-2-50-cal/7749/63
1848 CAL. Quarter Eagle, PCGS MS66 - Clapp-Eliasberg Specimen
The Eliasberg coin also is not noted in the PCGS Coin Facts Condition Census but it listed in the original Coin Facts Condition Census as the following:
Heritage offered this coin in their 1992 ANA Sale.
This guy has nice coins.
My YouTube Channel
Half Dime Upgrade
I am hoping 2020 will be as exciting to watch the Hansen Collection as was 2019. Tonight kicks off the 2020 numismatic season with the Heritage FUN US Coins Signature Auctions in Orlando. If you recall a year ago, Mr. Hansen drove a few in the community crazy with his Countdown #23 purchase of the 1885 Trade Dollar Ex: Atwater-Eliasberg Specimen. The coin ended up realizing almost 4 Million Dollars. We will not see anything like that this year. There are no Countdown coins in this sale, although, there are coins that could upgrade several series in the collection. The one more prevailing is The Rollo Fox Collection of $20 Saint-Gaudens Gold. I don’t know where the upgrading the Saint-Gaudens series falls on Mr. Hansen’s priority list. There are a few nice high grade proofs that he could added. As previous stated, I don’t see anything happening as crazy as last year, but there are a handful of Mercury Dimes in the auction, so anything is possible I guess.
1833 Half Dime MS67+
This upgrade appeared in the current #1 Capped Bust Half Dimes Basic Set, Circulation Strikes (1829-1837) sets a couple days ago. I am not sure when it was acquired, but it has been in his major sets for some time now. I am posting a weekly series highlighting some of Hansen’s gold collection, so I was looking for a stunning silver issue to share with you. I think I found it with this half dime.
This is PCGS POP 2/0 specimen with CAC Approval. Expert Ron Guth described the coin as: The 1833 Half Dime is a very common coin in circulated condition and in most Mint State grades, up to and including MS-64. Gem examples are semi-scarce and even superb examples can be found with little effort. The PCGS CoinFacts Condition Census consists almost entirely of MS67 examples, and the finest known example is a single PCGS MS67+ (illustrated above). Most 1833 Half Dimes show a frosty luster and a strong, evenly balanced strike. The date this was written is not referenced, but it is a little dated. The single PCGS MS67+ that Mr. Guth referenced is a not Mr. Hansen’s. The reference coin is not as toned and colorfully as this one now in the D. L. Hansen Collection.
We don’t know how John Brush acquired this coin. The coin was auctioned about a year ago in a Legend Auction as a PCGS MS67. It could have been purchased JB, and the coin was upgrade by Hansen, or the coin may have obtained privately after the upgrade. Presently, the Hansen’s MS67+ specimen is not listed in the CoinFacts Condition Census report. The Hansen coin is the featured coin in CoinFacts, so we can tell the images have been updated.
In the 1/2019 Legend Regency Auction 30, the coin was described as: Having built the Law Set, the #1 all time Bust Half Dime collection, we are highly experienced in how these can come. If you really think hard, how many really nice PCGS CAC MS67 1833's have you ever seen? We sure have not seen many. This coin is absolutely worthy of the finest collection! Remarkable surfaces are pristine. We used a very strong glass and looked hard all over and found zero problems of any size. Interestingly, there is a slight trace of semi prooflike mirrors. Amazing and totally original colors of deep blue/aqua blue/auburn/antique white swirl all over. You do not need an imagination or a glass to see the perfection of the strike. The eye appeal is tremendous! This coin will make a fabulous addition to any GEM Type or Half Dime Collection. Good luck!
1833 PCGS MS67 CAC specimen realized $15,275 in the Legend Auction a year ago. The estimated give for the coin was $12,000 - $13,500, so it was an overachiever. PCGS now values the coin at $20,000.
In an Eliasberg comparison, his coin was an estimated graded coin cataloged as a Proof. Sold by Bowers & Merena May '96 price realized $8,800. Lot #923.
Provenance: unknown
1833 Capped Bust Half Dime MS67+ (Gold Shield)
Certification #36659763, PCGS #4280. POP 2/0
PCGS Price Guide Value: $20,000
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004