@MathandBikes said:
Are there any plans to start showcasing pieces of this set at various shows?
I’ve never traveled outside of the state for a show but I know if Hansen’s set (some part of it at least) was being shown then I’d likely purchase my first flight for a coin show.
We've actually done a few displays of sets at recent national shows. Our next planned display will be at the DLRC Booth at the ANA World's Fair of Money in Pittsburgh. At last year's ANA in Chicago, we displayed the #1 rated Proof Trade Dollar Set including the finest known 1884 and 1885 Proof issues.
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
What actions suggest that he actually wants the best? Many actions would suggest he wants an expansive set, not the best individual coins.
Well Hansen did spend more than $500k on two uber common ultra high grade Mercury Dimes this year.
And passed in actually irreplaceable coins in the same timeframe if I recall. Same goes for the 38-O 50c recently sold.
So, the collection is incredibly expansive. It's not possible to own the finest graded of everything, but within reason, we do our best at that.
As for the 38-O, we were the underbidder. But, yes we are working on another example.
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
@RedCopper said:
Perhaps Mr. Hansen would like to have a Barber Dime Showdown ?
I’ll lay my Barber dimes down next to his set and we’ll invite the public and Currin to view the coins
Perhaps even RSD will attend
That should give Currin something to write about
Shoot me an email at john@davidlawrence.com.
This would be a fun project to work on and we could possibly do it at the ANA show in Pittsburgh if you're game...or in Baltimore in the Fall.
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
@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.
Well, this isn't exactly correct. We've displayed quite a few coins at the past ANA Shows and the 2018 FUN Show.
Seated Dollars, Proof Trade Dollars, and some highlights from the gold and Barber Quarters (finest known 1901-S 25c PCGS/CAC MS68+).
We're working on some more displays in the near future, but it takes time and logistics to work these things out!
Thanks
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
@Srotag said:
I much preferred the OGH-55CAC to the 62+ at FUN (that's why I bought it ), especially at 40% of the price. The 55 may someday be a 58, but never an MS coin. I think the same could be said of the 62+
BTW, the HA auction record of the 62+ indicates "This Owner is proactively entertaining offers". Why is Hanson offering the coin for sale thru HA immediately after winning it at auction? Usually that is an indication that the HA wholesale dept bought the coin. Are we sure Hanson bought it?
Yes, I can confirm he purchased the coin. If it is offered for sale, it because the coin realized less than he thought it would. He has multiple coins and maybe more that one duplicate. If coin is immediately being offered, tells me that Hansen does not have an emotional attachment to coin. Same as the 1856-S Half Eagle that he purchased and sold it the next morning for a profit.
As has been posted to this thread, already, just because a coin shows as “This Owner is proactively entertaining offers” doesn’t necessarily mean the owner knowingly chose to show the coin as being available for sale.
Mark is correct. The coins are not being offered for sale via Heritage. It's simply a silly setting that we haven't turned off on his account.
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
Sorry for the recent bursts in posts today.
As some of you know, we've dealt with several major ailments in my family in the past several months that have forced me to reply less here and on Hansen topics to focus on DLRC-related and family-related issues. We're hopefully on our way out of these issues and I'm attempting to catch up with Currin and with projects related to the Hansen Collection.
I heard some rumors at the FUN show that we were no longer buying, but I can assure you that it's not true.
While there are less coins for us to pursue in filling holes, we are concentrating more on pieces of need that make "sense" for us to add to the primary collection and to finish and develop some of the 2nd and 3rd sets. I'll do my best to keep up here in the coming weeks and please don't hesitate to throw any questions to me and I'll do my best to try to answer.
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:
Sorry for the recent bursts in posts today.
As some of you know, we've dealt with several major ailments in my family in the past several months that have forced me to reply less here and on Hansen topics to focus on DLRC-related and family-related issues. We're hopefully on our way out of these issues and I'm attempting to catch up with Currin and with projects related to the Hansen Collection.
I heard some rumors at the FUN show that we were no longer buying, but I can assure you that it's not true.
While there are less coins for us to pursue in filling holes, we are concentrating more on pieces of need that make "sense" for us to add to the primary collection and to finish and develop some of the 2nd and 3rd sets. I'll do my best to keep up here in the coming weeks and please don't hesitate to throw any questions to me and I'll do my best to try to answer.
John,
I understand the goal of the primary collection. What is the idea or goal behind having a 2nd or 3rd set in multiple series? Thanks
@MathandBikes said:
Are there any plans to start showcasing pieces of this set at various shows?
I’ve never traveled outside of the state for a show but I know if Hansen’s set (some part of it at least) was being shown then I’d likely purchase my first flight for a coin show.
We've actually done a few displays of sets at recent national shows. Our next planned display will be at the DLRC Booth at the ANA World's Fair of Money in Pittsburgh. At last year's ANA in Chicago, we displayed the #1 rated Proof Trade Dollar Set including the finest known 1884 and 1885 Proof issues.
One reason a person has multiple sets or partial sets (myself 2-3). is that over the years we upgrade or find better eye appeal coins. We either sell the dupes or keep them and they can lead to another set. For example I have about 20 Proof Morgan dupes.
For most part they are amazing for eye appeal. Many are better looking than what are in my two sets but they grade lower. I could look for the seven I need for set three but I don't.
DLH seems to add to the dupes to make more sets.
It is really great hearing from John. Family is first, so do what you need to do. Glad to have you back in the saddle.
After several weeks of gold, I am changing up a little on this posting. Silver and everyone’s favorite, Silver Dollars. These dollars caught my attention a couple weeks ago. With posting all that darn gold, I just have not fitted these into my postings. The first is a Morgan Dollar purchased in a Heritage Auction at the FUN show. The other is a PCGS POP 1/0 Peace Dollar that Mr. Hansen acquired in a Great Collections Auction. So, take a look.
1902-O Morgan Dollar, MS67+
I would describe the D.L. Hansen Collection of Morgan Dollars as a work in progress. The collection has a super strong Morgan Dollars Prooflike Basic Set, The #1 All-Time Set in the PCGS Registry. The GPA for the set is 66.67. For the highly competitive basic set, his set is just #6 on the current list. Just give him a little more time and we will see what comes about. This 1902-O Morgan Dollar, MS67+ will help.
Q. David Bowers comments: Although 1902-O dollars seeped out over a period of years from storage in the Treasury Building in Washington, D.C., especially in the late 1950s and very early 1960s (before autumn 1962), the date was not considered common until a vast torrent of hundreds of thousands emerged from a sealed vault in the Philadelphia Mint in October 1962 and ensuing months. Earlier, the 1902-O was considered to be a rarity in Mint State, and for a period of years it was priced higher than, for ex-ample, the 1884-S. Today, the 1902-O is slightly scarce in worn grades. However, it sells for little more than a common date. The depressed valuation for circulated coins is due to the widespread availability of Uncirculated pieces. In Uncirculated grades the 1902-O is very common. Most are in lower levels, but enough MS-64 and MS-65 coins exist that little effort is required to locate a specimen. The striking quality of 1902-O dollars is usually poor, with flatness at the centers, particularly the reverse. Lustre ranges from dull to "greasy" on most pieces. There are exceptions, as might be expected from such a large coinage, and diligent cherry-picking may yield a sharply struck, lustrous coin at, who knows, perhaps for not much more money than a flat strike.
1902-O Silver Dollar, MS67+, CAC Tied for the Finest Certified, PCGS POP 5/0 Certification #38000369, PCGS #7280 PCGS Price Guide: $65,000 / Heritage 2020 FUN: $33,600
Heritage description: Given conditions at the New Orleans Mint and within the Treasury's storage vaults, it is nothing short of a miracle that a high-end Superb Gem 1902-O dollar can exist. Only a handful of such pieces are indicated in the population reports. The 1902-O was never known for high quality. It was a "Creole" date liberated from Treasury storage in October 1962, when a profusion of Mint State examples entered the market. Most were flatly struck and bagmarked. Somehow, the present coin was carefully preserved. Brilliant and frosted surfaces are the antithesis of a normal 1902-O, which typically lacks any semblance of eye appeal. Vibrant silver luster fills both sides, and the smooth surfaces are free of contact. The strike is needle-sharp except above Liberty's ear, where its O-mint legacy reveals itself and the strike is not quite full. Eye appeal is extraordinary, as expected for the Plus-Graded and CAC-endorsed Superb Gem level.
1923 Peace Dollar MS67+
The D.L. Hansen Collection of Peace Dollars is an entirely different story. For the faithful viewers, you will recall the first coins posted from 2020 FUN US Coins Signature Auction in Orlando were Peace Dollars. Mr. Hansen purchased a few high end graded specimens. Two of the coins went directly into his Top Set, 1921 High Relief and 1922-D Peace Dollars. The third coin, 1923-D Peace Dollar was placed in his second set, Diana's Set of Peace Dollars. The coins were from the Illinois Collection of Peace Dollars. In 2020, the D.L. Hansen Collection of Peace Dollars has become closer to the retired PCGS Hall of Fame All-Time top set, California 1. With several coins purchased in 2019 from the Linda Gail Collection, The Peace Collection has become a real keeper. Hopefully, the collection can added some more upgrades to the Morgan Collection.
Ron Guth Comments: The 1923 Peace Dollar is the second most common date of the type, second only to the 1922. Collectors will have no problem finding a nice example of this date, as tens of thousands have been certified in MS-63 and MS-64. In fact, for type purposes, the 1923 Peace Dollar is one of the easiest dates top find in top condition. MS-66 examples are affordable compared to other dates. Though pricey, an MS-67 1923 Peace Dollar can be found with relative ease. Most 1923 Peace Dollars exhibit a strong strike and decent eye appeal. Luster ranges from frosty white to a hard, metallic sheen.
This 1923 Peace Dollar MS67+ that now in the D.L. Hansen collection is a breakaway coin. There was a group of 87 PCGS finest certified MS67 coins. This coin is the first to be upgrade to MS67+. With 87 waiting in the shallows, I very doubt this Hansen coin will setting alone on top for very long. Presently, Hansen has a PCGS Pop 1/0 specimen and inch a little closer to the top. The coin sold for $38,250 with buyer’s fee.
1923 Peace Dollar MS67+, PCGS POP 1/0 Certification #38330760, PCGS #7360 PCGS Price Guide: $55,000 / GreatCollections Auction : $38,250
After reading some recent comments and JB’s responses, i.e. So, the collection is incredibly expansive. It's not possible to own the finest graded of everything, but within reason, we do our best at that., it appear to me that some people are judging the collection by what it does’t have, instead by the incredible coins the collection does have. Seem a little upside down to me.
I find DL's pursuit to be quite vain, to be honest. To spend this much money on a coin collection, only to flaunt it in a popular coin forum, is questionable to me. He is not furthering the numismatic community with his egotistical pursuit, and instead is just using this as a means to get more famous. Hopefully I am wrong, but these are my humble thoughts on the matter.
@1987WheatCent said:
I find DL's pursuit to be quite vain, to be honest. To spend this much money on a coin collection, only to flaunt it in a popular coin forum, is questionable to me. He is not furthering the numismatic community with his egotistical pursuit, and instead is just using this as a means to get more famous. Hopefully I am wrong, but these are my humble thoughts on the matter.
Couldn't disagree more. First of all he does not "flaunt" it in this forum---in fact he rarely posts on this forum. He does use the registry just like thousands of other collectors. Honestly, I would hate if Mr. Hansen was buying all these coins secretly and the collecting community had no idea where they were, who had them, etc. In fact, but for the registry there are some coins we would never know existed except for Mr. Hansen's openness.
@1987WheatCent said:
I find DL's pursuit to be quite vain, to be honest. To spend this much money on a coin collection, only to flaunt it in a popular coin forum, is questionable to me. He is not furthering the numismatic community with his egotistical pursuit, and instead is just using this as a means to get more famous. Hopefully I am wrong, but these are my humble thoughts on the matter.
Couldn't disagree more. First of all he does not "flaunt" it in this forum---in fact he rarely posts on this forum. He does use the registry just like thousands of other collectors. Honestly, I would hate if Mr. Hansen was buying all these coins secretly and the collecting community had no idea where they were, who had them, etc. In fact, but for the registry there are some coins we would never know existed except for Mr. Hansen's openness.
Thank you for your thoughts, @Gazes . While I understand your point of view, I disagree. Think of it like this - wouldn't we all love to live in a world where people climbed Everest for the challenge of it, and did not proceed to post about it online or tell anyone about it? This is akin to that situation; it would be best if people did not pursue such vain endeavors.
@1987WheatCent said:
I find DL's pursuit to be quite vain, to be honest. To spend this much money on a coin collection, only to flaunt it in a popular coin forum, is questionable to me. He is not furthering the numismatic community with his egotistical pursuit, and instead is just using this as a means to get more famous. Hopefully I am wrong, but these are my humble thoughts on the matter.
Couldn't disagree more. First of all he does not "flaunt" it in this forum---in fact he rarely posts on this forum. He does use the registry just like thousands of other collectors. Honestly, I would hate if Mr. Hansen was buying all these coins secretly and the collecting community had no idea where they were, who had them, etc. In fact, but for the registry there are some coins we would never know existed except for Mr. Hansen's openness.
Thank you for your thoughts, @Gazes . While I understand your point of view, I disagree. Think of it like this - wouldn't we all love to live in a world where people climbed Everest for the challenge of it, and did not proceed to post about it online or tell anyone about it? This is akin to that situation; it would be best if people did not pursue such vain endeavors.
As Gazes already mentioned, Mr. Hansen hardly ever posts here. And my recollection is that on the rare occasions when he has done so, his posts were friendly and had nothing to do with being egotistical or vain. It appears that he truly loves his collecting. Have you actually ever read his posts?
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
@1987WheatCent said:
I find DL's pursuit to be quite vain, to be honest. To spend this much money on a coin collection, only to flaunt it in a popular coin forum, is questionable to me. He is not furthering the numismatic community with his egotistical pursuit, and instead is just using this as a means to get more famous. Hopefully I am wrong, but these are my humble thoughts on the matter.
Couldn't disagree more. First of all he does not "flaunt" it in this forum---in fact he rarely posts on this forum. He does use the registry just like thousands of other collectors. Honestly, I would hate if Mr. Hansen was buying all these coins secretly and the collecting community had no idea where they were, who had them, etc. In fact, but for the registry there are some coins we would never know existed except for Mr. Hansen's openness.
Thank you for your thoughts, @Gazes . While I understand your point of view, I disagree. Think of it like this - wouldn't we all love to live in a world where people climbed Everest for the challenge of it, and did not proceed to post about it online or tell anyone about it? This is akin to that situation; it would be best if people did not pursue such vain endeavors.
It would appear you have issues with the forum, since they posted about this collection, not DL. I am glad I do not live in the same world you live in.
Collector and Researcher of Liberty Head Nickels. ANA LM-6053
You should ban this guy. ☺ Hansen loves coins. He has money. He is 100% not egotistical. I met him once.
Nice, normal person. If I had his money, why not? He loves coins so he buys what he wants.
I have lots of coins. I like them as well. I prefer to look at coins over stocks, bonds and other investments.
If I did not have the coins I would have more of this "stuff" and real estate.
@1987WheatCent said:
I find DL's pursuit to be quite vain, to be honest. To spend this much money on a coin collection, only to flaunt it in a popular coin forum, is questionable to me. He is not furthering the numismatic community with his egotistical pursuit, and instead is just using this as a means to get more famous. Hopefully I am wrong, but these are my humble thoughts on the matter.
My humble thoughts are literally the exact opposite of yours but to each their own etc. He's not vain at all. He doesn't flaunt anything at all. He is a positive to the numismatic community. No one gets famous collecting coins.
And your next post I would absolutely not want to live in a world where people climbed everest and kept it to themselves as if sharing their experience is a bad thing and dilutes the accomplishment in any way. Just a strange outlook to me.
My, the grapes are sour this morning.
The forum ...exists... to document the progress of collections.
It's a source of education and INFORMATION.
The information may be the progress of a collection or a technical grading question.
What it is not is a psychiatric venue. Although, I am completely sane. Kinda.
I have read " THE HANSEN WATCH " from page 1 to 63. I could not disagree more with @1987WheatCent . I don't know how many times D.L. has posted, ( wish it was more ) but I HAVE NEVER seen him post " flaunting " his set. I appreciate Currins effort to keep us aware of Hansens quest. How many truly awesome sets are there that we have no idea what or where they are. I believe Hansens endeavor has done more for coin collecting than any other single event in the last several years. And who here on this forum would not want to be in his shoes ? Egotistical pursuit ?
I think not.
Hansen isn’t flaunting in the forums so much as posting in the Set Registry which a lot of people do. It just so happens he's building a complete U.S. coin collection which fascinates a lot of people.
I also think what he is doing is great for collecting and getting people excited about coins. It's a wonderful thing for the hobby.
"My humble thoughts are literally the exact opposite of yours but to each their own etc. He's not vain at all. He doesn't flaunt anything at all. He is a positive to the numismatic community. No one gets famous collecting coins".> @PhilLynott said:
Could not agree more and your last statement says it all. If Hanson was doing this for fame and vanity, he would NOT be collecting coins. He would be buying $100,000,000+ art or famous office buildings like the Empire in NYC. THOSE transactions make national and worldwide headlines--not collecting coins. I bet 99.99% of the people not involved in the coin community know nothing about Hanson's endeavor.
@MathandBikes said:
Are there any plans to start showcasing pieces of this set at various shows?
I’ve never traveled outside of the state for a show but I know if Hansen’s set (some part of it at least) was being shown then I’d likely purchase my first flight for a coin show.
We've actually done a few displays of sets at recent national shows. Our next planned display will be at the DLRC Booth at the ANA World's Fair of Money in Pittsburgh. At last year's ANA in Chicago, we displayed the #1 rated Proof Trade Dollar Set including the finest known 1884 and 1885 Proof issues.
For myself I've never thought of his pursuit any differently than any other collector chasing their goal. I've been following his pursuit and have enjoyed each step. These examples shown herein are some of the most impressive/superb coinage one could witness. Furthermore, it's made many of us "commoners" here feel like we are part of his active quest for the best. Brought many of us into his fold. Thanks for letting us ride the wave.
Successful transactions:Tookybandit. "Everyone is equal, some are more equal than others".
@Currin said: 1795 $5 Small Eagle MS62 (Gold Shield) PCGS Coin #8066 / PCGS Serial #36068839 PCGS 28/18, PCGS Price Guide Value $145,000
David Akers comments: Although not particularly scarce by Half Eagle standards, the 1795 Small Eagle is nevertheless a relatively high priced coin due to its status as the first U.S. gold coin and its popularity as a type coin. It is much more common than the other dates of this type and is fairly obtainable in AU-Unc. condition. Gems, that is MS-65 or better coins, are rare but still occasionally available. Proof-like surfaces are the norm rather than the exception but no true proofs exist. There are, however, several first strike specimens that have the characteristics of "presentation" pieces. One interesting variety exists with the second S in STATES over the letter D. This variety, although more rare than the varieteies with the plain S, does not generally command a premium.
Beautiful coin! I love this type and I'm glad Dell Loy chose the reverse to be on his custom insert.
This week we have reached the half way point of the challenge. The 5 coin lot consists of Liberty Head Half Eagles. The challenged resulted in a 2-2-1 Tie.
Eliasberg won the first coin in the challenge with a amazing MS64 1861-D Half Eagle. This may be the finest known, although I cannot confirm any current day reference to the Eliasberg coin. Hansen won the second coin (1864-S), and tie the challenge at 1-1.
The third coin is one of the most circulated coins Mr. Hansen Gold Collection. Graded at F12 by PCGS, the coin is ranked at the bottom with another F12, 1866-S Half Eagle. Eliasberg won the third coin with a XF12.
The last two coins in the challenge are two proofs. Eliasberg did not have an 1875 business strike half eagle in his collection. The amazing Hansen Collection has both, PCGS AU55 POP 1/1 and PR64CAM POP 4/4. The Eliasberg Collection specimen was a PR64CAM, so I declared the coin a tie. The Last coin, 1887 Proof Only, Hansen Collection has a PR65CAM compared to a PR64CAM that was in the Eliasberg Collection.
The total value for Hansen’s five coins is $572,000. This week’s result is 2-2-1. Hansen’s holds to a 5 coin overall lead.
1861-D Half Eagle:The last Dahlonega half eagle and another coin with strong demand from Civil War collectors.
Hansen Coin: 1861-D Half Eagle PCGS AU58 POP 5/12
Eliasberg Coin: 1861-D Half Eagle est. MS64 (maybe finest known?)
Elaisberg Won (0-1-0)
1864-S Half Eagle:The rarest collectible San Francisco half eagle and the rarest business strike Civil War gold coin.
Hansen Coin: 1864-S Half Eagle PCGS AU55 POP 1/1
Eliasberg Coin: 1864-S Half Eagle est. XF45 POP 1/6
Hansen Won (1-1-0)
1870-CC Half Eagle:The first year of issue for Carson City half eagles. Available in low grade, rare in higher grades.
Hansen Coin: 1870-CC Half Eagle PCGS F12 POP 3/69
Eliasberg Coin: 1870-CC Half Eagle est. XF40 est. 3/28
Eliasberg Won (1-2-0)
1875 Half Eagle:Just 200 business strikes were made and likely under 10 exist. The rarest collectible Liberty Head half eagle. Note: I will compare Hansen’s Proof with Eliasberg. This coin was not in Eliasberg Collection in mint finish. I could give the win to Hansen, but instead I will compare the proofs. For the record, Hansen has a PCGS AU55 POP 1/1 in mint finish.
Hansen Coin: 1875 Half Eagle PCGS PR64 CAM POP 4/4
Eliasberg Coin: 1875 Half Eagle Est. PR64 CAM POP 4/4
Tie (1-2-1)
1887 Half Eagle:A rare Proof-only issue with just 87 coins struck in total. An overlooked date.
Hansen Coin: 1887 Half Eagle PCGS PR65 CAM POP 2/4
Eliasberg Coin: 1887 Half Eagle Est. PR64 CAM POP 4/7
Hansen Won (2-2-1)
Several impressive coins appeared this week. Maybe the most impressive was Eliasberg’s 1861-D. He may have owned the finest specimen. If he does not, then the coin was over graded as a raw coin in the Eliasberg sale. In this comparison, Hansen had two impressive mint finish coins graded POP 1/1.
Although the fifth stage finished in a tie, The D.L. Hansen Collection still leads the Louis Eliasberg Collection (13-8-4). We have reach halftime in the challenge with 25 coins to go. Sorry that I don’t have any half time ads, but these will be the five coins that we will look at next week.
1909-O Half Eagle:The only New Orleans half eagle of this type and the final gold coin struck at this mint. Very rare in high grades. 1929 Half Eagle:The last year of issue for this long-lived denomination. A heavily melted date. 1795 Eagle:The first year of issue for this denomination and the largest of the three denominations struck during the early years. 1799 Eagle:The most common and therefore the most affordable pre-1800 date of this type. 1838 Eagle:First year of issue for the Liberty Head design and a short-lived two year type.
Hansen WOW Coins
1861-D Half Eagle PCGS AU58 (Gold Shield) The last Dahlonega half eagle Certification #34717493, PCGS #8290, POP 5/12 PCGS Price Guide Value $65,000 Provenance: unknown
Doug Winter Comments: The 1861-D is the rarest and most numismatically interesting half eagle struck at the Dahlonega Mint. It is known that on December 19, 1860, two obverses dated 1861 were shipped to Dahlonega from Philadelphia. These were received on January 7, 1861 and sometime between that date and April 8, 1861, a total of 1,597 1861-D half eagles were produced. On April 8, 1861, rebel forces seized the Dahlonega Mint. A small number of 1861-D half eagles (probably in the neighborhood of 1,000-2,000 coins) were then made by the Confederacy. There is not way to positively distinguish between the Union and Confederate strikings. The 1861-D half eagle is a rare coin in any grade, although its overall level of rarity has been overstated. It is usually seen in Very Fine to low end Extremely Fine grades. It is very rare in About Uncirculated and many pieces offered as such are overgraded. In Uncirculated, the 1861-D half eagle is an extremely rare coin.
.
. 1864-S Half Eagle, AU55 (Gold Shield) Civil War gold coin Certification #38081986, PCGS #8297, POP 1/1 PCGS Price Guide Value $200,000 Provenance: unknown
David Akers Comments: The 1864-S is one of the real rarities of the entire series. Only one specimen better than EF has ever appeared at auction (an unc described as "a choice beauty" that brought $70 at the 1956 Melish Sale) and most of the relatively few known specimens grade Fine or VF.
David Hall Comments: The "unc" mentioned by David Akers in his 1979 book was subsequently sold in the Norweb Sale (Bowers and Merena, 1987) and then in the Harry Bass Sale (Bowers and Merena, 1999). It is graded MS65 by PCGS and it is the finest known by an incredible 10 points!.
.
. 1870-CC Half Eagle F12 (Gold Shield) One of Two F12 Gold Coins in Collection. Tied for lowest grade coin Certification #84687877, PCGS #8320, PCGS POP 3/69 PCGS Price Guide Value $12,500 Provenance: unknown
David Akers Comments: From a standpoint of rarity according to average grade, the 1870-CC ranks number one in the entire 300 coin Half Eagle series. I have seen fewer of this date than any other Carson City Half Eagle although the 1878-CC has had five fewer auction appearances in my survey. The 1870-CC is very rare in any condition and when available, the typical example is only Fine or VF. I have seen several EF's and one I graded full AU but none that could reasonably be called uncirculated. Strike characteristics of this issue are difficult to be certain of because most specimens are so worn. However, I would say that, when they were made, most 1870-CC Half Eagles were probably well struck.
.
. 1875 Half Eagle PCGS PR64 Cam (Gold Shield) CoinFacts plate coin Certification #29777524, PCGS #88470, PCGS 4/4 PCGS Price Guide Value $140,000 Provenance: unknown
P. Scott Rubin Comments: The 1875 Proof Half Eagle is one of the rarest and most desired coins in a denomination that hosts some of the rarest and most desired coins in all U.S. coinage. This coin offers the rare opportunity to acquire an extremely rare date and denomination issue in superb condition. With a mintage of only 20 Proof 1875 Half Eagles struck and only 200 circulation strikes issued with the same date, makes this coin one of the lowest mintage in all U.S. numismatics. Because of its low mintage this has always been a much desired coin. Collectors at the time of issue saved the Proof specimens in the few gold coin collections being built in the late 1870’s where completeness was the goal. This seems to show how few Collectors at the time strived for such collections of Gold coinage and also explains why so few of the 200 circulation strikes were saved in the year of issue. The highest grade seen for a circulation strike is About Uncirculated-58. It is believed that as many as eleven Proof Half Eagles survive of which three are in Institutional Collections. This is a high survival rate but makes sense as explained above. There also seem to be less than 10 circulation strikes known, showing just how rare the 1875 Half Eagle really is.
.
. 1887 Half Eagle PCGS PR65 Cam (Gold Shield) Cameo Gem Proof-Only Certification #10555979, PCGS #88482, PCGS 2/4 PCGS Price Guide Value $155,000 Provenance: Stack's Philadelphia Americana Sale (2005) - The Dr. Robert J. Loewinger Collection
David Akers Comments: The 1887 is the only date in the Half Eagle series that was struck only in proof. Compared to other proofs, it is one of the most common prior to 1900 and it is certainly more common than any of the proofs preceding it. However, since the date is only available in proof, the 1887 has reached a price level exceeding that of any date after 1859 except the 1875. Out of the original 87 proofs, perhaps as many as 30-35 still exist but most of the ones I have seen have not been particularly choice. In fact, I would say that gem quality specimens are extremely rare.
As you know, I use information provided from the PCGS Registry for comparison in this challenge. I have indicated that if anyone has any additional information on the Eliasberg coins to let me know, and I will make adjustments according. On several occasions, Expert Numismatist Ron Guth has provided information on the Hansen's coins dating back, I don’t know, maybe a year or more ago. He posts under the name of BestGerman. In the challenge, he has been assisting with The Eliasberg coins when he can find provenance or a connection. He provided me two updates for Hansen-Eliasberg Challenge II – Part V.
1861-D Half Eagle:The last Dahlonega half eagle and another coin with strong demand from Civil War collectors.
Hansen Coin: 1861-D Half Eagle PCGS AU58 POP 5/12
Eliasberg Coin: 1861-D Half Eagle est. MS64 (maybe finest known?)
Elaisberg Won (0-1-0)
Ron Guth: Here is some updated information on the Hansen-Eliasberg Challenge II – Part V
On the 1861-D $5, the Eliasberg coin is now in an NGC MS62 holder:
S.H. Chapman 1/1919:??? - John H. Clapp Collection, sold intact in 1942 - Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection - Bowers & Ruddy 10/1982:502 (as Raw Choice Brilliant Uncirculated, MS65 obverse; Select Brilliant Uncirculated, MS63 reverse), $37,400.00
The registry listed the Eliasberg coin as MS64. If that was true, it appear the coin would possibly be the finest known. Presently, the coin is a NGC MS62. Still Eliasberg wins the coin challenge, no change.
1864-S Half Eagle:The rarest collectible San Francisco half eagle and the rarest business strike Civil War gold coin.
Hansen Coin: 1864-S Half Eagle PCGS AU55 POP 1/1
Eliasberg Coin: 1864-S Half Eagle est. XF45 POP 1/6
Hansen Won (1-1-0)
Ron Guth: On the 1864-S, the Eliasberg and the Hansen coin are one and the same:
Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection - Bowers & Ruddy 10/1982:509 (as Raw EF45), $2,530.00 - American Numismatic Rarities 1/2005:957 (as ANACS AU details, lightly cleaned or brushed), $17,825.00 - D.L. Hansen Collection (as PCGS AU55 38081986)
I had Hansen winning the coin, but with the fabulous research by Ron, the coins turned out to be the same coin! The results for this coin I will change from a Hansen win, to a tie. The update score is 12-8-5, with Hansen’s lead as now 4 coins.
I hope you enjoy these discoveries as much as I. Thanks Ron for doing this work for the forum community. His new website is up and running at www.numismatic detectives.com. If you get time, take a look. If you enjoy the work he has done for the community, please give a BIG PUBLIC THANK YOU!
Currin, thanks for the shout out. I'd like to return the favor by honoring you for what you are doing in chronicling the growth of the Hansen Collection. The amount of work you've put into this thread is remarkable -- truly, the labor of love. Someday, this thread should be put into book form as a permanent record of your and Hansen's efforts. In the meantime, I'll contribute as I can.
Good day,
Any new updates? Would it be improper to point out coins that DLH needs?
There is one on the DLRC site an 1895 PR68CAM PCGS/CAC .50. He has a 66+DCAM. https://www.davidlawrence.com/rare-coin/1981520
I have not written much about the civil war sets. I think this may be a good time to mention these sets from a dark time in our history. There have been a lot written about Mr. Hansen in recent years pertaining to his passion of this hobby, his sport interests, as well as business. There have not been many times that he has posted his thoughts for our pleasure. Whenever he does, we are given a little additional glimpse into who is D.L. Hansen.
If you recall in Mr. Hansen very first posting, actually very first paragraph of his first posting, he said one of his joys of coins are their connection to history. Post 1 (9/21/2017): I recently discovered this blog and thought I could add some clarity to the discussion. I am serious collector that enjoys history and the relationship the coins play in our nation’s history. The Civil War, the opening of the US mint, toned coins and being addicted with the mind dilemma of ADD I need to finish things. Quality matters and building friendships with dealers and collectors teaches me so much. I'm a student of Numismatics. He went on and discussed Louis Eliasberg and his quest to achieve something as special.
Since this time almost two and half years ago, he has assembled a very high quality collection of Civil War Coinage. I do want to mention Monte, because his collection is fantastic. With this last update, The Hansen Collection has taken the lead in some of the sets. I think Monte and Dell Loy “may have “the best two collections from the era, ever. They both have some of the finest coins known in the certified world. It would be nice if these two great collections would get together at some point in the future and display these sets together.
1861-S Civil War Era Half Eagle PCGS AU53
The grade on this coin is just AU53, but there are not many better. This is David Akers' expert comments on the coin: The 1861-S is marginally more rare than the 1860-S or 1858-S and is comparable to the 1859-S. Like the latter, the 1861-S ranks in the top 10% of the $5 series in rarity having appeared at auction only 24 times in all grades in the 337 catalogues in my survey. It has never been offered above EF and I have only seen two examples at that level. Most known specimens (there aren't really very many) are only Fine or VF and this date, like all the San Francisco Mint Half Eagles of the 1858-1876 period, is grossly underrated and underpriced for its rarity.
I was able to find a little information on this coin. The coin was once offered on Douglas Winters website where it was described as VERY UNDERRATED PCGS/CAC AU53 1861-S HALF EAGLE. He went on to add: An uncommonly high percentage of the 18,000 examples struck didn't survive the ravages of time and today there are around 60-70 known of this date. Most 1861-S half eagles are well worn with VF and EF coins the norm. In About Uncirculated, I doubt if there are more than five or six known and no 1861-S half eagle has ever been graded higher than AU55 at PCGS (and just a single coin after 30 years of operations!) This lovely AU53 example is one of the two best 1861-S half eagles I have offered for sale. It is well-defined and completely natural in appearance with nice green-gold color. Were it not for some contact marks in the left obverse field, this coin would certainly grade AU55 and it has better overall eye appeal than just about any 1861-S half eagle I have seen. Remarkably, no PCGS AU53 1861-S half eagle has sold at auction since October 1999. An NGC AU58 brought $16,450 in Heritage's April 2015 and I would choose this PCGS AU53 for my set if I collected this series. This could well be the second finest known 1861-S half eagle and it represents an important opportunity for the savvy specialist.
A few interesting stats would include: PCGS Population 5/1, CAC Population 1/1. Translation: CAC has approved this one coin in AU53 (Hansen's) and only one finer (AU55). The provenance is credited to the HandH Collection. I don’t know much about this collection, if someone can shed some additional information that would be great. Now, here is where things get interesting, Mr. Hansen purchased the coin last weekend in the Great Collections Auction. GCA credited the coin as being from the Srotag Collection. Again, I don’t know anything about this collection. The specimen realized $24,356.25, which is more than the $15,000 that Douglas Winters had it listed. PCGS values the coin at $12,000. Is the coin better than an AU53, or was it the CAC Approve that caught Mr. Hansen attention?
1861-S Civil War Era Half Eagle PCGS AU53 Certification #25265828, PCGS #8291 POP 6/1 for CAM, CAC Approved Provenance: HandH Collection; Srotag Collection PCGS Price Guide Value $12,000, Great Collection: $24,356.25
Just from some casual browsing:
-- Jefferson Nickels Basic Set, Proof (1938-1964): Two of the coins in the #2 set (the 1940 PR68 and the 1956 PR68+DCAM) score higher than the ones in the #1 set (PR67+ and PR68DCAM).
-- Washington Quarters Basic Set, Proof (1936-1964): One coin in the #2 set (1951 PR67+) scores higher than the one in the #1 set (PR67).
-- Franklin Half Dollars Basic Set, Proof (1950-1963): Two of the coins in the #2 set (the 1952 PR67CAM and the 1955 PR68DCAM) score higher than the ones in the #1 set (PR65DCAM and PR67DCAM).
Trying to keep these straight must drive JB's folks crazy. Scary to think what others there are and what true scores may be. Maybe PCGS will start giving out badges for volunteers to find these.
@Currin said: Civil War Era Half Eagle Upgrade 1861-S Civil War Era Half Eagle PCGS AU53
The grade on this coin is just AU53, but there are not many better. This is David Akers' expert comments on the coin: The 1861-S is marginally more rare than the 1860-S or 1858-S and is comparable to the 1859-S. Like the latter, the 1861-S ranks in the top 10% of the $5 series in rarity having appeared at auction only 24 times in all grades in the 337 catalogues in my survey. It has never been offered above EF and I have only seen two examples at that level. Most known specimens (there aren't really very many) are only Fine or VF and this date, like all the San Francisco Mint Half Eagles of the 1858-1876 period, is grossly underrated and underpriced for its rarity.
I was able to find a little information on this coin. The coin was once offered on Douglas Winters website where it was described as VERY UNDERRATED PCGS/CAC AU53 1861-S HALF EAGLE. He went on to add: An uncommonly high percentage of the 18,000 examples struck didn't survive the ravages of time and today there are around 60-70 known of this date. Most 1861-S half eagles are well worn with VF and EF coins the norm. In About Uncirculated, I doubt if there are more than five or six known and no 1861-S half eagle has ever been graded higher than AU55 at PCGS (and just a single coin after 30 years of operations!) This lovely AU53 example is one of the two best 1861-S half eagles I have offered for sale. It is well-defined and completely natural in appearance with nice green-gold color. Were it not for some contact marks in the left obverse field, this coin would certainly grade AU55 and it has better overall eye appeal than just about any 1861-S half eagle I have seen. Remarkably, no PCGS AU53 1861-S half eagle has sold at auction since October 1999. An NGC AU58 brought $16,450 in Heritage's April 2015 and I would choose this PCGS AU53 for my set if I collected this series. This could well be the second finest known 1861-S half eagle and it represents an important opportunity for the savvy specialist.
A few interesting stats would include: PCGS Population 5/1, CAC Population 1/1. Translation: CAC has approved this one coin in AU53 (Hansen's) and only one finer (AU55). The provenance is credited to the HandH Collection. I don’t know much about this collection, if someone can shed some additional information that would be great. Now, here is where things get interesting, Mr. Hansen purchased the coin last weekend in the Great Collections Auction. GCA credited the coin as being from the Srotag Collection. Again, I don’t know anything about this collection. The specimen realized $24,356.25, which is more than the $15,000 that Douglas Winters had it listed. PCGS values the coin at $12,000. Is the coin better than an AU53, or was it the CAC Approve that caught Mr. Hansen attention?
1861-S Civil War Era Half Eagle PCGS AU53 Certification #25265828, PCGS #8291 POP 6/1 for CAM, CAC Approved Provenance: HandH Collection; Srotag Collection PCGS Price Guide Value $12,000, Great Collection: $24,356.25
I can confirm this is the same coin offered by Doug Winter, as I purchased it from him in early 2017 before consigning it to GC this year. However, you would need to chat with Doug about prior provenance.
To answer your querry, given the rarity of the date, the price guides are way off. This date does not exist in UNC and no PCGS coins are graded 58 (there are 8 NGC's but none have crossed and I'm assuming that figure is inflated by resubs). PCGS has only graded 1 coin higher, in 55, and per Doug's description as well as my opinion of the coin, it could very easily be in a 55 holder.
Mr Hanson also purchased the 1858 and 1865-S from the Srotag Collection, but curiously did not purchase the 1859-S graded MS-61CAC, which would substantially improve his existing AU50. The 59-S is slightly more rare overall (45 PCGS grading events compared to 46 for the 61-S) and has fewer CAC coins (8 vs 10), altho the 61-S does not exist is UNC while 3 59-S coins are UNC (my 61 and 2 in 62). I mention this to confirm what many have discussed in this forum: that Hanson is not buying every coin available which will improve his sets--other factors (I presume price) are also at play.
Eliasberg started the second half of the challenge with a strong week. All of the Eliasberg specimens were Choice or GEMs. The only exception was a coin listed in registry as MS62, but is now PCGS MS63. Due to the spectacular grouping of Eliasberg coins, this week’s challenged resulted in a 1-3-1 win by Eliasberg.
Eliasberg won the first coin (1909-O Half Eagle) with amazing registry listed est. MS65. Ron Guth did some detective work and discovered some additional stats. 1909-O Half Eagle: Eliasberg’s example was last observed in a PCGS MS66 holder: Joseph C. Mitchelson Collection, sold privately in 6/1909 - John H. Clapp Collection, sold intact in 1942 - Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection - Bowers & Ruddy 10/1982:623 (as Raw MS65), $30,800.00 - David Hall & Gordon Wrubel - Paramount “Auction ‘83” 7/1983:404, $46,750.00 - David Akers “Auction ‘89” 7/1989:1405, $71,500.00 - Dr. Thaine B. Price Collection - David Akers 5/1998:21 (as Raw Gem Uncirculated), $374,000.00 - Jim O'Neal Collection - Heritage 1/2011:5138 (as PCGS MS66 18307665), $690,000.00 - Heritage 1/2014:5468 (as PCGS MS66 18307665), $646,250.00
Hansen won the second coin and only coin in the challenge with a 1929 Half Eagle MS64. On the third coin, Eliasberg won with another monster MS65. Additonal information from Ron indicates: Eliasberg had three 1795 Eagles, the best of which was last observed in a PCGS MS65 holder: John H. Clapp Collection, sold intact in 1942 - Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection - Bowers & Ruddy 10/1982:643 (as Raw MS64), $57,200.00 - Heritage 8/2013:5871 (as NGC MS65 1633380-001), $675,625.00 - Rare Coin Wholesalers, offered on Collectors Corner on 1/29/2018 for $1,495,000 1/2018 (as PCGS MS65 35487776)
The fourth coin resulted in a tie with both great collections having a 1799 Eagle MS65. Ron Guth could not find any additional information on this coin.
The last coin was won by Eliasberg with a 1838 Eagle est. MS62. Ron Guth discovered this coin to be: I was able to identify Eliasberg’s 1838 Eagle as the PCGS MS63 Pogue specimen today, representing a new connection between these two great collections: G.F.E. Wilharm Collection - B. Max Mehl 2/1921:??? - John H. Clapp Collection, sold intact in 1942 - Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection - Bowers & Ruddy 10/1982:661 (as Raw Choice AU-55 obverse; Brilliant Uncirculated, MS-60 reverse), $30,800.00 - Freedom Collection - Heritage 1/2007:3638 (as NGC MS63 1776966-024), $115,000.00 - Richard Burdick - D. Brent Pogue Collection, Part IV - Stack's/Bowers & Sotheby's 5/2016:4063 (as PCGS MS63 32916362), $105,750.00
Ron’s work this week did not change any results as appeared on the registry. I find the connections and provenances that Ron discovers to be very interesting. It is a little sad that many of Eliasberg just vanished from history. I find it to be delightful for Ron to bring a few of them back to life. Great work!
The total value for Hansen’s five coins is $1,015,500. This week’s result is 1-3-1. Hansen’s holds to a 2 coin overall lead.
1909-O Half Eagle:The only New Orleans half eagle of this type and the final gold coin struck at this mint. Very rare in high grades.
Hansen Coin: 1909-O Half Eagle PCGS AU58+ POP 1/83
Eliasberg Coin: 1909-O Half Eagle est. MS65 POP 2/1 (Ron Guth: PCGS MS66)
Elaisberg Won (0-1-0)
1929 Half Eagle:The last year of issue for this long-lived denomination. A heavily melted date.
Hansen Coin: 1929 Half Eagle PCGS MS64 POP 10/23
Eliasberg Coin: 1929 Half Eagle est. MS63 POP 101/136
Hansen Won (1-1-0)
1795 Eagle:The first year of issue for this denomination and the largest of the three denominations struck during the early years.
Hansen Coin: 1795 Eagle PCGS M63 POP 11/9
Eliasberg Coin: 1795 Eagle PCGS MS65 (Ron Guth: Confirmed PCGS MS65)
Eliasberg Won (1-2-0)
1799 Eagle:The most common and therefore the most affordable pre-1800 date of this type.
Hansen Coin: 1799 Eagle PCGS MS65 POP 8/3
Eliasberg Coin: 1799 Eagle Est. MS65 POP 8/3
Tie (1-2-1)
1838 Eagle:First year of issue for the Liberty Head design and a short-lived two year type.
Hansen Coin: 1838 Eagle PCGS AU53 POP 3/20
Eliasberg Coin: 1838 Eagle Est. MS62 POP 1/2 (Ron Guth: PCGS MS63)
Eliasberg Won (1-3-1)
All of the Eliasberg’s specimens were impressive this week. All 5 of his coins were from MS62 to MS65 according to the registry. By the information the Ron discovery, they became even more impressive. Hansen’s specimens were 3 coins from MS63 to MS65, but the Achilles heel this week was the 2 about uncirculated coins. Hansen did not have any condition census top 5 coins in this week’s challenge.
The sixth stage was a great week for the Eliasberg Collection. The D.L. Hansen Collection still leads the Louis Eliasberg Collection (13-11-6). The challenging is tightening up, so the final four posts could get interesting. The lead is now to only 2 coins. Stay tune! Here are the coins for next week.
1841-O Eagle:The first eagle struck at a branch mint and the first–obviously–from New Orleans. 1863 Eagle:The rarest Civil War eagle and strong contender for one of the rarest dates in the Liberty Head eagle series. 1870-CC Eagle:The first Carson City eagle and a rare, popular issue in all grades. 1875 Eagle:Crazy low-mintage of just 200 business strikes and by far the rarest date in the series with just 7/8 or so known 1907 Wire Edge Eagle:A beautifully designed, low mintage issue with strong demand from a variety of collectors.
Doug Winter Comments: The 1909-O half eagle is the final gold coin produced at the New Orleans mint. It is the only Indian Head half eagle to be struck at this mint. It is not an especially scarce coin in circulated grades but it is exceedingly popular due to its status as a one-year type. In recent years, the level of demand for this coin has soared and it now ranks as one of the most popular New Orleans issues of any denomination. Examples in the VF and EF grades are readily available. Attractive AU coins are fairly scarce and most graded as such by NGC and PCGS are low end pieces with poor eye appeal. The 1909-O is very scarce in properly graded Uncirculated with most survivors in the MS60 to MS62 range. This date is rare in MS63 and very rare in MS64. There are probably no more than three to five Gems known.
.
. 1929 Half Eagle MS64 (Gold Shield) Certification #81786655, PCGS #8533 PCGS Price Guide Value $47,500 Provenance: unknown
David Akers Comments: The 1929 is quite rare in any Mint State grade, and the majority of Uncirculated specimens are quite heavily bagmarked, thereby falling into the MS-60 to 62 category. Choice BU examples, i.e. MS-63 quality pieces, are very rare and this issue is almost never seen above that level. Trying to find an MS-64 is likely to be a frustrating task and the number of true gems (MS-65 coins) is very, very small. If anything exists that is better than MS-65 I have not seen or heard of it, although Dr. Steven Duckor's gem, the finest I have ever seen, might be called at least MS-65+ by some. The 1929 is generally well struck, but some examples show a definite weakness on the obverse, particularly on the lowest feather of the headdress. On many specimens, an unusual line or indentation runs along the circumference inside the edge; it is most noticeable through the date and STATES OF on the reverse. Most examples of this final year of issue have very good to excellent lustre, frosty or sometimes moderately satiny surfaces, and color that is typically medium to deep yellow gold, often with a greenish tint.
.
. 1795 Eagle BD-3 (9 Leaves) MS63 (Gold Shield) Extraordinary Condition Census PCGS MS-63 Quality Certification #36674524, PCGS #45714 PCGS Price Guide Value $650,000 Provenance: Mike Brownlee; Superior's May 29, 30, 1995 Auction, lot 3684
Ron Guth Comments: The 1795 BD-3 $10 gold piece is a wonderful rarity among early U.S. gold coins. The BD-3 variety represents the entire mintage of the 1795 9 Leaves $10 gold piece, itself one of the most important major varieties. Previous estimates of the surviving population of this variety were as low as nine pieces. Dannreuther suggested that as many as 15-20 pieces were known, and the latest research shows that perhaps as many as two dozen exist. Surprisingly, there may be as many as eight examples that grade MS60 or better, which is an astounding percentage of the known population. Among these, the finest is a PCGS MS63+ example which is a full point-and-a-half better than the next best. The strike on this variety is often soft in the centers, where the high points oppose each other. Adjustment marks are sometimes seen, but they are never excessive. At least two examples show depressions or voids in the finished coins, presumably the result of improper preparation of the planchets.
.
. 1799 Eagle Large Stars Obverse MS65 (Gold Shield) Among the Finest Certified Certification #25346087, PCGS #8562 PCGS Price Guide Value $275,000 Provenance: Unknown
David Akers Comments: The 1799 had more auction appearances in my survey than any other early Eagle and, despite its lower mintage, it is somewhat more common than the 1801. I have seen a substantial number of choice and gem uncirculated examples of this date as well as specimens in every other grade category. Varieties exist with small stars (as on earlier issues) and large stars (as on all early eagles that follow).
.
. 1838 Eagle AU53 (Gold Shield) Certification #83837069, PCGS #8575 PCGS Price Guide Value $19,000 Pedigree: Unknown
David Akers Comments: After a 34 year hiatus from issuing Eagles, the Mint resumed production of this denomination in 1838. Because it is the first year of a two-year-only type, the 1838 Eagle has long been very popular and desirable. It is also rare in all conditions and high grade specimens are very difficult to obtain. The typically available 1838 is only VF-EF and strictly uncirculated specimens are extremely rare.
While I appreciate all of the upgrades Hansen is making to his collection, his re-marketing of his dupes as "Hansen Collection" coins is not in good taste. Although they are are all fine quality coins, they are sub-standard relative to the quality of his Registry Set coins. In fact, a current provenance should not be represented on PCGS labels. If I were to by one, I would certainly send it back to PCGS for reholder. Using a premature and subordinate provenance on resell holders is not in good taste.
@OldIndianNutKase said:
While I appreciate all of the upgrades Hansen is making to his collection, his re-marketing of his dupes as "Hansen Collection" coins is not in good taste. Although they are are all fine quality coins, they are sub-standard relative to the quality of his Registry Set coins. In fact, a current provenance should not be represented on PCGS labels. If I were to by one, I would certainly send it back to PCGS for reholder. Using a premature and subordinate provenance on resell holders is not in good taste.
OINK
Do other collectors do similar things? I read that Ted Naftzger had a lot of pedigreed coins that he only owned for a short period of time. The following was posted by @Sunnywood on Ted's pedigree:
@Sunnywood said:
Naftzger owned an awful lot of large cents, including many that were held only for a short time, as he actively traded and bartered them. So a "Naftzger pedigree" sometimes means a coin that he owned only for a month. If you weed those out, and consider the coins that he had for years, then you're onto something ... the ones he held onto are the good ones !!
Holmes and Husak were also great collectors, and all of those pedigrees should be respected !!
I personally don't mind and like that Hansen is associating his name with these coins. To me, the more information the better, especially as we enter an era where a traceable history for coins is becoming increasingly important. If a lower quality coin has a pedigree, it's still easy to tell it's lower quality. If a coin has lost its pedigree, it can be hard to get it back. I also like the fact that on many coins, he's the first named collector.
Comments
We've actually done a few displays of sets at recent national shows. Our next planned display will be at the DLRC Booth at the ANA World's Fair of Money in Pittsburgh. At last year's ANA in Chicago, we displayed the #1 rated Proof Trade Dollar Set including the finest known 1884 and 1885 Proof issues.
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
So, the collection is incredibly expansive. It's not possible to own the finest graded of everything, but within reason, we do our best at that.
As for the 38-O, we were the underbidder. But, yes we are working on another example.
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
Shoot me an email at john@davidlawrence.com.
This would be a fun project to work on and we could possibly do it at the ANA show in Pittsburgh if you're game...or in Baltimore in the Fall.
President of David Lawrence Rare Coins www.davidlawrence.com
email: John@davidlawrence.com
2022 ANA Dealer of the Year, Past Chair of NCBA (formerly ICTA), PNG Treasurer, Instructor at Witter Coin University, former Instructor/YN Chaperone ANA Summer Seminar, Coin World Most Influential, Curator of the D.L. Hansen Collection
Well, this isn't exactly correct. We've displayed quite a few coins at the past ANA Shows and the 2018 FUN Show.
Seated Dollars, Proof Trade Dollars, and some highlights from the gold and Barber Quarters (finest known 1901-S 25c PCGS/CAC MS68+).
We're working on some more displays in the near future, but it takes time and logistics to work these things out!
Thanks
President of David Lawrence Rare Coins www.davidlawrence.com
email: John@davidlawrence.com
2022 ANA Dealer of the Year, Past Chair of NCBA (formerly ICTA), PNG Treasurer, Instructor at Witter Coin University, former Instructor/YN Chaperone ANA Summer Seminar, Coin World Most Influential, Curator of the D.L. Hansen Collection
Mark is correct. The coins are not being offered for sale via Heritage. It's simply a silly setting that we haven't turned off on his account.
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
Sorry for the recent bursts in posts today.
As some of you know, we've dealt with several major ailments in my family in the past several months that have forced me to reply less here and on Hansen topics to focus on DLRC-related and family-related issues. We're hopefully on our way out of these issues and I'm attempting to catch up with Currin and with projects related to the Hansen Collection.
I heard some rumors at the FUN show that we were no longer buying, but I can assure you that it's not true.
While there are less coins for us to pursue in filling holes, we are concentrating more on pieces of need that make "sense" for us to add to the primary collection and to finish and develop some of the 2nd and 3rd sets. I'll do my best to keep up here in the coming weeks and please don't hesitate to throw any questions to me and I'll do my best to try to answer.
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
John,
I understand the goal of the primary collection. What is the idea or goal behind having a 2nd or 3rd set in multiple series? Thanks
Finest graded
One reason a person has multiple sets or partial sets (myself 2-3). is that over the years we upgrade or find better eye appeal coins. We either sell the dupes or keep them and they can lead to another set. For example I have about 20 Proof Morgan dupes.
For most part they are amazing for eye appeal. Many are better looking than what are in my two sets but they grade lower. I could look for the seven I need for set three but I don't.
DLH seems to add to the dupes to make more sets.
Silver Dollar Upgrades
It is really great hearing from John. Family is first, so do what you need to do. Glad to have you back in the saddle.
After several weeks of gold, I am changing up a little on this posting. Silver and everyone’s favorite, Silver Dollars. These dollars caught my attention a couple weeks ago. With posting all that darn gold, I just have not fitted these into my postings. The first is a Morgan Dollar purchased in a Heritage Auction at the FUN show. The other is a PCGS POP 1/0 Peace Dollar that Mr. Hansen acquired in a Great Collections Auction. So, take a look.
1902-O Morgan Dollar, MS67+
I would describe the D.L. Hansen Collection of Morgan Dollars as a work in progress. The collection has a super strong Morgan Dollars Prooflike Basic Set, The #1 All-Time Set in the PCGS Registry. The GPA for the set is 66.67. For the highly competitive basic set, his set is just #6 on the current list. Just give him a little more time and we will see what comes about. This 1902-O Morgan Dollar, MS67+ will help.
Q. David Bowers comments: Although 1902-O dollars seeped out over a period of years from storage in the Treasury Building in Washington, D.C., especially in the late 1950s and very early 1960s (before autumn 1962), the date was not considered common until a vast torrent of hundreds of thousands emerged from a sealed vault in the Philadelphia Mint in October 1962 and ensuing months. Earlier, the 1902-O was considered to be a rarity in Mint State, and for a period of years it was priced higher than, for ex-ample, the 1884-S. Today, the 1902-O is slightly scarce in worn grades. However, it sells for little more than a common date. The depressed valuation for circulated coins is due to the widespread availability of Uncirculated pieces. In Uncirculated grades the 1902-O is very common. Most are in lower levels, but enough MS-64 and MS-65 coins exist that little effort is required to locate a specimen. The striking quality of 1902-O dollars is usually poor, with flatness at the centers, particularly the reverse. Lustre ranges from dull to "greasy" on most pieces. There are exceptions, as might be expected from such a large coinage, and diligent cherry-picking may yield a sharply struck, lustrous coin at, who knows, perhaps for not much more money than a flat strike.
1902-O Silver Dollar, MS67+, CAC
Tied for the Finest Certified, PCGS POP 5/0
Certification #38000369, PCGS #7280
PCGS Price Guide: $65,000 / Heritage 2020 FUN: $33,600
Heritage description: Given conditions at the New Orleans Mint and within the Treasury's storage vaults, it is nothing short of a miracle that a high-end Superb Gem 1902-O dollar can exist. Only a handful of such pieces are indicated in the population reports. The 1902-O was never known for high quality. It was a "Creole" date liberated from Treasury storage in October 1962, when a profusion of Mint State examples entered the market. Most were flatly struck and bagmarked. Somehow, the present coin was carefully preserved. Brilliant and frosted surfaces are the antithesis of a normal 1902-O, which typically lacks any semblance of eye appeal. Vibrant silver luster fills both sides, and the smooth surfaces are free of contact. The strike is needle-sharp except above Liberty's ear, where its O-mint legacy reveals itself and the strike is not quite full. Eye appeal is extraordinary, as expected for the Plus-Graded and CAC-endorsed Superb Gem level.
1923 Peace Dollar MS67+
The D.L. Hansen Collection of Peace Dollars is an entirely different story. For the faithful viewers, you will recall the first coins posted from 2020 FUN US Coins Signature Auction in Orlando were Peace Dollars. Mr. Hansen purchased a few high end graded specimens. Two of the coins went directly into his Top Set, 1921 High Relief and 1922-D Peace Dollars. The third coin, 1923-D Peace Dollar was placed in his second set, Diana's Set of Peace Dollars. The coins were from the Illinois Collection of Peace Dollars. In 2020, the D.L. Hansen Collection of Peace Dollars has become closer to the retired PCGS Hall of Fame All-Time top set, California 1. With several coins purchased in 2019 from the Linda Gail Collection, The Peace Collection has become a real keeper. Hopefully, the collection can added some more upgrades to the Morgan Collection.
Ron Guth Comments: The 1923 Peace Dollar is the second most common date of the type, second only to the 1922. Collectors will have no problem finding a nice example of this date, as tens of thousands have been certified in MS-63 and MS-64. In fact, for type purposes, the 1923 Peace Dollar is one of the easiest dates top find in top condition. MS-66 examples are affordable compared to other dates. Though pricey, an MS-67 1923 Peace Dollar can be found with relative ease. Most 1923 Peace Dollars exhibit a strong strike and decent eye appeal. Luster ranges from frosty white to a hard, metallic sheen.
This 1923 Peace Dollar MS67+ that now in the D.L. Hansen collection is a breakaway coin. There was a group of 87 PCGS finest certified MS67 coins. This coin is the first to be upgrade to MS67+. With 87 waiting in the shallows, I very doubt this Hansen coin will setting alone on top for very long. Presently, Hansen has a PCGS Pop 1/0 specimen and inch a little closer to the top. The coin sold for $38,250 with buyer’s fee.
1923 Peace Dollar MS67+, PCGS POP 1/0
Certification #38330760, PCGS #7360
PCGS Price Guide: $55,000 / GreatCollections Auction : $38,250
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Nice coins.
Surprising to me to see how far removed the APR's are from the PCGS Price guide values
Latin American Collection
Or is it the other way around? 😉
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
After reading some recent comments and JB’s responses, i.e. So, the collection is incredibly expansive. It's not possible to own the finest graded of everything, but within reason, we do our best at that., it appear to me that some people are judging the collection by what it does’t have, instead by the incredible coins the collection does have. Seem a little upside down to me.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Bravo to the above post!
I'll 2nd that!
As much as I appreciate the thrill of the hunt, I do not agree with crossing/cracking out high end fatties for the sake of uniformity.
"It's like God, Family, Country, except Sticker, Plastic, Coin."
That 67+ Peace is amazing.
I find DL's pursuit to be quite vain, to be honest. To spend this much money on a coin collection, only to flaunt it in a popular coin forum, is questionable to me. He is not furthering the numismatic community with his egotistical pursuit, and instead is just using this as a means to get more famous. Hopefully I am wrong, but these are my humble thoughts on the matter.
Couldn't disagree more. First of all he does not "flaunt" it in this forum---in fact he rarely posts on this forum. He does use the registry just like thousands of other collectors. Honestly, I would hate if Mr. Hansen was buying all these coins secretly and the collecting community had no idea where they were, who had them, etc. In fact, but for the registry there are some coins we would never know existed except for Mr. Hansen's openness.
Thank you for your thoughts, @Gazes . While I understand your point of view, I disagree. Think of it like this - wouldn't we all love to live in a world where people climbed Everest for the challenge of it, and did not proceed to post about it online or tell anyone about it? This is akin to that situation; it would be best if people did not pursue such vain endeavors.
Pfffft
As Gazes already mentioned, Mr. Hansen hardly ever posts here. And my recollection is that on the rare occasions when he has done so, his posts were friendly and had nothing to do with being egotistical or vain. It appears that he truly loves his collecting. Have you actually ever read his posts?
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
It would appear you have issues with the forum, since they posted about this collection, not DL. I am glad I do not live in the same world you live in.
You should ban this guy. ☺ Hansen loves coins. He has money. He is 100% not egotistical. I met him once.
Nice, normal person. If I had his money, why not? He loves coins so he buys what he wants.
I have lots of coins. I like them as well. I prefer to look at coins over stocks, bonds and other investments.
If I did not have the coins I would have more of this "stuff" and real estate.
My humble thoughts are literally the exact opposite of yours but to each their own etc. He's not vain at all. He doesn't flaunt anything at all. He is a positive to the numismatic community. No one gets famous collecting coins.
And your next post I would absolutely not want to live in a world where people climbed everest and kept it to themselves as if sharing their experience is a bad thing and dilutes the accomplishment in any way. Just a strange outlook to me.
My, the grapes are sour this morning.
The forum ...exists... to document the progress of collections.
It's a source of education and INFORMATION.
The information may be the progress of a collection or a technical grading question.
What it is not is a psychiatric venue.
Although, I am completely sane. Kinda.
I have read " THE HANSEN WATCH " from page 1 to 63. I could not disagree more with @1987WheatCent . I don't know how many times D.L. has posted, ( wish it was more ) but I HAVE NEVER seen him post " flaunting " his set. I appreciate Currins effort to keep us aware of Hansens quest. How many truly awesome sets are there that we have no idea what or where they are. I believe Hansens endeavor has done more for coin collecting than any other single event in the last several years. And who here on this forum would not want to be in his shoes ? Egotistical pursuit ?
I think not.
Hansen isn’t flaunting in the forums so much as posting in the Set Registry which a lot of people do. It just so happens he's building a complete U.S. coin collection which fascinates a lot of people.
I also think what he is doing is great for collecting and getting people excited about coins. It's a wonderful thing for the hobby.
"My humble thoughts are literally the exact opposite of yours but to each their own etc. He's not vain at all. He doesn't flaunt anything at all. He is a positive to the numismatic community. No one gets famous collecting coins".> @PhilLynott said:
Could not agree more and your last statement says it all. If Hanson was doing this for fame and vanity, he would NOT be collecting coins. He would be buying $100,000,000+ art or famous office buildings like the Empire in NYC. THOSE transactions make national and worldwide headlines--not collecting coins. I bet 99.99% of the people not involved in the coin community know nothing about Hanson's endeavor.
The politics of envy.....
rated = graded
For myself I've never thought of his pursuit any differently than any other collector chasing their goal. I've been following his pursuit and have enjoyed each step. These examples shown herein are some of the most impressive/superb coinage one could witness. Furthermore, it's made many of us "commoners" here feel like we are part of his active quest for the best. Brought many of us into his fold. Thanks for letting us ride the wave.
Beautiful coin! I love this type and I'm glad Dell Loy chose the reverse to be on his custom insert.
Hansen-Eliasberg Challenge II – Part V
This week we have reached the half way point of the challenge. The 5 coin lot consists of Liberty Head Half Eagles. The challenged resulted in a 2-2-1 Tie.
Eliasberg won the first coin in the challenge with a amazing MS64 1861-D Half Eagle. This may be the finest known, although I cannot confirm any current day reference to the Eliasberg coin. Hansen won the second coin (1864-S), and tie the challenge at 1-1.
The third coin is one of the most circulated coins Mr. Hansen Gold Collection. Graded at F12 by PCGS, the coin is ranked at the bottom with another F12, 1866-S Half Eagle. Eliasberg won the third coin with a XF12.
The last two coins in the challenge are two proofs. Eliasberg did not have an 1875 business strike half eagle in his collection. The amazing Hansen Collection has both, PCGS AU55 POP 1/1 and PR64CAM POP 4/4. The Eliasberg Collection specimen was a PR64CAM, so I declared the coin a tie. The Last coin, 1887 Proof Only, Hansen Collection has a PR65CAM compared to a PR64CAM that was in the Eliasberg Collection.
The total value for Hansen’s five coins is $572,000. This week’s result is 2-2-1. Hansen’s holds to a 5 coin overall lead.
1861-D Half Eagle: The last Dahlonega half eagle and another coin with strong demand from Civil War collectors.
Hansen Coin: 1861-D Half Eagle PCGS AU58 POP 5/12
Eliasberg Coin: 1861-D Half Eagle est. MS64 (maybe finest known?)
Elaisberg Won (0-1-0)
1864-S Half Eagle: The rarest collectible San Francisco half eagle and the rarest business strike Civil War gold coin.
Hansen Coin: 1864-S Half Eagle PCGS AU55 POP 1/1
Eliasberg Coin: 1864-S Half Eagle est. XF45 POP 1/6
Hansen Won (1-1-0)
1870-CC Half Eagle: The first year of issue for Carson City half eagles. Available in low grade, rare in higher grades.
Hansen Coin: 1870-CC Half Eagle PCGS F12 POP 3/69
Eliasberg Coin: 1870-CC Half Eagle est. XF40 est. 3/28
Eliasberg Won (1-2-0)
1875 Half Eagle: Just 200 business strikes were made and likely under 10 exist. The rarest collectible Liberty Head half eagle. Note: I will compare Hansen’s Proof with Eliasberg. This coin was not in Eliasberg Collection in mint finish. I could give the win to Hansen, but instead I will compare the proofs. For the record, Hansen has a PCGS AU55 POP 1/1 in mint finish.
Hansen Coin: 1875 Half Eagle PCGS PR64 CAM POP 4/4
Eliasberg Coin: 1875 Half Eagle Est. PR64 CAM POP 4/4
Tie (1-2-1)
1887 Half Eagle: A rare Proof-only issue with just 87 coins struck in total. An overlooked date.
Hansen Coin: 1887 Half Eagle PCGS PR65 CAM POP 2/4
Eliasberg Coin: 1887 Half Eagle Est. PR64 CAM POP 4/7
Hansen Won (2-2-1)
Several impressive coins appeared this week. Maybe the most impressive was Eliasberg’s 1861-D. He may have owned the finest specimen. If he does not, then the coin was over graded as a raw coin in the Eliasberg sale. In this comparison, Hansen had two impressive mint finish coins graded POP 1/1.
Although the fifth stage finished in a tie, The D.L. Hansen Collection still leads the Louis Eliasberg Collection (13-8-4). We have reach halftime in the challenge with 25 coins to go. Sorry that I don’t have any half time ads, but these will be the five coins that we will look at next week.
1909-O Half Eagle: The only New Orleans half eagle of this type and the final gold coin struck at this mint. Very rare in high grades.
1929 Half Eagle: The last year of issue for this long-lived denomination. A heavily melted date.
1795 Eagle: The first year of issue for this denomination and the largest of the three denominations struck during the early years.
1799 Eagle: The most common and therefore the most affordable pre-1800 date of this type.
1838 Eagle: First year of issue for the Liberty Head design and a short-lived two year type.
Hansen WOW Coins
1861-D Half Eagle PCGS AU58 (Gold Shield)
The last Dahlonega half eagle
Certification #34717493, PCGS #8290, POP 5/12
PCGS Price Guide Value $65,000
Provenance: unknown
Doug Winter Comments: The 1861-D is the rarest and most numismatically interesting half eagle struck at the Dahlonega Mint. It is known that on December 19, 1860, two obverses dated 1861 were shipped to Dahlonega from Philadelphia. These were received on January 7, 1861 and sometime between that date and April 8, 1861, a total of 1,597 1861-D half eagles were produced. On April 8, 1861, rebel forces seized the Dahlonega Mint. A small number of 1861-D half eagles (probably in the neighborhood of 1,000-2,000 coins) were then made by the Confederacy. There is not way to positively distinguish between the Union and Confederate strikings. The 1861-D half eagle is a rare coin in any grade, although its overall level of rarity has been overstated. It is usually seen in Very Fine to low end Extremely Fine grades. It is very rare in About Uncirculated and many pieces offered as such are overgraded. In Uncirculated, the 1861-D half eagle is an extremely rare coin.
.
.
1864-S Half Eagle, AU55 (Gold Shield)
Civil War gold coin
Certification #38081986, PCGS #8297, POP 1/1
PCGS Price Guide Value $200,000
Provenance: unknown
David Akers Comments: The 1864-S is one of the real rarities of the entire series. Only one specimen better than EF has ever appeared at auction (an unc described as "a choice beauty" that brought $70 at the 1956 Melish Sale) and most of the relatively few known specimens grade Fine or VF.
David Hall Comments: The "unc" mentioned by David Akers in his 1979 book was subsequently sold in the Norweb Sale (Bowers and Merena, 1987) and then in the Harry Bass Sale (Bowers and Merena, 1999). It is graded MS65 by PCGS and it is the finest known by an incredible 10 points!.
.
.
1870-CC Half Eagle F12 (Gold Shield)
One of Two F12 Gold Coins in Collection. Tied for lowest grade coin
Certification #84687877, PCGS #8320, PCGS POP 3/69
PCGS Price Guide Value $12,500
Provenance: unknown
David Akers Comments: From a standpoint of rarity according to average grade, the 1870-CC ranks number one in the entire 300 coin Half Eagle series. I have seen fewer of this date than any other Carson City Half Eagle although the 1878-CC has had five fewer auction appearances in my survey. The 1870-CC is very rare in any condition and when available, the typical example is only Fine or VF. I have seen several EF's and one I graded full AU but none that could reasonably be called uncirculated. Strike characteristics of this issue are difficult to be certain of because most specimens are so worn. However, I would say that, when they were made, most 1870-CC Half Eagles were probably well struck.
.
.
1875 Half Eagle PCGS PR64 Cam (Gold Shield)
CoinFacts plate coin
Certification #29777524, PCGS #88470, PCGS 4/4
PCGS Price Guide Value $140,000
Provenance: unknown
P. Scott Rubin Comments: The 1875 Proof Half Eagle is one of the rarest and most desired coins in a denomination that hosts some of the rarest and most desired coins in all U.S. coinage. This coin offers the rare opportunity to acquire an extremely rare date and denomination issue in superb condition. With a mintage of only 20 Proof 1875 Half Eagles struck and only 200 circulation strikes issued with the same date, makes this coin one of the lowest mintage in all U.S. numismatics. Because of its low mintage this has always been a much desired coin. Collectors at the time of issue saved the Proof specimens in the few gold coin collections being built in the late 1870’s where completeness was the goal. This seems to show how few Collectors at the time strived for such collections of Gold coinage and also explains why so few of the 200 circulation strikes were saved in the year of issue. The highest grade seen for a circulation strike is About Uncirculated-58. It is believed that as many as eleven Proof Half Eagles survive of which three are in Institutional Collections. This is a high survival rate but makes sense as explained above. There also seem to be less than 10 circulation strikes known, showing just how rare the 1875 Half Eagle really is.
.
.
1887 Half Eagle PCGS PR65 Cam (Gold Shield)
Cameo Gem Proof-Only
Certification #10555979, PCGS #88482, PCGS 2/4
PCGS Price Guide Value $155,000
Provenance: Stack's Philadelphia Americana Sale (2005) - The Dr. Robert J. Loewinger Collection
David Akers Comments: The 1887 is the only date in the Half Eagle series that was struck only in proof. Compared to other proofs, it is one of the most common prior to 1900 and it is certainly more common than any of the proofs preceding it. However, since the date is only available in proof, the 1887 has reached a price level exceeding that of any date after 1859 except the 1875. Out of the original 87 proofs, perhaps as many as 30-35 still exist but most of the ones I have seen have not been particularly choice. In fact, I would say that gem quality specimens are extremely rare.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Hansen-Eliasberg Challenge II – Part V - UPDATE
As you know, I use information provided from the PCGS Registry for comparison in this challenge. I have indicated that if anyone has any additional information on the Eliasberg coins to let me know, and I will make adjustments according. On several occasions, Expert Numismatist Ron Guth has provided information on the Hansen's coins dating back, I don’t know, maybe a year or more ago. He posts under the name of BestGerman. In the challenge, he has been assisting with The Eliasberg coins when he can find provenance or a connection. He provided me two updates for Hansen-Eliasberg Challenge II – Part V.
1861-D Half Eagle: The last Dahlonega half eagle and another coin with strong demand from Civil War collectors.
Hansen Coin: 1861-D Half Eagle PCGS AU58 POP 5/12
Eliasberg Coin: 1861-D Half Eagle est. MS64 (maybe finest known?)
Elaisberg Won (0-1-0)
Ron Guth: Here is some updated information on the Hansen-Eliasberg Challenge II – Part V
On the 1861-D $5, the Eliasberg coin is now in an NGC MS62 holder:
S.H. Chapman 1/1919:??? - John H. Clapp Collection, sold intact in 1942 - Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection - Bowers & Ruddy 10/1982:502 (as Raw Choice Brilliant Uncirculated, MS65 obverse; Select Brilliant Uncirculated, MS63 reverse), $37,400.00
The registry listed the Eliasberg coin as MS64. If that was true, it appear the coin would possibly be the finest known. Presently, the coin is a NGC MS62. Still Eliasberg wins the coin challenge, no change.
1864-S Half Eagle: The rarest collectible San Francisco half eagle and the rarest business strike Civil War gold coin.
Hansen Coin: 1864-S Half Eagle PCGS AU55 POP 1/1
Eliasberg Coin: 1864-S Half Eagle est. XF45 POP 1/6
Hansen Won (1-1-0)
Ron Guth: On the 1864-S, the Eliasberg and the Hansen coin are one and the same:
Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection - Bowers & Ruddy 10/1982:509 (as Raw EF45), $2,530.00 - American Numismatic Rarities 1/2005:957 (as ANACS AU details, lightly cleaned or brushed), $17,825.00 - D.L. Hansen Collection (as PCGS AU55 38081986)
I had Hansen winning the coin, but with the fabulous research by Ron, the coins turned out to be the same coin! The results for this coin I will change from a Hansen win, to a tie. The update score is 12-8-5, with Hansen’s lead as now 4 coins.
I hope you enjoy these discoveries as much as I. Thanks Ron for doing this work for the forum community. His new website is up and running at www.numismatic detectives.com. If you get time, take a look. If you enjoy the work he has done for the community, please give a BIG PUBLIC THANK YOU!
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Currin, thanks for the shout out. I'd like to return the favor by honoring you for what you are doing in chronicling the growth of the Hansen Collection. The amount of work you've put into this thread is remarkable -- truly, the labor of love. Someday, this thread should be put into book form as a permanent record of your and Hansen's efforts. In the meantime, I'll contribute as I can.
Ron Guth, Chief Investigator
The Numismatic Detective Agency
Good day,
Any new updates? Would it be improper to point out coins that DLH needs?
There is one on the DLRC site an 1895 PR68CAM PCGS/CAC .50. He has a 66+DCAM.
https://www.davidlawrence.com/rare-coin/1981520
-
While it can be said that Mr. Hansen “needs” certain coins in order to fulfill his quest, I don’t think he “needs” that one. 😉
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
I think it's safe to say if a coin is on DLRC he probably knows about it as well
Civil War Era Half Eagle Upgrade
I have not written much about the civil war sets. I think this may be a good time to mention these sets from a dark time in our history. There have been a lot written about Mr. Hansen in recent years pertaining to his passion of this hobby, his sport interests, as well as business. There have not been many times that he has posted his thoughts for our pleasure. Whenever he does, we are given a little additional glimpse into who is D.L. Hansen.
If you recall in Mr. Hansen very first posting, actually very first paragraph of his first posting, he said one of his joys of coins are their connection to history. Post 1 (9/21/2017): I recently discovered this blog and thought I could add some clarity to the discussion. I am serious collector that enjoys history and the relationship the coins play in our nation’s history. The Civil War, the opening of the US mint, toned coins and being addicted with the mind dilemma of ADD I need to finish things. Quality matters and building friendships with dealers and collectors teaches me so much. I'm a student of Numismatics. He went on and discussed Louis Eliasberg and his quest to achieve something as special.
Since this time almost two and half years ago, he has assembled a very high quality collection of Civil War Coinage. I do want to mention Monte, because his collection is fantastic. With this last update, The Hansen Collection has taken the lead in some of the sets. I think Monte and Dell Loy “may have “the best two collections from the era, ever. They both have some of the finest coins known in the certified world. It would be nice if these two great collections would get together at some point in the future and display these sets together.
1861-S Civil War Era Half Eagle PCGS AU53
The grade on this coin is just AU53, but there are not many better. This is David Akers' expert comments on the coin: The 1861-S is marginally more rare than the 1860-S or 1858-S and is comparable to the 1859-S. Like the latter, the 1861-S ranks in the top 10% of the $5 series in rarity having appeared at auction only 24 times in all grades in the 337 catalogues in my survey. It has never been offered above EF and I have only seen two examples at that level. Most known specimens (there aren't really very many) are only Fine or VF and this date, like all the San Francisco Mint Half Eagles of the 1858-1876 period, is grossly underrated and underpriced for its rarity.
I was able to find a little information on this coin. The coin was once offered on Douglas Winters website where it was described as VERY UNDERRATED PCGS/CAC AU53 1861-S HALF EAGLE. He went on to add: An uncommonly high percentage of the 18,000 examples struck didn't survive the ravages of time and today there are around 60-70 known of this date. Most 1861-S half eagles are well worn with VF and EF coins the norm. In About Uncirculated, I doubt if there are more than five or six known and no 1861-S half eagle has ever been graded higher than AU55 at PCGS (and just a single coin after 30 years of operations!) This lovely AU53 example is one of the two best 1861-S half eagles I have offered for sale. It is well-defined and completely natural in appearance with nice green-gold color. Were it not for some contact marks in the left obverse field, this coin would certainly grade AU55 and it has better overall eye appeal than just about any 1861-S half eagle I have seen. Remarkably, no PCGS AU53 1861-S half eagle has sold at auction since October 1999. An NGC AU58 brought $16,450 in Heritage's April 2015 and I would choose this PCGS AU53 for my set if I collected this series. This could well be the second finest known 1861-S half eagle and it represents an important opportunity for the savvy specialist.
A few interesting stats would include: PCGS Population 5/1, CAC Population 1/1. Translation: CAC has approved this one coin in AU53 (Hansen's) and only one finer (AU55). The provenance is credited to the HandH Collection. I don’t know much about this collection, if someone can shed some additional information that would be great. Now, here is where things get interesting, Mr. Hansen purchased the coin last weekend in the Great Collections Auction. GCA credited the coin as being from the Srotag Collection. Again, I don’t know anything about this collection. The specimen realized $24,356.25, which is more than the $15,000 that Douglas Winters had it listed. PCGS values the coin at $12,000. Is the coin better than an AU53, or was it the CAC Approve that caught Mr. Hansen attention?
1861-S Civil War Era Half Eagle PCGS AU53
Certification #25265828, PCGS #8291
POP 6/1 for CAM, CAC Approved
Provenance: HandH Collection; Srotag Collection
PCGS Price Guide Value $12,000, Great Collection: $24,356.25
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
That’s a nice 61-S
Latin American Collection
Yep. Love that look/color profile on the S-mint half eagles of that era. Tough coins.
Just from some casual browsing:
-- Jefferson Nickels Basic Set, Proof (1938-1964): Two of the coins in the #2 set (the 1940 PR68 and the 1956 PR68+DCAM) score higher than the ones in the #1 set (PR67+ and PR68DCAM).
-- Washington Quarters Basic Set, Proof (1936-1964): One coin in the #2 set (1951 PR67+) scores higher than the one in the #1 set (PR67).
-- Franklin Half Dollars Basic Set, Proof (1950-1963): Two of the coins in the #2 set (the 1952 PR67CAM and the 1955 PR68DCAM) score higher than the ones in the #1 set (PR65DCAM and PR67DCAM).
Trying to keep these straight must drive JB's folks crazy. Scary to think what others there are and what true scores may be. Maybe PCGS will start giving out badges for volunteers to find these.
He had the higher graded 1896 Liberty Nickel in the second set for a while, but did get that one straitened out
I can confirm this is the same coin offered by Doug Winter, as I purchased it from him in early 2017 before consigning it to GC this year. However, you would need to chat with Doug about prior provenance.
To answer your querry, given the rarity of the date, the price guides are way off. This date does not exist in UNC and no PCGS coins are graded 58 (there are 8 NGC's but none have crossed and I'm assuming that figure is inflated by resubs). PCGS has only graded 1 coin higher, in 55, and per Doug's description as well as my opinion of the coin, it could very easily be in a 55 holder.
Mr Hanson also purchased the 1858 and 1865-S from the Srotag Collection, but curiously did not purchase the 1859-S graded MS-61CAC, which would substantially improve his existing AU50. The 59-S is slightly more rare overall (45 PCGS grading events compared to 46 for the 61-S) and has fewer CAC coins (8 vs 10), altho the 61-S does not exist is UNC while 3 59-S coins are UNC (my 61 and 2 in 62). I mention this to confirm what many have discussed in this forum: that Hanson is not buying every coin available which will improve his sets--other factors (I presume price) are also at play.
Hansen-Eliasberg Challenge II – Part VI
Eliasberg started the second half of the challenge with a strong week. All of the Eliasberg specimens were Choice or GEMs. The only exception was a coin listed in registry as MS62, but is now PCGS MS63. Due to the spectacular grouping of Eliasberg coins, this week’s challenged resulted in a 1-3-1 win by Eliasberg.
Eliasberg won the first coin (1909-O Half Eagle) with amazing registry listed est. MS65. Ron Guth did some detective work and discovered some additional stats. 1909-O Half Eagle: Eliasberg’s example was last observed in a PCGS MS66 holder: Joseph C. Mitchelson Collection, sold privately in 6/1909 - John H. Clapp Collection, sold intact in 1942 - Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection - Bowers & Ruddy 10/1982:623 (as Raw MS65), $30,800.00 - David Hall & Gordon Wrubel - Paramount “Auction ‘83” 7/1983:404, $46,750.00 - David Akers “Auction ‘89” 7/1989:1405, $71,500.00 - Dr. Thaine B. Price Collection - David Akers 5/1998:21 (as Raw Gem Uncirculated), $374,000.00 - Jim O'Neal Collection - Heritage 1/2011:5138 (as PCGS MS66 18307665), $690,000.00 - Heritage 1/2014:5468 (as PCGS MS66 18307665), $646,250.00
Hansen won the second coin and only coin in the challenge with a 1929 Half Eagle MS64. On the third coin, Eliasberg won with another monster MS65. Additonal information from Ron indicates: Eliasberg had three 1795 Eagles, the best of which was last observed in a PCGS MS65 holder: John H. Clapp Collection, sold intact in 1942 - Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection - Bowers & Ruddy 10/1982:643 (as Raw MS64), $57,200.00 - Heritage 8/2013:5871 (as NGC MS65 1633380-001), $675,625.00 - Rare Coin Wholesalers, offered on Collectors Corner on 1/29/2018 for $1,495,000 1/2018 (as PCGS MS65 35487776)
The fourth coin resulted in a tie with both great collections having a 1799 Eagle MS65. Ron Guth could not find any additional information on this coin.
The last coin was won by Eliasberg with a 1838 Eagle est. MS62. Ron Guth discovered this coin to be: I was able to identify Eliasberg’s 1838 Eagle as the PCGS MS63 Pogue specimen today, representing a new connection between these two great collections: G.F.E. Wilharm Collection - B. Max Mehl 2/1921:??? - John H. Clapp Collection, sold intact in 1942 - Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection - Bowers & Ruddy 10/1982:661 (as Raw Choice AU-55 obverse; Brilliant Uncirculated, MS-60 reverse), $30,800.00 - Freedom Collection - Heritage 1/2007:3638 (as NGC MS63 1776966-024), $115,000.00 - Richard Burdick - D. Brent Pogue Collection, Part IV - Stack's/Bowers & Sotheby's 5/2016:4063 (as PCGS MS63 32916362), $105,750.00
Ron’s work this week did not change any results as appeared on the registry. I find the connections and provenances that Ron discovers to be very interesting. It is a little sad that many of Eliasberg just vanished from history. I find it to be delightful for Ron to bring a few of them back to life. Great work!
The total value for Hansen’s five coins is $1,015,500. This week’s result is 1-3-1. Hansen’s holds to a 2 coin overall lead.
1909-O Half Eagle: The only New Orleans half eagle of this type and the final gold coin struck at this mint. Very rare in high grades.
Hansen Coin: 1909-O Half Eagle PCGS AU58+ POP 1/83
Eliasberg Coin: 1909-O Half Eagle est. MS65 POP 2/1 (Ron Guth: PCGS MS66)
Elaisberg Won (0-1-0)
1929 Half Eagle: The last year of issue for this long-lived denomination. A heavily melted date.
Hansen Coin: 1929 Half Eagle PCGS MS64 POP 10/23
Eliasberg Coin: 1929 Half Eagle est. MS63 POP 101/136
Hansen Won (1-1-0)
1795 Eagle: The first year of issue for this denomination and the largest of the three denominations struck during the early years.
Hansen Coin: 1795 Eagle PCGS M63 POP 11/9
Eliasberg Coin: 1795 Eagle PCGS MS65 (Ron Guth: Confirmed PCGS MS65)
Eliasberg Won (1-2-0)
1799 Eagle: The most common and therefore the most affordable pre-1800 date of this type.
Hansen Coin: 1799 Eagle PCGS MS65 POP 8/3
Eliasberg Coin: 1799 Eagle Est. MS65 POP 8/3
Tie (1-2-1)
1838 Eagle: First year of issue for the Liberty Head design and a short-lived two year type.
Hansen Coin: 1838 Eagle PCGS AU53 POP 3/20
Eliasberg Coin: 1838 Eagle Est. MS62 POP 1/2 (Ron Guth: PCGS MS63)
Eliasberg Won (1-3-1)
All of the Eliasberg’s specimens were impressive this week. All 5 of his coins were from MS62 to MS65 according to the registry. By the information the Ron discovery, they became even more impressive. Hansen’s specimens were 3 coins from MS63 to MS65, but the Achilles heel this week was the 2 about uncirculated coins. Hansen did not have any condition census top 5 coins in this week’s challenge.
The sixth stage was a great week for the Eliasberg Collection. The D.L. Hansen Collection still leads the Louis Eliasberg Collection (13-11-6). The challenging is tightening up, so the final four posts could get interesting. The lead is now to only 2 coins. Stay tune! Here are the coins for next week.
1841-O Eagle: The first eagle struck at a branch mint and the first–obviously–from New Orleans.
1863 Eagle: The rarest Civil War eagle and strong contender for one of the rarest dates in the Liberty Head eagle series.
1870-CC Eagle: The first Carson City eagle and a rare, popular issue in all grades.
1875 Eagle: Crazy low-mintage of just 200 business strikes and by far the rarest date in the series with just 7/8 or so known
1907 Wire Edge Eagle: A beautifully designed, low mintage issue with strong demand from a variety of collectors.
Hansen WOW Coins
1909-O Half Eagle AU58+ (Gold Shield)
Certification #84234291, PCGS #8515
PCGS Price Guide Value $24,000
Provenance: unknown
Doug Winter Comments: The 1909-O half eagle is the final gold coin produced at the New Orleans mint. It is the only Indian Head half eagle to be struck at this mint. It is not an especially scarce coin in circulated grades but it is exceedingly popular due to its status as a one-year type. In recent years, the level of demand for this coin has soared and it now ranks as one of the most popular New Orleans issues of any denomination. Examples in the VF and EF grades are readily available. Attractive AU coins are fairly scarce and most graded as such by NGC and PCGS are low end pieces with poor eye appeal. The 1909-O is very scarce in properly graded Uncirculated with most survivors in the MS60 to MS62 range. This date is rare in MS63 and very rare in MS64. There are probably no more than three to five Gems known.
.
.
1929 Half Eagle MS64 (Gold Shield)
Certification #81786655, PCGS #8533
PCGS Price Guide Value $47,500
Provenance: unknown
David Akers Comments: The 1929 is quite rare in any Mint State grade, and the majority of Uncirculated specimens are quite heavily bagmarked, thereby falling into the MS-60 to 62 category. Choice BU examples, i.e. MS-63 quality pieces, are very rare and this issue is almost never seen above that level. Trying to find an MS-64 is likely to be a frustrating task and the number of true gems (MS-65 coins) is very, very small. If anything exists that is better than MS-65 I have not seen or heard of it, although Dr. Steven Duckor's gem, the finest I have ever seen, might be called at least MS-65+ by some. The 1929 is generally well struck, but some examples show a definite weakness on the obverse, particularly on the lowest feather of the headdress. On many specimens, an unusual line or indentation runs along the circumference inside the edge; it is most noticeable through the date and STATES OF on the reverse. Most examples of this final year of issue have very good to excellent lustre, frosty or sometimes moderately satiny surfaces, and color that is typically medium to deep yellow gold, often with a greenish tint.
.
.
1795 Eagle BD-3 (9 Leaves) MS63 (Gold Shield)
Extraordinary Condition Census PCGS MS-63 Quality
Certification #36674524, PCGS #45714
PCGS Price Guide Value $650,000
Provenance: Mike Brownlee; Superior's May 29, 30, 1995 Auction, lot 3684
Ron Guth Comments: The 1795 BD-3 $10 gold piece is a wonderful rarity among early U.S. gold coins. The BD-3 variety represents the entire mintage of the 1795 9 Leaves $10 gold piece, itself one of the most important major varieties. Previous estimates of the surviving population of this variety were as low as nine pieces. Dannreuther suggested that as many as 15-20 pieces were known, and the latest research shows that perhaps as many as two dozen exist. Surprisingly, there may be as many as eight examples that grade MS60 or better, which is an astounding percentage of the known population. Among these, the finest is a PCGS MS63+ example which is a full point-and-a-half better than the next best. The strike on this variety is often soft in the centers, where the high points oppose each other. Adjustment marks are sometimes seen, but they are never excessive. At least two examples show depressions or voids in the finished coins, presumably the result of improper preparation of the planchets.
.
.
1799 Eagle Large Stars Obverse MS65 (Gold Shield)
Among the Finest Certified
Certification #25346087, PCGS #8562
PCGS Price Guide Value $275,000
Provenance: Unknown
David Akers Comments: The 1799 had more auction appearances in my survey than any other early Eagle and, despite its lower mintage, it is somewhat more common than the 1801. I have seen a substantial number of choice and gem uncirculated examples of this date as well as specimens in every other grade category. Varieties exist with small stars (as on earlier issues) and large stars (as on all early eagles that follow).
.
.
1838 Eagle AU53 (Gold Shield)
Certification #83837069, PCGS #8575
PCGS Price Guide Value $19,000
Pedigree: Unknown
David Akers Comments: After a 34 year hiatus from issuing Eagles, the Mint resumed production of this denomination in 1838. Because it is the first year of a two-year-only type, the 1838 Eagle has long been very popular and desirable. It is also rare in all conditions and high grade specimens are very difficult to obtain. The typically available 1838 is only VF-EF and strictly uncirculated specimens are extremely rare.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
While I appreciate all of the upgrades Hansen is making to his collection, his re-marketing of his dupes as "Hansen Collection" coins is not in good taste. Although they are are all fine quality coins, they are sub-standard relative to the quality of his Registry Set coins. In fact, a current provenance should not be represented on PCGS labels. If I were to by one, I would certainly send it back to PCGS for reholder. Using a premature and subordinate provenance on resell holders is not in good taste.
OINK
I think almost everyone here is thinking of a certain coin coming up next month. (1854-S half eagle).
Will this end up in the Hansen set? And what is going to happen with the 1822?
Do other collectors do similar things? I read that Ted Naftzger had a lot of pedigreed coins that he only owned for a short period of time. The following was posted by @Sunnywood on Ted's pedigree:
I personally don't mind and like that Hansen is associating his name with these coins. To me, the more information the better, especially as we enter an era where a traceable history for coins is becoming increasingly important. If a lower quality coin has a pedigree, it's still easy to tell it's lower quality. If a coin has lost its pedigree, it can be hard to get it back. I also like the fact that on many coins, he's the first named collector.