@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.
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. 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!.
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. 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.
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. 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.
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. 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.
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. 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.
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. 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.
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. 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).
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. 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.
@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
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From my observation, I don’t think Mr. Hansen is slabbing for marketing purposes. There is a website that is actively marketing his duplicates. You will find many of his coins on the site that is not in Hansen Slabs. But, you are right, many of them are. In his last large slabbing effort (about 5000 coins), I was told they were done for presentation purposes. He did not slab duplicates and many of the moderns were not slabbed. If you prefer coins that are not in Hansen holders, I think you will be able to find some Hansen duplicates that are not. In my personal opinion, coins outside the condition census top 5 to top 10, the pedigree serves lesser of a purpose. If a coin was retired in a PCGS HOF set, I think that is neat to know. Many can still be tracked by Cert #s.
This upgrade is for an old gold coin from the New Orleans Mint. The Hansen Collection has already assembled one of the Greatest New Orleans Gold Collection of All Time. Hansen’s Weight GPA for the 85 piece Basic set is 58.99. The Harry Bass Collection is second at 58.11, and Eliasberg trails a distant behind at 53.37. As most everyone knows, the Eliasberg coins are mostly estimate graded in the registry. The Bass Collection has 67 or the 85 specimens certified by PCGS. We may not be able to compare any of the sets at 100% accuracy, but the Bass Collection should be more comparable to today’s PCGS Collections.
To give you a feel of quality for the Hansen Collection of New Orleans Gold, there are 17 PCGS certified POP 1/0 specimens in the set of 85 coins. There is an additional 9 coins tied for finest PCGS certified, with 5 being POP 2/0 specimens. The lowest graded coin in the collection is the 1847-O Half Eagle, grade VF 25 with POP 4/39. This coin is a great candidate for upgrade. To give you a feel for Mr. Hansen’s upgrading efforts for this collection, he has replaced 17 coins since 1/1/2019. I do not think we have seen the last upgrade.
1851-O Gold Dollar MS66+ CAC – Replaces 1851-O MS64 37/31
The 1851-O Gold Dollar is a PCGS POP 1/0 specimen. The coin replaces a MS64, POP 37/31 coin (Certification number 82877135). Doug Winter comments: The 1851-O Has a mintage figure that is tied with the 1853-O as the highest production figure of any gold dollar from this mint. It is the most common of the six New Orleans gold dollars and has become far more available in high grades due to a small hoard of Gems located in 2004. I am not sure this coin is from the small hoard of Gems that is mention here. According to PCGS POP report, there are only three specimens certified MS66 by PCGS, and only one of them are MS66+ (Hansen’s specimen).
The coin is from The Blue Hill Collection. About a year ago, @jonruns started a thread on this forum and discussed this collection. He wrote: Doug Winter Numismatics is selling 64 of an almost complete set of New Orleans gold coins which is called The Blue Hill Collection (BH). BH is #5 on the all-time PCGS Registry set for the 85 coin New Orleans Basic Gold set.
I believe DWN still have a handful of these coin (mostly Eagles) still listed on his site.
The coin also appeared for sale by Legend Numismatics. According to the website, the coin was listed for $35,000. They describe the coins as: If there was not an O on the back, this coin would pass as one of those awesome toned P Mint pieces we all see every so often. The quality and eye appeal here are off the charts! Overall, the surfaces are pretty clean and have a thick satiny texture. Only when using a strong glass can you find some light frost breaks. There are a tiny and really die die cracks running across the obverse. A surprisingly strong luster beams boldly from all over. This is NOT a dipped or messed with coin. Both sides are a totally original and deeper yellow/orange gold color highlighted by a ring of greenish gold. Miss Liberty and the details are fully struck and have thick frost. The eye appeal is jaw dropping! This is the lone MS66+ graded with NONE higher! Here is a VIP stat: the last PCGS coin to sell in auction: brought $25,875.00 BACK IN 2005! Is that rare enough? We NEVER see similar O Mints looking like this anyway. If you collect O Mints, killer toned coins, are building a box of 20, or just collector Gold Dollars, this amazing piece is one you can’t miss!
The coin is CAC Approved that is very important to some folks. This is a beautiful coin that Mr. Hansen must have felt the specimen belong in his collection even though he already has a pretty nice example. I am not certain how this coin came to be in the D.L. Hansen Collection. I can assume it was purchase from Legend Numismatics, but I would certainly not be surprise that it was not.
In comparing to Eliasberg’s specimen, his registry set describes his specimen as assumed graded MS62, Coin purchased by Louis Eliasberg when he acquired the John Clapp collection in 1942. Earlier from Elmer Sears in November, 1904. Purchased at the Bowers & Ruddy Oct '82 Eliasberg sale by Walter Perske for $660. Lot #13.
1851-O Gold Dollar PCGS MS66+ CAC Approved Finest Certified by PCGS, POP 1/0 Certification #25624446, PCGS #7516 Provenance: The Blue Hill Collection PCGS Price Guide Value: $30,000
It is not often that I will do an Aaron Rodgers double take, but when I saw this new coin, that’s what happened. This is not just any 1860 Proof Eagle. First of all, this coin is not readily found, even though records show that 50 were minted. There has been one that has certified by PCGS as PR65. The coin is not certified as CAM or DCAM. I guess if the coin was reconsidered, it could. This PR65 was sold by Kagin's auction March 2017 for $258,500. The POP shows one other PR65CAM, but it is not in the condition census report. I am not sure if this different coin or not. The POP report has only 5 total coins certified by PCGS, with only two being DACM and they both are PR64. David Akers wrote this: Proofs are extremely rare, more so than the mintage would imply and therefore it is likely that some, if not most, of the 50 struck were not sold and were later melted. No more than 10 or 11 can be accounted for today.
This new 1860 DCAM completes D. L. Hansen Collection of 1860 Proofs. He has not started a 1860 Proof set, but when he does, the set will be complete and number 1 in the registry. The coin has not been added to the master sets. The coin can be found in D. L. Hansen Liberty Head $10 Gold Proof set, but not many others. This is what the 1860 Proof set would look like if Mr. Hansen decides to start one.
1860 Eagle, PR64DCAM, Ex: Farouk, Bass
This coin is the real deal. It has a rich history, when I say rich, it includes royalty. The coin was offered by Heritage in its 2014 CSNS US Coin Signature Auction in Chicago. In a more recent sale, Heritage offered this short roster of known specimens. Note: the other PCGS PR65 Cam is not shown.
Roster of 1860 Proof Liberty Eagles
1) PR65 PCGS. Heman Ely; W. Elliot Woodward; purchased by T. Harrison Garrett on 10/25/1883 as part of a large transaction including nine gold proof sets; Robert Garrett; John Work Garrett; Johns Hopkins University; Garrett Collection, Part III (Bowers and Ruddy, 10/1980), lot 1668; Worrell Family Collection ( Superior, 5/1989), lot 5627; ANA National Money Show (Kagin's, 3/2017), lot 1427, realized $258,500.
2) PR64 Deep Cameo PCGS. Orlando Sale (Stack's, 1/2009), lot 1118, realized $83,375, Heritage, 8/2019, LOT #3906, realized $156,027.60.
3) D.L. Hansen Specimen - PR64 Deep Cameo PCGS. King Farouk; Palace Collections of Egypt (Sotheby's, 2/1954), lot 199; Gaston DiBello; DiBello Collection (Stack's, 5/1970), lot 1068; Harry W. Bass, Jr.; Bass Collection, Part II (Bowers and Merena, 10/1999), lot 1473; Bristol Sale (Kingswood, 3/2001), lot 480; Internet Only Auction (Heritage, 4/2001), lot 3496; Internet Only Auction (Heritage, 9/2001), lot 4519; American Numismatic Rarities (6/2004), lot 1470; Central States Signature (Heritage, 4/2011), lot 5435, realized $161,000; Central States Signature (Heritage, 4/2014), lot 5779, realized $142,175.
4) PR64 Deep Cameo. United States Mint; National Numismatic Collection; Smithsonian Institution, grade per Garrett and Guth.
5) PR64 Deep Cameo. Smithsonian Institution duplicate, grade per Garrett and Guth.
6) Mostly likely Tyrant Specimen, NGC PR64 CAM - William Cutler Atwater Collection (B. Max Mehl, 6/1946), lot 1438; Amon Carter Collection (Stack's, 1/1984), lot 762; Ed Trompeter Collection.
7) PR63 PCGS. Rarities Sale (Bowers and Merena, 1/1997), lot 333.
8) PR60 ANACS. L.W. Hoffecker Collection (Superior, 2/1987), lot 4195.
9) Proof. American Numismatic Society, probably ex: John Colvin Randall, J.P. Morgan.
The coin realized $142,175 in the 2014 Heritage Auction. Heritage provide this description: The general numismatic consensus is a total population of 10 or fewer proof 1860 Liberty eagles survive in all grades today. Known pieces include two specimens in the Smithsonian Institution and one in the American Numismatic Society, reducing the available population to just over half a dozen coins. In his 1980 auction analysis of the eagles, David Akers wrote that "no more than 10 or 11 can be accounted for today." Our current roster lists nine distinctly different examples with seven other appearances that may or may not be included in the first nine. Perhaps the final tally could reach a dozen different pieces, including three in museums.
This is a great addition to The D. L. Hansen Proof collection. He is less than 300 Proof coins from completion. It will be interesting to see how far he goes with the proofs.
1860 Liberty Eagle, PR64 Deep Cameo Tied Finest Deep Cameo at PCGS, Ex: Farouk, Bass Certification #25508456, PCGS #98796 PCGS POP 2/0 (DCAM) , POP 2/2 (Overall) PCGS Price Guide: 175,000 / Heritage 2014: $142,175
Provenance: King Farouk of Egypt - Sotheby’s 2/1954:199 - Gaston DiBello Collection - Stack's 5/1970:1068 - Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection - Bowers & Merena 10/1999:1473 - Kingswood 3/2001:480 - Heritage 4/2001:3496 - Heritage 9/2001:4519 - American Numismatic Rarities 6/2004:1470 - Slotkin Family Trust Collection - Heritage 4/2011:5435, $161,000 - Heritage 4/2014:5779, $142,175 - D.L. Hansen Collection
Just an observation: as a part of its recent weekly giveaway, CoinWeek recently gave out a 1963 50c PCGS/CAC PR 68 in a Hansen holder. Not sure how the organization procures their coins for the contest, but apparently the holder was not of such massive value in this case to prevent it from being included in this event.
@ChopmarkedTrades said:
Just an observation: as a part of its recent weekly giveaway, CoinWeek recently gave out a 1963 50c PCGS/CAC PR 68 in a Hansen holder. Not sure how the organization procures their coins for the contest, but apparently the holder was not of such massive value in this case to prevent it from being included in this event.
I don’t think a name on a holder is going to add much value to a $50 coin.
This was one of the most competitive weeks in the challenge. The five coins this week resulted in an overall tie, starting with this first example being an AU55 in both collections. The 1841-O Eliasberg coin is now in a PCGS AU55 holder. The 1841-O Hansen specimen is an AU55 from the Pittman Collection.
The second coin was a little more complicated. Eliasberg did not have a mint state finish coin. His specimen was a PF63CAM that appear number #5 of the proof roster for 1863 Eagles. On the other hand, Hansen has the finest known MS63 from the Bass Collection. This coin may be the only known mint state specimen. There is one other in a NGC MS62 holder that PCGS recognizes as est. AU58. Hansen wins with the PCGS Pop 1/0 coin.
The most obvious win was Hansen’s 1870-CC AU55 POP 3/0 coin over Eliasberg (VF30 POP 4/37). The next coin was another complicated comparison. Hansen does not have a mint strike 1875 Eagle, but does have a PR63CAM specimen. Eliasberg had both finishes for the 1875 Eagle, PR64 NGC (PCGS est. PR63) and XF45. I gave the second coin win to Hansen, so I gave this one to Eliasberg.
Eliasberg finished strong with a slightly better 1907 “Wire Edge” Eagle, MS66 to Hansen’s MS65.
The total value for Hansen’s five coins is $730,000. This week’s result is 2-2-1. Hansen’s holds to a 2 coin overall lead.
1841-O Eagle:The first eagle struck at a branch mint and the first–obviously–from New Orleans.
Hansen Coin: 1841-O Eagle PCGS AU55 POP 5/1, Pittman Specimen
Eliasberg Coin: 1841-O Eagle PCGS AU55 POP 5/1
Tie (0-0-1) Note: They are not the same coins
1863 Eagle:The rarest Civil War eagle and a strong contender for one of the rarest dates in the entire Liberty Head eagle series.
Hansen Coin: 1863 Eagle PCGS MS63 POP 1/0, Bass Specimen
Eliasberg Coin: 1863 Eagle est. PF63 POP 2/12, No circulation strike specimen
Hansen Won (1-0-1)
1870-CC Eagle:The first Carson City eagle and a rare, popular issue in all grades.
Hansen Coin: 1870-CC Eagle PCGS AU55 POP 3/0
Eliasberg Coin: 1870-CC Eagle est. VF30 4/37
Hansen Won (2-0-1)
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
Hansen Coin: 1875 Eagle PCGS PR63CAM POP 1/4, No circulation strike specimen
Eliasberg Coin: 1875 Eagle Est. XF45 PCGS (John Dannreuther notes it is actually an altered date)
Eliasberg Coin: 1875 Eagle NGC PR64, PCGS list as est. PR63, may be the best 1875 in the grouping.
Eliasberg Won (2-1-1)
1907 Wire Edge Eagle:A beautifully designed, low mintage issue with strong demand from a variety of collectors.
Hansen Coin: 1907 Wire Edge Eagle PCGS MS65 POP 63/34
Eliasberg Coin: 1907 Wire Edge Eagle Est. MS66 POP 18/8
Eliasberg Won (2-2-1)
This week showcased a few coins from both great collections. Hansen has the only finest coin with the Harry Bass Specimen for 1863 Eagle (PCGS MS63 POP 1/0). The D.L. Hansen Collection has the 1875 Eagle represented with an impressive PCGS PR63CAM specimen, but no circulation strike at this time. Will one show up soon?
The D.L. Hansen Collection still leads the Louis Eliasberg Collection (15-13-7). The challenge has tightened up, so the final 15 coins could get interesting. With Hansen’s lead being only 2 coins, the Double Eagles are represented in the next two updates. Humm. Here are the coins for next week.
1933 Eagle:The final year of issue for this denomination (first struck in 1795) and the only US gold coin dated 1933 which is legal to own.
1854-O Double Eagle:One of two mega-rarities from this mint and a key issue in the Type One double eagle series.
1856-O Double Eagle:The other very rare New Orleans Type One issue. Unique in Uncirculated and represented by fewer than 40 known in total.
1861-S Paquet Double Eagle:A mysterious but collectible issue with a different reverse designed by Anthony Paquet.
1870-CC Double Eagle:The first double eagle from this mint and the single most valuable gold coin from this mint.
Hansen WOW Coins
1841-0 Eagle AU55 (Gold Shield) Rare Key Date, Unknown in Mint State Certification #81439065, PCGS #8583 PCGS Price Guide Value $85,000, Sold $61,687.50 by Stack Bowers 2016 Provenance: From New Netherlands' 49th Sale, June 1957, lot 236; David W. Akers' sale of the John Jay Pittman Collection, Part II, May 1998, lot 1915
Stacks Bowers’ Comments: Offered is a handsome example of an extremely challenging Southern gold issue. Exceptionally well struck for an 1841-O eagle, both sides offer sharp to full definition over virtually all design elements. The surfaces are soft and satiny, revealing glints of original luster. Pale golden-olive patina adorns both sides and enhances the eye appeal. With only 2,500 pieces produced, the 1841-O has the lowest mintage of any Liberty eagle dated 1838 to 1858. Fewer than 100 survivors are accounted for, making this the second rarest No Motto Liberty eagle from the New Orleans Mint after the 1859-O, and the third rarest when we include Motto issues (which brings the 1883-O into play). No Mint State coins have been graded by the major certification services. With AU examples highly elusive, the 1841-O trades places with the 1859-O to become the prime condition rarity among New Orleans Mint tens of the No Motto type. The Pittman pedigree adds further appeal. This exciting Choice AU example will surely attract advanced gold specialists..
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. 1863 Eagle MS63 (Gold Shield) Finest Known Certification #05652511, PCGS #8637 PCGS Price Guide Value $200,000 Provenance: Heck Dodson Collection - MARCA 8/1991:755, $104,500 - Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection, Part IV - Bowers & Merena 11/2000:683, $52,900 - D.L. Hansen Collection
Doug Winter Comments: All of the Civil War era Liberty Head eagles are scarce (with the exception of the 1861) but the 1863 is a key rarity in this subset. In fact, I regard it as among the very rarest 19th century Philadelphia gold coins. Only 1,248 business strikes were issued of which an estimated 30-40 are known. The finest is the superb Bass lV: 683 ex: MARCA 8/91 that brought $52,900 in its last appearance (an amazing bargain) after Harry Bass had paid $104,500 for it back in 1991. The second finest known is an NGC MS62 from the S.S. Republic that is owned by a prominent Western collector. Almost every example that I have seen grades EF45 or below and is characterized by excessively abraded surfaces. The luster is either soft and frosty or, less often, semi-prooflike and the strike tends to be bold with the exception of the curl directly above Liberty's ear.
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. 1870-CC AU55 (Gold Shield) Certification #25793453, PCGS #8658 PCGS Price Guide Value $150,000 Provenance: Unknown
Doug Winter Comments: This is the rarest and most famous eagle from the Carson City mint. It is actually close in overall rarity to the highly-prized (and priced!) double eagle of this date/mint but it is less popular and still only valued at a fraction of its larger cousin. There were 5,098 struck and I believe that around 50 or so are known today. Most 1870-CC eagles are very well-worn as this issue, like nearly all the early gold pieces from this mint, saw considerable use in local commerce. Any 1870-CC eagle that grades Extremely Fine is quite rare and properly graded AU's are very rare with around a half dozen or so known to me. The finest 1870-CC eagle that I have seen is a PCGS AU55 (last sold as ANR 8/06: 1341) that brought $115,000 which is a record for this issue. Every example I have seen is heavily bagmarked and most are weakly struck on the hair along the face. Most have been cleaned or dipped and negative eye appeal tends to greatly impact this issue.
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. 1875 Eagle PR63CAM (Gold Shield) Ex: Dunham, Farouk, Norweb Specimen Certification #03175738, PCGS #88815 PCGS Price Guide Value $215,000 Provenance: Possibly acquired directly from the Mint in 1875 by William Wetmore; William B. Wetmore (S.H. & H. Chapman, 6/1906), lot 158, as part of a complete six-piece gold proof set; William Forrester Dunham (B. Max Mehl, 6/1941), lot 2245; King Farouk (Sotheby's, 2-3/1954), lot 205; Norweb Collection, Part II (Bowers and Merena, 3/1988), lot 2206; Thomas S. Chalkley Collection (Superior, 1/1990), lot 4818; Chicago Sale (Superior, 8/1991), lot 782; (Heritage Auctions 4/2017), Lot #4296
Heritage Auction Comments: The 1875 proof gold eagle is a major rarity in any grade, and demand is further amplified by a lack of circulation strikes for this year. In 1875, the Philadelphia Mint's gold production was almost entirely of double eagles. Circulation coinage of the five lesser denominations did not exceed 400 pieces for each issue, and in the case of the 1875 three dollar, none were struck at all. The 1875 gold eagle was struck to the extent of only 100 circulation strikes and 20 proofs. PCGS estimates that just eight or nine circulation strikes and 10 to 12 proofs survive in all grades. Of these, one circulation strike and one proof are housed in the Smithsonian Institution, and a second proof is in the ANS, making the total number of 1875 eagles available to collectors, proof and circulation strike combined, no greater than 15 to 18 pieces. The 20 proof 1875 eagles struck were issued in proof sets with the other five gold denominations. One of the active buyers of gold proof sets in the middle and late 19th century was William B. Wetmore, who began collecting around 1860. When the Chapman brothers auctioned his collection in 1906, it contained a nearly complete run of gold proof sets from 1863 to 1881, including an 1875. Wetmore's complete 1875 gold proof set is the origin of the present coin, and it is likely that he acquired it directly from the Mint in the year of issue. William F. Dunham acquired this coin from the Wetmore sale, with the piece later passing through the famous Palace Collection of King Farouk to the Norweb family. The Norwebs were personally in attendance when the Farouk Collection was auctioned in Cairo in 1954. We believe this to be the first auction appearance of this storied and rare specimen since 1991. The strike is full, and field-device contrast is dramatic. As the grade suggests, there are a few hairlines in the fields. A small alloy spot on Liberty's neck and a couple of minor field marks near star 4 serve as reliable pedigree markers. As the Norweb catalog stated: "In a way, the minute grade differences are not necessarily important for this issue, for in any grade the 1875 is a fantastic rarity."
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. 1907 “Wide Edge” Eagle MS65 (Gold Shield) Certification #25351862, PCGS #8850 PCGS Price Guide Value $80,000 Provenance: Unknown
David Akers Comments: Technically, the 1907 Wire Edge is a pattern (Judd 1774) and not a regular issue but it has always been considered an integral part of the series. The 500 mintage figure comes from a 1908 letter from dealer Henry Chapman to John Garrett, and this number is probably correct since Chapman had very close Mint connections. It is entirely possible that all 500 are really proofs rather than business strikes but there is no way to know for sure. One thing is certain, however; all of the known examples of this issue are of the same method of manufacture and so any distinction between "Proof" and "business strike" 1907 Wire Edge eagles is incorrect. The typical specimen is fairly well struck on the central devices (Indian and eagle) but very weakly struck at the borders. Lustre is typically good to very good. The surfaces are rather satiny with numerous random die scratches in the fields and the color is almost always light yellow gold or light greenish gold although some specimens are either orange gold or very coppery in color. The 1907 Wire Edge is one of the highest priced issues of the series but it is actually in the lower half of the series with respect to both overall rarity and condition rarity. Locating a specimen MS-63 or lower is not particularly difficult and even very choice pieces (MS-64) are seen fairly often. However, true gems are certainly very rare since there is no rim on these coins and so unprotected surfaces are prone to nicks and scratches. A few extraordinary quality examples exist that are very nearly as struck. Dr. John Wilkinson's was perhaps the nicest I have seen, but a handful of others are just about the same.
@ms70 said:
There's a lot of Hansen coins on eBay currently.
Even more on our website!
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
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
Hansen Coin: 1875 Eagle PCGS PR63CAM POP 1/4, No circulation strike specimen
Eliasberg Coin: 1875 Eagle Est. XF45 PCGS (John Dannreuther notes it is actually an altered date)
Eliasberg Coin: 1875 Eagle NGC PR64, PCGS list as est. PR63, may be the best 1875 in the grouping.
I stumbled across this a couple weeks ago, but forgot to include in the Sunday posting. It would be interesting if someone can do additional research to determine more about this issue.
Note from recent Heritage Auction: This coin has been listed in previous rosters, but John Dannreuther notes it is actually an altered date:
XF45. Possibly Louis Eliasberg, Sr.; H.R. Lee Collection (Stack's, 10/1947), lot 1530; James A. Stack; James Stack Collection (Stack's, 3/1995), lot 610.
Ron Guth, you know any additional details on this comment?
The Feb 2018 Heritage auction lists these items in the roster:
XF45 PCGS. James and Margaret Carter Collection (Stack's, 1/1986), lot 270; Public Auction Sale (Stack's, 10/1988), lot 126; ANA Signature (Heritage, 7/1997), lot 5510.
XF45. Possibly Louis Eliasberg, Sr.; H.R. Lee Collection (Stack's, 10/1947), lot 1530; James A. Stack; James Stack Collection (Stack's, 3/1995), lot 610.
I told the story on The D.L. Hansen Collection of Peace Dollars a few weeks ago, so I will not tell that again. I will say that we have observed Mr. Hansen applying a lot of resources to this series. I am not sure if it because of a fondness to Peace Dollars, or the availability they have presented recently. We know he has recently purchased coins from the Linda Gail Collection and Illinois Collection of Peace Dollars. He purchased the 1923 Peace Dollar MS67+, PCGS POP 1/0 from GreatCollections Auctions just a few weeks ago. This past weekend, he added another high graded coin from GreatCollections Auctions. The provenance is not given on these coins from GreatCollections Auctions. Could they have ties to Linda Gail or Illinois, I am not sure. As we discussed last time, The D.L. Hansen Collection of Peace Dollars is inching closer to the retired PCGS Hall of Fame All-Time top set, California Collection. Can it be done? Maybe we will see in the near future.
1924 $1 MS67+ CAC, PCGS POP 1/1
There is one coin technically graded finer by PCGS. Finest Known 1924 Peace Dollar MS68 PCGS is from The Jack Lee Collection. The specimen appeared in a Heritage Auction in 2005. The new Hansen Specimen is from an unknown perigee, and stands alone as number two. The only appearance in public auctions that I have discovered was last Sunday. The coin sold February 16th, after receiving 48 bids. It realized $37,134 with buyer’s fee.
Ron Guth Comments on the coin: The 1924 Peace Dollar is a common date, nearly on par with the 1925 in terms of overall mintage, but not nearly as common as the 1922 and 1923. Collectors will have no difficulty finding a high-grade example of this date. Most of the certified Mint State examples fall into the MS-64 category, followed closely by the MS-63 category. Even Gems are relatively common, especially in MS-65, and the big drop-off in the population comes at the MS-67 level. Luster on the 1924 Peace Dollar ranges from soft, frosty (almost granular surfaces) to a bright, flashy luster. Generally, the strike is good, with none of the weakness associated with coins from the Denver and San Francisco mints (especially the latter). The overall eye appeal and above-average quality of the 1924 Peace Dollar make it an excellent choice for type collectors.
1924 Peace Dollar MS67+, PCGS POP 1/1 Certification #38329142, PCGS #7363 PCGS Price Guide: $55,000 / GreatCollections Auction : $37,134
D. L. Hansen Collection added an ultra-rarity specimen to the quest to assemble a complete collection of US Issue Coins. Heritage Auctions offered a rare appearance of the 1875 Eagle at February 20 US Coins Signature Auction in Long Beach. Heritage stated in their description of the coin: There have only been 13 public offerings of this issue in any grade over the last 20 years and most of the coins are presently in strong hands, so future auction appearances may be even more infrequent. This coin has been on Mr. Hansen radar for some time. The coin appeared in public two years ago: This particular coin set the auction prices realized record for the issue in its 2018 appearance in the Admiral Collection (Heritage, 2/2018), where it brought $372,000 (HA). It is pretty well known in the numismatics circles that Mr. Hansen was the underbid in the 2018 bidding war. The coin was auctioned in 2018 as a NGC AU50. It has since been crossed to a PCGS AU50 that as we know, Mr. Hansen very much desire. There was a bidding war last night, but this time Mr. Hansen walked away with the coin after it was hammered at $360,000. Would he have gone a couple more increments, we will never know. My guess would be yes.
This completes another major series in Hansen’s quest for completeness. With this addition, he has now assembled a complete set of US Gold Eagles in high grade. I will discuss this astonishing set in more detail in a future posting, but due to the desire to focus on the 1875, I will leave it as enough said for now. Maybe more important, the collection is only three coins away from completing the Hall of Fame Registry Set. To complete this set will not be a small feat. Just check the remaining coins listed below.
Technically, this coin was not a “must have” for Mr. Hansen in his quest. He has a proof 1875 Eagle specimen which meets the Eliasberg set definition (either business strike or proof counts), therefor did he have to buy the coin, no. With that said, I think he has desired this specimen for some time. If you noticed, there are coins from last night’s sale already updated in the registry. Why 1875 Eagle has not been added? I can only guess, but being this is a special purchase for Mr. Hansen, he may be waiting to personally add the coin to the registry over the weekend at his leisure. In one of his rare posting, he wrote this about the coin: .when reading the blog I noticed that the 1841 quarter eagle was needed for the Collection. We now have that. Hope to find the1875 business strike. However as a saving grace the Collection may have to use the Proof to fill the Eliasberg quest. I would like to thank Currin for the detail surrounding the Collection. It’s helpful in keeping me updated. (D. L. Hansen)
1875 Liberty Eagle, AU50, Ex: Admiral Collection
There is so much that can be said about 1875 Eagle, but I know I have to limit my space. I would like to first show the roster for the 1875 Business Strikes Eagles (according the Heritage Auctions research)
Roster of 1875 Liberty Eagles
1) AU53+ PCGS Margene Heathgate Collection (Superior 6/1997), lot 1541(as AU53 PCGS); Atlanta Signature (Heritage, 8/2001), lot 7904 (as AU53 NGC); ANA Auction (Stack's Bowers, 8/2011), lot 7732 (as AU53+ PCGS), realized $345,000.
2) D.L. Hansen Specimen - AU50 PCGS St. Louis ANA Auction (New England Rare Coin Galleries, 7/1979), lot 313; Admiral Collection (Heritage, 2/2018), lot 4292, realized $372,000; Jacobson Collection (Heritage, 2/2020), lot 3286, realized $360,000.
3) Tyrant Specimen - AU50 PCGS Alto Collection (Stack's, 12/1970), lot 356; Harry W. Bass, Jr.; Bass Collection, Part II (Bowers and Merena, 10/1999), lot 1551; Jeff Garrett; Philadelphia Signature (Heritage, 8/2000), lot 7338; Pre-Long Beach Sale (Superior, 5/2001), lot 4139; Internet Only Auction (Heritage, 4/2002), lot 11458; Old Roswell Mill Collection; offered by John Hamrick in April 2008 at $150,000; David Hall (Ellen D Collection); Simpson Collection via Legend Numismatics in May 2011.
4) AU50 PCGS Four Landmark Collections (Bowers and Merena, 3/1989), lot 700; Long Beach Signature (Heritage, 10/1995), lot 6376; Boys Town and Mamiye Collections (Bowers and Merena, 3/1998), lot 2207; Baltimore Signature (Heritage, 7/2003), lot 10450; Internet Auction (Heritage, 10/2003), lot 14125; FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/2004), lot 2201; Christopher Bentley's Knob Hill Collection (Heritage, 2/2014), lot 4201, realized $211,500.
5) XF45 PCGS James and Margaret Carter Collection (Stack's, 1/1986), lot 270; Public Auction Sale (Stack's, 10/1988), lot 126; ANA Signature (Heritage, 7/1997), lot 5510.
6) XF40 Possibly Col. E.H.R. Green; Dr. Charles W. Green Collection (B. Max Mehl, 4/1949), lot 547; Davis-Graves Collection (Stack's, 4/1954), lot 955; Edwards Metcalf; Gilhousen Collection, Part I (Superior, 2/1973), lot 712; Jeff Browning; Dallas Bank Collection (Sotheby's-Stack's, 10/2001), lot 474; Douglas Winter Numismatics; Southern California collection.
7) Tyrant #2 Specimen - VF35 PCGS Public Auction (Robert A. Siegel, 11/1984); Mid-American Rare Coins, 5/1992), lot 395; Dr. Jon Kardatzke Collection (Goldberg, 6/2000), lot 1539; FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/2006), lot 3536.
8) VF30 PCGS Long Beach Signature (Heritage, 6/1997), lot 5548; ANA Signature (Heritage, 8/1998), lot 7771.
9) VF30 PCGS Cornerstone Sale (Mid-American Rare Coins, 8/1991), lot 758; Long Beach Signature (Heritage, 2/1994), lot 5441; FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/1998), lot 7966; June Auction (Superior, 6/1998), lot 2298.
10. VG William Cutler Atwater Collection (B. Max Mehl, 6/1946), lot 1453; Amon Carter, Sr.; Amon Carter, Jr.; Amon Carter Collection (Stack's, 1/1984), lot 772; Auction '87 (Superior, 8/1987), lot 1946.
11) XF45 Possibly Jacob Shapiro, a.k.a. J.F. Bell; J.F. Bell Collection (Stack's, 12/1944), lot 639; Clifford T. Weihman; Josiah K. Lilly; Smithsonian Institution.
. 1875 Liberty Eagles removed from the Business Strike Roster by Heritage
Tyrant #3 Specimen - AU55 NGC 1992 GNA Sale (Mid-American Rare Coins, 5/1992), lot 1435; Richmond Collection, Part I (David Lawrence Rare Coins, 7/2004), lot 2102. (The coin has been graded as a business strike in the past, and still appears in the NGC Census, but it is actually a circulated proof)
Possibly Louis Eliasberg, Sr. Specimen XF45 H.R. Lee Collection (Stack's, 10/1947), lot 1530; James A. Stack; James Stack Collection (Stack's, 3/1995), lot 610. (This coin has been listed in previous rosters, but John Dannreuther notes it is actually an altered date)
With the AU55 specimen dropping off on the business strike roster, the new Hansen specimen may be tied for second finest with only one coin better. The present coin is an attractive AU50 PCGS example from the Jacobson Collection which we believe is tied for second-finest known (the AU55 coin in the NGC Census is actually a circulated proof and we believe the AU53 specimen in the PCGS Population Report is a prior submission of the AU53+ example in their listings). Although the 1875 eagle has been something of a sleeper in the past, collectors are beginning to appreciate the rarity and appeal of this issue in recent times. This particular coin set the auction prices realized record for the issue in its 2018 appearance in the Admiral Collection (Heritage, 2/2018), where it brought $372,000. The AU53+ PCGS example in Stack's Bowers 2011 ANA Auction realized almost as much, as it sold for $345,000. Clearly, collectors have become more aware of the elusive nature and potential value of this classic gold rarity. The 1875 Liberty eagle seems poised to join the other outstanding rarities in the U.S. federal series at the highest level of commercial value and pride of ownership (HA).
Heritage Auctions provided a very nice description for the coin: This coin exhibits only light wear on the strongly impressed design elements, with much interior detail still intact on Liberty's hair and the eagle's feathers. Like all examples seen, the pleasing orange-gold surfaces show a number of minor abrasions and some chatter in the fields, but most of the marks are unobtrusive and none are overly distracting. Original mint luster remains in the sheltered areas, mixed with flashes of prooflike reflectivity around the margins. The overall presentation is most attractive. This coin will be a welcome addition to the finest collection or Registry Set. It will be nice to see this coin in the D.L. Hansen Collection when added. So far, this may be the best purchase by Mr. Hansen in 2020.
1875 Liberty Eagle, AU50, Ex: Admiral Collection Lowest-Mintage Circulating U.S. Gold Coin Only 100 Examples Struck Certification #38665974, PCGS #8672 PCGS Price Guide: $300,000 / Heritage 2020: $360,000
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There are 3 remaining coins need to complete the registry set. “U.S. Coins Complete Basic, Circulation Strikes Set” remaining three coins are what I have termed as the Half Eagle Trifecta. They are all show stoppers. If completed, I think it will take years and not months.
1822 Half Eagle (Survival 3, Unique Private Owned Coin in the Pogue Collection)
• No indication when this unique coin will be available for purchase.
1854-S Half Eagle (Survival 4, Two known in private: 1-Pogue AU58+; 2- XF45 sold July 2018)
• The Pogue specimen will appear in 2020 Baltimore - Session 7 - The D. Brent Pogue Collection Part VII: Masterpieces of United States Coinage – Lot 7335
• DL Hansen was a partner in the purchase of the 1854-S XF45 Half Eagle being that he's a partner with David Lawrence Rare Coins, but after purchasing the coin, DLHC reported the specimen was sold to an undisclosed client
1798 "Small Eagle" Half Eagle (Survival 7, possibly 2 nice examples could be purchased)
• 31529819 PCGS AU55
• 1306131 PCGS XF40
• 25608954 PCGS Genuine VF Details (98 - Damage)
• 82239634 PCGS Genuine AU Details (98 - Damage) Note: Research for the 1798 small eagle was provided by dbldie55
And the Pogue 1854-S $5 crosses the block in Baltimore next month. I think Hansen will be a bit more interested in that coin than the 'Discovery' specimen he passed on previously.
Comments
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.....
"Got a flaming heart, can't get my fill"
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.
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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!.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
Nice gold!
My YouTube Channel
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From my observation, I don’t think Mr. Hansen is slabbing for marketing purposes. There is a website that is actively marketing his duplicates. You will find many of his coins on the site that is not in Hansen Slabs. But, you are right, many of them are. In his last large slabbing effort (about 5000 coins), I was told they were done for presentation purposes. He did not slab duplicates and many of the moderns were not slabbed. If you prefer coins that are not in Hansen holders, I think you will be able to find some Hansen duplicates that are not. In my personal opinion, coins outside the condition census top 5 to top 10, the pedigree serves lesser of a purpose. If a coin was retired in a PCGS HOF set, I think that is neat to know. Many can still be tracked by Cert #s.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
New Orleans Mint Gold Upgrade
This upgrade is for an old gold coin from the New Orleans Mint. The Hansen Collection has already assembled one of the Greatest New Orleans Gold Collection of All Time. Hansen’s Weight GPA for the 85 piece Basic set is 58.99. The Harry Bass Collection is second at 58.11, and Eliasberg trails a distant behind at 53.37. As most everyone knows, the Eliasberg coins are mostly estimate graded in the registry. The Bass Collection has 67 or the 85 specimens certified by PCGS. We may not be able to compare any of the sets at 100% accuracy, but the Bass Collection should be more comparable to today’s PCGS Collections.
To give you a feel of quality for the Hansen Collection of New Orleans Gold, there are 17 PCGS certified POP 1/0 specimens in the set of 85 coins. There is an additional 9 coins tied for finest PCGS certified, with 5 being POP 2/0 specimens. The lowest graded coin in the collection is the 1847-O Half Eagle, grade VF 25 with POP 4/39. This coin is a great candidate for upgrade. To give you a feel for Mr. Hansen’s upgrading efforts for this collection, he has replaced 17 coins since 1/1/2019. I do not think we have seen the last upgrade.
1851-O Gold Dollar MS66+ CAC – Replaces 1851-O MS64 37/31
The 1851-O Gold Dollar is a PCGS POP 1/0 specimen. The coin replaces a MS64, POP 37/31 coin (Certification number 82877135). Doug Winter comments: The 1851-O Has a mintage figure that is tied with the 1853-O as the highest production figure of any gold dollar from this mint. It is the most common of the six New Orleans gold dollars and has become far more available in high grades due to a small hoard of Gems located in 2004. I am not sure this coin is from the small hoard of Gems that is mention here. According to PCGS POP report, there are only three specimens certified MS66 by PCGS, and only one of them are MS66+ (Hansen’s specimen).
The coin is from The Blue Hill Collection. About a year ago, @jonruns started a thread on this forum and discussed this collection. He wrote: Doug Winter Numismatics is selling 64 of an almost complete set of New Orleans gold coins which is called The Blue Hill Collection (BH). BH is #5 on the all-time PCGS Registry set for the 85 coin New Orleans Basic Gold set.
https://forums.collectors.com/discussion/1016857/the-market-for-old-gold-looks-good-to-me-the-blue-hill-collection
I believe DWN still have a handful of these coin (mostly Eagles) still listed on his site.
The coin also appeared for sale by Legend Numismatics. According to the website, the coin was listed for $35,000. They describe the coins as: If there was not an O on the back, this coin would pass as one of those awesome toned P Mint pieces we all see every so often. The quality and eye appeal here are off the charts! Overall, the surfaces are pretty clean and have a thick satiny texture. Only when using a strong glass can you find some light frost breaks. There are a tiny and really die die cracks running across the obverse. A surprisingly strong luster beams boldly from all over. This is NOT a dipped or messed with coin. Both sides are a totally original and deeper yellow/orange gold color highlighted by a ring of greenish gold. Miss Liberty and the details are fully struck and have thick frost. The eye appeal is jaw dropping! This is the lone MS66+ graded with NONE higher! Here is a VIP stat: the last PCGS coin to sell in auction: brought $25,875.00 BACK IN 2005! Is that rare enough? We NEVER see similar O Mints looking like this anyway. If you collect O Mints, killer toned coins, are building a box of 20, or just collector Gold Dollars, this amazing piece is one you can’t miss!
The coin is CAC Approved that is very important to some folks. This is a beautiful coin that Mr. Hansen must have felt the specimen belong in his collection even though he already has a pretty nice example. I am not certain how this coin came to be in the D.L. Hansen Collection. I can assume it was purchase from Legend Numismatics, but I would certainly not be surprise that it was not.
In comparing to Eliasberg’s specimen, his registry set describes his specimen as assumed graded MS62, Coin purchased by Louis Eliasberg when he acquired the John Clapp collection in 1942. Earlier from Elmer Sears in November, 1904. Purchased at the Bowers & Ruddy Oct '82 Eliasberg sale by Walter Perske for $660. Lot #13.
1851-O Gold Dollar PCGS MS66+ CAC Approved
Finest Certified by PCGS, POP 1/0
Certification #25624446, PCGS #7516
Provenance: The Blue Hill Collection
PCGS Price Guide Value: $30,000
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Double Take
It is not often that I will do an Aaron Rodgers double take, but when I saw this new coin, that’s what happened. This is not just any 1860 Proof Eagle. First of all, this coin is not readily found, even though records show that 50 were minted. There has been one that has certified by PCGS as PR65. The coin is not certified as CAM or DCAM. I guess if the coin was reconsidered, it could. This PR65 was sold by Kagin's auction March 2017 for $258,500. The POP shows one other PR65CAM, but it is not in the condition census report. I am not sure if this different coin or not. The POP report has only 5 total coins certified by PCGS, with only two being DACM and they both are PR64. David Akers wrote this: Proofs are extremely rare, more so than the mintage would imply and therefore it is likely that some, if not most, of the 50 struck were not sold and were later melted. No more than 10 or 11 can be accounted for today.
This new 1860 DCAM completes D. L. Hansen Collection of 1860 Proofs. He has not started a 1860 Proof set, but when he does, the set will be complete and number 1 in the registry. The coin has not been added to the master sets. The coin can be found in D. L. Hansen Liberty Head $10 Gold Proof set, but not many others. This is what the 1860 Proof set would look like if Mr. Hansen decides to start one.
1860 Eagle, PR64DCAM, Ex: Farouk, Bass
This coin is the real deal. It has a rich history, when I say rich, it includes royalty. The coin was offered by Heritage in its 2014 CSNS US Coin Signature Auction in Chicago. In a more recent sale, Heritage offered this short roster of known specimens. Note: the other PCGS PR65 Cam is not shown.
Roster of 1860 Proof Liberty Eagles
1) PR65 PCGS. Heman Ely; W. Elliot Woodward; purchased by T. Harrison Garrett on 10/25/1883 as part of a large transaction including nine gold proof sets; Robert Garrett; John Work Garrett; Johns Hopkins University; Garrett Collection, Part III (Bowers and Ruddy, 10/1980), lot 1668; Worrell Family Collection ( Superior, 5/1989), lot 5627; ANA National Money Show (Kagin's, 3/2017), lot 1427, realized $258,500.
2) PR64 Deep Cameo PCGS. Orlando Sale (Stack's, 1/2009), lot 1118, realized $83,375, Heritage, 8/2019, LOT #3906, realized $156,027.60.
3) D.L. Hansen Specimen - PR64 Deep Cameo PCGS. King Farouk; Palace Collections of Egypt (Sotheby's, 2/1954), lot 199; Gaston DiBello; DiBello Collection (Stack's, 5/1970), lot 1068; Harry W. Bass, Jr.; Bass Collection, Part II (Bowers and Merena, 10/1999), lot 1473; Bristol Sale (Kingswood, 3/2001), lot 480; Internet Only Auction (Heritage, 4/2001), lot 3496; Internet Only Auction (Heritage, 9/2001), lot 4519; American Numismatic Rarities (6/2004), lot 1470; Central States Signature (Heritage, 4/2011), lot 5435, realized $161,000; Central States Signature (Heritage, 4/2014), lot 5779, realized $142,175.
4) PR64 Deep Cameo. United States Mint; National Numismatic Collection; Smithsonian Institution, grade per Garrett and Guth.
5) PR64 Deep Cameo. Smithsonian Institution duplicate, grade per Garrett and Guth.
6) Mostly likely Tyrant Specimen, NGC PR64 CAM - William Cutler Atwater Collection (B. Max Mehl, 6/1946), lot 1438; Amon Carter Collection (Stack's, 1/1984), lot 762; Ed Trompeter Collection.
7) PR63 PCGS. Rarities Sale (Bowers and Merena, 1/1997), lot 333.
8) PR60 ANACS. L.W. Hoffecker Collection (Superior, 2/1987), lot 4195.
9) Proof. American Numismatic Society, probably ex: John Colvin Randall, J.P. Morgan.
The coin realized $142,175 in the 2014 Heritage Auction. Heritage provide this description: The general numismatic consensus is a total population of 10 or fewer proof 1860 Liberty eagles survive in all grades today. Known pieces include two specimens in the Smithsonian Institution and one in the American Numismatic Society, reducing the available population to just over half a dozen coins. In his 1980 auction analysis of the eagles, David Akers wrote that "no more than 10 or 11 can be accounted for today." Our current roster lists nine distinctly different examples with seven other appearances that may or may not be included in the first nine. Perhaps the final tally could reach a dozen different pieces, including three in museums.
This is a great addition to The D. L. Hansen Proof collection. He is less than 300 Proof coins from completion. It will be interesting to see how far he goes with the proofs.
1860 Liberty Eagle, PR64 Deep Cameo
Tied Finest Deep Cameo at PCGS, Ex: Farouk, Bass
Certification #25508456, PCGS #98796
PCGS POP 2/0 (DCAM) , POP 2/2 (Overall)
PCGS Price Guide: 175,000 / Heritage 2014: $142,175
Provenance: King Farouk of Egypt - Sotheby’s 2/1954:199 - Gaston DiBello Collection - Stack's 5/1970:1068 - Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection - Bowers & Merena 10/1999:1473 - Kingswood 3/2001:480 - Heritage 4/2001:3496 - Heritage 9/2001:4519 - American Numismatic Rarities 6/2004:1470 - Slotkin Family Trust Collection - Heritage 4/2011:5435, $161,000 - Heritage 4/2014:5779, $142,175 - D.L. Hansen Collection
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Just an observation: as a part of its recent weekly giveaway, CoinWeek recently gave out a 1963 50c PCGS/CAC PR 68 in a Hansen holder. Not sure how the organization procures their coins for the contest, but apparently the holder was not of such massive value in this case to prevent it from being included in this event.
I don’t think a name on a holder is going to add much value to a $50 coin.
Hansen-Eliasberg Challenge II – Part VII
This was one of the most competitive weeks in the challenge. The five coins this week resulted in an overall tie, starting with this first example being an AU55 in both collections. The 1841-O Eliasberg coin is now in a PCGS AU55 holder. The 1841-O Hansen specimen is an AU55 from the Pittman Collection.
The second coin was a little more complicated. Eliasberg did not have a mint state finish coin. His specimen was a PF63CAM that appear number #5 of the proof roster for 1863 Eagles. On the other hand, Hansen has the finest known MS63 from the Bass Collection. This coin may be the only known mint state specimen. There is one other in a NGC MS62 holder that PCGS recognizes as est. AU58. Hansen wins with the PCGS Pop 1/0 coin.
The most obvious win was Hansen’s 1870-CC AU55 POP 3/0 coin over Eliasberg (VF30 POP 4/37). The next coin was another complicated comparison. Hansen does not have a mint strike 1875 Eagle, but does have a PR63CAM specimen. Eliasberg had both finishes for the 1875 Eagle, PR64 NGC (PCGS est. PR63) and XF45. I gave the second coin win to Hansen, so I gave this one to Eliasberg.
Eliasberg finished strong with a slightly better 1907 “Wire Edge” Eagle, MS66 to Hansen’s MS65.
The total value for Hansen’s five coins is $730,000. This week’s result is 2-2-1. Hansen’s holds to a 2 coin overall lead.
1841-O Eagle: The first eagle struck at a branch mint and the first–obviously–from New Orleans.
Hansen Coin: 1841-O Eagle PCGS AU55 POP 5/1, Pittman Specimen
Eliasberg Coin: 1841-O Eagle PCGS AU55 POP 5/1
Tie (0-0-1) Note: They are not the same coins
1863 Eagle: The rarest Civil War eagle and a strong contender for one of the rarest dates in the entire Liberty Head eagle series.
Hansen Coin: 1863 Eagle PCGS MS63 POP 1/0, Bass Specimen
Eliasberg Coin: 1863 Eagle est. PF63 POP 2/12, No circulation strike specimen
Hansen Won (1-0-1)
1870-CC Eagle: The first Carson City eagle and a rare, popular issue in all grades.
Hansen Coin: 1870-CC Eagle PCGS AU55 POP 3/0
Eliasberg Coin: 1870-CC Eagle est. VF30 4/37
Hansen Won (2-0-1)
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
Hansen Coin: 1875 Eagle PCGS PR63CAM POP 1/4, No circulation strike specimen
Eliasberg Coin: 1875 Eagle Est. XF45 PCGS (John Dannreuther notes it is actually an altered date)
Eliasberg Coin: 1875 Eagle NGC PR64, PCGS list as est. PR63, may be the best 1875 in the grouping.
Eliasberg Won (2-1-1)
1907 Wire Edge Eagle: A beautifully designed, low mintage issue with strong demand from a variety of collectors.
Hansen Coin: 1907 Wire Edge Eagle PCGS MS65 POP 63/34
Eliasberg Coin: 1907 Wire Edge Eagle Est. MS66 POP 18/8
Eliasberg Won (2-2-1)
This week showcased a few coins from both great collections. Hansen has the only finest coin with the Harry Bass Specimen for 1863 Eagle (PCGS MS63 POP 1/0). The D.L. Hansen Collection has the 1875 Eagle represented with an impressive PCGS PR63CAM specimen, but no circulation strike at this time. Will one show up soon?
The D.L. Hansen Collection still leads the Louis Eliasberg Collection (15-13-7). The challenge has tightened up, so the final 15 coins could get interesting. With Hansen’s lead being only 2 coins, the Double Eagles are represented in the next two updates. Humm. Here are the coins for next week.
1933 Eagle: The final year of issue for this denomination (first struck in 1795) and the only US gold coin dated 1933 which is legal to own.
1854-O Double Eagle: One of two mega-rarities from this mint and a key issue in the Type One double eagle series.
1856-O Double Eagle: The other very rare New Orleans Type One issue. Unique in Uncirculated and represented by fewer than 40 known in total.
1861-S Paquet Double Eagle: A mysterious but collectible issue with a different reverse designed by Anthony Paquet.
1870-CC Double Eagle: The first double eagle from this mint and the single most valuable gold coin from this mint.
Hansen WOW Coins
1841-0 Eagle AU55 (Gold Shield)
Rare Key Date, Unknown in Mint State
Certification #81439065, PCGS #8583
PCGS Price Guide Value $85,000, Sold $61,687.50 by Stack Bowers 2016
Provenance: From New Netherlands' 49th Sale, June 1957, lot 236; David W. Akers' sale of the John Jay Pittman Collection, Part II, May 1998, lot 1915
Stacks Bowers’ Comments: Offered is a handsome example of an extremely challenging Southern gold issue. Exceptionally well struck for an 1841-O eagle, both sides offer sharp to full definition over virtually all design elements. The surfaces are soft and satiny, revealing glints of original luster. Pale golden-olive patina adorns both sides and enhances the eye appeal. With only 2,500 pieces produced, the 1841-O has the lowest mintage of any Liberty eagle dated 1838 to 1858. Fewer than 100 survivors are accounted for, making this the second rarest No Motto Liberty eagle from the New Orleans Mint after the 1859-O, and the third rarest when we include Motto issues (which brings the 1883-O into play). No Mint State coins have been graded by the major certification services. With AU examples highly elusive, the 1841-O trades places with the 1859-O to become the prime condition rarity among New Orleans Mint tens of the No Motto type. The Pittman pedigree adds further appeal. This exciting Choice AU example will surely attract advanced gold specialists..
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1863 Eagle MS63 (Gold Shield)
Finest Known
Certification #05652511, PCGS #8637
PCGS Price Guide Value $200,000
Provenance: Heck Dodson Collection - MARCA 8/1991:755, $104,500 - Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection, Part IV - Bowers & Merena 11/2000:683, $52,900 - D.L. Hansen Collection
Doug Winter Comments: All of the Civil War era Liberty Head eagles are scarce (with the exception of the 1861) but the 1863 is a key rarity in this subset. In fact, I regard it as among the very rarest 19th century Philadelphia gold coins. Only 1,248 business strikes were issued of which an estimated 30-40 are known. The finest is the superb Bass lV: 683 ex: MARCA 8/91 that brought $52,900 in its last appearance (an amazing bargain) after Harry Bass had paid $104,500 for it back in 1991. The second finest known is an NGC MS62 from the S.S. Republic that is owned by a prominent Western collector. Almost every example that I have seen grades EF45 or below and is characterized by excessively abraded surfaces. The luster is either soft and frosty or, less often, semi-prooflike and the strike tends to be bold with the exception of the curl directly above Liberty's ear.
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1870-CC AU55 (Gold Shield)
Certification #25793453, PCGS #8658
PCGS Price Guide Value $150,000
Provenance: Unknown
Doug Winter Comments: This is the rarest and most famous eagle from the Carson City mint. It is actually close in overall rarity to the highly-prized (and priced!) double eagle of this date/mint but it is less popular and still only valued at a fraction of its larger cousin. There were 5,098 struck and I believe that around 50 or so are known today. Most 1870-CC eagles are very well-worn as this issue, like nearly all the early gold pieces from this mint, saw considerable use in local commerce. Any 1870-CC eagle that grades Extremely Fine is quite rare and properly graded AU's are very rare with around a half dozen or so known to me. The finest 1870-CC eagle that I have seen is a PCGS AU55 (last sold as ANR 8/06: 1341) that brought $115,000 which is a record for this issue. Every example I have seen is heavily bagmarked and most are weakly struck on the hair along the face. Most have been cleaned or dipped and negative eye appeal tends to greatly impact this issue.
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1875 Eagle PR63CAM (Gold Shield)
Ex: Dunham, Farouk, Norweb Specimen
Certification #03175738, PCGS #88815
PCGS Price Guide Value $215,000
Provenance: Possibly acquired directly from the Mint in 1875 by William Wetmore; William B. Wetmore (S.H. & H. Chapman, 6/1906), lot 158, as part of a complete six-piece gold proof set; William Forrester Dunham (B. Max Mehl, 6/1941), lot 2245; King Farouk (Sotheby's, 2-3/1954), lot 205; Norweb Collection, Part II (Bowers and Merena, 3/1988), lot 2206; Thomas S. Chalkley Collection (Superior, 1/1990), lot 4818; Chicago Sale (Superior, 8/1991), lot 782; (Heritage Auctions 4/2017), Lot #4296
Heritage Auction Comments: The 1875 proof gold eagle is a major rarity in any grade, and demand is further amplified by a lack of circulation strikes for this year. In 1875, the Philadelphia Mint's gold production was almost entirely of double eagles. Circulation coinage of the five lesser denominations did not exceed 400 pieces for each issue, and in the case of the 1875 three dollar, none were struck at all. The 1875 gold eagle was struck to the extent of only 100 circulation strikes and 20 proofs. PCGS estimates that just eight or nine circulation strikes and 10 to 12 proofs survive in all grades. Of these, one circulation strike and one proof are housed in the Smithsonian Institution, and a second proof is in the ANS, making the total number of 1875 eagles available to collectors, proof and circulation strike combined, no greater than 15 to 18 pieces. The 20 proof 1875 eagles struck were issued in proof sets with the other five gold denominations. One of the active buyers of gold proof sets in the middle and late 19th century was William B. Wetmore, who began collecting around 1860. When the Chapman brothers auctioned his collection in 1906, it contained a nearly complete run of gold proof sets from 1863 to 1881, including an 1875. Wetmore's complete 1875 gold proof set is the origin of the present coin, and it is likely that he acquired it directly from the Mint in the year of issue. William F. Dunham acquired this coin from the Wetmore sale, with the piece later passing through the famous Palace Collection of King Farouk to the Norweb family. The Norwebs were personally in attendance when the Farouk Collection was auctioned in Cairo in 1954. We believe this to be the first auction appearance of this storied and rare specimen since 1991. The strike is full, and field-device contrast is dramatic. As the grade suggests, there are a few hairlines in the fields. A small alloy spot on Liberty's neck and a couple of minor field marks near star 4 serve as reliable pedigree markers. As the Norweb catalog stated: "In a way, the minute grade differences are not necessarily important for this issue, for in any grade the 1875 is a fantastic rarity."
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1907 “Wide Edge” Eagle MS65 (Gold Shield)
Certification #25351862, PCGS #8850
PCGS Price Guide Value $80,000
Provenance: Unknown
David Akers Comments: Technically, the 1907 Wire Edge is a pattern (Judd 1774) and not a regular issue but it has always been considered an integral part of the series. The 500 mintage figure comes from a 1908 letter from dealer Henry Chapman to John Garrett, and this number is probably correct since Chapman had very close Mint connections. It is entirely possible that all 500 are really proofs rather than business strikes but there is no way to know for sure. One thing is certain, however; all of the known examples of this issue are of the same method of manufacture and so any distinction between "Proof" and "business strike" 1907 Wire Edge eagles is incorrect. The typical specimen is fairly well struck on the central devices (Indian and eagle) but very weakly struck at the borders. Lustre is typically good to very good. The surfaces are rather satiny with numerous random die scratches in the fields and the color is almost always light yellow gold or light greenish gold although some specimens are either orange gold or very coppery in color. The 1907 Wire Edge is one of the highest priced issues of the series but it is actually in the lower half of the series with respect to both overall rarity and condition rarity. Locating a specimen MS-63 or lower is not particularly difficult and even very choice pieces (MS-64) are seen fairly often. However, true gems are certainly very rare since there is no rim on these coins and so unprotected surfaces are prone to nicks and scratches. A few extraordinary quality examples exist that are very nearly as struck. Dr. John Wilkinson's was perhaps the nicest I have seen, but a handful of others are just about the same.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Great eagles!
My YouTube Channel
There's a lot of Hansen coins on eBay currently.
Great transactions with oih82w8, JasonGaming, Moose1913.
Even more on our website!
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
Hmm...
Smitten with DBLCs.
I know..... I just got one of them from you!
A gorgeous 1836 half dime!
Great transactions with oih82w8, JasonGaming, Moose1913.
Update
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
Hansen Coin: 1875 Eagle PCGS PR63CAM POP 1/4, No circulation strike specimen
Eliasberg Coin: 1875 Eagle Est. XF45 PCGS (John Dannreuther notes it is actually an altered date)
Eliasberg Coin: 1875 Eagle NGC PR64, PCGS list as est. PR63, may be the best 1875 in the grouping.
I stumbled across this a couple weeks ago, but forgot to include in the Sunday posting. It would be interesting if someone can do additional research to determine more about this issue.
Note from recent Heritage Auction: This coin has been listed in previous rosters, but John Dannreuther notes it is actually an altered date:
XF45. Possibly Louis Eliasberg, Sr.; H.R. Lee Collection (Stack's, 10/1947), lot 1530; James A. Stack; James Stack Collection (Stack's, 3/1995), lot 610.
Ron Guth, you know any additional details on this comment?
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
The Feb 2018 Heritage auction lists these items in the roster:
https://coins.ha.com/itm/a/1272-4292.s
The provenance on PCGS CoinFacts by Ron Guth has the Eliasberg XF45 coin as a mix of #6 and #7 (most recently #6):
https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1875-10/8672
I'm not sure which coin (6 or 7) John Dannreuther's remark is directed to.
There are large photos of coin #6 in the July 1997 Heritage catalog:
https://archive.org/details/ana97ny0000heri/page/43/mode/1up black & white
https://archive.org/details/ana97ny0000heri/page/n22/mode/1up color
Another Peace Dollar Upgrade
I told the story on The D.L. Hansen Collection of Peace Dollars a few weeks ago, so I will not tell that again. I will say that we have observed Mr. Hansen applying a lot of resources to this series. I am not sure if it because of a fondness to Peace Dollars, or the availability they have presented recently. We know he has recently purchased coins from the Linda Gail Collection and Illinois Collection of Peace Dollars. He purchased the 1923 Peace Dollar MS67+, PCGS POP 1/0 from GreatCollections Auctions just a few weeks ago. This past weekend, he added another high graded coin from GreatCollections Auctions. The provenance is not given on these coins from GreatCollections Auctions. Could they have ties to Linda Gail or Illinois, I am not sure. As we discussed last time, The D.L. Hansen Collection of Peace Dollars is inching closer to the retired PCGS Hall of Fame All-Time top set, California Collection. Can it be done? Maybe we will see in the near future.
1924 $1 MS67+ CAC, PCGS POP 1/1
There is one coin technically graded finer by PCGS. Finest Known 1924 Peace Dollar MS68 PCGS is from The Jack Lee Collection. The specimen appeared in a Heritage Auction in 2005. The new Hansen Specimen is from an unknown perigee, and stands alone as number two. The only appearance in public auctions that I have discovered was last Sunday. The coin sold February 16th, after receiving 48 bids. It realized $37,134 with buyer’s fee.
Ron Guth Comments on the coin: The 1924 Peace Dollar is a common date, nearly on par with the 1925 in terms of overall mintage, but not nearly as common as the 1922 and 1923. Collectors will have no difficulty finding a high-grade example of this date. Most of the certified Mint State examples fall into the MS-64 category, followed closely by the MS-63 category. Even Gems are relatively common, especially in MS-65, and the big drop-off in the population comes at the MS-67 level. Luster on the 1924 Peace Dollar ranges from soft, frosty (almost granular surfaces) to a bright, flashy luster. Generally, the strike is good, with none of the weakness associated with coins from the Denver and San Francisco mints (especially the latter). The overall eye appeal and above-average quality of the 1924 Peace Dollar make it an excellent choice for type collectors.
1924 Peace Dollar MS67+, PCGS POP 1/1
Certification #38329142, PCGS #7363
PCGS Price Guide: $55,000 / GreatCollections Auction : $37,134
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
JB caught one of the big HA fish tonight. We should see an update soon.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
I see that 2 of the 4 needed for the 1792-1964 set sold tonight (albeit one in an NGC holder).
Count Down 3 in Hall of Fame Compete Registry Set
D. L. Hansen Collection added an ultra-rarity specimen to the quest to assemble a complete collection of US Issue Coins. Heritage Auctions offered a rare appearance of the 1875 Eagle at February 20 US Coins Signature Auction in Long Beach. Heritage stated in their description of the coin: There have only been 13 public offerings of this issue in any grade over the last 20 years and most of the coins are presently in strong hands, so future auction appearances may be even more infrequent. This coin has been on Mr. Hansen radar for some time. The coin appeared in public two years ago: This particular coin set the auction prices realized record for the issue in its 2018 appearance in the Admiral Collection (Heritage, 2/2018), where it brought $372,000 (HA). It is pretty well known in the numismatics circles that Mr. Hansen was the underbid in the 2018 bidding war. The coin was auctioned in 2018 as a NGC AU50. It has since been crossed to a PCGS AU50 that as we know, Mr. Hansen very much desire. There was a bidding war last night, but this time Mr. Hansen walked away with the coin after it was hammered at $360,000. Would he have gone a couple more increments, we will never know. My guess would be yes.
This completes another major series in Hansen’s quest for completeness. With this addition, he has now assembled a complete set of US Gold Eagles in high grade. I will discuss this astonishing set in more detail in a future posting, but due to the desire to focus on the 1875, I will leave it as enough said for now. Maybe more important, the collection is only three coins away from completing the Hall of Fame Registry Set. To complete this set will not be a small feat. Just check the remaining coins listed below.
Technically, this coin was not a “must have” for Mr. Hansen in his quest. He has a proof 1875 Eagle specimen which meets the Eliasberg set definition (either business strike or proof counts), therefor did he have to buy the coin, no. With that said, I think he has desired this specimen for some time. If you noticed, there are coins from last night’s sale already updated in the registry. Why 1875 Eagle has not been added? I can only guess, but being this is a special purchase for Mr. Hansen, he may be waiting to personally add the coin to the registry over the weekend at his leisure. In one of his rare posting, he wrote this about the coin: .when reading the blog I noticed that the 1841 quarter eagle was needed for the Collection. We now have that. Hope to find the1875 business strike. However as a saving grace the Collection may have to use the Proof to fill the Eliasberg quest. I would like to thank Currin for the detail surrounding the Collection. It’s helpful in keeping me updated. (D. L. Hansen)
1875 Liberty Eagle, AU50, Ex: Admiral Collection
There is so much that can be said about 1875 Eagle, but I know I have to limit my space. I would like to first show the roster for the 1875 Business Strikes Eagles (according the Heritage Auctions research)
Roster of 1875 Liberty Eagles
1) AU53+ PCGS Margene Heathgate Collection (Superior 6/1997), lot 1541(as AU53 PCGS); Atlanta Signature (Heritage, 8/2001), lot 7904 (as AU53 NGC); ANA Auction (Stack's Bowers, 8/2011), lot 7732 (as AU53+ PCGS), realized $345,000.
2) D.L. Hansen Specimen - AU50 PCGS St. Louis ANA Auction (New England Rare Coin Galleries, 7/1979), lot 313; Admiral Collection (Heritage, 2/2018), lot 4292, realized $372,000; Jacobson Collection (Heritage, 2/2020), lot 3286, realized $360,000.
3) Tyrant Specimen - AU50 PCGS Alto Collection (Stack's, 12/1970), lot 356; Harry W. Bass, Jr.; Bass Collection, Part II (Bowers and Merena, 10/1999), lot 1551; Jeff Garrett; Philadelphia Signature (Heritage, 8/2000), lot 7338; Pre-Long Beach Sale (Superior, 5/2001), lot 4139; Internet Only Auction (Heritage, 4/2002), lot 11458; Old Roswell Mill Collection; offered by John Hamrick in April 2008 at $150,000; David Hall (Ellen D Collection); Simpson Collection via Legend Numismatics in May 2011.
4) AU50 PCGS Four Landmark Collections (Bowers and Merena, 3/1989), lot 700; Long Beach Signature (Heritage, 10/1995), lot 6376; Boys Town and Mamiye Collections (Bowers and Merena, 3/1998), lot 2207; Baltimore Signature (Heritage, 7/2003), lot 10450; Internet Auction (Heritage, 10/2003), lot 14125; FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/2004), lot 2201; Christopher Bentley's Knob Hill Collection (Heritage, 2/2014), lot 4201, realized $211,500.
5) XF45 PCGS James and Margaret Carter Collection (Stack's, 1/1986), lot 270; Public Auction Sale (Stack's, 10/1988), lot 126; ANA Signature (Heritage, 7/1997), lot 5510.
6) XF40 Possibly Col. E.H.R. Green; Dr. Charles W. Green Collection (B. Max Mehl, 4/1949), lot 547; Davis-Graves Collection (Stack's, 4/1954), lot 955; Edwards Metcalf; Gilhousen Collection, Part I (Superior, 2/1973), lot 712; Jeff Browning; Dallas Bank Collection (Sotheby's-Stack's, 10/2001), lot 474; Douglas Winter Numismatics; Southern California collection.
7) Tyrant #2 Specimen - VF35 PCGS Public Auction (Robert A. Siegel, 11/1984); Mid-American Rare Coins, 5/1992), lot 395; Dr. Jon Kardatzke Collection (Goldberg, 6/2000), lot 1539; FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/2006), lot 3536.
8) VF30 PCGS Long Beach Signature (Heritage, 6/1997), lot 5548; ANA Signature (Heritage, 8/1998), lot 7771.
9) VF30 PCGS Cornerstone Sale (Mid-American Rare Coins, 8/1991), lot 758; Long Beach Signature (Heritage, 2/1994), lot 5441; FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/1998), lot 7966; June Auction (Superior, 6/1998), lot 2298.
10. VG William Cutler Atwater Collection (B. Max Mehl, 6/1946), lot 1453; Amon Carter, Sr.; Amon Carter, Jr.; Amon Carter Collection (Stack's, 1/1984), lot 772; Auction '87 (Superior, 8/1987), lot 1946.
11) XF45 Possibly Jacob Shapiro, a.k.a. J.F. Bell; J.F. Bell Collection (Stack's, 12/1944), lot 639; Clifford T. Weihman; Josiah K. Lilly; Smithsonian Institution.
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1875 Liberty Eagles removed from the Business Strike Roster by Heritage
Tyrant #3 Specimen - AU55 NGC 1992 GNA Sale (Mid-American Rare Coins, 5/1992), lot 1435; Richmond Collection, Part I (David Lawrence Rare Coins, 7/2004), lot 2102. (The coin has been graded as a business strike in the past, and still appears in the NGC Census, but it is actually a circulated proof)
Possibly Louis Eliasberg, Sr. Specimen XF45 H.R. Lee Collection (Stack's, 10/1947), lot 1530; James A. Stack; James Stack Collection (Stack's, 3/1995), lot 610. (This coin has been listed in previous rosters, but John Dannreuther notes it is actually an altered date)
With the AU55 specimen dropping off on the business strike roster, the new Hansen specimen may be tied for second finest with only one coin better. The present coin is an attractive AU50 PCGS example from the Jacobson Collection which we believe is tied for second-finest known (the AU55 coin in the NGC Census is actually a circulated proof and we believe the AU53 specimen in the PCGS Population Report is a prior submission of the AU53+ example in their listings). Although the 1875 eagle has been something of a sleeper in the past, collectors are beginning to appreciate the rarity and appeal of this issue in recent times. This particular coin set the auction prices realized record for the issue in its 2018 appearance in the Admiral Collection (Heritage, 2/2018), where it brought $372,000. The AU53+ PCGS example in Stack's Bowers 2011 ANA Auction realized almost as much, as it sold for $345,000. Clearly, collectors have become more aware of the elusive nature and potential value of this classic gold rarity. The 1875 Liberty eagle seems poised to join the other outstanding rarities in the U.S. federal series at the highest level of commercial value and pride of ownership (HA).
Heritage Auctions provided a very nice description for the coin: This coin exhibits only light wear on the strongly impressed design elements, with much interior detail still intact on Liberty's hair and the eagle's feathers. Like all examples seen, the pleasing orange-gold surfaces show a number of minor abrasions and some chatter in the fields, but most of the marks are unobtrusive and none are overly distracting. Original mint luster remains in the sheltered areas, mixed with flashes of prooflike reflectivity around the margins. The overall presentation is most attractive. This coin will be a welcome addition to the finest collection or Registry Set. It will be nice to see this coin in the D.L. Hansen Collection when added. So far, this may be the best purchase by Mr. Hansen in 2020.
1875 Liberty Eagle, AU50, Ex: Admiral Collection
Lowest-Mintage Circulating U.S. Gold Coin
Only 100 Examples Struck
Certification #38665974, PCGS #8672
PCGS Price Guide: $300,000 / Heritage 2020: $360,000
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There are 3 remaining coins need to complete the registry set. “U.S. Coins Complete Basic, Circulation Strikes Set” remaining three coins are what I have termed as the Half Eagle Trifecta. They are all show stoppers. If completed, I think it will take years and not months.
1822 Half Eagle (Survival 3, Unique Private Owned Coin in the Pogue Collection)
• No indication when this unique coin will be available for purchase.
1854-S Half Eagle (Survival 4, Two known in private: 1-Pogue AU58+; 2- XF45 sold July 2018)
• The Pogue specimen will appear in 2020 Baltimore - Session 7 - The D. Brent Pogue Collection Part VII: Masterpieces of United States Coinage – Lot 7335
• DL Hansen was a partner in the purchase of the 1854-S XF45 Half Eagle being that he's a partner with David Lawrence Rare Coins, but after purchasing the coin, DLHC reported the specimen was sold to an undisclosed client
1798 "Small Eagle" Half Eagle (Survival 7, possibly 2 nice examples could be purchased)
• 31529819 PCGS AU55
• 1306131 PCGS XF40
• 25608954 PCGS Genuine VF Details (98 - Damage)
• 82239634 PCGS Genuine AU Details (98 - Damage)
Note: Research for the 1798 small eagle was provided by dbldie55
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Here are the three needed.
And the Pogue 1854-S $5 crosses the block in Baltimore next month. I think Hansen will be a bit more interested in that coin than the 'Discovery' specimen he passed on previously.