Very hard to find any technical flaws on the 1903-S, except the toning does nothing for that coin. Without thinking too deeply, I would give that coin an acetone bath for only to prevent the toning from getting worse.
@OldIndianNutKase said:
Very hard to find any technical flaws on the 1903-S, except the toning does nothing for that coin. Without thinking too deeply, I would give that coin an acetone bath for only to prevent the toning from getting worse.
OINK
When you give a coin a bath, it can increase its reactivity to the environment. In trying to prevent the toning from “getting worse”, you might end up doing more harm than good. In addition to that, I like the current original appearance.
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
Mark, before I wrote my previous post I reviewed the 1903-S coins on CoinFacts. The other 67's did not have "objectionable" toning, but I would agree they might be slightly less perfect regarding hits and dings. Toning can be a plus (my opinion) or it can be a negative ( again my opinion) .
The toning on this coin can best be described as brown scum without any interesting color that is reflective of toned Morgans. The brown scum might be removed with acetone, but if not I would live with it. Doubtful that acetone would increase reactivity to the environment.
@OldIndianNutKase said:
Mark, before I wrote my previous post I reviewed the 1903-S coins on CoinFacts. The other 67's did not have "objectionable" toning, but I would agree they might be slightly less perfect regarding hits and dings. Toning can be a plus (my opinion) or it can be a negative ( again my opinion) .
The toning on this coin can best be described as brown scum without any interesting color that is reflective of toned Morgans. The brown scum might be removed with acetone, but if not I would live with it. Doubtful that acetone would increase reactivity to the environment.
OINK
It sounds as if I like the toning better than you do.😉
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
@OldIndianNutKase said:
Mark, before I wrote my previous post I reviewed the 1903-S coins on CoinFacts. The other 67's did not have "objectionable" toning, but I would agree they might be slightly less perfect regarding hits and dings. Toning can be a plus (my opinion) or it can be a negative ( again my opinion) .
The toning on this coin can best be described as brown scum without any interesting color that is reflective of toned Morgans. The brown scum might be removed with acetone, but if not I would live with it. Doubtful that acetone would increase reactivity to the environment.
OINK
It sounds as if I like the toning better than you do.😉
Mark, we have different perspectives. You are a market maker in coins and I am a collector. We just have different perspectives.
@OldIndianNutKase said:
Mark, before I wrote my previous post I reviewed the 1903-S coins on CoinFacts. The other 67's did not have "objectionable" toning, but I would agree they might be slightly less perfect regarding hits and dings. Toning can be a plus (my opinion) or it can be a negative ( again my opinion) .
The toning on this coin can best be described as brown scum without any interesting color that is reflective of toned Morgans. The brown scum might be removed with acetone, but if not I would live with it. Doubtful that acetone would increase reactivity to the environment.
OINK
It sounds as if I like the toning better than you do.😉
Mark, we have different perspectives. You are a market maker in coins and I am a collector. We just have different perspectives.
OINK
Understood, though I have plenty of collector in me, too.
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
I’d say that toning is a slight negative personally...and a significant negative market-wise. Morgan collectors predominantly want them blast white or rainbow.
This update is another great Morgan Dollar that has been added to D.L. Hansen Collection. This is a mid-six figure coin. As I discussed in the last update, Barry Stuppler has been marketing coins from the Illinois Collection. With the four that Mr. Hansen purchased last week, the available coins are down to only 62 remaining. Will we see more purchases by Mr. Hansen? At this point we don’t know. As we saw, the Hansen Collection of Morgan Dollars has moved up to #4 on the all-time list. It will take a few coins like this purchase to continue the move up. At this point, we do not know Mr. Hansen’s desire.
The next collection up in the rankings is the Jack Lee Hall of Fame set. This collection is currently #3 on the all-times list, but I still see the set as the model or the best set of all-times. I know Mr. Perfection has discussed many times where due to the bonus points given to the sets, the best set may not be on the top of the ranking. Without rehashing all the details, for Morgan Dollars I agree with him. In my view, the Jack Lee set is still the top set. The Lee set leads in GPA with 66.57. The top two sets are 66.38 and 66.46 respectively. Also, the Lee Set is the only pure GEM set. All coins in the set are at least MS65 PCGS. No other set can make that claim, not either of the top two sets. On the top end, the Jack Lee set has three MS69 specimens. The other top sets don’t have any.
From the Experts at PCGS: This is the undisputed all-time greatest set of Morgan dollars. In fact, it is one of the finest individual sets of United States coins ever assembled. It contains more than the 97 required coins; in fact, there are 175 coins in the set, not counting the proofs. Of those 175 coins (mint state and proof-like and deep mirror proof-like) there are 172 that qualify as the finest graded or tied for the finest graded. An incredible accomplishment combining unprecedented patience, dedication, and resources. Highlights of the Jack Lee Collection are an 1884-S graded MS68, the famous Wayne Miller 1886-O graded MS67DMPL, the Eliasberg 1889-CC graded MS68, the Norweb 1893-S graded MS67, an 1896-O graded MS66, an 1896-S graded an unbelievable MS69, and literally every other coin in the collection.
I don’t know how many of the Jack Lee Coins are currently in the Hansen Collection. We have seen several of these in past couple weeks. The coin that you will see today is not a Jack Lee Specimen. The Lee Specimen is a MS 66 from the Wayne Miller Collection. At one time, he also had a MS64DMPL . As good as his coins are, the new Hansen, Clapp-Eliasberg 1883-S Morgan Dollar, MS67 Prooflike Specimen is considered the best. Let’s take a closer look.
According to PCGS Rarity and Survival Estimates, they estimate 7 specimens in GEM Prooflike condition with finest being the MS67+. The DMPL is even rarer with only 5 estimated total, with the finest MS64DMPL PCGS grade (The Jack Lee Specimen). In a 2009 Heritage sale, the coin condition rarity was described as: Best described as a condition rarity in top grades, the 1883-S Morgan dollar is relatively plentiful in lower Mint State grades. It is also a major rarity in prooflike preservation. A quick glance at the current PCGS population data will prove quite revealing: they have certified 2,266 examples in grades from MS60 to MS64, 22 coins in the same grade range with prooflike or deep prooflike surfaces, only 18 coins in grades from MS65 to MS67, and just two pieces in that grade range with prooflike surfaces, including the present piece from the Eliasberg Collection, a green-label PCGS coin that remains the single finest 1883-S dollar that PCGS has ever certified. It is in the top numerical grade for the issue, and it is the only Superb Gem certified with prooflike surfaces.
Heritage explained: Until a few years ago, such specimens were very rare. However an enormous jump in the price of the 1883-S in 1973 - it moved from $75 to $275 in less than six months-brought many specimens into the market. Over 100 Uncirculated pieces were available at the summer 1973 Long Beach coin show. The Redfield hoard contained a quantity of high-quality 1883-S dollars. Most were well struck with good luster. As usual, surface abrasions prevented most from being considered in the gem category. The 1883-S is still a difficult date to obtain in strictly BU condition. ... BU specimens are usually well struck with good luster and are readily discernible from sliders. Bagmarks tend to be plentiful.
The most recent auction appearance for this coin was the sale of The Sanderson Family Collection by Heritage in 2009. The coin set an auction record of $161,000. There is not much doubt that this coin would set a new record of it was to come to auction today. The coin was described as: This amazing coin is fully prooflike, deep enough that Dave Bowers cataloged the coin as MS66 Deep Prooflike in the Eliasberg catalog. The surfaces have a hint of pale champagne toning on both sides, although most collectors would readily call it a fully brilliant silver specimen. Like nearly all Mint State 1883-S dollars, it is sharply struck. In the Eliasberg catalog, Dave Bowers said the following about the present coin, a comment that is equally apropos today: "The 1883-S [MS67 PL] Eliasberg Collection specimen is one of the most important Morgan dollars of this date to come on the market in our generation."
This is another great coin that has made its way into the Hansen Collection. Barry Stuppler listed the coin on his Mint State Gold website for $475,000. He described the coin as: Here is an 1883 San Francisco $1 Silver Morgan Dollar, which has graded MS67+ with extraordinary Proof-Like surfaces by PCGS and has been holdered with the prestigious Illinois Set label. This Morgan is perfect for PCGS registry set collectors. Prior to the Illinois set, this Morgan belonged to the also well-renowned Eliasberg set. Pale champagne toning gives this Silver Dollar a uniquely ethereal eye-appeal. Bold devices are strikingly articulated against predominantly clear Proof-Like fields. Beaming with original mint luster and coming to life in intricate details, this numismatic treasure is sure to elevate any collection or portfolio.Additionally, this Morgan Silver Dollar is the FINEST KNOWN in existence and is the highest grade to have achieved CAC certification.
The four coins that Mr. Hansen purchased from Barry Stuppler from the Illinois Morgans were great additions. The Stuppler well is not dry. There are several other great opportunities. There are at least eight more POP 1/0 specimens. Will we see Mr. Hansen hit that well again? Anything is possible. Let’s wait and see if the Morgan Collection by Hansen continues to get better.
Provenance: Harlan P. Smith or John Mills Collection; S.H. and H. Chapman; J.M. Clapp; John H. Clapp; Louis Eliasberg Sr., (Bowers and Merena, 4/1997), lot 2265, Realized $137,500; Sanderson Family Collection, (Heritage 1/2009), Lot #4964, Realized $161,000; Illinois Set Collection (PCGS Set Registry), offered by Barry Stuppler (Mint State Gold), D.L. Hansen Collection.
1883-S Morgan Dollar MS67+PL PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved Certification #37728086, PCGS #7149 PCGS Value Guide: $450,000 / Asked $475,000 From Illinois Collection, Ex: Clapp-Eliasberg-Sanderson
Thanks for mentioning Perfection in the above comments. It is 100% true that the top listed set is not always the finest set for a variety of reasons. The top bonus is one flaw in the PCGS registry software. Not a flaw but
something that I believe that was dreamed up by the former PCGS regime to help a certain person. There is no
good reason to reward someone for a top pop with even more points. They already have a top pop! PCGS should remove the top bonus from the registry.
Also it is far harder to build a top CAC set because many non CAC coins in regular sets are marginal for the grade.
So is a complete or nearly complete CAC set whose points are slightly below a non CAC set finer? it would be nice to compare sets side by side.
Can DLH get to the top of the Morgan set registry? I guess it is possible. He is buying much better coins these days and many if not most are CAC. I applaud him!
I know some of you have really enjoyed the last couple weeks of Silver Dollars. Some of you have not so much and have been waiting patiently to see some Au Eye Candy. Well, let’s start with a DCAM Proof. Presently, the D.L. Hansen Collection is 87 coins away from completing the proof gold from 1859-1915. John Brush wrote this on proofs: Proof issues of all denominations were minted sporadically until 1858 (actually 1859 for gold issues), when it is generally believed that the sale of proof sets to individual collectors at a small premium began under Mint Director J.R. Snowden. With this landmark change in the mentality of the US Mint to work with collectors, a new segment of the hobby slowly developed and grew. I am seeing the next Hansen Challenge would be to complete the proofs from 1859-1915. His collection is complete for non-gold proofs for these dates. In fact for several series he has two or three completed proofs sets. He is continuing to get closer and closer to that unthinkable comprehensive completed collection. If you have been watching and counting, you should know the Eliasberg Quest have only 13 coins remaining, the Major Varieties have only 19 remaining, and now you know the collectable proofs have only 87 to go! I think 2021 could shape up to be a very interesting year.
The year 1898 is a collectable year for US Issue Proofs, although there are only two active participants in the PCGS registry (not sure why). One is D.L. Hansen Collection and the other is the Driftwood Collection. The Driftwood 10 piece set is 80% complete with the eagle and double eagle proofs missing. The top five of all-times are a Whos Who of Hall of Fame Collectors, including the likes of Louis Eliasberg, Garrett Collection, Waldo Newcomer and The Norweb Family. The Hansen set is at the top of these sets, with a fabulous lineup of ten jewels.
Mr. Hansen replaces his condition census PR68DCAM Quarter Eagle with a POP 1/0 PCGS specimen. This is the first TOP POP coin in the 1898 set. There are three coins, including the PR68DCAM Half Eagle that is tied for finest graded by PCGS. There are two others that have only one PCGS coin grading finer. The set is great as it stands, but I could see the Morgan Dollar and Double Eagle as candidates for replacement. A top pop PR67+DCAM PCGS graded Double Eagle could cost in the neighborhood of quarter million dollars or more.
1898 Quarter Eagle, PR68+DCAM, CAC Approved
John Dannreuther has called proof issues from the late 1890s "the pinnacle of [the] Mint's gold Proof coinage." Indeed, the Mint was at the height of its powers just before the turn of the century, having perfected the production of proofs featuring thickly frosted devices and reflective fields with the classic orange-peel texture collectors so appreciated then and continue to admire more than a century later (Heritage 2020). This coin certainly has the look for great eye candy. As stated earlier, Mr. Hansen already had a great specimen in his collection, 1898 PR68DCAM, Certification #83642143 valued at $70,000. I think maybe the main reason that he replaced this coin was because the PR68+DCAM, CAC Approved coin was at a price that he could not walk away from.
The 1898 Quarter Eagle has a mintage 165. The Rarity and Survival Estimates for all grades is 110. The PCGS POP for PR-DCAM is 37 with only four PR68DCAM and the sole PR68+DCAM. The Heritage Auctioneer described the mintage as: Quarter eagle output rose to 165 proofs and 24,000 circulation strikes in 1898. In the case of the former, these coins rank among the most collectible proofs in the series with 80 to 100 pieces believed extant. A significant majority of proof 1898 two and a half dollar gold pieces certified at PCGS are in the non-Cameo category, but there are still a fair number in Cameo and Deep Cameo. Among non-Cameo proofs, most are seen in lower grades, while the average Cameo or Deep Cameo survivor is apt to grade PR64 or PR65.
A PCGS PR68DCAM has appeared in auction only once, Heritage’s July 2013, US Coins Signature Auction in Orlando. At the 2013 sale, the coin set the Auction Record of $82,250. We don’t know how much Mr. Hansen paid for his previous PR68DCAM because it appears the coin was purchased in a private transaction a couple years ago.
Heritage described the new Hansen coin as: This PR68+ Deep Cameo representative is in a league of its own -- the single finest 1898 proof quarter eagle at PCGS by the margin of the Plus designation. It serves as the PCGS CoinFacts plate coin and is one of only three PR68 quarter eagles (from both services) with a green CAC approval sticker for quality within the grade. The Hansen PR68+DCAM coin appeared for the first time in Heritage’s November 2020, US Coins Signature Auction. You would have thought the coin would set a new auction record, right. No, not really. The coin only realized $50,400.
The PCGS price guide has not established a price for the sole finest coin. It will be very interesting to see what they come up with. The price Mr. Hansen paid for the coin was somewhere between a PR67+ Deep Cameo and PR68 Deep Cameo in price. By all accounts, this was a good upgrade at a great price. Now, enjoy the eye candy.
Provenance: U.S. Coins Signature Auction (Heritage 11/2020), Lot # 3381, Realized $50,400, D. L. Hansen Collection.
1898 Quarter Eagle, PR68+DCAM The Sole Finest Example at PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved Certification #82901740, PCGS #97924 PCGS Price Guide: not listed / realized $50,400
@Currin said:
Provenance: U.S. Coins Signature Auction (Heritage 11/2020), Lot # 3381, Realized $50,400, D. L. Hansen Collection.
1898 Quarter Eagle, PR68+DCAM The Sole Finest Example at PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved Certification #82901740, PCGS #97924 PCGS Price Guide: not listed / realized $50,400
Gorgeous coin! I'm surprised there's no provenance other that the Heritage auction.
Here's the Heritage photos which are also really nice.
Zions, the Heritage image shows a lot more pizzazz. The holder lips and the plastic scratches are a little distracting. I am not sure how old the TrueView image is, but I know PCGS have work for the past year to improve their images.
The purpose of the image is important. For sale purposes, the Heritage image serves its purpose really well. Great looking image of the coin. For me, I find the TrueValue images serve a better purpose for seeing and locating all the identification markers on the coin. Auction images in many cases mask some of the markers. In this case, the coin is amazing in both images. At least the coin is is not blacken, as in some TrueView DCAM images.
@Currin said:
Zions, the Heritage image shows a lot more pizzazz. The holder lips and the plastic scratches are a little distracting. I am not sure how old the TrueView image is, but I know PCGS have work for the past year to improve their images.
The purpose of the image is important. For sale purposes, the Heritage image serves its purpose really well. Great looking image of the coin. For me, I find the TrueValue images serve a better purpose for seeing and locating all the identification markers on the coin. Auction images in many cases mask some of the markers. In this case, the coin is amazing in both images. At least the coin is is not blacken, as in some TrueView DCAM images.
Great group of pictures. Thanks for sharing.
I like the contrast in the Heritage and TrueView photos. Photos can vary so much that I almost always think more is better.
I think it's a mistake for Heritage to stop their own close up photos in favor of TrueView or PhotoVision.
I like how Stack's continues to do their own close up photos and adds TrueView / PhotoVision.
One if the best collection that was place in auction in 2020 was the BigMo Civil War Collection. Part 1 of the collection was offered back in the summer timeframe by Legend Rare Coin Auctions. At that time, Legend described the collections as: The BigMo Collection is truly one of the greatest individual collections I have ever seen assembled in my experience in this industry. The set is fully deserving of its Hall of Fame status, and is the type of set most collectors could only dream of completing. I cannot wait to start showcasing this collection around the country, and am ecstatic that Legend Rare Coin Auctions was offered the opportunity to bring this collection to market.
Legend’s Regency 42 Auction was held on December 3rd. The first 31 lots in the auction were BigMo Gold Civil War Issues, Part 2. Thirty of the issues sold in Auction with only one lot passed. Legend Numismatics Auctions described the success as: The highlights Big Mo Civil War Collection brought far more bidders than expected and set SEVERAL world record prices. This proves yet again, our boutique concept affords the maximum showcase. Look at these prices from Big Mo Collection:
$5 1861-C PCGS MS63 CAC $164,500.00 WORLD RECORD!
$5 1861-D PCGS MS63 CAC $282,000.00 WORLD RECORD!
$2.5 1862 PCGS MS64 CAC $52,875.00 WORLD RECORD!
$2.5 1863 PCGS PR65+ DCAMEO CAC $270,250.00 WORLD RECORD!
$2.5 1864 PCGS AU58 CAC $111, 625.00 WORLD RECORD!
$2.5 1865-S PCGS MS63+ CAC $49,937.50 WORLD RECORD!
$20 1865 PCGS MS65 CAC $105,750.00 WORLD RECORD!
Most prices were strong to VERY strong overall. When great coins are around, it creates a buzz which attracts collectors. There is a lot happening right now to get people excited to update or buy for their collections. In this list of World Record results, The D.L. Hansen Collection purchased four of the eight World Record setting specimens. Of the 31 BigMo Coins offered, the Hansen Collection purchased a total of eight coins, with four going into the top Hansen registry set and the other four in the #2 set or you could called the duplicate set. The purchase of the $2.5 1863 PCGS PR65+ DCAMEO CAC duplicate specimen at $270,250 amazed even me. I will add some addition details at a later date.
The four lots that resulted in updates to the top set as follows:
Lot #8 - $2.50 1862 PCGS MS64+ CAC, realized $52,875, PCGS POP 1/0
Lot #24 - $20 1864 PCGS MS63+, realized $88,125, PCGS POP 1/1
Lot #26 - $2.50 1865-S PCGS MS63+ CAC, realized $49,937.50, PCGS POP 1/1
Lot $30 - $20 1865 PCGS MS65 CAC, realized $105,750, PCGS POP 2/0
The four coins upgraded, one coin sole finest (POP1/0) certified by PCGS and the second tied with one other coin for sole finest. The other two are recognized as second finest certified by PCGS. All four coins were solid upgrades that improved the collection. Mr. Hansen paid auction records for all of them except the 1864 PCGS MS63+ Double Eagle. The record for that coin is held by Charles G. Wright Family sole finest MS65 GEM that was auction by Heritage Auctions in 2014 for $282,000. The BigMo-Hansen specimen is not on the same playing field as that coin. Today, I will focus on the quarter eagle coins.
1862 Quarter Eagle, MS64+, CAC Approved
David Akers describes the 1862 Quarter Eagle as: Once again, you can totally disregard the valuations for this coin in the standard pricing guides, particularly in uncirculated condition. Strictly uncircualted specimens are really very rare and this date is actually available more often in proof than it is in uncirculated condition.
The new Hansen coin appeared in a Heritage 2017 US Coins Signature Auction in Dallas. We may be able to assume that was where Monte purchased the coin. Legend does not mention that was where Monte purchased his coin, but they do mention the sale. They wrote: This piece last sold for $35,250 in April 2017. Things are much different since it last sold. Demand for better gold is off the charts-and that is exactly the category this coin fits in to, Good luck! The author was correct because the coin realize a nice uptick over the sale three years prior.
There was no prior history offered in the Heritage 2017 sale. They described the coin as Finest Certified at Both Services and in more detail as Although the 1862 quarter eagle has a mintage that tops 98,000 coins -- one of the higher production totals of the period -- Mint State examples are still rare in all grades. Most such pieces are heavily bagmarked, and few grade finer than MS62. The finest known are three NGC MS64 coins and four PCGS MS64, including this piece, the sole MS64+ example (2/17). The present coin is a true near-Gem and easily among the most eye-appealing top-grade pieces known. The strike is razor-sharp, and vibrant orange-gold mint luster attractively blends with mild reflectivity in the fields. A few trivial grazes in the fields limit the grade, while Liberty's cheek is pleasantly clean. An outstanding example of this conditionally rare Philadelphia issue. The coin has maintained that sole top coin from the 2017 sale until today.
Legend hints that as good as the coin is, it may not be the sole finest. They wrote: A remarkable coin, the single FINEST graded by PCGS and tied with just a single MS64+ at NGC. There were 98,508 quarter eagles struck, and most disappeared into circulation after the war ended and specie began to be used in commercial channels again. Perhaps 140 examples exist in all grades with 30 estimated to survive in Mint State grades. Again, this is the FINEST example graded at PCGS. Not only is the Hansen coin the finest by PCGS, the auction results were very eye opening. The single MS64+ NGC specimen sold August 2020 in a Heritage sale and realized only $21,000. The coin does not carry the CAC sticker. You would think a difference in price would be likely, but what we saw in two sales less than four months apart was really astonishing. Anyone disagree of think differently?
As typical for a coin in a Legend Auction, a very nice and appealing description is given for the coin. An intense luster has a combination of satiny, flashy, and frosty textures that together offer a stunning GEM brilliance. Radiant golden hues are intoxicating and truly seductive. Sharply struck up on both sides from heavily clashed dies, you can clearly see the outline of Liberty's portrait surrounding the eagle. Liberty's cheek and neck have a wonderful, thick frosty texture. There is just a tiny toning spot in the field between the neck and the 8 in the date. The eye appeal is SUPERB!
The two quarter eagle upgrades were this “remarkable” coin and the 1865-S PCGS MS63+ CAC, PCGS POP 1/1. The coin realized $49,937.50, which makes the total for the two quarter eagles just over $100K. The 1865-S PCGS MS63+ has one coin graded finer by PCGS and it is the Harry Bass MS64 specimen that last appeared in auction over 20 years ago. By today’s grading standard, the Bass coin could be a little better than MS64 now. Both of the new Hansen quarter eagles were nice upgrades to the overall collection and specifically to the Civil War set. Stay turn, we will see the two Double Eagles in the next posting.
Provenance: US Coins Signature (Heritage, 4/2017), lot 15916, realized $35,240; BigMo Civil War Collection in The Regency 42 Auction (Legend 12/2020) lot 8, realized $52,875, D.L. Hansen Collection.
1862 Quarter Eagle, MS64+ PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved Certification #83499673, PCGS #7796 PCGS Value Guide: $35,000 / realized $52,875 CAUTION: This coin can be intoxicating according to LRCA
I looked at this thread briefly for the third time ever as I was interested. In what the various posters reaction was to the Hansen collection pursuit and their comments.
However, I do limit my time studying Hansen’s hunt to complete his collection as it takes away from my hunt to expand my own collection. Nothing against Hansen but my own hunt is important to me.
I might be jaded since I spent so many hours with Mrs. Norweb in her vault room In Ohio back in 1971 through 1973 when I was still a young coin collector attending College and did not fully comprehend how amazing her coin collection was.
Upgrades for the BigMo Civil War Auction Sale #2 – Part 2
Legend’s Regency 42 Auction was held on December 3rd, including the Big Mo Gold Civil War Issues Part 2. The D. L. Hansen Collection purchased four coins that upgraded the top Civil War Registry set. I reported on the two quarter eagles a couple days ago. This update will be for the two Double Eagles. One of them according to a Legend press release set a World Record at $105,750, 1865 PCGS MS65 CAC Approved.
The Hansen Civil War Set is the currently the best in the registry. With the additions of the BigMo coins, the #1 set has become much better. The Civil War Collection with Circulation Strikes Gold (1861-1865) set has a weighted GPA of 62.45 and with bonus points, 63.23. The only other completed set in the registry is the retired BIgMo set and is trailing the Hansen set by more than a full GPA point. If you recall, Mr. Hansen won 18 coins in the Legend’s Regency 39 Auction containing BigMo Part 1. In that sale, Mr. Hansen won six of the twelve auction record setting BigMo Collection coins. He won eight gold coins, and four of them were Auction records in the Part 2 sale. As a total result, The D.L. Hansen Collection picked up 26 coins from the BigMo sales with 10 setting Auction Records. Also, let’s keep in mind, not all of them went into his number one set. The BigMo sale has been one of the fun ones to watch in 2020.
The four lots that resulted in updates to the top set as follows:
Lot #8 - $2.50 1862 PCGS MS64+ CAC, realized $52,875, PCGS POP 1/0
Lot #24 - $20 1864 PCGS MS63+, realized $88,125, PCGS POP 1/1
Lot #26 - $2.50 1865-S PCGS MS63+ CAC, realized $49,937.50, PCGS POP 1/1
Lot $30 - $20 1865 PCGS MS65 CAC, realized $105,750, PCGS POP 2/0
Today, I will focus on the double eagle coins. The pair realized a little less than $200K total.
1865 Double Eagle, MS65, CAC Approved
David Akers describes the 1865 Double Eagle as: The 1865 is a scarce date but it is not as rare as the 1855-1859 P-Mint issues or the 1862, 1863 and 1864. It is, however, more rare than the 1854 or 1860. When available, the typical 1865 is VF or EF although an occasional AU can also be located. In full mint state, the 1865 is rare and choice (63) quality uncs are very rare. I have never personally seen a gem 1865 and so I cannot say for sure whether or not one exists. In a PCGS update, Ron Guth wrote: Much of what we know about the 1865 $20 has changed since David Akers wrote about them decades ago. The most significant development was the discovery in 2003 of approximately three hundred 1865 $20 gold pieces in the shipwreck of the S.S. Republic. After conservation, numerous Mint State examples swelled the population and the condition census. Despite the addition of hundreds of coins to the known populations, the 1865 still conforms to Akers' conclusions of long ago -- the 1865 $20 remains rarer than all the dates cited by Akers (1855, 1856, 1857, 1858, 1859, 1862, 1863, and 1864) and it remains less common than the 1854 and the 1860. However, Akers' comments on condition are no longer relevant. Now, every 1865 $20 in the PCGS Condition Census grades at least MS64 and the finest examples rate out at MS65.
Actually in the PCGS POP report, the Gem rates out at two certified specimens. NGC paints a different story. There are 22 MS65 GEMs in that report and two certified as MS66. This is a fairly large difference. I would think some of the NGC GEMs would cross to PCGS GEMs, but I don’t know how many. Still with the big unknown, the BigMo MS65 specimen ran up to a World Record price and over six figures. According to Doug Winter: The finest known is an NGC MS66 from the S.S. Republic which I sold to a New England collector in 2014. It set a record price for a business strike of this date. Being the coin was in a private sale, I have not been able to determine if the coin brought more than six figures. At the time the coin was considered the sole finest as Mr. Winter wrote on his website: It is the single finest-known 1865 double eagle. The next best example is probably the PCGS/CAC MS65 which sold for $88,125 in a Heritage 2013 auction. With this statement, we know the MS66 NGC specimen brought more than $88,125.
Legend Auctions describes the coin as: A truly SPECTACULAR GEM example of this important Type 1 Double Eagle and tied for FINEST at PCGS with just a single example. This coin truly is a miracle of survival and a real Civil War era treasure coin. Historically interesting as the final year of the No Motto reverse type struck in Philadelphia, this date used to be rare in Mint State, but thanks to the discovery of some 300 examples in the wreck of the S.S. Republic, it has become more available for collectors. Prior to that, most collectors either opted for circulated examples, the best that Harry Bass had was an AU, or in the case of the Garrett and Eliasberg Collections, Proofs. Even with those coins from the S.S. Republic, it is still EXCESSIVELY RARE in this quality.
According, Legend indicated that Monte really like this coin. They wrote: Speaking volumes about this spectacular coin is our consignor's own words, "this is my favorite coin in the entire BigMo Collection!" Legend Auctions connects the coin the PCGS MS65 that Mr. Winter mention: This is the ONLY PCGS MS65 to ever sell in auction, realizing $88,125 back in April 2013. NO OTHER CAC example has ever sold in auction. In the Heritage Auction, the coin was described as: The Finest Seen at PCGS - Our current Gem offering (which cannot be traced to the Republic recovery) is the solitary MS65 seen by PCGS, as well as the finest 1865 twenty at that service! Both sides yield vibrant luster on its yellow-gold surfaces that are tinted with hints of apricot. The design features are well defined, including full delineation in the obverse star centrils. A small mark on the lower-left part of Liberty's neck will help identify the coin for future catalogers. This classic piece of Americana is sure to generate spirited bidding.
Also Legend Auctions makes no mention this coin is connected to one of the shipwrecks. Honestly, without being able to trace an early provenance, I not sure how you could assume anything but a shipwreck source. One of the problems, many of the great early collections did not have one of these coins. Heritage wrote: The 1865 was therefore either missing from important earlier collections (Garrett and Guth, in their 2006 Encyclopedia, indicate: "The Smithsonian currently lacks an example"), consisted of a lower-grade specimen (the previous authors state: "The best Harry W. Bass Jr. could acquire in 30-plus years of collecting was About Uncirculated"), or filled in with a proof (the collection of James Ten Eyck, sold in 1922 by B. Max Mehl, is listed in the catalog as a Brilliant Proof, the specimen in the Garrett collection was described in the 1980 Bowers and Ruddy catalog as a Choice Brilliant Proof, and the Eliasberg coin was listed as a Proof 67 in the 1982 Bowers and Ruddy catalog).
Legend described the coin as: Boasting a blazing golden luster that has the vivid vibrance and strong rolling cartwheel luster of an 1881-S Morgan dollar, not a Civil War era Philly mint double eagle. The radial bands of brilliance accentuate a bright yellow-gold coloration that is evenly distributed on both sides. The strike is complete with fully defined design types on both sides. While a few tiny traces of contact are seen, mostly on the reverse, these can be forgiven in light of the stunning visual allure of this impressive GEM, and the obverse is essentially flawless.
The double eagle upgrades were two really great Type 1 Double Eagle specimens. The other coin, 1864 MS63+ Double Eagle was a PCGS POP 1/1 PCGS specimen. The sole finest at PCGS is the Charles G. Wright Family MS65 GEM that was auction by Heritage Auctions in 2014 for $282,000. Legend Auctions described the BigMo-Hansen 1865 MS63+ coin as: This is a GORGEOUS and high end example, the SECOND FINEST GRADED by PCGS! Despite a mintage of 204,235 PCGS CoinFacts estimates fewer than 600 survive in all grades, with just a few dozen Mint State examples in Mint State grades, mostly clustered around MS60-62. No PCGS MS63 or MS63+ has ever sold in auction. An NGC MS63 sold for $70,500 back in April 2014, and an NGC MS64 sold for $99,000 in January 2020. In MS63+ and MS64 the 1864 $20 is unpriced in the PCGS Price Guide, but in MS63 it is listed at $72,500 and is $275,000 in MS65. With the initial look of a GEM quality coin, this high end coin will see strong bidding, it would not be a shock if the final price realized approached six-figures! The coin came up a little short of six figures while realizing $88,125. This wraps up the four BigMo upgrades in the top set. For the first time ever, I will feature a coin that was purchased for the #2 set or as a duplicate. Stay turn if you want to be amazed.
Provenance: CSNS US Coin Signature (Heritage 4/2013), Lot # 4575, realized $88,125; BigMo Civil War Collection - The Regency Auction 42 (Legend 12/2020) lot 30, realized $105,750; D.L. Hansen Collection
1865 Double Eagle, MS65 PCGS POP 2/0, CAC Approved Certification #40576586, PCGS #8943 PCGS Value Guide: $80,000 / realized $105,750
Upgrades for the BigMo Civil War Auction Sale #2 – Part3
Today, we will put a bow on the BigMo Gold Civil War sale. To cover only five years, what a great little collection this set represents. Legend’s Regency 42 Auction hosted the Big Mo Gold Civil War Issues Part 2. I have covered most all the significant purchases, but have I really? I think this will be the first time that I have ever dedicated a post to duplicates. If we are going to do it, I cannot think of a better grouping than these four civil war coins that Mr. Hansen purchased in the recent Legend sale. The typical way a collector would populate their duplicate or #2 set would be to add duplicates when upgrading the top set. Makes sense right? Well, that is one way, but not the only way. Over the last few months, I have seen where Mr. Hansen has purchased coins specifically for the #2 sets. I have not really reported on it before, but I can recall seeing duplicates purchased from The McCoy Family Collection of Capped Head Half Eagles in an 8/2020 Heritage Sale. This has been taking placed all year. I have concluded that Mr. Hansen is very serious about building a #2 set as complete as possible. If that is true, then the only way to populate the set when there are great coins in the top set would be to purchased duplicates for the second set. This has not been anything that Mr. Hansen or John Brush has spoken about that I can recall. Maybe they will in the future.
So, today we will look at the duplicates that were purchased from the BigMo Collection and you can draw some conclusions yourself.
Lot # 5 - $10 1861-S PCGS AU58 CAC Approved, realized $29,375. This coin is described by Legend: PCGS has graded just a single AU58+ finer, a coin that sold in April 2018 for $45,500. The last PCGS AU58 to sell was the Warren Miller coin, way back in 1995. The current PCGS Price Guide value is listed at $35,000. A very RARE and important opportunity for anyone working on an advanced $10 gold piece collection, or cabinet of Civil War coins. The sole AU58+ CAC Approved specimen is correctly owned by the D.L. Hansen Collection. According to Legend Auction, the BigMo coin is the only AU58 of the five certified by PCGS that is CAC Approved. A really great coin for the #2 set.
Lot # 20 - $20 1863-S PCGS MS62+ CAC Approved, realized $22,912.50. This coin is described by Legend: There are 2 in MS62+ at PCGS and just eight graded higher. No MS62+ graded by PCGS or NGC has ever sold in auction. The most recent MS62 sold for $21,000 in June 2020 and NO PCGS MS63 has sold in nearly a decade! The current PCGS Price Guide value is $24,000. We anticipate very strong bidding to bring this prize home! This coin does not have the POP status as the 1861-S Eagle. D.L. Hansen Collection currently owns one of the two MS64 POP 2/0 specimens as its top coin.
Lot # 31 - $20 1865-S PCGS MS64 CAC Approved, realized $28,200. This coin is described by Legend: Do not let the Pops fool you, this coin is the ONLY CAC approved example to sell in auction, realizing $31,725 in the 2016 ANA auction. The current CAC CPG value is listed at $26,600 and the current PCGS Price Guide value is listed at $24,000. Rare finer, this is a superb example for any collector. Good luck. The current Hansen top coin is also MS64. With this purchase he now has two $20 1865-S PCGS MS64 specimens. The new coin is CAC Approved where his existing one was not. We could see a swap at some point. Presently, the new BigMo coin was placed in the #2 set.
Lot # 14 - $2.50 1863 PCGS PR65+ DCAM CAC Approved. This is the coin that peak my interest enough to post this duplicate feature. This coin is described by Legend: PCGS has graded 2 in PR65+ DCAM and two graded finer, one reported in PR66 DCAM and one in PR66+ DCAM. The BigMo collector bought this coin privately for $225,000 from David Hall. The current Collectors Universe value is $245,000. One of the classic gold rarities, the 1863 quarter eagle is ranked among the 100 Greatest Coins by Garrett and Guth; it is not hard to see why! Missing from many a great cabinet and worthy of a fantastic collection, and a strong bid! Good luck! Let’s look at this coin in a little more detail.
1863 Quarter Eagle, PR65+ DCAM, CAC Approved
David Akers wrote: No quarter eagles were minted for general circulation at the Philadelphia Mint in 1863. However, 30 proofs were struck and so this is one of the rarest and most desirable of all Liberty Head quarter eagles. Actually, in proof, the 1863 has appeared at auction more often than any other quarter eagle of the 1860's. However, other dates are available in other conditions, and therefore, this date has attained a much higher price level than other proofs of this decade. Of the 30 proofs originally minted, I would estimate that no more than 10 to 12 remain in unimpaired state. This purchase gives the D.L. Hansen Collection the second specimen of this rare coin.
Our friend Ron Guth added comments: The 1863 Quarter Eagle is extremely popular with collectors because it is a Proof-only issue and, thus, the only option available to anyone seeking a Quarter Eagle of this date from the Philadelphia Mint. With a mintage of only 30 examples, this date creates excitement whenever it appears on the market. Probably half of the original mintage survives. I know of thirteen demonstrably different examples, including two circulated examples and two in the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution. Most examples are cameos, though there are several that were certified before PCGS recognized the Cameo designation and which would receive either a CAM or a DCAM designation upon re-examination. The finest 1863 Quarter Eagle is a PCGS PR66DCAM which sold for a record price of $195,500 in 2012. It currently reposes in the Simpson Collection.
Presently, The D.L. Hansen Collection has the sole finest certified by PCGS, 1863 $2.50, DCAM PR66+ DCAM Certification #34485019. I do not think this is the Simpson PR66DCAM mentioned by Ron Guth. I believed the Simpson coin to be the second finest by PCGS. The BigMo coin that Mr. Hansen purchased is tied with one other PR65+ DCAM specimen for number three spot in the PCGS condition census report. Legend Auction described the coin as: A magnificent GEM example of this incredibly RARE Proof Only date. One of the RAREST dates in the extensive Liberty Head quarter eagle series. Demand for the denomination was nonexistent and the mint only produced 30 Proofs for collectors, all delivered on March 23. Today, these are listed in John Dannreuther's magnum opus on U.S. Gold Proof coins as JD-1, considered to be Rarity-6, with 18-22 pieces extant, and he positively enumerates 20 distinct examples, the present coin is listed as #2 on his listing of Significant Examples. Of the ones enumerated, three are impounded in museum collections, including two in the Smithsonian and one at the ANS. Of those that are available for private ownership, a number are impaired. Of the survivors, this piece is one of the VERY FINEST KNOWN and is a real trophy coin for the advanced U.S. gold coin collector. The BigMo coin that Mr. Hansen purchased is tied with one other PR65+ DCAM specimen for number three in the condition census report with Simpson and Hansen #1 coin grading higher. If the BigMo coin is #2, I wonder which of two top PCGS coins is below the BIgMo coin on John Dannreuther's list in his magnum opus.
This is truly a magnificent coin as described by Legend: Boasting essentially perfect surfaces, the GEM quality fields and devices are totally devoid of any marks, hairlines, lint marks, or distractions of any kind that would mar the outstanding eye appeal. The mirrors are deeply and boldly reflective with a strong brilliance. An amazing rich orange color radiates all over, with a thick frost on the devices, imparting a dramatic contrast between the devices and the fields. A strong glass brings out the wonderful original orange peel texture in the fields. The eye appeal is truly magnificent!
The D.L. Hansen has two of these rare coins. It is pretty obviously to me with this purchase; Mr. Hansen overall goal will be to have two very nice Civil War sets in the Collection. He did not let this coin slip away as can be confirm with his aggressive bidding. He was more than willing to pay a premium for a coin that he really did not need to improve his collection. Let’s watch a see what happens in the future with the #2 D.L. Hansen set.
Provenance: BigMo purchased from David Hall; BigMo Civil War Collection - The Regency Auction 42 (Legend 12/2020) lot 14, realized $270,250; D.L. Hansen Collection
1863 Quarter Eagle, PR65+ DCAM, (Hansen #2 Specimen) PCGS POP 2/2, CAC Approved, Tied for 3rd Finest certified by PCGS Certification #82452561, PCGS #97889 PCGS Value Guide: $245,000 / realized $270,250 Ex: David Hall – BigMo
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Provenance: Unknown. I appear to me the coin was purchased by Hansen about 2-3 years ago in a private transaction. The only hint that I have was from @earlyAurum (June 21, 2018): I think he also has an $2.5 1863 in PR66+ CAC which is unbelievably gorgeous. It was for sale on DLRC a few months back.
1863 Quarter Eagle, PR66+ DCAM (Hansen #1 Specimen) PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved, Finest certified b y PCGS PCGS Coin #97889/ PCGS Serial #34485019 PCGS Value Guide: Unknown / realized unknown
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. Note: I included both the Hansen Specimens for your view and enjoyment
Mr. Perfection 8 set of Liberty Seated Half Dollars Basic Proof (1858-1891) is one of the best proof half dollar registry sets ever assembled. These self-described comments from Mr. Perfection were made in 2017: This was a very interesting year. Dell Hanson entered the coin market in a big way. I believe he purchased at least four complete sets and is also trying to acquire one of every other coin. He currently has over 500 sets in the works. WOW! Dell purchased the Chrismor PR Seated Half set. It was one of the best purchases Dell made. Yes he has also bought many single incredible coins, but this my far is his nicest set. Even though many coins are not CAC, Ted had a passion like myself for amazing eye appeal coins. This set is beautiful. Congratulations to both Dell and Ted…. Both the Hansen and the Perfection sets have amazing coins in them and are a compliment to the beauty of Seated halves.
PCGS describes the proof set this way: The dates from 1858-91 are much more collector-friendly than the earlier issues, but they still present a challenge. You’ll find the No Motto dates through 1865, then the Motto (IN GOD WE TRUST) dates from 1866 through 1891. In addition, there are the Arrows at Date coins of 1873-74. From the years just before the Civil War to the final decade of the 19th century, this set represents a major segment of American history and a significant numismatic accomplishment. As noted by Mr. Perfection, The D.L. Hansen Collection took the lead in March 2017 with the purchase of the Chrismor Collection. The All-Time ranking as the registry leaderboard stands today, #1-D.L. Hansen, #2- Mr. Perfection 8, #3- Chrismor, #4-D.L.Hansen Second Set, #5- Stokely Collection. The top nine sets with the exception of the two D.L. Hansen Sets are retired.
The Mr. Perfection set was recently sold in auction by David Lawrence Rare Coins. The pre-auction commentary by DLRC: Proof coins from the mid-19thcentury are among the most under-appreciated issues in numismatics. Proof issues of all denominations were minted sporadically until 1858, when it is generally believed that the sale of proof sets to individual collectors at a small premium began under Mint Director J.R. Snowden. With this landmark change in the mentality of the US Mint to work with collectors, a new segment of the hobby slowly developed and grew. During this new era of coin production, the mintages of the Proof Seated Half Dollar series, “soared” from mintages of 15 or fewer to 100 coins in 1858 which is marked as the beginning of the collectible set. They were struck yearly through 1891, spanning from the Civil War all the way up until the very end of the 1800s, a tumultuous time in American history. Even with the increase in proofs minted, the largest mintage was still only 1,355 pieces in 1880. Not a cheap or easy collection to complete, there are just seven active sets on the PCGS Set Registry. D. L. Hansen’s collection has been in the top spot since 2017, but before Hansen entered the scene, the race was between the Perfection and the now retired Chrismor sets. The Hansen Collection actually acquired the Chrismor set and improved upon it, which allowed the Perfection set to currently occupy second place overall. The Perfection Collection of Proof Seated Liberty Half Dollars may be second overall but is actually ranked as the #1 PCGS Registry Set for the series with CAC approval. While there are individual pieces graded finer than some of the examples, the quality and eye-appeal are nearly unmatched. With 34 of the 35 coins in the set earning the coveted CAC seal of approval, it would be impossible to complete a collection with a greater desire for quality. The cornerstone of DLRC’s Weekly Internet Auction #1145 ending on Sunday, November 29th, this collection offers quality, eye appeal, and perfection in every coin. One of the premier pieces of the collection is the stunning 1878 50c PCGS/CAC PR68CA. This beautifully toned example is the only PR68 at PCGS regardless of designation with no examples finer. Seafoam green around the obverse edge fades gently into a rose and golden center, complemented nicely by the blue and gold reverse. When factored in with the incredible technical grade and appealing cameo contrast, this gem is sure to be the highlight of any set. The first known sale of this example was back in August 1992 and it sold most recently in 2016 for $42,300, setting the record for the date. Another noteworthy lot is the 1858 50c PCGS/CAC PR63+CAM. With a mintage of 100-300 coins depending on the source, the 1858 saw the lowest mintage of the standard series. Only two cameo pieces are graded finer at PCGS. This example is very clean and white with strong cameo contrast and nicely reflective fields. A must-have first year issue, this piece is worth a serious look for anyone looking to build or improve their registry set.
DLRC Blog after the sale: DLRC concluded its offering of the Perfection Collection, the #1 rated PCGS Registry Set of Seated Liberty Proof Half Dollars with CAC approval on Nov. 29th with spectacular results. While each of the coins were offered with a minimum value to the consignor, the collection achieved an outstanding sell through rate of 28 out of 35 lots, which sold for over $400,000. Strong bidding from both collectors and dealers created record prices across the board on a series that has generally been considered quiet in recent years. In the words of Jason Smith, Vice President of DLRC, “As such a unique high-end Registry Set, it was encouraging to see the strong bidding activity on so many of these pieces.” In the end, Mr. Hansen purchased eight of the Perfection coins with not all going into the #1 set. In looking at the results, I saw several coins that would have improved the Hansen set that was not purchased. I sent Joh Brush a question on some of the coins that were not purchased, and he replied: ”We actually were outbid on 5-6 coins even after we chased them. Dell Loy actually had no problem with that and was glad it supported the hobby”. In a series that have taken a beaten lately, Mr. Hansen was not able to place low bids and walk away. He had to actually chase some of the better coins. Some he won, and some he did not (actually won eight and lost 5-6 coins).
There are 35 coins that are required in the set. The best I can tell, Mr. Hansen purchased eight of the Mr. Perfection coins. Five coins improve his top set by grade, and other one has the same grade that could go into either set.
Top Set Coins
1875 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 67, Cert #25247805, PCGS POP 3/0, realized $8,825
1878 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 68 CAM, Cert #33207228, PCGS POP 1/0, realized $41,900
1880 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 67+, Cert #6585080, PCGS POP 1/0, realized $18,055
1890 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 67+ CAM, Cert #25564662, PCGS POP 3/1, realized $13,325
1891 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 66+ CAM, Cert #25064754, PCGS POP 2/3, realized $18,483
Second Set Coins
1862 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 65+ CAM, Cert #25303984, Hansen Top Coin PR66 POP 6/0
1863 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 66 CAM, Cert #20242533, Hansen Top Coin PR66CAM CAC, POP 2/1
1884 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 67 CAM, Cert #5944155, Hansen Top Coin PR68CAM, POP 1/0
As you can see, the coins improve the top set and well as three coins for the #2 set. John Brush mentioned in his blog that the 1858 50c PCGS/CAC PR63+CAM was a noteworthy coin. The current Hansen coin is a beautiful PR67, PCGS POP 1/0 specimen so that coin may not have been of any interest to the Hansen Collection. Let’s focus a little on the 1878 PR68CAM, PCGS POP 1/0 Specimen.
1878 Seated Liberty Half Dollar, PR68CAM, Ex: Gardner – Perfection
Our expert Ron Guth: Proof 1878 Half Dollars are slightly more rare than many of the other dates in the 1870's and follow the Proof 1876 Half Dollars rather closely in terms of the total number of certified survivors and the grade distribution. This makes the 1878 a good value for collectors who are seeking a low mintage coin at an affordable price. As with the other contemporary dates, the 1878 usually comes in average grades, usually in PR63. Gems are available (for a price) but anything better than PR65 is a condition-rarity. Nearly a quarter of the known examples are Cameo Proofs. Deep Cameo Proofs are exceedingly rare.
This is one of those exceeding rare specimens. It pedigrees to the Eugene H. Gardner Collection, but can be traced back to the Orlando Sale (Superior, 8/1992), lot 410. In the Heritage 2016 sale of the Garner Collection, the coin was described as: The Sole Finest Certified - Although plentiful in Choice and lower grades, the 1878 proof Seated half dollar is decidedly rare at the Superb Gem level. Only the example offered here has been certified PR68, with or without Cameo designations. This remarkable Superb Gem proof displays a beautiful blend of cobalt-blue and lavender toning around the obverse borders, framing the silver-gray central area. On the reverse, a sliver of gold clings to the margin, ceding to dominant sea-green over the remaining surface. The design features stand out markedly against the mirrored fields, and as expected, essentially unimprovable preservation characterizes both sides. An unsurpassable example in all regards. The coin realized the auction record of $42,300. In the recent sale, the coin came just a little short of that mark.
In the David Lawrence Auction, the coin was described as: From the Perfection Collection of Proof Seated Half Dollars. The Number 1 PCGS Registry Set with CAC Approval. Hailing from a low mintage of 800 coins struck in proof format, this ultra gem has been amazingly preserved! A beautiful blend of electric blue and lavender toning surrounds the obverse borders, framing the silver-gray centers. On the reverse blue-green coloration spans the interiors with hints of gold along the rims. As expected of the advanced grade no distractions are revealed beneath the rich patina and the contrast is bold. An exceptional and unmatched example in all regards! Finest known with cameo surfaces and the finest numerically graded piece across all levels of contrast. CAC approved for quality. If I see John Brush, I hope I remember to ask him why the Gardner connection was not made in the listing. It may not have made any difference in the results, but would have been a nice connection.
Over the years, the D.L. Hansen Collection has purchase many of the Perfection coins. Sometimes even complete sets. Therefore, when I saw these coins being offered by DLRC, was not surprise to see some of them purchased by Mr. Hansen. Also, I am glad to see the results were a success for Mr. Perfection and DLRC, even though Mr. Hansen was not able to get all the coins that he had hoped. Everyone wins.
Provenance:
Orlando Sale (Superior, 8/1992), lot 410; ANA Signature (Heritage, 3/2010), lot 1018, realized $34,500; Eugene H. Gardner Collection, Part III (Heritage, 5/2015, as PR68 NGC with CAC approval), lot 98511, realized $42,300; Mr. Perfection Collection (DLRC, 11/2020), Inventory #2177488, realized $41,900, D.L. Hansen Collection.
1878 Seated Liberty Half Dollar, PR68CAM PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved, Sole Finest Certified Certification #33207228, PCGS #86439 PCGS Value Guide: $42,500 / realized $41,900 Ex: Gardner – Perfection
Very nice commentary. I do not agree with DLH not buying more of the coins.
This is not because they were mine. Another 20k-40k or so is nothing in the context of building his total collection. Yes it adds up but DLH should have purchased the coins to complete his CAC set. CAC coins should get one point or at least the same as a plus. They are simply better coins
and strictly graded. He will now have to add lower grades to complete the CAC set.
PR Seated are somewhat out of favor but they are special and he should have bought the 5-6 he was out bid on. Just my opinion.
The Early Quarter Eagle set to say that it is difficult, does not completely describe the effort that it will take. It is not just the quarter eagles, but just about across the board, trying to acquire specimens of any gold series is going to be very difficult. With this upgrade, Hansen now has 880 of the 1145 required for a complete registry set from 1801 to 1964 (76.86%) In other words, 265 coins are remaining. As stated a few days ago, the D.L. Hansen Collection is 87 coins away from completing the proof gold from 1859-1915. Those 87 is considered collectible. The 178 remaining coins between 1801 and 1857 is a very different story. It is possible to collect them all? Heck no. Some of the dates do not have any current PCGS certified specimens. For some dates, the validity of the coin actually exist proof finish is in question by PCGS, and others there are no known samples. Finally, there are unique coins locked up in institutions that will never be available. I have said before, if the set can be complete to 99%, it would be the greatest proof accomplishment of all-times. Time will tell just how many.
This update is one of the pair that is in that difficult date range (1801 and 1857). For gold, the date (1843) is about as difficult there can be. A complete gold set (set of three) was offered in Heritage August 2019, ANA World's Fair of Money US Coins Signature Auction in Chicago. The set was from The Joan Zieg Steinbrenner Collection. At that time, the focus of the D.L. Hansen Collection was elsewhere and I don’t think they had much interest in chasing the gold set. Another factor in that decision could be the gold set was in NGC holders. The Eagle specimen realized $480,000 and was purchase for the Tyrant Collection where it remains today. The quarter and half eagle was a dealer purchase and have been marketed for more than the last twelve months by U.S. Coins in Texas. I am pretty sure there have been some off and on negotiations with the Hansen Team during that time. Well around Thanksgiving, terms were agreed, and the D.L. Hansen Collection purchased both coins in a two coin deal. I had seen the coins offered on different sites for as much as $880,000 for the pair. I cannot imagine that was what they actually brought.
1843 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, PR65+DCAM CAC Approved, Ex: Pittman – Steinbrenner
Heritage Auctions described the rarity as: Only six proof 1843 Liberty quarter eagles have been reliably reported over the years and only half that number are available to collectors today. One coin resides in the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution, forever out of reach of collectors. Another example was stolen in 2007 and has never been recovered. A third specimen has not been traced since it was sold out of the Brand holdings in 1943. Of the remaining three coins, two were sold in the last few years and are currently held in strong hands, unlikely to be publicly offered any time soon. Heritage Auctions is delighted to offer the sixth and finest example of this early proof rarity in this important lot.
1843 Liberty Quarter Eagle Proof is extremely difficult. PCGS indicates the mintage at five examples produced. David Akers Comments: A few proofs are known, including one in the Smithsonian Institution and one in the John J. Pittman collection. On the proofs of this year, the 1 in the date actually touches the denticles, whereas on the circulation strikes, the 1 is just barely free of the denticles. The proofs are weakly struck on the eagle's right leg, and this weak strike is also typical of the circulation strikes. With a mintage of only five, oddly enough, most sources place the known specimens at six. To create an actual roster is not an easy task. In a 2019 Heritage sale, the quote was: Pedigrees for the 1843 gold proofs are notoriously difficult to compile and earlier researchers, like David Akers and John Dannreuther, did not have access to many resources on the Newman Portal today, like the Armin Brand notebooks. Thanks to John Dannreuther, Ron Guth, and Saul Teichman for their help preparing this roster. Grades are per the last auction appearance, unless a subsequent certification event is known. It is virtually certain that some coins have been submitted, or resubmitted, to the grading services since their last public offering. Grade of the Smithsonian specimen is per Jeff Garrett and Ron Guth.
So with that disclaimer, this is the roster of 1843 Proof Quarter Eagles:
1 - Pittman/Hansen Specimen - PR65+DCAM PCGS CAC. Possibly John Zug; sold to F.C.C. Boyd in 1939, per David Akers; World's Greatest Collection (Numismatic Gallery, 1/1946), lot 110 (a proof 1843 half eagle and eagle were also offered in separate lots in this auction, and in the two following sales); J.F. Bell (Jacob Shapiro); possibly 39th Mail Bid Sale (Hollinbeck-Kagin, 11/1946), lot 2245 (not sold); Memorable Collection (Numismatic Gallery, 3/1948), lot 103; John Jay Pittman; Pittman Collection, Part I (David Akers, 10/1997), lot 832, as part of a complete copper, silver, and gold proof set; Sil DiGenova and Mike Storeim; Ken Goldman (KGI) and Mark Yaffe (NGE); Blanchard & Co.; the three gold coins were reportedly sold by Blanchard & Company in a private treaty transaction in May of 2009 for $937,765; Joan Zieg Steinbrenner; The Joan Zieg Steinbrenner Collection, (Heritage 8/2019), Lot #3845, realized $240,000; In private transaction, U.S Coins sold to The D.L. Hansen Collection.
2 – Connecticut Specimen - PR65 Deep Cameo PCGS, CAC, Possibly the example that surfaced in a Connecticut estate sale in 2002 and sold by Nadeau Auctions for $66,125; Spectrum Numismatics; this coin was certified by PCGS on 1/16/2002 (thanks to Ron Guth for this information); John Albanese, purchased privately for $85,000; purchased by a private collector in 2004, via Al Pinkall; ANA Signature (Heritage, 8/2017), lot 4096, realized $211,500.
3 – Golden Jubilee Specimen - PR63 Cameo NGC, Possibly Jerome Kern; Golden Jubilee Sale (B. Max Mehl, 5/1950), lot 32; Mid-Western coin dealer; Long Beach Signature (Heritage, 1/2015), lot 3245, realized $70,500.
4 – Green/Carter Specimen (Stolen) - PR63 Cameo PCGS, A coin in the complete copper, silver, and gold proof set in the original yellow Morocco case reportedly presented by President Tyler in 1843 to an unnamed constituent; Fernand David Collection (Jacques Schulman, 3/1930), lot 112; purchased by an agent of B. Max Mehl at the Schulman sale in Amsterdam; Frank Stoddard; "Colonel" E.H.R. Green in 1932, via Mehl; Green Estate; B.G. Johnson; the set was offered to Ruth Green on 6/23/1943 for $1,000, returned; offered again to B. Max Mehl on 8/30/1944 for $1,000, returned; F.C.C. Boyd; purchased by B. Max Mehl; Will W. Neil; Neil Collection (Mehl, 6/1947), lot 2292; Amon Carter, Sr.; Amon Carter, Jr.; Carter Family Collection (Stack's, 1/1984), lot 630; Daniel Drykerman (per Walter Breen); Chris Napolitano; private collector; the set was stolen at the 2007 FUN convention and has not reappeared.
5 – Smithsonian Specimen - PR65 Cameo. Mint Cabinet; National Numismatic Collection, Smithsonian Institution.
6 – Possible Duplicate Specimen (Last Seen 1943) - Proof, A coin in the complete copper, silver, and gold proof set in the original red Morocco case reportedly presented by President Tyler in 1843 to his ward, Mrs. Octavia McMurray (per Frossard); Reverend T. Wilkinson Collection (Édouard Frossard, 2/1880), lot 651; purchased at the sale by George Cogan, probably acting as agent for Richard B. Winsor, for $100; Winsor Collection (S.H. & H. Chapman, 12/1895), lot 1067; purchased by Peter Mougey, bidding as "Gold"; William Woodin purchased Mougey's collection intact, after his death in 1908, and sold the majority of the collection through Thomas Elder in 1910, but he kept the three gold coins from the 1843 proof set; Woodin Collection (Thomas Elder, 3/1911), lot 966; Lyman Low, acting as agent for Virgil Brand, journal number 57049; Armin Brand; consigned to B.G. Johnson on October 25, 1937; sold on 7/1/1943, Note: not traced since, possibly number 2 or 3 above.
Some additional historical facts was given in the Heritage description: Although the coin offered here is not the quarter eagle from this proof set, which later passed to Virgil Brand and has not been traced since 1943, it does have a remarkable connection with this set. We can only trace the history of this coin back to 1939, when Maryland dealer John Zug sold it to prominent collector F.C.C. Boyd, along with proof specimens of the 1843 half eagle and eagle. These three gold coins later passed through the important collections of Jacob Shapiro (aka J.F. Bell) and John Jay Pittman, remaining together through the years. Pittman purchased the three gold pieces at the sale of the Memorable Collection (Numismatic Gallery, 3/1948). A few months later, he acquired the silver and copper coins and the original box from the 1843 proof set that had been sold in Frossard's 1880 sale. He combined the gold coins with the silver and minor proofs to reconstitute the complete 1843 proof set. This 1843 proof quarter eagle has accompanied the box and the other proof gold issues ever since. The eagle, half eagle, and box are offered in individual lots in their respective sections of this catalog.
The coin has great eye appeal and carries the CAC Approved green sticker. The coin was sold in the 2019 Auction in a PR66 Ultra Cameo NGC holder with no CAC sticker. The coin realized $240,000. Heritage Auctions described the coin: The present coin is a spectacular Premium Gem proof, with sharply detailed design elements and deeply reflective fields that contrast dramatically with the richly frosted devices. A partial wire rim is especially evident on the reverse. The well-preserved lemon-yellow surfaces show only a few faint hairlines in the field, above Liberty's head. Otherwise, no post-striking flaws are detected, even on close inspection with a loupe. Several tiny lint marks are scattered about, including one in the field between star 2 and the bust, a short one from star 6 to the dentils, and another above the eagle's left (facing) wing on the reverse. A minor planchet flake is seen near star 3. Overall eye appeal is terrific for this extremely rare early gold proof. This coin has not been publicly offered since the Pittman sale, 22 years ago. It is the finest of only three available 1843 proof quarter eagles, making this lot an important opportunity for the proof gold specialist.
The D.L. Hansen Collection is not a proof gold specialist collection. It is attempting to be a complete collection of US Issue coins in both proof and circulating strikes. In that attempt, they need to add coins like this which may be for a specialist collector a must. As great of coins they are, they are still small contributions to a multi-million dollar coin collection. I will share the 1843 Proof Half Eagle in the next posting. Wait and watch.
Provenance: See number 1 in the roster above.
1843 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, PR65+DCAM PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved, Sole Finest Known Certification #38446009, PCGS #97869, PCGS POP 1/0 PCGS Coin Guide Value: Unknown / Realized $240,000 (2019) Ex: Pittman – Steinbrenner
I shared the 1843 Proof Quarter Eagle a couple days ago. The second in the pair is the 1843 Proof Half Eagle. This completes the 1843 Proof set except for the very rare Golden Eagle. There is a little odd twist to the 1843 10-piece set. They have been assembled and broken several time in the past 150 years. In the 2019 Heritage sale of the Joan Zieg Steinbrenner gold set that this coin was in, a story of reassembling one of the 1843 proof sets was given: William Woodin owned a complete 1843 ten-piece copper, silver, and gold proof set in the original case after he bought Peter Mougey's collection in 1908. He split the set, selling the silver and copper coins, with the case, along with most of the rest of Mougey's collection, through Thomas Elder in 1910. He later sold the quarter eagle and eagle in the 1911 sale of his own gold collection, also through Elder, but retained the proof half eagle until later, and exhibited it at the 1914 ANS Exhibition. Woodin sold most of his half eagles (probably including the proof 1843) to Waldo Newcomer circa 1924. That coin probably went to "Colonel" Green, and was not included in the reassembled set. The quarter eagle went to Virgil Brand in 1911 and remained in the Brand Estate until it was sold by Armin Brand in 1943. We have not been able to trace it since. Likewise, the eagle from the original set went to Brand in 1911 and later went to Harry Bass. Someone, probably John Zug, reassembled the three-piece gold proof set before 1946, as F.C.C. Boyd had all three coins in his collection by that date, but none of the coins were from the original set. John Jay Pittman purchased the three gold proofs at the sale of the Memorable Collection, and united them with the silver and copper proofs of that date, which he purchased a few months later from Judge Joseph F. Sawicki, to reconstitute the complete 1843 proof set in the original case. This half eagle and the quarter eagle that I posted a couple a couple days ago are from the John Jay Pittman gold proofs purchased at the sale of the Memorable Collection. The third coin (1843 Eagle) was purchased in the 2019 Heritage sale by the Tyrant and is currently in his Eagle set. Today, there may not be a complete 10-piece set in private hands. Well, there could be if the stolen set is out there. Maybe I ought to say, there may not presently be a complete 10-piece set in private hands that can be shared with the general public.
I will note here that an original case for a seven-piece 1843 silver and minor proof set, modified by John Jay Pittman to include the three proof gold coins of that year in the lid was sold in the Joan Zieg Steinbrenner sale. The case is Morocco leather-bound wood exterior and is original. The case realized $7,200. Just to note, I think you would have a problem fitting certified coins in this case.
The D.L. Hansen collection has a nice set of 1843 Proofs, although the Eagle is missing. Mr. Hansen has not created an 1843 proof registry set, but his nine coins can be seen in the Complete Proof registry set with the filter set to 1843. The set is breathtaking. Six of his coins are sole finest PCGS POP 1/0 specimens. All coins appear to be CAC Approved. One coin is second finest PCGS graded, POP 1/1. One other is tied for second finest, POP 3/1. The only coin is the set that is not PCGS Condition Census Top Two is the 1843 1/2C Original, PR63BN, CAC Approved, POP 8/12. The half cent is the only real candidate for upgrading. Today, we will focus on the half eagle.
1843 Liberty Head Half Eagle, PR66DCAM CAC Approved, Ex: Pittman/Steinbrenner
Heritage Auctions described the rarity as: Early proof gold coins are among the most elusive issues in U.S. federal coinage. No records of proof mintages were kept before the Mint began its program of commercial proof offerings in 1858, but surviving populations are extremely low, so the production totals must have been tiny. Regarding the 1843 proof Liberty half eagle, only six examples are known to numismatists today. Two of those coins reside in institutional collections, forever out of reach of eager collectors. A third specimen was stolen in 2007 and has not been recovered. A fourth coin is in slightly impaired condition. Heritage Auctions is pleased to present the finest-certified specimen of this early proof rarity in this important offering.
As with the quarter eagle, the 1843 Liberty Half Eagle Proof is extremely difficult. PCGS indicates the mintage at four examples produced. The estimated survival is three and only one PR65 or better. With a mintage of only four, oddly enough, most sources place the known specimens at six. To create an actual roster is not an easy task. In a 2019 Heritage sale, the quote was: Pedigrees for the 1843 gold proofs are notoriously difficult to compile and earlier researchers, like David Akers and John Dannreuther, did not have access to many resources on the Newman Portal today, like the Armin Brand notebooks. Thanks to John Dannreuther, Ron Guth, and Saul Teichman for their help preparing this roster. Grades are per the last auction appearance, unless a subsequent certification event is known. It is virtually certain that some coins have been submitted, or resubmitted, to the grading services since their last public offering. Grade of the Smithsonian specimen is per Jeff Garrett and Ron Guth.
This group of experts actually created a roster of six specimens; therefore this is the roster of 1843 Proof Half Eagles:
1 - Pittman/Hansen Specimen - PR66DCAM CAC Approved, Possibly John Zug; sold to F.C.C. Boyd in 1939, per David Akers; World's Greatest Collection (Numismatic Gallery, 1/1946), lot 394 (a proof 1843 quarter eagle and eagle were also offered in separate lots in this auction, and in the two following sales); J.F. Bell (Jacob Shapiro); possibly 39th Mail Bid Sale (Hollinbeck-Kagin, 11/1946), lot 2255 (not sold); Memorable Collection (Numismatic Gallery, 3/1948), lot 343; John Jay Pittman; Pittman Collection, Part I (David Akers, 10/1997), lot 832, as part of a complete copper, silver, and gold proof set; Sil DiGenova and Mike Storeim; Ken Goldman (KGI) and Mark Yaffe (NGE); Blanchard & Co.; the three gold coins were reportedly sold in a private transaction by Blanchard & Company in May of 2009 for $937,765; Joan Zieg Steinbrenner; Zieg Steinbrenner Collection, (Heritage 8/2019), Lot #3880, realized $312,000; In private transaction, U.S Coins sold to The D.L. Hansen Collection.
2 – Smithsonian Specimen - PR66 Deep Cameo (grade per Garrett and Guth). Mint Cabinet in 1843 as part of a complete proof set, National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution.
3 - Wilkinson /Farouk Specimen - PR63 Cameo NGC. A coin in the complete copper, silver, and gold proof set in the original red Morocco case reportedly presented by President Tyler in 1843 to his ward, Mrs. Octavia McMurray (per Frossard); Reverend T. Wilkinson Collection (Edouard Frossard; 2/1880), lot 651; purchased at the sale by George Cogan, probably acting as agent for Richard B. Winsor, for $100; Winsor Collection (S.H. & H. Chapman, 12/1895), lot 1067; purchased by Peter Mougey, bidding as "Gold"; William Woodin purchased Mougey's collection intact, after his death in 1908, and sold the majority of the collection through Thomas Elder in 1910, but he kept the three gold coins from the 1843 proof set; William Woodin, exhibited at the 1914 ANS Exhibition; possibly Waldo Newcomer, inventory number 158; B. Max Mehl on consignment in 1931; possibly "Colonel" E.H.R. Green; King Farouk; Palace Collections of Egypt (Sotheby's, 2/1954), part of lot 250; Abe Kosoff; ANA Signature (Heritage, 8/2015), lot 4347, realized $117,500.
4 – Green/Carter Specimen (Stolen) - A coin in the complete copper, silver, and gold proof set in the original yellow Morocco case reportedly presented by President Tyler in 1843 to an unnamed constituent; Fernand David Collection (Jacques Schulman, 3/1930), lot 112; purchased by an agent of B. Max Mehl at the Schulman sale in Amsterdam; Frank Stoddard; "Colonel" E.H.R. Green in 1932, via Mehl; Green Estate; B.G. Johnson; offered to Ruth Green on 6/23/1943 for $1,000, returned; offered to B. Max Mehl on 8/30/1944 for $1,000, returned; F.C.C. Boyd; purchased by B. Max Mehl; Will W. Neil; Neil Collection (Mehl, 6/1947), lot 2292; Amon Carter, Sr.; Amon Carter, Jr.; Carter Family Collection (Stack's, 1/1984), lot 630; Daniel Drykerman (per Walter Breen); Chris Napolitano; private collector; the set was stolen at the 2007 FUN convention and has not reappeared.
5 - Vienna Specimen - Proof. A specimen in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, discovered by Dr. Richard Doty in 2002.
6 – Impaired Specimen - PR58 PCGS. Los Angeles ANA Auction (Bowers and Merena, 8/2009), lot 4520, previous pedigree unknown.
Some additional historical facts were given in the Heritage Description: The present coin traces its history to several important collections, including those of F.C.C. Boyd, J.F. Bell, and John Jay Pittman. It has been accompanied by examples of the 1843 proof quarter eagle and eagle, forming a gold proof set of the year, since it first appeared in 1939 (the proof 1843 quarter eagle, eagle, and original case are offered in separate lots in the appropriate sections of this catalog). Pittman acquired the three gold coins in 1948 and later combined them with a set of proof copper and silver coins of 1843 to form a complete 10-piece proof set in an original case. In his catalog of the Pittman Collection, David Akers described this coin as: "This coin is absolutely extraordinary ... It is likely that this is the finest known Proof Half Eagle of the 1840's ... This magnificent Proof 1843 Half Eagle has a superb strike, deep mirror fields that have no more than a few faint and almost totally insignificant hairlines, and the most spectacular deep original yellow gold color imaginable ... This coin is, in my opinion, the premier item of all the coins in the Proof sets of the 1840's in the John Jay Pittman Collection."
The coin has great eye appeal and carries the CAC Approved green sticker. It was sold in the 2019 Auction in a PR66 Ultra Cameo NGC holder with no CAC sticker. It realized $312,000. Heritage Auctions described the coins: We share Akers' enthusiasm for this remarkable coin, noting the terrific overall eye appeal. A few light copper alloy spots show on the obverse and some iridescent blue-violet highlights are seen at the reverse rim, below the FI in FIVE. Die polishing lines are visible in the reverse field and there is a small lint mark near the lowest arrowhead. The date is level and centered between the bust and dentils, identifying the JD-1 proof die. This lot represents an extremely important opportunity for the proof gold specialist, as there is no comparable example of this rare early proof available to collectors.
The D.L. Hansen Collection picked up a pair of the finest quarter and half eagle proofs for the date 1843. After missing out on the Eagle that was the third coin in the set, the D.L. Hansen Collection will be challenged to find another one. It will take one of three improbable possibilities. The Tyrant or Bass specimen will need to become available. The other possibility is the stole coin resurfaces. After all the legal issues are worked out, maybe that coin would go to public action as the 1854-S Half Eagle. If it happens, I hope offering of the coin is handled a little better. Bottom line, these two very old proof coins make nice additions to the D.L. Hansen Collection.
Provenance: See number 1 in the roster above.
1843 Liberty Head Half Eagle, PR66DCAM PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved, Sole Finest Known Certification #38446010, PCGS #98433 PCGS Coin Guide Value: Unknown / Realized $312,000 (2019) Ex: Pittman – Steinbrenner
Well, after spending a couple postings on the 1843 gold proofs, let’s downshift and take a look at a few recent Jefferson Nickel purchases. As I sometimes say, this is not the first update on the Jefferson Nickels series, but they are rare. As we have seen with some other modern series, Hansen works hard on updating and improving the modern collection. What he calls the last 55 years. As I have stated before, I think this demonstrates “The Collection” has something for everybody. In a collection with coins valued hundreds thousands of dollars as we just saw with the pair of 1843 proofs, a series as Jefferson Nickels could be very low on Hansen’s priority list. That does not seem to be the case, because this update is from Legend’s Regency 42 Auction a few weeks ago. If you remember, Mr. Hansen was focus in on the BigMo Civil War coins. That was not all, he also purchase a pretty good grouping of Jefferson nickels in the same sale.
I figure Mr. Hansen won about nine Jefferson Nickels in the sale. Of those purchased, he replace three coins in his top Jefferson set. Two of them are POP 1/0, sole finest certified by PCGS, 1947-D PCGS MS68 FS and 1953 PCGS MS66+ FS. The third coin was tied for finest, 1946 PCGS MS67 FS PCGS POP 3/0.
The D.L. Hansen Collection has the #1 All-Time set for Jefferson Nickels FS Basic Circulation Strikes (1938-1964). He has held the lead for three years now. Not only does The Collection have the #1 set, but also the #2 All-Time set. In the top 71 piece set, The Collection has eleven PCGS sole finest certified POP 1/0 specimens. Another 42 specimens are tied for finest by PCGS, and another ten coins are certified as tied for second finest. Another four are PCGS Condition Census Top Five with only four coins graded outside the top five. As good the set is, there is still room for improvement. The remainder of the purchase of nickels in the Legend Sale was to improve the second set.
1947-D Jefferson Nickel, MS68FS
The only five figure nickel purchased by Mr. Hansen in the Legend sale was the 1947-D PCGS MS68FS. The coin realized $12,925. Legend Auctions described the coin as: WOW! What a spectacular SUPERB GEM 47-D, the SINGLE FINEST graded at PCGS! This is the PERFECT coin for the discerning collector working on the #1 FINEST PCGS Registry Set. I am not sure if I ever saw what collection this great grouping of the Jefferson Nickels were from. Overall, it was a pretty nice run of coins.
This is not the finest graded coin in set. The best is the 1945-D 5C, MS68+FS. The set now has one MS68+FS and twelve MS68FS specimens! Legend Auctions described the appeal of this MS68FS as: Boasting the strongest of brilliant, satiny mint luster, this UBER GEM has a remarkably strong strike, showing off fully defined devices. Monticello has full definition throughout the steps, columns, windows, and facade. a pleasing rosy-pink and powder-blue iridescent toning frame the peripheral details of both sides. As to be expected for this otherworldly grade, the surfaces are essentially without flaw and pristine. The eye appeal is truly off the charts. Unpriced in the PCGS Price Guide, this marvelous coin will bring record bidding! Anyone working on the #1 PCGS Registry Set needs to have this.
The coin is not CAC Approved, but is the sole finest by both PCGS and NGC. The coin makes a nice addition to D.L. Hansen Collection.
1947-D Jefferson Nickel, MS68FS PCGS POP 1/0, Sole Finest Known Certification #38036042, PCGS #84032 PCGS Price Guide Unknown / Realized $12,925
This coin is an Eliasberg jewel. We don’t know how many Eliasberg coins are in the Hansen Collection. It will take some work to determine. We see for some updates for the new Hansen coins, notes for the pedigree are added in the comment field. I would say that is not the normal. In most cases, no comments are provided. This remarkable coin is one of those that have a lot to be comment about. So, let’s tell the story on this coin the best we can. Our expect Ron Guth: The 1853-O Quarter Dollar is far less common than the 1853 Arrows and Rays, but it is not a rare coin in circulated grades. In Mint State, it is quite scarce, with only a small handful of pieces in the MS62 to MS64 grade range (at PCGS). The auction record for this date is the NGC MS66 that sold way back in 2002 for $34,500. This NGC MS66 mentioned, is the Eliasberg /Hansen Specimen. It is a little amazing the record was set almost 20 years ago in a Superior Galleries Auction. The coin has appeared in auction once since.
The coin was a perfect fit in the Hansen 1853 New Orleans Collection of US Coins. This improves the nine piece collection to three sole finest by PCGS, POP 1/0. One other is tied for finest. The small group does have a couple candidates for upgrading.
1853-O, Arrows and Rays, Seated Liberty Quarter Dollar, MS65, Ex: Eliasberg
The coin is believed to be traced to the Dixie Land Collection. This is an interesting early collection by a collector that I think remains anonymous to this day. The collection is said to be a Collection of United States Coins that is One of the Finest Aggregations of the Coins of America Ever Offered: Consisting of Nearly Every Rarity in Gold, Silver and Copper, in a Condition Which Must Be Seen to Be Appreciated; The Work of a Life Time; The Choicest Specimens From the Great Auction Sales of the Past. There is an online catalog available. After a quick scan, I believe in is safe to say the collection was missing most of the ultra- rarities, i.e., the 1804 Dollar, 1894-S Dime, the 1884 & 1885 Trade Dollar, etc. The meat of the collection was in worn condition, otherwise very nice. The collection at first glance appears to be complete or close to it. The catalog has a few plate images, but not many. The auction date was 11/14/1906.
The coin was in the John H. Clapp Collection when his collection was sold intact in 1942 to Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. The Eliasberg Collection stayed intact until the Bowers & Merena Auction in 1997. In Eliasberg sale, the coin realized $25,300. After a few years, the coin turned up in the “1853 Collection”.
The “1853 Collection” was highlighted in the 2014 Stack’s Bowers Winter Baltimore sale. The sale was featured in a Coin World article. The article: The Rarities Night sale is one of numerous Stack’s Bowers auction sessions taking place during and immediately after the expo at the Baltimore Convention Center, Oct. 30 to Nov. 2. The piece is part of an extensive group of 1853 coins consigned to the sale from an anonymous collector described by the auctioneer as “a consummate collector, a gentleman with diverse interests, and a true student of numismatics.” He took it upon himself as a personal challenge “to build his set within the narrowest possible span of dates,” eventually settling on 1853 as it offered an “interesting inclusion of nearly all circulating American denominations, save for the two-cent piece, 20-cent piece and three-dollar gold.” One of the highlights of the sale was an 1853-O Seated Liberty, Without Arrows and Rays half dollar. This coin is just one of four. This coin is a G6 Grade, and is not the finest known. The finest known is the Hansen Collection, VF35, Ex: Garrett. There was no mention in the article of the finest known quarter dollar.
The coin is described in the StacksBowers sale as: Bold satiny texture and suggestions of prooflike character give this piece striking visual appeal. It is highly lustrous on both sides. Light silver gray dominates the obverse, with soft golden brown, olive and steel mottling. The reverse exhibits nearly brilliant silver in some of the recesses, while other areas show rich olive and golden brown mottling. All central details are nicely struck with just a trace of softness on a few of the reverse denticles. Very original, very beautiful, and extremely rare in high grade. At the time we last sold this coin as part of the Eliasberg Collection in 1997, it was considered hands down the finest known and it was the only Gem graded. Now, there is one record at MS-65, just below this one, but it remains the only one graded at this level by NGC or PCGS. Taking into consideration the fine provenance back to 1906, it is clear this piece has no equal among survivors from the mintage of well over 1.3 million coins. Most survivors tend to be in low grades. As coin collecting was not popular at the time around New Orleans, coins released there tended to be circulated and not saved by collectors. Furthermore, at the time collectors usually sought only the different dates, and not mintmarked coins, so the vast mintages from Philadelphia were more likely to end up in collectors' hands. In the present case, more than ten times the number of quarters struck in New Orleans were produced at the Philadelphia Mint in 1853. An exceptional coin for the finest of cabinets.
Since the 2014 Stack’s Bowers sale of “1853 Collection”, the coin whereabouts is in a cloud of mystery. At some point, the coin was crossed from the MS66 NGC to a MS65 PCGS. Even with this bump down, the coin is still the finest known and tops the PCGS POP report. The coin appears to have been purchased from Rare Coin Wholesalers at some point in November, 2020. There is not much more information available. PCGS values the coin at $50,000. I do not believe the coin has a CAC Approval sticker.
Provenance: Dixie Land Collection; John H. Clapp Collection, sold intact in 1942 to Louis E. Eliasberg; Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection, (Bowers & Merena 4/1997), Lot #1455, realized $25,300; (Superior 8/2002) Lot #871, realized $34,500; 1853 Collection, (Stack's/Bowers 10/2014), Lot #10025, realized $28,200; Rare Coin Wholesalers sold to D.L. Hansen Collection.
1853-O, Arrows and Rays, Seated Liberty Quarter Dollar PCGS POP 1/0, The Finest Known Certification #40253871, PCGS #5428 PCGS Price Guide Value: $50,000 / Unknown Ex: Eliasberg
There has been quite a bit written about the Fairmont Hoard or collection if you prefer. Actually Doug Winter wrote a few times about the coins. On his website blog on May of 2019 he wrote: “One of the Coolest Hoards of US Gold Coins Ever Seen Has Entered the Market, and You (Probably) Don't Even Know About It...” With some of the coins being sold a few months ago by StacksBowers, I think we all know about the collection now. He commented: Starting around May 2018, one of the most amazing hoards of United States gold coins I have ever seen started appearing for sale. Graded by PCGS and marketed by Stack’s Bowers, this massive group—likely containing tens of thousands++ of coins—consists of eagles and double eagles dated as early as 1850 and as late as the 1920s. Known as the Fairmont Collection, these coins derive from an overseas bank and they likely have been off the market for 75 to 125+ years. I have paid careful attention to these coins and have learned a tremendous amount about surface preservation, natural color, and rarity. I’d like to share some of my observations with you. When I first learned about this group, I was simultaneously excited and scared. Excited because I knew I would be able to purchase quantities of virgin original coins; the exact sort of coins that I have been championing for many years. Scared because I was unaware of quantities and wondered if some currently rare issues would be ruined by an oversupply of coins. Given my assumption that the majority of the really good 19th century coins have already been sold, I have been able to make an extremely important determination. Most of the No Motto eagles, Type One double eagles, and Type Two double eagles that I thought were really rare are. Dates that I scoffed at as faux-rarities have proven to be the traps that I always assumed they would be.
Yes, a hoard hitting the market can be scary. Especially for collections that have purchased rare high dollar items and then they become common, but there may be a positive side also. Steve Roach, a writer for Coin World authored an article titled: ‘Fairmont Collection’ offers up fresh gold to an eager market. In this article, the 1873-S Half Eagle was discussed in detail.
He continued by saying: The introduction of hoards to the market can change the relative rarity of coins. The Aug. 6 session offered the only Mint State 1873-S half eagle certified by PCGS, graded MS-61 and bearing a green Certified Acceptance Corp. sticker indicating quality within the grade. The issue saw 31,000 coins produced, and they are scarce in all grades. It had been largely unknown in Uncirculated grades, and most pieces have weakly defined Mint marks. Stack’s Bowers praised this example’s honey-orange patina, adding, “Striking detail is superior for a San Francisco Mint gold coin from the 1870s, the mintmark well defined and fairly crisp, and most other design elements sharply to fully impressed.” The new discovery sold for $28,800. In a CoinWeek article a few weeks later, the coin was described as: The coolest coin in the entire sale was the PCGS/CAC 1873-S, Lot 1438. This is the best example of this under-the-radar half eagle that I’ve seen. After more than a year floating around under the radar, in a recent David Lawrence Rare coin Auction on 10/20, the coin found its way into the D.L. Hansen Collection.
1873-S Half Eagle PCGS MS61 CAC Approved, Sole Finest Certified
David Hall stated several years ago: I believe the 1873-S $5 Liberty may be unknown in mint state condition. I have never seen one and I can find no auction records of one ever offered as uncirculated. This was before the Fairmont Hoard hit the market. David Akers offered: The 1873-S is extremely rare in any condition. It is more rare than the 1868-S, 1869-S, 1871-S or 1872-S and is equal in rarity to the 1870-S. Almost all known specimens are well worn. All 1873-S Half Eagles have a Closed 3 in the date, and the mintmark is always weak.
StacksBowers was the auctioneer for many of the Fairmont coins. They wrote on the rarity: The Fairmont specimen is the first and, as of this writing, the only 1873-S half eagle to be certified as Mint State by PCGS. Its offering in this sale marks the issue's first auction offering for a Mint State example. The only Mint State 1873-S five to have received a coveted CAC designation, as well, the significance of this coin for advanced collectors of San Francisco Mint and/or Liberty Head gold coinage can hardly be overstated. Interesting enough, the coin was not purchased by Mr. Hansen. If you recall, the same sale, the ESM Large Cents were being auctioned. This is the sale that Mr. Hansen purchased the Legendary 1793 Strawberry Leaf Cent. I am not sure the coin was even on Mr. Hansen’s radar at that time, although it was on John Brush’s.
In the StackBowers, August 2020 Rarities Night, featuring the ESM and Fairmont Collections, the coin was described as: In what could very well be a once-in-a-lifetime bidding opportunity for the advanced gold enthusiast, Stack's Bowers Galleries is proud to present the first ever public auction offering of a certified Mint State 1873-S half eagle. A beautiful coin, both sides exhibit attractively original patina in honey-orange. Striking detail is superior for a San Francisco Mint gold coin from the 1870s, the mintmark well defined and fairly crisp, and most other design elements sharply to fully impressed. Accuracy alone compels us to mention just a touch of softness to the hair curls over Liberty's brow and the eagle's neck feathers. The surfaces are lustrous with a satin to softly frosted texture and uncommonly smooth appearance overall for the assigned grade. A tiny reeding mark in the upper reverse field below the eagle's beak and a couple of shallow grazes in the field above the olive branch are useful identifiers for tracking this exceedingly rare coin through future market appearances. Highly appealing and sure to see spirited bidding among specialists. The coin realized $28,800 and I believe was purchased by David Lawrence Rare Coins. Once DLRC made the purchased, I am guessing the coin could have been sold to Mr. Hansen in a private transaction, but I have noticed that many times Mr. Hansen purchase top coins like this POP 1/0 specimen in DLRC Auctions. That is what took place with this coin. Mr. Hansen had to bid on the coin the same as you or I.
The coin was auctioned in Internet Auction #1139 on Sunday, October 18, 2020. The coin was described as: The sole finest known example from a very low original mintage of 31,000 coins. Lustrous surfaces are uncommonly smooth for the grade level and bathed in beautiful medium-gold patina. The striking detail is strong for the issue with sharp to full impression of all design elements. The eye appeal is fantastic, this rare beauty is sure to catch the eye of the specialist. CAC approved for quality. There was no mentioned to the connection to the Fairmont Hoard. This Finest Known coin brought $34,000, a new auction record. It appears the DLRC Company was able to make about $5000 on the purchase and sale. As we are given the pleasure to watch along, we are seeing some historic moments in the assembling of this US Collection one coin at a time. More to come I am sure. Keep watching.
1873-S Half Eagle PCGS MS61 PCGS POP 1/0, Only Known Mint State Specimen Certification #39366116, PCGS #8332 PCGS Value Guide: $32,500 / realized $34,000 Ex: Fairmont Hoard
This should be my last update for 2020. I do plan to share a 2020 year-end summary that I hope you will read and enjoy. I had several coins in my note pad that was worthy of sharing as the last coin for the year. I landed on a very nice Peace Silver Dollar for a couple of reasons. In looking back, I don’t think I have posted but a couple Peace Dollars this year with the last one being in February. To be honest and transparent, I do not do a great job with my posting notes and cataloging. If I have done one since February, please view as an honest mistake. Another reason that I picked the Peace Dollar, because of the coin was obtained in a recent Great Collections Auction. I thought it would be fitting to end with a Great Collections coin, because we have seen many Hansen Upgrades in 2020 from that auction site. Ian Russel and Raeleen Endo are doing a fabulous job with the site. Lastly, the coin was purchase in the last auction before Christmas (12/20). I know that Mr. Hansen places most of the bids on this site himself. I can see him buying this coin as one of his holiday presents for himself. Also a little information that many people may not know, he buys a lot of coins for family and friends as gifts.
Over the course of the past four years, we have observed Mr. Hansen applying a lot of resources to this Peace Silver Dollar series. The past few months, we have seen a lot of focus shifted to the Morgan Silver Dollars, but that does not necessary mean Mr. Hansen has lost focus on the Peace series. With this coin, he has added three Peace Dollar upgrades in December and one upgrade in November. The last action previous to these four coins dates back three upgrades in January 2020 and one other in February. This concludes the year with eight upgrades in the 24 coin set. The D.L. Hansen Collection earned its first Best of the Registry for Peace Dollars in 2020. Currently, the Collection is second in the All-Time Finest roster. The Hansen set is the only current set with the other four sets being retired.
The Hansen set only trails the PCGS Hall of Fame California 1 set. The set retired in 2015. The HOF set has two PCGS POP 1/0 sole finest. This really helps with set bonus points because oddly, the Hansen set presently have no POP 1/0 specimens (although at one time he did). With the recent purchase, and some earlier upgrades this year from the Linda Gail Collection and Illinois Collection of Peace Dollars, he is closing the gap little by little. Earlier in the year, he purchased the 1923 Peace Dollar MS67+, PCGS POP 1/0 from GreatCollections Auctions. That coin is now a Pop 4/0. As you can see, playing in the deep water of the registry can be very dynamic.
1935 Peace Dollar MS67, PCGS POP 2/0
Q. David Bowers described this coin in Silver Dollars & Trade Dollars of the United States: A Complete Encyclopedia" (Wolfeboro, NH: Bowers and Merena Galleries, Inc., 1993). His commentary (minor editing): The 1935, like the 1934, came out on the market slowly and over a long period of time. Little attention was paid to the issue in numismatic circles. Worn coins are slightly scarce now and are mostly in higher grades such as EF and AU. In the 1950s, mixed bags of dollars abounded with these and other issues of 1934 and 1935. The 1935 is readily available in Uncirculated grade. Most are in MS-60 through 63 or even 64 grades. MS-65 pieces are scarcer but can be found with ease. Lustre is often satiny, rather than deeply frosty. The strike is usually decent, including on the center of the reverse. Cherrypickers would go out of business if all Peace dollar issues were like the 1935! Some pieces show abrasions, often prominent on the face of Miss Liberty. It is not unusual for a 1934, 1935, or 1935-S to have frosty fields with few bagmarks, but to have the face nicked up, the latter possibly being from marks on the original planchet.
The Great Collection auction is the first appearance for a PCGS MS67 specimen, although MS66+ graded coin is fairly common and appear in auctions frequently. The coin description given by Great Collections reads: Tied for finest with just one other coin at PCGS, and the first to appear in auction. The bidding was very active with 13 bidders placing 45 bids. The coin realized $72,624.38 with Buyer’s Fee. This coin gets the Peace Dollar set one step closer the top Hall of Fame set. This should make a fun set to watch in 2021.
1935 Peace Dollar MS67, PCGS POP 2/0 Certification #40464658, PCGS #7378 PCGS Price Guide: $72,500 / GreatCollections Auction : $72,624.38
Building A Lasting Legacy - The Hansen Collection now involves more than 12,000 coins and is worth untold tens of millions of dollars. While it has already broken numerous numismatic records for size, completeness, and quality, there are still a few pieces to go. “There are a number of coins that are simply unobtainable unless they are released from museum holdings,” acknowledges Hansen. “Coins like the 1854-S $5 and the 1822 $5 are simply items that may one day be available but acquiring them may or may not happen in my lifetime.”
The paragraph is from Rare Coin Market Report (November-December 2019). The article was authored by Josha McMorrow Hernandez. A couple points to end 2020. If The Collection was 12,000 coins at the end of 2019, I would confidently suggest the number at the end of 2020 is somewhere between 14,000 to 15,000 coins. I will remind you, these are PCGS certified coins. Mr. Hernandez suggested The Collection was worth untold tens of millions of dollars. I would suggest The Collection is worth hundreds of millions of dollars. I cannot prove it; can you prove it is not? This short paragraph that appeared on page 7 is quite interesting. The article makes reference to the 1854-S $5 and the 1822 $5 pieces. The successful purchase of the 1854-S $5 in Stacks Bowers March 2020 auction of The D. Brent Pogue Collection Part VII: Masterpieces of United States Coinage was certainly the greatest accomplishment in 2020.
I posted 158 featured articles in 2020. Most postings featured at least one coin, and a few had two. What you saw as you watched was a small sample of the 2020 Hansen purchases (maybe 5-7%). Throughout the year, I did make an attempt to feature all the six figure purchases that I could uncover. I know the odds are high that I missed a few. In 2020, I posted 52 six-figure purchases and one seven. I estimated the total cost based on price realized in auction, PCGS price guide, ask price, or a recent auction if less than 24 months. Under these assumptions, the 53 top coins that I posted in 2020 are worth $14,866,725. Then there were another two to three thousand PCGS coins purchased. What do you think they are worth?
It is common practice in our community to create a box of 20 coins. I will share the top 20 coins in value that I posted in 2020. They are as follows:
The Hansen 2020 Box of 20 is valued at approx. $10,000,000. Some really nice purchases were left out. For the box to have eight Morgan Dollars was a little surprising. The three Early Dollars from Bruce Morelan Collection were pleasant to see in the box.
I thought I would wrap-up 2020 with my thoughts on the five most significant sales of the year. There were several great sales, and a couple just did not quite make my final list. The first out is the Morelan Early Dollars hosted Legend Auction in October. Mr. Hansen purchase three coins in the sale with 1795 $1 “2 Leaves” MS64+, CAC qualifying as the best. I think the BigMo sale should be honorable mention, but did not make the top five for significance to the collection. The D.L. Hansen Collection purchased more than twenty of the BigMo coins, but only one coin made the box of 20, 1863 $2.50, PR65+ DCAM, CAC. Also, this was not a significant coin to collection and was placed in the #2 set. Let’s start with the Pogue Sale.
The D. Brent Pogue Collection Part VII: Masterpieces of United States Coinage hosted by Stacks Bowers - March 2020 Baltimore U.S. Coins Auction
This sale consisted of approximately 420 lots of Mr. Pogue’s remaining collection. The D.L. Hansen Collection picked up several nice coins in the sale, but the most significant was the 1854-S Liberty Head Half Eagle. This is a must coin for The Collection to complete the Eliasberg Quest. With this purchase, only thirteen coins are remaining. With only two known specimens in private hands, this coin has to qualify as the most significant purchase in 2020.
1854-S Liberty Head Half Eagle. AU-58+ (PCGS) CAC The Legendary Finest Known 1854-S Half Eagle The F.C.C. Boyd Specimen, Ex: Eliasberg-Pogue Certification #28572787 / PCGS #8260 / POP 1/0 PCGS Price Guide Value: $2,000,000 / Realized 3/20/2020: $1,920,000
.
. The Larry H. Miller Collection of Morgan Dollars hosted by Stacks Bowers - November 2020 U.S. Coins Auction
For me, the biggest Hansen surprised in 2020 was the purchases of the Morgan Dollars. I did not see this coming. I was very aware that The D.L. Hansen Collection had the finest all-time set of DMPL specimens. I was not aware of any interest to pursue any additional Morgan’s. I was wrong with that assumption. Mr. Hansen purchased eight of the top Morgans spending close to $4 Million Dollars. Due to the Utah connection and the proceeds going to a local charity, I would think that figured greatly in the decision. When it comes to Morgans, I do not think Mr. Hansen has achieved the status of Jack Lee and his undisputed all-time greatest set of Morgan dollars. His set consisted of 175 coins (mint state and proof-like and deep mirror proof-like) of 172 that qualify as the finest graded or tied for the finest graded. Mr. Hansen has both registry sets completed, but still need to work on the overall quality. The 1884-S is one that shows the collection is well on its way.
1884-S Morgan Dollar MS68 PCGS POP 1/0, Finest PCGS Certified Certification #07455496, PCGS #7156 PCGS Value Guide: $900,000 / realized $750,000 Ex: Chuck Walanka / Jack Lee / Larry H. Miller
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. Rarities Night, featuring the ESM Collection hosted by Stacks Bowers - Name: August 2020 U.S. Coins Auction
This auction offered some of the finest and rarest Large Cents. The ESM Half Cent Collection was offered by Stacks and Bowers in March of 2020. As results of the two auctions, the D.L. Hansen Collection of Half and Large Cents were completed for Major Varieties except for one coin each. The 1793 Flowing Hair Cent, “Strawberry Leaf”, VG-10BN is the centerpiece in the collection. The only Hansen copper that is valued more is the 1792 ‘Silver Cent” Cent, SP65BN with a current value of $2,100,000. The Strawberry Leaf is truly a famous coin that is a very significant addition to The Collection.
.
. The Bob R. Simpson Collection, Part II hosted by Heritage Auctions - 2020 November 19-22 U.S. Coins Signature Auction
In 2020, Heritage Auction hosted two of the six Bob R. Simpson auctions. The Hansen Collection purchased several of the Simpson coins in the first two sales. I believe the 1795 “Small head” Flowing Hair Half Dollar to be the most significant. The coin was only valued at $235,000 prior to the sale. PCGS has revalued to coin post sale to $550,000. The interest in this coin was to say the least as being intense. I am not sure, but to best of my memory, this is Hansen’s first Lord St. Oswald specimen. Another significance: I do not see the Early Half Dollars as one of D.L. Hansen Collection better sets. One reason I think, the Bust Half Dollars have a great collector organization and many of the better specimens are off the market. The Collection has no seven figure half dollars. Presently, the best coin is the 1853-O “No Arrows/Rays” VF35 Finest Known specimen. With the 1853-O “No Arrows/Rays” and the 1795 “Small Head”, The Collection now have two half million dollar specimens.
1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar “Overton 126a Small Head”, MS63 PCGS, POP 1/0 (The only 1795 Small Head graded Mint State by PCGS) Certification #40274316, PCGS #39248 PCGSVG: $550,000 / realized $528,000 Ex: Lord St. Oswald / Pogue-Simpson
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. The McCoy Family Collection of Capped Head Half Eagles hosted by Heritage Auctions - 2020 August 3-9 U.S. Coins Signature Auction in Dallas, TX
This sale represented a grouping of maybe the finest early half eagles to hit the market in recent years. The auction put 24 of these great half eagles on the block, and I believe Mr. Hansen won about a dozen of them. It was fun to see many of the remaining Half Eagles needed for the Major Variety set to get picked off one by one. The best coin purchased I believe was the 1819 BD-1 Half Eagle. This coin is now paired with the top pop 1819 BD-2 (purchased in 2019) to create the finest 1819 pair known. This coin goes a long ways in making the D.L. Hansen Early Half Eagles into something very special.
It would be interesting for you to reflect on your experience cataloguing the collection this last year. What personal insights did you gain, did you learn something about yourself, have this changed how you look at collecting, etc.
Seated Half Society member #38 "Got a flaming heart, can't get my fill"
There will certainly be a box of
Monsters Mr Hansen acquires
in 2021.
IMO the most valuable asset he can acquire would be the Finest known
Brasher Dubloon.
@RedCopper said:
There will certainly be a box of
Monsters Mr Hansen acquires
in 2021.
IMO the most valuable asset he can acquire would be the Finest known
Brasher Dubloon.
Do you think it would fit into his existing collection? Or expand the focus of the collection?
Not sure if Dell Loy will head into colonials. The finest known Brasher Doubloon certainly might transcend the colonial classification because of its fame and presence in famous historical collections of American coins. He has been so focused and determined in federal circulation strike and proof strike coinage, that would be quite a different direction for him. I don't know if you want to chime in Dell Loy on whether you were going to go off in any new tangents in 2021? Certainly, so much still to do in your main Eliasberg endeavor. I suspect the pace will slow somewhat in obtaining more coins from your final 20 list that Currin has been keeping, after your blistering 2020 pace. But you continue to surprise us all with your progress. Happy New Year to all. Wishing everyone health and happiness and a nice coin or two in 2021!
For Hansen, expanding his collection beyond SaintGaudens Double Eagles was a fateful decision. “After I finished my Saint-Gaudens collection, I decided to expand into $20 Liberty pieces,” he says. “One of my larger purchases was the AWA Collection of $20 Liberty gold coins which was put together over a lifetime of collecting. Once that transaction was completed, I looked to see what else could I do.” After that, he set his sights on the one collector whose name has loomed large in numismatics for generations. “At that point, I kind of got a bug to pursue the PCGS Registry’s idea of the Eliasberg collection. But, instead of stopping at 1964 and simply competing with him, why not expand on it another 55 years and do something no one else has done?” Hansen wanted to push the envelope. “In my career, I enjoy doing things that no one else has considered doing and what some consider ‘impossible’. The paragraph is from Rare Coin Market Report (November-December 2019).
After four years, what started with a 51-piece Saint-Gaudens set, The Collection has evolved to a mega collection of estimated 15,000 pieces. The first four years have been a full speed ahead; will we continue to see the same in 2021? We know there will be some opportunities, for example we still have four parts of the Bob Simpson sale to go. Some of his better pieces are yet to come.
Eliasberg Quest
Currently, the D.L. Hansen set needs thirteen coins to complete the Eliasberg Quest. I would think obtaining specimens from the list below would be the #1 Goal in 2021. One of the thirteen coins on the list will be in an upcoming Simpson sale. I know a very nice PR66 1880 Four Dollar Gold "Stella’s" (Flowing Hair) has been on the market by U.S. Coins for over twelve months now. Mr. Hansen has patiently missed opportunities for the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, 1838-0 Half Dollar BM, and 1827 "Original" Quarter Dollar. Will there be opportunities for more of these coins in 2021?
1870-S Half Dime (Unique Coin in Tom Bender PCGS Registry Collection)
1873-CC "No Arrows" Dime (Unique Coin in an anonymous collection)
1870-S Three Dollar Only (Unique Coin owned by the Bass Foundation displayed at the ANA)
1866 "No Motto" Dollar Proof Only (2 Minted, Unique Private Coin in Simpson Collection)
1933 Double Eagle (Known Survival 16, Unique Legally Owned Coin - anonymous collection)
1822 Half Eagle (Survival 3, Unique Private Owned Coin in the Pogue Collection)
1798 "Small Eagle" Half Eagle (Survival 7, possibly 2 nice examples could be purchased)
1913 Liberty Head Nickel Proof Only (5 Minted, 3 private owned)
1838-0 Half Dollar BM Only (Survival 9, six known for private purchase)
1827 "Original" Quarter Dollar Proof Only (Survival 9)
1880 Four Dollar Gold "Stella’s" (Coiled Hair) Proof Only (Survival 8)
1880 Four Dollar Gold "Stella’s" (Flowing Hair) Proof Only (Survival 24)
1839 Gobrecht Original Dollar (Survival 60-75) Note: DLH has an 1839 Restrike #32225780
Major Varieties
We witness a large focus in 2020 being placed on the Major Varieties in circulating strike finish. Many missing copper pieces were purchased in the two EMS sales, and several gold Half Eagles varieties in the McCory sale. The Hansen team is starting 2021 with only 19 remaining to complete the PCGS registry set. I think completing this list of 19 would be the #2 priority in 2021. Some of these coins are ultra-rarities. A few are fairly common and may be easy to locate. I don’t know the story of the 1887/6 Three Cent CN. Will the opportunities continue in 2021? Already, there are a couple specimens that will be offered for sale in 2021. If so, how many will come off of this list?
1797 Half Eagle "Large Eagle, 15 Stars" (1 Known – Permanently in Smithsonian) Uncollectable
1797 Half Eagle "Large Eagle, 16 Stars" (1 Known – Permanently in Smithsonian) Uncollectable
1861 Double Eagle "Paquet" (2 Known)
1804 Eagle "Plain 4 Proof" (3 Known)
1849-C Gold Dollar "Open Wreath" (4 Known w/ one defective)
1958 Small Cent "Doubled Die Obverse” (3 Known)
1795 Large Cent "Jefferson, Lettered Edge" (5 Known w/ VF Finest Known)
1810 Half Eagle "Large Date, Small 5" (5 Known w/ AU Finest Known)
1842 Half Dollar "Small Date, Rev of 1839" (Survival est. 10 w/ 1 Mint State)
1804 Quarter Eagle "13 Star Reverse" (Survival est. 11 w/ AU Finest Known)
1797 Half Cent "Gripped Edge" (Survival est. 13 w/ VG Finest Known)
1797 Half Eagle "Small Eagle, 15 Stars" (Survival est. 20 w/ 1 Mint State)
1820 Half Eagle "Curl Base 2, Sm Letters" (Survival est. 14 w/ 8 Mint State)
1800 Dollar "Wide Date, Low 8, AMERICAI" (Survival est. 25 w/ AU Finest Known)
1798/7 Eagle "7X6 Stars" (Survival est. 25 w/ 3 Mint State)
1839 Half Dollar "Receeded Edge, Small Letters” (Survival est. 50 w/ 4 Mint State)
1798 Quarter Eagle "Wide Date" (Survival est. 50 w/ 8 Mint State)
1798 Dollar "Large Eagle, Knob 9, 4 Lines" (Survival est. 125 w/ 2 Mint State)
1887/6 Three Cent CN (Survival est. 800 w/ 750 Mint State)
Other Interest
Will 2021 be a year that we will see some more significant action in the proof series? We have already seen just in recent days some efforts and resources being contributed to the proofs in examples of the 1843 Quarter and Half Eagles. The set of the “collectable proofs” could be an area of focus for 2021. The D.L. Hansen Collection is 89 coins away from completing the proof gold from 1859-1915. This is achievable, but note, there is not a registry set that would represent this set. The pre-1859 coins in the existing complete registry set are a mess. Many of the coins do not exist. Hopefully at some point in time, PCGS will do some much needed cleanup. In 2021, would be great!
I have seen activities in other areas, Commemoratives, Bullion, etc. I have seen several First Spouse $10 MS and Proof examples coming into the collection recently. Just a few days ago, The Collection added the difficult Grace Coolidge and Letitia Tyler specimens. They came from Justin (Monstercoinmart) via eBay. When all is said and done, I am not sure that I expect to see much change in Mr. Hansen’s focus in 2021, which is his fifth year of working on the mega collection.
Five Year Anniversary
It may be to some people unbelievable, but this collection is not five years old yet! Another paragraph from Rare Coin Market Report (November-December 2019): Hansen has been at this since only 2016. When the busy Utah billionaire and philanthropist revisited his numismatic pursuits a few years ago after finding some rare glimpses of leisure time he set a relatively humble numismatic objective. He wanted to build an exquisite collection of Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagles, known by many as the most beautiful coin the United States Mint ever struck. Achieving that goal in short order, he wanted more. “I decided to take a look at $20 Saint-Gaudens as a collection to not only put together and try to complete but also as an alternative investment,” Hansen recounts of his original numismatic goals. “But once I started collecting again, my competitive and obsessive nature took hold and I got really hooked into the registry set concept. I realized I could compete on another front and try to build something that is not only fun but historically important!”
So I was thinking (which can be dangerous) when did the mega collection start. Was it the summer of 2016 when Mr. Hansen started the famous Saint-Gaudens set (which only required a few weeks)? Did the mega set start on the day that he purchased the AWA Collection? No, not in my opinion. Mr. Hansen stated: my competitive and obsessive nature took hold and I got really hooked into the registry set concept. I think the start (or day one) of the mega collection was the day he created his first PCGS registry set after the purchase of the AWA Collection. It is just my opinion, and the validity of the opinion can be debated.
This places the date for the five year anniversary (or if you prefer, birthday on October 16th, 2016). Now, I don’t know if Mr. Hansen has any special or specific goals that he was trying to achieve in the first five years. If he did, I expect they have already been exceeded. Also, I don’t know if Mr. Hansen is planning an anniversary celebration. October 16th 2021 is on a Saturday and would make a great day for a party. Count me in!
To end on a more serious note, I think 2021 will be a great year to watch the Hansen additions and upgrades. I think we will see the vast amount of upgrades to continue. I think we will see the countdown lists shrink, but not sure how much. We could see the proofs come in focus with some big purchases. I don’t think we will see Mr. Hansen wandering to far from the farm. I think he will mainly stay focused on US legal issues. I expect the 2021 Box of 20 will be amazing. It will certainly be fun to watch and tag along.
No coin today. I do have a great proof to share before the weekend is out.
One thing I will say, is that Dell Loy has liked to pick up things at a good price and it's been possible to do for high end pieces in the Covid era, so the Stickney-Garett Brasher may be an opportunity for him if he chooses the branch out into private and colonial issues.
I refer to anything before 1859 as an early proof. That’s just the lingo that I use. I have been writing for the past few weeks that I am seeing something special happening with the D.L. Hansen Proof Collection, gold particular. The Collection has a compete run of non-gold proofs starting in the mid-1850s to 1915. This is a gold update that is in that mid-1850 range. The 1850-1859 decade is a very problematic if you are interested in proofs, especially proof gold. I have talked some recently about how it would be a significant challenge for The Hansen Collection to have a complete run from 1859. It is doable but not an easy task.
This new addition completes the 1856 Proof date set as required by the PCGS registry. PCGS describes the 12 item set as: The Flying Eagle cent of 1856 is probably the best known Proof of this year, being coined in fairly large numbers as examples to be distributed among lawmakers. Although strictly a pattern, it is included as it has long been collected as a regular issue. The remaining silver coins are represented by probably several dozen examples of each. As far as the gold coins are concerned, only a handful of examples exist of the smaller denominations ($1, $2.50 and $3.00) but none of the higher denominations have surfaced, but have been rumored to exist. Very ironically, the worst specimen in the set is the 1856 Flying Eagle cent. I think Mr. Hansen view that coin as one that he can pick up a better example down the road whenever he feels the need to. He has a very nice condition census 1856 Half Cent graded PR65BN traced to the Missouri Cabinet. The coin is Top POP for brown, but is outside the top 10 for the date. The remaining of the coins are condition census specimens.
I think 1856 is now the earliest date for a complete proof set in The Hansen Collection. If you recall, I featured the 1843 proof set a few days ago. That date is complete except for the Eagle. I am not sure that 1856 will become the first year in a future complete date run, but I could see it happening. It is a great set to start a run. The set has four sole finest certified by PCGS (POP 1/0) and one other tied for finest certified. As previously stated, the remainder is condition census except for the Half Cent and Flying Eagle cent. Let’s quickly discuss the missing higher gold denominations.
The 1856 Proof Half Eagle is required in some of the bigger registry sets, but not the PCGS date set. In Coin Facts, the mintage given is two. The rarity and survival estimate is one. There has not been an example certified by PCGS or NGC, and no examples have appeared in auction. I have not found any reference to any known examples. Although PCGS has a coin number (8446), it does not appear that one survived. The only 1850s Half Eagle Proof in the Smithsonian National Numismatic Collection is the 1858 and 1859.
As with the 1856 Proof Half Eagle, the Eagle is required in some of the bigger registry sets, but not the PCGS date set. Coin Facts, also gives a mintage of two. There is no rarity and survival estimate information given. David Akers wrote: Wayte Raymond reportedly knew of a proof but its existence is unsubstantiated. There has not been as example certified by PCGS or NGC, and no examples have appeared in auction. I think Mr. Akers was spot on by saying the existence is unsubstantiated. Although PCGS has a coin number (8792), it does not appear that one survived. Also, the only 1850s Eagle Proof in the Smithsonian National Numismatic Collection is the 1858 and 1859.
In Coin Facts, the 1856 Proof Double Eagle mintage is given N/A. I take this to mean, none were minted. The rarity and survival estimate is zero, although PCGS has a coin number (9068). It is generally considered, the first proofs for Double Eagles were minted in 1859 with the exception of the 1849 proof pattern.
I would consider this to be a complete 1856 proof set for all known denominations. Does everyone agree, or do you have information that could place this statement in dispute?
1856 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, PR65
Unlike the higher denominations of 1856 Liberty Head Gold Proofs, David Akers writes: Three or four proofs are known. I was able to trace three of them, the fourth is well hidden, if it does exist. Three that I could determine was the Hansen Specimen, the Eliasberg/ Trompeter Specimen, and the uncertified PR65DCAM specimen in the Smithsonian National Numismatic Collection. In Coin Facts, the mintage given is four. The rarity and survival estimate is two according to PCGS. There is not an example certified NGC, but PCGS have three, two PR65 and a lone PR65CAM. It is possible that one of the PR65 is a duplicate of the CAM specimen. I believe the Eliasberg coin may now be in a PR65CAM PCGS holder. It has sold in auction almost 20 years ago in a PR65 holder. Actually, the coin appeared in auction three times between 1991 and 2002. First, February 1991 as PR63 in Superior Galleries Auction of the Dennis Mendelson Collection, the coin realized $57,750. Then, the Ed Trompeter sale that was hosted by Superior Galleries in February 1992. The coin realized $48,400 in a PR65 PCGS holder. Last appearance was a Bowers & Merena Rarities Auction in July 2002, realizing $66,700. The coin was estimated grade in the Eliasberg sale with tracing to Mitchelson (1908); Clapp Collection (1942). The coin was sold by Bowers & Ruddy in October 1982 realizing $24,200. The complete pedigree of the coin is Ex. Mills; Mitchelson; Clapp; Eliasberg; Trompeter; Worrell.
Mr. Hansen’s coin does not have a perigee or a CAM designation. Even if the new Hansen coin is not a CAM, it really is not a bad example. The coin last appeared in Kagin's March 2017 ANA National Money Show Auction. The coin was described as: This attractive Proof Liberty quarter eagle is a “gem” at many levels – the eye appeal is superb, the toning highlights are grand, and the overall aesthetics rank high in our eyes. This bold fiery orange specimen has fared well over the years, maintaining its dignity and quality throughout 161 years of no doubt prideful ownership. The lightly frosted motifs and richly mirrored fields form a modest contrast that was no doubt somewhat deeper before the lovely toning highlights settled in. Liberty’s portrait enjoys pale powder blue iridescence at her shoulder and lowest hair curls, while the reverse eagle is afire with deep orange toning those verges on crimson in a bold light. There is no paper trail for this date in Proof, and just how many were struck is anybody’s guess. We can tell you that PCGS has established two grading events for the date at Proof-65, as here, with no others seen, and opines “3 known?” while at NGC the Census is empty for Proofs of the date. The call for Proofs prior to 1858 was nominal at best at the Mint though no doubt the usual “friends” of that venerable institution made their annual pilgrimage to pick up Proofs of various denominations; evidently quarter eagles were not very popular in 1856! The present Gem Proof rarity is absolutely one of the highlights of the present offering and will no doubt bring out the best of competitiveness at bidding time. If you’ve read this far we’ve piqued your interest, and we hope to see you at hammer time. PCGS Population: 2; none in any lesser or finer grade. The coin holds the auction record when it realized $102,812.50.
The coin was acquired in a private transaction with Rare Coin Wholesalers. The coin was described in the listing as: ONE OF ONLY THREE KNOWN. THIS IS TIED WITH THE OTHER KNOWN FOR HIGHEST GRADED. TRULY A FABULOUS 19TH CENTURY RARITY. The ask price for the coin was $185,000. I think the POP is now 2/1 when you consider the CAM specimen. The ad mentioned the coin was sold in auction by Kagin's 2017, but no mention of pedigree was given. I have determined the coin is not from the Eliasberg or Trompeter great proof collections. This coin was a nice purchase to complete the 1856 Proof Date Set.
Provenance: ANA National Money Show (Kagin's 3/2017), Lot #1405, realized auction record $102,812.50; Acquired from Rare Coin Wholesalers in private transaction in 12/2020, D. L. Hansen Collection
1856 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, PR65 PCGS POP 2/1, Only Three Absolute Certification #40262532, PCGS #7882 PCGS Coin Guide Value: $135,000 / Ask $185,000
@ReadyFireAim said:
He still needs 3 proof saints.
There are a couple 1911 coins & a 1913 for sale now, they look very nice.
.
I saw 1913 offered at US Coins. It may have been sold. I do not see any available on Collectors.com at this time. This is the website Mr. Hansen looks for coins. We can let John Brush know if they are still available.
Also...Somebody is sneaking up on his date set.
.
Great Observation. I did not see that. It looks like the Legend clan has started a collection of Eagles and Saints by date. Just FYI, Mr.Hansen has zero focus on date and type sets. These sets are a by-product of his complete, one of everything focus. If they are 100% complete, I don’t typically pay much attention to them either.
Just a tidbit on the Saints.
He created the registry set late 2016, with the set 100% completed. He upgraded 12 Saints the last three months in 2016. As you can see a big focus. The past four years, he has focus on the Saint set as follows:
His natural rate of upgrading the 51 piece set is about 7-8 per year. If coins are available in 2021, I would expect this tread to continue. So, I would expect the date set to improve over time by the natural upgrading habits of the Hansen Team. In the mean time, if the Legend set takes the lead in the date set, I would chalk it up as great for the hobby. At the end of the day, the Hansen Collection is playing the long game by building the greatest complete collection of sets as possible, understandable that every set will not be #1. Just being in the all-time Top 5 is a great accomplishment for anyone, including Mr. Hansen, but he is strives for the highest possible.
Jos, you have a great set of Saints. I hope you work hard and complete the 23 dates. PCGS wrote: However, don't get on this ride if you're pregnant, have back problems, or a bad heart -- the 1921 and the dates from 1929-1932 will test the mettle of any collector. Nevertheless, if you're up to the challenge, the rewards will be great.. They are still needed in your set. Save up your pennies, and go for it!
Spectacular Sand Blast Proof 1908 Indian Half Eagle
I am puzzled, nothing new. PCGS describes the Proof Indian Half Eagles as: The $5 Indian series in proof is comprised of only eight coins, with mintages ranging from a low of 75 pieces for the 1915 to a high of 250 coins for the 1910. Obviously, all are rare. This series is similar to the $2 ½ Indians, being issued in matte and Roman finish proofs. I know they are rare, but the Proof Indian Half Eagles should be a great set to build for the high end collectors in the registry. The D.L. Hansen Collection registry set is the only one in progress currently. If he was not assembling his set, then there would zero. So, where are these coins? Are sets being assembled outside of the registry. Or are all the coins being purchased as investments? Or most of the coins are being purchased by collectors that are collecting one or two dates, and not the whole set? I find it puzzling because I see incomplete registry sets that require more coins than the eight coins in this set. The registry has many sets with one coin.
I know a lot of the proofs coins for this series are in NGC holders. We saw one in a recent Simpson sale a few months ago. We were once told that he had a complete high-end proof set with a mixture of PCGS and NGC coins. Are there other collectors with a similar case. Whatever the reason, The Hansen set is the only current set and the set is one coin from completion.
As you can see, the registry list eight complete sets by Hall of Fame collectors. It would be interesting to see if the registry would list Bob Simpson set as historical, if so, where would it fall on the list? The date 1911 is only needed Hansen coin remaining. For this date, there is a sole finest PCGS PR68 specimen. In addition, The NGC population report indicates four PR68 specimens. Are some duplicates? Maybe. In a recent Simpson sale, his 1911 NGC MS68 specimen realized $120,000. This is still below the PCGS MS68 current value of $165,000. If the coin is really good, and it can straight cross, then I could one day see the Simpson coin as filling the last hole in the Hansen set.
One of the problems I have with the sandblast proofs, they all look perfect to me. Another way to say it, the Simpson PR68 looks perfect. I could see it grading PR70. I could say the same about the Hansen PR66 coin that I will show you today. If I look hard, I may see a little imperfection, so maybe not a PR70. I hope you get the point. So, now let’s see the new Hansen coin.
1908 Indian Half Eagle, PR66, CAC Approved
The first issue in the Proof Indian half eagle series, the 1908 has one of the highest mintages of the type -- 167 pieces -- a result of the Mint's anticipation of strong demand from contemporary collectors. This issue actually was ordered in relatively large quantities, and it is now the most frequently encountered Proof Indian $5 in numismatic circles. The 1908 is still a classic U.S. Mint Proof gold coin, however, which means that it is at least very scarce in an absolute sense. Indeed, a mere 95-115 coins are believed extant (per Jeff Ambio in the 2008 revision to David W. Akers' work, A Handbook of 20th Century United States Gold Coins: 1907-1933).Unlike all preceding issues in the Proof half eagle series, the 1908 Indian was produced with a dark matte finish that does not reflect light in the manner of brilliant finish Proofs. (The Mint designated these as Sandblast Proofs, often nicknamed "Matte Proof" by collectors today.) Stacks Bowers 8/2013
Coin Facts place the survival estimate at 108 with 60 grading GEM or better. On paper, the new coin is not a PCGS Condition Top 5 due to the POP being 19/5. There is a possibility that at least one of the top five is a duplicate, but no way to know for sure. The coin does carry the sought after CAC sticker. The coin replaces a PR65, cert #21645859 in The Collection.
The new coin is described by the seller as: This Gem Proof 1908 Sand Blast $5 is bathed in medley of sandy-gold and tan patina which produces a striking effect under a light source. The surfaces are close to perfection, free from the distracting "shiny spots" that are readily revealed by the delicate finish on lower quality coins. Full striking detail and exceptional eye appeal round out an impressive list of attributes. Among just 60 or so Gem examples remaining, this piece is surely among the finest. Only 5 coins have been graded finer by PCGS through Proof-67+, making it ideal for inclusion in an advanced Registry Set. This issue introduced Bela Lyon Pratt's novel sunken-relief design for the half eagle, as well as the sand blast style of Proofing. Undoubtedly anticipating record sales given the issue's historic nature, the Philadelphia Mint struck 167 Proof half eagles in 1908. The bold sand blast finish, with its deep color, proved unpopular with contemporary collectors who had grown accustomed to the cameo, brilliant mirror Proofs of the Liberty gold coin era. The result is that some Proof 1908 half eagles failed to sell at the time of issue and were later destroyed in the Mint. Even so, with approximately 100 to 125 coins extant in all grades, this is the most readily obtainable Proof of the type in today's market. However, it is very rare in grades above the Proof-64 level. The present Proof-66 (PCGS) ranks among the best preserved and most attractively original survivors that we have had the privilege of handling in recent years.
The Proof 1908 Indian Half Eagle was purchase from Stacks Bowers Direct. This is the sales branch of the company. You could say “their store”. We have seen that many of the great Hansen coins were obtained from SBG Auctions. I think this may not be the first direct purchase, but it is the first that I have seen. According to the SBGD website, the coin sold for $85,000. PCGS current value is $80,000. As we discussed earlier, it is really difficult for me to see the minor differences in these proof coins. There just not that many identification markers to compare. Therefore, I was unsuccessful in identifying an earlier pedigree. The coin is really a nice little improvement the Proof Indian Half Eagle Set.
Provenance: Purchase from Stacks Bowers Direct for unconfirmed listed price of $85,000, D. L. Hanse Collection
Hi Currin, here's what I show for the pedigree on the 1908 $5 39100313:
Heritage 11/2013:3869 (as PCGS PR66 25384006), $55,813.00 - HFW² Collection - Heritage 1/2020:4439 (as PCGS PR66 25348980), $52,800.00 - D.L. Hansen Collection (as PCGS PR66 39100313)
It seems just yesterday that I was posting the 1873-S Half Eagle PCGS MS61 CAC Approved, Sole Finest Certified from the Fairmont Collection. Today, you will see another upgrade to the PCGS registry #1 - Liberty Head $5 Gold Basic Circulation Strikes (1839-1908) Set. The set is 100% complete and contains the World Renown 1854-S Half Eagle AU58+ from the Brett Pogue Collection. This multi-million dollar center piece has a two hundred piece supporting cast including a least a half dozen other six figure coins. If this was to be the last upgrade to this fantastic set of Liberty Head Half Eagles, the set would stand as a world class set for many years to come. We know this is not the last upgrade. Mr. Hansen has stated that he may never finish upgrading his collection.
The 201 piece set is described as: There is no other set of coins that features specimens from seven U. S. Mints—Philadelphia, Charlotte, Dahlonega, Carson City, Denver, New Orleans and San Francisco. This long-lived set includes one of the greatest rarities in numismatics, the 1854-S $5 gold piece. How many has PCGS graded? Zero! There are many sets-within-sets in this series, as most collectors focus on the coins from one particular Mint. It’s a long and challenging collection to complete, but it’s a tremendous achievement if you can do it. I agree, this is a little outdated.
As you can see, The D.L. Hansen Collection hold first and fifth place spots on the PCGS all-times list. The other great collections are the Harry W. Bass, Louis Eliasberg and our own National Numismatic Collection in the Smithsonian Institute. The Hansen set is sneaking up on the solid 60.0 grade point average. This would be a significant milestone for this set. The Half Eagle Liberty Head Collection has 33 PCGS POP1/0 Specimens, sole finest certified by PCGS. Another 32 are tied for PCGS finest. There are 152 (slightly more than 75%) of the set is PCGS Certified Condition Census Top Five.
1887-S Half Eagle PCGS MS66, Sole Finest Certified
The new coin replaces an 1887-S MS64+, Certification #82618399, POP 5/6. David Akers describes the coin as: The 1887-S is one of the common dates of the series and it is easily obtained in any condition including choice uncirculated. For PCGS certified, MS64 is the tipping point. There are 66 entries graded this condition but only 11 graded higher. PCGS estimate only five survived in GEM condition or better. PCGS POP report (with possible resubmissions) has six at GEM or better: four MS565, one MS65+ and the new Hansen specimen MS66. I believe the MS65+ and the MS66 specimens are fairly recent upgrades with no recorded auction appearances, except a Great Collections to be discussed later in this posting.
The coin made its first appearance in a Stacks Bowers August 2020 Auction in a MS65 PCGS holder with an old certification number 05618458, which is still active. In this sale, SBG states PCGS Population: 4; none finer. This leads to a couple conclusion and possibilities. First, there may not be four graded MS65 any longer (I am confident of at least one). Also, is it possible the MS65+ and MS66 are the same coin with back to back submissions? In the MS65 sale, the coin was CAC Approved, but now it is not. SBG describes the condition rarity as: Survivors from a generous mintage of 1,912,000 pieces are available in grades through MS-63, but any finer and the 1887-S becomes a noteworthy condition rarity. Tied for highest graded at the leading third-party certification services, this premium quality Gem is sure to see spirited bidding from gold enthusiasts. Approval by CAC emphasizes the high quality and surely contributes to the desirability.
In the August 2020 SBG Auction, the coin appearance was described as: Peach and pinkish suggestions dominate the complexion, accented by traces of patina at the obverse border. Intensely lustrous with a uniformly satiny texture across all elements. The surfaces remain incredibly untroubled beneath magnification, lacking all but the most trivial ticks. Beautiful to examine in-hand. The coin realized and currently holds the Coin Facts Auction Record of $15,600.
The coin made the big jump to MS66 POP 1/0 and showed up October 2020 in a Great Collections Auction. It had a new certification number 40309223, and was described as Single finest graded. The coin sold on Oct 18, 2020 and realized a new Auction Record of $22,557.38 with Buyer’s Fees. Being PCGS does not record Great Collections results, I image the previous action record from the SBG Auction will stand for now. It appears the Hansen Team passed to coin in the Great Collections Auction.
In December, the coin was offered on the Paradime Coins website. The coin was described as: ParadimeCoins is proud to offer the single finest 1887-S $5 Liberty Eagle. From a mintage of 1.912 Million Half Eagles minted, only 6,000 are known in all grades, a survival rate of 0.31%. In MS65 - 3 or 4 unique examples are known with PCGS showing 5 pop report. Nonetheless, only 1 single MS-66 is known for this incredibly tough conditional rarity. This example simply put is destined for the finest collection. In MS65 the most recent examples sold for $15,600 and $12,000. We see no reason why this pop 1 ms66 should not sell for 4 or 5 times this multiple. Beyond the number this coin is one of the most attractive $5 Libs with salmon pink hues enveloping both the obverse and reverse, we see no ticks or mark worth mentioning and the strike is incredibly well struck. There was no mention the coin sold in auction a few months earlier for $22,557. On their eBay webpage, the ask price was $30,000. The coin was not purchased thru the website, rather the coin was remove with message: This listing was ended by the seller because the item is no longer available. The listing end 10:42PM on Dec 25, 2020. This may be a little early Black Friday shopping.
August 2020 U.S. Coins, (Stacks Bowers 8/2020), lot 1265 (as PCGS MS65 05618458), realized $15,600; (Great Collections 10/2020), Item ID: 892209 (as PCGS MS66 40309223), realized $22,557.38; Purchased in Private Transaction (Paradime Coins 12/2020).
1887-S Half Eagle PCGS MS66 PCGS POP 1/0, Sole Finest by PCGS Certification # 40309223, PCGS # 8371 PCGS Value Guide: $22,500 / unknown
My last update was for the Half Eagle Set. Today’s is for the Eagle Set. As with the Liberty Head Half Eagles, the D.L. Hansen Collection has the PCGS registry #1 - Liberty Head $10 Gold Basic Circulation Strikes (1839-1908) Set. The set is 100% complete and features the 1839/8, Type of 1838, MS66 PCGS from the Gold Rush Collection. This near million dollar masterpiece has a 178 piece supporting cast including a least a half dozen other six figure coins. This is an extremely great set of Liberty Head Eagles while being the number one spot in the PCGS registry, but I would have to agree to the fact at this point in time, the Hansen set may not be the finest currently assembled. To my knowledge, the Hansen and Tyrant Sets have not been evaluated side-by-side. At this time, I would give a slight edge to the Tyrant Collection.
The 179 piece set is described as: This long, long series stretches from the time when Abe Lincoln was less than 30 years old to the years when Teddy Roosevelt was in power. The set is filled with rarities, but there are no so-called "impossible" coins as are seen in many other series. The classic rarity is the famed 1875. This set involves three distinct types: the No Motto Covered Ear, the No Motto and the With Motto. A complete date set in any condition is a major numismatic accomplishment. Mr. Hansen has a PCGS Condition Census famed 1875 Eagle that is second only to his PCGS POP 1/0 1839/8 Specimen.
You can see with the eagles as with the half eagles, The D.L. Hansen Collection holds first and fifth place spots on the PCGS all-time list. The other collections are ranked a little differently. Besides Mr. Hansen, the only other collector that made the top five for both half eagles and eagles was the Harry W. Bass. For eagle sets, the other top shelf collections were Bob Simpson and Ellen D. Collection (David Hall). With Louis Eliasberg dropping to number six, National Numismatic Collection could only muster eighth spot Liberty Head Eagles.
The Hansen set will still have work to do before it can reach grade point average of 60.0. The set currently is setting at 59.12. The Hansen Liberty Head Eagle Collection has 13 PCGS POP1/0 Specimens, sole finest certified by PCGS. Another 31 coins are tied for PCGS finest. There are 134 (slightly less than 75%) of the set is PCGS Certified Condition Census Top Five. The quality of Mr. Hansen Liberty Head Half Eagle and Eagle sets are very comparable. The big difference is there are more PCGS POP 1/0 Specimens in the Half Eagle Set.
1879-O Eagle PCGS MS60
The new coin replaces an 1879-O AU58 Certification #81875414, POP 7/2. Doug Winter describes the coin as: The 1879-O has the second lowest mintage figure of any New Orleans eagle and the second lowest mintage figure for any gold coin struck at this mint. It is the third rarest New Orleans eagle in terms of overall rarity, trailing the 1883-O and the 1859-O. There was just a single example of this date in the Bass collection and many of the great gold sales of the past either lacked an 1879-O eagle or were represented by an off-quality piece. The 1879-O is the third rarest New Orleans eagle. Only four to five dozen are known from an original mintage figure of 1,500. About eighty percent of the survivors grade VF to EF and are characterized by densely abraded surfaces. A properly graded AU50 to AU53 is rare and an AU55 to AU58 is very rare. In Uncirculated, the 1879-O eagle is unique. In the TPG world of today, the coin is no longer unique. In PCGS Population Reports, there are a MS60 and MS61. In the NGC report, there are a MS60 and a pair of MS61. It must be stated when looking at these reports; there are resubmissions and crossovers that could inflate the numbers. It is generally considered that the NGC MS61 in the Tyrant Collection is the top specimen. The Ex: Morgan Collection of Branch Mint Gold is described in a Tyrant account as: A review of the photographs of the top known examples will confirm how head and shoulders the present coin (Tyrant) is in terms of quality and appeal, over any other known example. Simply stunning! The finest certified by PCGS is the Auction Record coin that appeared in Heritage Auction on 6/2014, lot 4868, realizing $88,125. On face value, this would place the Hansen Specimen somewhere in the top five and maybe as high as number three on the 1879-O eagle roster.
The Hansen coin made its first appearance in a Stacks Bowers March 2017 Auction in an AU-58 PCGS holder with an old certification number 06584131, which is still active. In this sale, SBG states PCGS Population: 7; one finer. The appearance of the coin is described as: Handsome prooflike fields and frosty devices greet the viewer of this delightful near-Mint State example. The surfaces are primarily orange-gold with lighter yellow towards the peripheries, intermingled with pale blue highlights. The original mintage of 1,500 pieces was greatly reduced by time and attrition to perhaps 75 to 100 known today. This is one of the best to survive and is tied with six others at PCGS behind a single coin that has earned the grade of MS-61. One of the classic key dates to this challenging series and an important New Orleans Mint eagle. The coin realized $51,700.
At some point, the coin was upgrade to MS60 POP 1/1 with a new certification number 34631147. Question to the community, is there a chart that matches certification numbers with the year? Moving on, the coin was recently purchased from New York Gold Mint in a private transaction. We don’t know the negotiate price, but we do know PCGS Price Guide values a coin in this grade at $80,000. I am not fond of MS60 coins, but coins of this rarity in higher grades place limits on what choices are available. I took a peek in the Hansen #2 set, and he has an AU58, CAC Approved Specimen. I wonder if that coin could be the best of the three. The top three 1879-O Eagles currently listed in the Hansen sets are:
PCGS #1 Basic + MV Set – MS60, Certification #34631147
PCGS #1 Basic Set - AU58, Certification #81875414
PCGS #2 Basic Set - AU58, CAC Approved, Certification #05928644
There could be lower graded specimens, but these three are the only ones that I could find listed in the Hansen sets. A couple days ago, I showed you the Liberty Head Half Eagle set. Today, you saw the Eagle set. The two sets require 380 coins. Also, you saw the Hansen #2 sets were All-Time Top Five in both series. Then you saw at least one coin was not two coins deep but three. I am careful not to speculate on just how many Liberty Head Eagles and Half Eagles in this private inventory. If I did, I would start with a number of 500 and go up from there. Amazing!
Provenance: Rarities Night, (Stacks Bowers 3/2017), Lot 3119, (as PCGS AU58 PCGS 06584131), realized $51,700; Purchased in Private Transaction (New York Gold Mark, 1/2021).
1879-O Eagle PCGS MS60 PCGS POP 1/1 Certification #34631147, PCGS #8685 PCGS Value Guide: $80,000 / unknown
Well, if you didn’t like the last update, this one should be different. There are several great things going for this update. For one, it is a Proof Eagle, and very eye catching. Also, it is the finest known for date! If that’s not enough, the coin is from a great cabinet known for assembling a world class gold proof collection. If that still is not enough, then consider the specimen as being close to mid six-figures. Lastly you can top the coin off as being needed for the Civil War with Proof Gold (1861-1865) Set. That’s right. Was anyone really collecting proofs coins doing the Civil War? Well, must have because the Union Mint in Philadelphia continued to produce them. PCGS describes the set as: This challenging set represents four years of our country's most trying times, the Civil War. It is a sampling of all denominations including the very tough proof gold issues which are rare in nearly all denominations. Completing this set will be an accomplishment as well also an historic representation of a difficult war that took place over 150 years ago.
With this update, The D.L. Hansen Collection is down to needing only twelve gold proofs remaining in the Civil War era. The Collection has been complete with the non-gold portion for some time now. In fact, the Hansen Collection has two complete 43-piece sets of non-gold proofs. As for the Civil War with Proof Gold, there is no one competing in that set except for Mr. Hansen. I guess that speaks for itself on the difficulty of assembling the set. As for Mr. Hansen final twelve coins, the year 1861 still needs the $2.5, $3, $10 and $20. For 1862, still needs $2.5, $3, $20. For the 1863, still needs the $5, $10, $20. For 1865, still needs the $10 and $20. Amazingly, the 1864 is completed!
The Hansen 69-piece top set has nine PCGS sole finest POP 1/0 specimens, with four of them being gold coins. There are another eight tied for finest certified by PCGS. I am sure we will see more to come with this set.
1862 Liberty Head, PR65DCAM, Ex: Dr. Robert J. Loewinger
Expert Ron Guth Comment: In the early years of the Civil War, Americans had more on their minds than numismatics. Nonetheless, there were a few visionary collectors who avidly pursued the newest Mint issues, including the various Proof coins issued each year. Proof gold coins could be purchased for a small premium over their face value, but because of the high intrinsic value of their metal content, sales were low. In the case of the 1862 Eagle, the mintage of Proof examples has been estimated at fifty pieces, yet only a dozen or so examples have been accounted for. This low survival rate suggests that not all of the Proof 1862 Eagles were sold by the mint and that the excess supply was melted. Alternatively, there could be additional examples hidden away in collections, but it is doubtful that the overall population will expand much more beyond its present level. Most of the known Proof 1862 Eagles present a cameo contrast, sometimes to a strong degree. Most, if not all, of the non-Cameos listed in the PCGS Population Report were graded before PCGS began recognizing Cameo and Deep Cameo designations; this will be corrected as the pieces return for reexamination. The current finest example of a Proof 1862 $10 appears to be the former Dr. Robert Loewinger example, not in a PCGS PR65DCAM holder. Not surprisingly, it holds the price record for this date in Proof -- $152,750. The Dr. Robert Loewinger is now in a PCGS holder and as of this past week, is now in the D.L. Hansen Collection.
With the help of a Heritage description, I made an attempt to put a roster showing the known dozen specimens of the coin. This matches the survival estimate given by Coin Factors. That is not to say that this roster is prefect, but I think it to fairly good. Also according to the Coin Facts Rarity and Survival Estimates, the number of GEM specimens is one, and that one is at the top of this roster.
1 –Hansen Specimen, PR65 Deep Cameo PCGS, T. Harrison Garrett; Robert Garrett; John Work Garrett; Johns Hopkins University (Stack's, 3/1976), lot 399, as part of a complete six-piece proof set offered individually; Lisa L. Collection; Dr. Robert J. Loewinger Collection / FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/2007), lot 3136, realized $115,000; Baltimore Auction (Stack's, 3/2012), lot 4335, realized $109,250; Rosemont Signature (Heritage, 8/2013), lot 5884 (as PR65 Ultra Cameo NGC), realized $152,750 (Auction Record); Purchased in Private Transaction from Heritage Wholesale through David Lawrence as PR65DCAM PCGS, D.L. Hansen Collection.
2 – Olson Specimen, PR64 Ultra Cameo NGC, Dr. James Olson; FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/2013), lot 5908.
3 - Smithsonian #1 Specimen, PR64 Deep Cameo, National Numismatic Collection, Smithsonian Institution. Grade per Garrett and Guth.
4 - Smithsonian #2 Specimen, PR64 Deep Cameo, National Numismatic Collection, Smithsonian Institution. Grade per Garrett and Guth.
5 - Melish/Norweb Specimen, PR64 Cameo NGC, Thomas G. Melish Collection (Kosoff, 4/1956), lot 2449; Ben Stack; Norweb Collection, Part II (Bowers and Merena, 3/1988), lot 2185, realized $11,000;
Dennis Mendelson Sale (Superior, 8/1990), lot 1348, realized $15,950; Public Auction Sale (Stack's, 12/1991), lot 2283, realized $30,800; ANA Signature (Heritage, 8/2015), lot 4423, Lot Passed; FUN U.S. Coins Signature (Heritage, 1/2016, Lot 5626, Lot Passed Rarities Night, (Stack's, 8/2017), lot 2202, realized $94,000.
6 – Bass Specimen, PR64 Cameo PCGS, ANA Sale (Stack's, 8/1976), lot 3089; Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection, Part II (Bowers and Merena, 10/1999), lot 1487.
7 – Kaufman/ Mendelson Specimen PR64 Cameo PCGS, N.M. Kaufman Collection (RARCOA, 8/1978), lot 877; Dennis Mendelson Collection (Superior, 2/1991), lot 2859; Baltimore '93 Auction (Superior, 7/1993), lot 900; Medio Collection (Stack's/ANR, 6/2004), lot 1471; Chicago Signature (Heritage, 8/2011), lot 7619.
8 – Tyrant Specimen, PR64 Cameo PCGS, Dr. Richard Ariagno Collection (Goldberg, 5/1999), lot 791; Pre-Long Beach (Goldberg, 9/2003), lot 1183; Internet Sale (Heritage, 12/2003), lot 14377; Pre-Long Beach (Goldberg, 5-6/2005), lot 985; Eagles of the Tyrant Collection.
9 – Trompeter Specimen, PR64 PCGS, Possibly acquired directly from the Mint by George Davis; Davis-Graves Collection (Stack's, 4/1954), lot 873, as part of a complete six-piece proof set offered individually; Harold S. Bareford Collection (Stack's, 12/1978), lot 219, as part of a complete six-piece proof set offered individually; Jascha Heifetz Collection (Superior, 10/1989), lot 4751; Ed Trompeter.
10 – Eliasberg Specimen, PR64 NGC, James Ten Eyck Collection (B. Max Mehl, 5/1922), lot 316; John H. Clapp; Clapp Estate to Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. (1942); Louis Eliasberg, Sr. Collection (Bowers and Ruddy, 10/1982), lot 716; Amon G. Carter Collection (Stack's, 1/1984), lot 763; Auction '85 (RARCOA, 7/1985), lot 456; Charles Kramer Collection (Stack's, 11-12/1988), lot 592; Auction '89 (Superior, 7/1989), lot 917.
11 – Dines/Hardan Specimen, PR64 PCGS, Charles Jay Collection (Stack's, 10/1967), lot 318; James Dines (Stack's, 3/1969), lot 826; 55th Anniversary Sale (Stack's, 10/1990), lot 1690; James E. Haldan Collection (Sotheby's, 6/1996), lot 115.
12 – Morgan/ANS Specimen, Proof, R.C.H. Brock; J.P. Morgan; American Numismatic Society; Exhibited at the American Numismatic Society Exhibition (1914).
At the FUN Show in 2007, Heritage hosted the sale of Dr. Robert Loewinger Collection. The 1862 Liberty Head Eagle was just one of 66 Loewinger pieces sold in the sale. Heritiage pre-sale description: Dr. Robert Loewinger has assembled an almost unbelievable collection of American proof gold coins," noted Heritage President Greg Rohan. "This is a sensational collection of coins, many of which are the finest known as certified by NGC and PCGS. Among the highlights are his complete six-piece 1862 Gold Proof Set (plus other denominations), mostly certified PR65 Deep Cameo; a complete (1908-1915) set of Indian quarter eagle proofs, certified PR65 to PR68; and a complete (1908-1914) set of Indian half eagle proofs, all certified PR67. His early gold proofs are also extraordinary. This is a collection worthy of the highest praise and the most delightful inspection. The top coin was an Extremely Rare PR66 Deep Cameo 1855 Type Two Gold Dollar, Ex: Pittman that realized $316,250 in 2007. The second place coin was 1836 Classic Quarter Eagle, NGC PR66 Ultra Cameo realizing $253,000.
The new Hansen 1862 $20 PR65 Deep Cameo PCGS was eleventh highest in the sale realizing $115,000. The coin the sale was described as: On the reverse of this piece a few of the horizontal shield lines are thinner on their right (facing) sides because of die lapping, and the last three sets of vertical shield lines are also thinner due to lapping. This spectacular example has that most elusive of coin criteria, eye appeal, in spades, and despite the Gem Deep Cameo assessment from PCGS, appears quite conservatively graded. The deeply contrasting, "gold-on-black" appearance so coveted in proof gold is quite evident here, with profoundly mirrored fields and thickly frosted devices. The mint frost is extremely deep on the obverse, but is even thicker on the reverse. Although the pristine quality of the piece does not provide much in the way of distinctive pedigree markers, we can point to a small unfrosted patch on Liberty's neck, near the juncture with the lowest curl.
In a 2016 Heritage sale, an earlier provenance is traced to the T. Harrison Garrett Collection. Stacks, sold the coin in 1976, lot 399, as part of a complete six-piece proof set offered individually. Also, it is attributed to the Lisa L. Collection. I don’t know anything about this collection. Is there anyone in the community that can share any information? I am not sure why, but as the coin changed hands over the past thirteen years, the TPG holder changed back and forth. In the Loewinger Sale, the coin was an 1862 $20 PR65 Deep Cameo PCGS, with certification number 10165412. The next appearance of the specimen was in the Stacks Bowers - The March 2012 Baltimore Auction. This time the coin was listed as Proof-65 Ultra Cameo (NGC). There was no pedigree mention.
The coin was described as: One of the few Proof 1862 eagles available for private ownership, this piece exhibits warm, even, medium-gold color to both sides. Field to device contrast is sharp and pronounced, the former areas nicely mirrored and the latter with a bold satin texture. Fully struck and free of significant handling marks, an extremely faint planchet flaw (as made) in the obverse field above the digits 86 in the date is the most useful pedigree marker. Easily among the rarest gold coins in this sale, and a piece that represents a fleeting buying opportunity for the advanced collector. This coin is the finer of only two Ultra Cameo Proof 1862 eagles listed at NGC. There are no CAM or DCAM examples certified by PCGS, and no coins graded higher than Proof-65 in any category at that service. Q. David Bowers added “Numismatic Reflections”: Offered is a magnificent Gem, a great rarity with superb eye appeal. Here again the opportunity is more important than the price paid. If you capture this with your bid you will be the proud owner while most others will lack a Proof of this year. This piece is deserving of the highest praise.
Heritage offered the coin in August the following year at US Coins Signature Auction. Still in a NGC holder, this time the coin was contributed to Dr. Robert Loewinger again. The main description was contributed to being “Single Finest Certified Example”. It is this sale the coin achieves the Auction Record of $152,750. The coin currently still holds that record, but most certainly it would be shattered if the coin appeared today. The coin was recently listed for sale on the LCR Coin website. The coin currently is listed as “OUT OF STOCK”. The ask price on the coin was $297,000. PCGS Price Guide has a current value of $285,000. This is an all-around great addition to the Hansen Collection. It is truly gorgeous.
Provenance: See #1 above.
1862 Liberty Head, PR65DCAM, Ex: Garrett/ Loewinger PCGS POP 1/0, Sole Finest Example Certification #40745705, PCGS #98798 PCGS Coin Guide Value: $285,000 / Ask $297,000
With having duplicate sets, Hansen acts as a vacuum cleaner on the high end market. This makes me wonder if it has a depressing effect on fellow whales.
Seated Half Society member #38 "Got a flaming heart, can't get my fill"
Comments
Very hard to find any technical flaws on the 1903-S, except the toning does nothing for that coin. Without thinking too deeply, I would give that coin an acetone bath for only to prevent the toning from getting worse.
OINK
When you give a coin a bath, it can increase its reactivity to the environment. In trying to prevent the toning from “getting worse”, you might end up doing more harm than good. In addition to that, I like the current original appearance.
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
Mark, before I wrote my previous post I reviewed the 1903-S coins on CoinFacts. The other 67's did not have "objectionable" toning, but I would agree they might be slightly less perfect regarding hits and dings. Toning can be a plus (my opinion) or it can be a negative ( again my opinion) .
The toning on this coin can best be described as brown scum without any interesting color that is reflective of toned Morgans. The brown scum might be removed with acetone, but if not I would live with it. Doubtful that acetone would increase reactivity to the environment.
OINK
It sounds as if I like the toning better than you do.😉
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
Mark, we have different perspectives. You are a market maker in coins and I am a collector. We just have different perspectives.
OINK
Understood, though I have plenty of collector in me, too.
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
I’d say that toning is a slight negative personally...and a significant negative market-wise. Morgan collectors predominantly want them blast white or rainbow.
Upgrades from the Illinois Collection – Part 2
This update is another great Morgan Dollar that has been added to D.L. Hansen Collection. This is a mid-six figure coin. As I discussed in the last update, Barry Stuppler has been marketing coins from the Illinois Collection. With the four that Mr. Hansen purchased last week, the available coins are down to only 62 remaining. Will we see more purchases by Mr. Hansen? At this point we don’t know. As we saw, the Hansen Collection of Morgan Dollars has moved up to #4 on the all-time list. It will take a few coins like this purchase to continue the move up. At this point, we do not know Mr. Hansen’s desire.
The next collection up in the rankings is the Jack Lee Hall of Fame set. This collection is currently #3 on the all-times list, but I still see the set as the model or the best set of all-times. I know Mr. Perfection has discussed many times where due to the bonus points given to the sets, the best set may not be on the top of the ranking. Without rehashing all the details, for Morgan Dollars I agree with him. In my view, the Jack Lee set is still the top set. The Lee set leads in GPA with 66.57. The top two sets are 66.38 and 66.46 respectively. Also, the Lee Set is the only pure GEM set. All coins in the set are at least MS65 PCGS. No other set can make that claim, not either of the top two sets. On the top end, the Jack Lee set has three MS69 specimens. The other top sets don’t have any.
From the Experts at PCGS: This is the undisputed all-time greatest set of Morgan dollars. In fact, it is one of the finest individual sets of United States coins ever assembled. It contains more than the 97 required coins; in fact, there are 175 coins in the set, not counting the proofs. Of those 175 coins (mint state and proof-like and deep mirror proof-like) there are 172 that qualify as the finest graded or tied for the finest graded. An incredible accomplishment combining unprecedented patience, dedication, and resources. Highlights of the Jack Lee Collection are an 1884-S graded MS68, the famous Wayne Miller 1886-O graded MS67DMPL, the Eliasberg 1889-CC graded MS68, the Norweb 1893-S graded MS67, an 1896-O graded MS66, an 1896-S graded an unbelievable MS69, and literally every other coin in the collection.
I don’t know how many of the Jack Lee Coins are currently in the Hansen Collection. We have seen several of these in past couple weeks. The coin that you will see today is not a Jack Lee Specimen. The Lee Specimen is a MS 66 from the Wayne Miller Collection. At one time, he also had a MS64DMPL . As good as his coins are, the new Hansen, Clapp-Eliasberg 1883-S Morgan Dollar, MS67 Prooflike Specimen is considered the best. Let’s take a closer look.
1883-S $1, PL MS67+ PL, CAC Approved, Ex: Clapp-Eliasberg
According to PCGS Rarity and Survival Estimates, they estimate 7 specimens in GEM Prooflike condition with finest being the MS67+. The DMPL is even rarer with only 5 estimated total, with the finest MS64DMPL PCGS grade (The Jack Lee Specimen). In a 2009 Heritage sale, the coin condition rarity was described as: Best described as a condition rarity in top grades, the 1883-S Morgan dollar is relatively plentiful in lower Mint State grades. It is also a major rarity in prooflike preservation. A quick glance at the current PCGS population data will prove quite revealing: they have certified 2,266 examples in grades from MS60 to MS64, 22 coins in the same grade range with prooflike or deep prooflike surfaces, only 18 coins in grades from MS65 to MS67, and just two pieces in that grade range with prooflike surfaces, including the present piece from the Eliasberg Collection, a green-label PCGS coin that remains the single finest 1883-S dollar that PCGS has ever certified. It is in the top numerical grade for the issue, and it is the only Superb Gem certified with prooflike surfaces.
Heritage explained: Until a few years ago, such specimens were very rare. However an enormous jump in the price of the 1883-S in 1973 - it moved from $75 to $275 in less than six months-brought many specimens into the market. Over 100 Uncirculated pieces were available at the summer 1973 Long Beach coin show. The Redfield hoard contained a quantity of high-quality 1883-S dollars. Most were well struck with good luster. As usual, surface abrasions prevented most from being considered in the gem category. The 1883-S is still a difficult date to obtain in strictly BU condition. ... BU specimens are usually well struck with good luster and are readily discernible from sliders. Bagmarks tend to be plentiful.
The most recent auction appearance for this coin was the sale of The Sanderson Family Collection by Heritage in 2009. The coin set an auction record of $161,000. There is not much doubt that this coin would set a new record of it was to come to auction today. The coin was described as: This amazing coin is fully prooflike, deep enough that Dave Bowers cataloged the coin as MS66 Deep Prooflike in the Eliasberg catalog. The surfaces have a hint of pale champagne toning on both sides, although most collectors would readily call it a fully brilliant silver specimen. Like nearly all Mint State 1883-S dollars, it is sharply struck. In the Eliasberg catalog, Dave Bowers said the following about the present coin, a comment that is equally apropos today: "The 1883-S [MS67 PL] Eliasberg Collection specimen is one of the most important Morgan dollars of this date to come on the market in our generation."
This is another great coin that has made its way into the Hansen Collection. Barry Stuppler listed the coin on his Mint State Gold website for $475,000. He described the coin as: Here is an 1883 San Francisco $1 Silver Morgan Dollar, which has graded MS67+ with extraordinary Proof-Like surfaces by PCGS and has been holdered with the prestigious Illinois Set label. This Morgan is perfect for PCGS registry set collectors. Prior to the Illinois set, this Morgan belonged to the also well-renowned Eliasberg set. Pale champagne toning gives this Silver Dollar a uniquely ethereal eye-appeal. Bold devices are strikingly articulated against predominantly clear Proof-Like fields. Beaming with original mint luster and coming to life in intricate details, this numismatic treasure is sure to elevate any collection or portfolio.Additionally, this Morgan Silver Dollar is the FINEST KNOWN in existence and is the highest grade to have achieved CAC certification.
The four coins that Mr. Hansen purchased from Barry Stuppler from the Illinois Morgans were great additions. The Stuppler well is not dry. There are several other great opportunities. There are at least eight more POP 1/0 specimens. Will we see Mr. Hansen hit that well again? Anything is possible. Let’s wait and see if the Morgan Collection by Hansen continues to get better.
Provenance: Harlan P. Smith or John Mills Collection; S.H. and H. Chapman; J.M. Clapp; John H. Clapp; Louis Eliasberg Sr., (Bowers and Merena, 4/1997), lot 2265, Realized $137,500; Sanderson Family Collection, (Heritage 1/2009), Lot #4964, Realized $161,000; Illinois Set Collection (PCGS Set Registry), offered by Barry Stuppler (Mint State Gold), D.L. Hansen Collection.
1883-S Morgan Dollar MS67+PL
PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved
Certification #37728086, PCGS #7149
PCGS Value Guide: $450,000 / Asked $475,000
From Illinois Collection, Ex: Clapp-Eliasberg-Sanderson
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Thanks for mentioning Perfection in the above comments. It is 100% true that the top listed set is not always the finest set for a variety of reasons. The top bonus is one flaw in the PCGS registry software. Not a flaw but
something that I believe that was dreamed up by the former PCGS regime to help a certain person. There is no
good reason to reward someone for a top pop with even more points. They already have a top pop! PCGS should remove the top bonus from the registry.
Also it is far harder to build a top CAC set because many non CAC coins in regular sets are marginal for the grade.
So is a complete or nearly complete CAC set whose points are slightly below a non CAC set finer? it would be nice to compare sets side by side.
Can DLH get to the top of the Morgan set registry? I guess it is possible. He is buying much better coins these days and many if not most are CAC. I applaud him!
Proof Upgrade
I know some of you have really enjoyed the last couple weeks of Silver Dollars. Some of you have not so much and have been waiting patiently to see some Au Eye Candy. Well, let’s start with a DCAM Proof. Presently, the D.L. Hansen Collection is 87 coins away from completing the proof gold from 1859-1915. John Brush wrote this on proofs: Proof issues of all denominations were minted sporadically until 1858 (actually 1859 for gold issues), when it is generally believed that the sale of proof sets to individual collectors at a small premium began under Mint Director J.R. Snowden. With this landmark change in the mentality of the US Mint to work with collectors, a new segment of the hobby slowly developed and grew. I am seeing the next Hansen Challenge would be to complete the proofs from 1859-1915. His collection is complete for non-gold proofs for these dates. In fact for several series he has two or three completed proofs sets. He is continuing to get closer and closer to that unthinkable comprehensive completed collection. If you have been watching and counting, you should know the Eliasberg Quest have only 13 coins remaining, the Major Varieties have only 19 remaining, and now you know the collectable proofs have only 87 to go! I think 2021 could shape up to be a very interesting year.
The year 1898 is a collectable year for US Issue Proofs, although there are only two active participants in the PCGS registry (not sure why). One is D.L. Hansen Collection and the other is the Driftwood Collection. The Driftwood 10 piece set is 80% complete with the eagle and double eagle proofs missing. The top five of all-times are a Whos Who of Hall of Fame Collectors, including the likes of Louis Eliasberg, Garrett Collection, Waldo Newcomer and The Norweb Family. The Hansen set is at the top of these sets, with a fabulous lineup of ten jewels.
Mr. Hansen replaces his condition census PR68DCAM Quarter Eagle with a POP 1/0 PCGS specimen. This is the first TOP POP coin in the 1898 set. There are three coins, including the PR68DCAM Half Eagle that is tied for finest graded by PCGS. There are two others that have only one PCGS coin grading finer. The set is great as it stands, but I could see the Morgan Dollar and Double Eagle as candidates for replacement. A top pop PR67+DCAM PCGS graded Double Eagle could cost in the neighborhood of quarter million dollars or more.
1898 Quarter Eagle, PR68+DCAM, CAC Approved
John Dannreuther has called proof issues from the late 1890s "the pinnacle of [the] Mint's gold Proof coinage." Indeed, the Mint was at the height of its powers just before the turn of the century, having perfected the production of proofs featuring thickly frosted devices and reflective fields with the classic orange-peel texture collectors so appreciated then and continue to admire more than a century later (Heritage 2020). This coin certainly has the look for great eye candy. As stated earlier, Mr. Hansen already had a great specimen in his collection, 1898 PR68DCAM, Certification #83642143 valued at $70,000. I think maybe the main reason that he replaced this coin was because the PR68+DCAM, CAC Approved coin was at a price that he could not walk away from.
The 1898 Quarter Eagle has a mintage 165. The Rarity and Survival Estimates for all grades is 110. The PCGS POP for PR-DCAM is 37 with only four PR68DCAM and the sole PR68+DCAM. The Heritage Auctioneer described the mintage as: Quarter eagle output rose to 165 proofs and 24,000 circulation strikes in 1898. In the case of the former, these coins rank among the most collectible proofs in the series with 80 to 100 pieces believed extant. A significant majority of proof 1898 two and a half dollar gold pieces certified at PCGS are in the non-Cameo category, but there are still a fair number in Cameo and Deep Cameo. Among non-Cameo proofs, most are seen in lower grades, while the average Cameo or Deep Cameo survivor is apt to grade PR64 or PR65.
A PCGS PR68DCAM has appeared in auction only once, Heritage’s July 2013, US Coins Signature Auction in Orlando. At the 2013 sale, the coin set the Auction Record of $82,250. We don’t know how much Mr. Hansen paid for his previous PR68DCAM because it appears the coin was purchased in a private transaction a couple years ago.
Heritage described the new Hansen coin as: This PR68+ Deep Cameo representative is in a league of its own -- the single finest 1898 proof quarter eagle at PCGS by the margin of the Plus designation. It serves as the PCGS CoinFacts plate coin and is one of only three PR68 quarter eagles (from both services) with a green CAC approval sticker for quality within the grade. The Hansen PR68+DCAM coin appeared for the first time in Heritage’s November 2020, US Coins Signature Auction. You would have thought the coin would set a new auction record, right. No, not really. The coin only realized $50,400.
The PCGS price guide has not established a price for the sole finest coin. It will be very interesting to see what they come up with. The price Mr. Hansen paid for the coin was somewhere between a PR67+ Deep Cameo and PR68 Deep Cameo in price. By all accounts, this was a good upgrade at a great price. Now, enjoy the eye candy.
Provenance: U.S. Coins Signature Auction (Heritage 11/2020), Lot # 3381, Realized $50,400, D. L. Hansen Collection.
1898 Quarter Eagle, PR68+DCAM
The Sole Finest Example at PCGS
POP 1/0, CAC Approved
Certification #82901740, PCGS #97924
PCGS Price Guide: not listed / realized $50,400
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Gorgeous coin! I'm surprised there's no provenance other that the Heritage auction.
Here's the Heritage photos which are also really nice.
Also, love the 1898 Spanish American War date.
Zions, the Heritage image shows a lot more pizzazz. The holder lips and the plastic scratches are a little distracting. I am not sure how old the TrueView image is, but I know PCGS have work for the past year to improve their images.
The purpose of the image is important. For sale purposes, the Heritage image serves its purpose really well. Great looking image of the coin. For me, I find the TrueValue images serve a better purpose for seeing and locating all the identification markers on the coin. Auction images in many cases mask some of the markers. In this case, the coin is amazing in both images. At least the coin is is not blacken, as in some TrueView DCAM images.
Great group of pictures. Thanks for sharing.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
I like the contrast in the Heritage and TrueView photos. Photos can vary so much that I almost always think more is better.
I think it's a mistake for Heritage to stop their own close up photos in favor of TrueView or PhotoVision.
I like how Stack's continues to do their own close up photos and adds TrueView / PhotoVision.
Upgrades for the BigMo Civil War Auction – Part 2
One if the best collection that was place in auction in 2020 was the BigMo Civil War Collection. Part 1 of the collection was offered back in the summer timeframe by Legend Rare Coin Auctions. At that time, Legend described the collections as: The BigMo Collection is truly one of the greatest individual collections I have ever seen assembled in my experience in this industry. The set is fully deserving of its Hall of Fame status, and is the type of set most collectors could only dream of completing. I cannot wait to start showcasing this collection around the country, and am ecstatic that Legend Rare Coin Auctions was offered the opportunity to bring this collection to market.
Legend’s Regency 42 Auction was held on December 3rd. The first 31 lots in the auction were BigMo Gold Civil War Issues, Part 2. Thirty of the issues sold in Auction with only one lot passed. Legend Numismatics Auctions described the success as: The highlights Big Mo Civil War Collection brought far more bidders than expected and set SEVERAL world record prices. This proves yet again, our boutique concept affords the maximum showcase. Look at these prices from Big Mo Collection:
$5 1861-C PCGS MS63 CAC $164,500.00 WORLD RECORD!
$5 1861-D PCGS MS63 CAC $282,000.00 WORLD RECORD!
$2.5 1862 PCGS MS64 CAC $52,875.00 WORLD RECORD!
$2.5 1863 PCGS PR65+ DCAMEO CAC $270,250.00 WORLD RECORD!
$2.5 1864 PCGS AU58 CAC $111, 625.00 WORLD RECORD!
$2.5 1865-S PCGS MS63+ CAC $49,937.50 WORLD RECORD!
$20 1865 PCGS MS65 CAC $105,750.00 WORLD RECORD!
Most prices were strong to VERY strong overall. When great coins are around, it creates a buzz which attracts collectors. There is a lot happening right now to get people excited to update or buy for their collections. In this list of World Record results, The D.L. Hansen Collection purchased four of the eight World Record setting specimens. Of the 31 BigMo Coins offered, the Hansen Collection purchased a total of eight coins, with four going into the top Hansen registry set and the other four in the #2 set or you could called the duplicate set. The purchase of the $2.5 1863 PCGS PR65+ DCAMEO CAC duplicate specimen at $270,250 amazed even me. I will add some addition details at a later date.
The four lots that resulted in updates to the top set as follows:
Lot #8 - $2.50 1862 PCGS MS64+ CAC, realized $52,875, PCGS POP 1/0
Lot #24 - $20 1864 PCGS MS63+, realized $88,125, PCGS POP 1/1
Lot #26 - $2.50 1865-S PCGS MS63+ CAC, realized $49,937.50, PCGS POP 1/1
Lot $30 - $20 1865 PCGS MS65 CAC, realized $105,750, PCGS POP 2/0
The four coins upgraded, one coin sole finest (POP1/0) certified by PCGS and the second tied with one other coin for sole finest. The other two are recognized as second finest certified by PCGS. All four coins were solid upgrades that improved the collection. Mr. Hansen paid auction records for all of them except the 1864 PCGS MS63+ Double Eagle. The record for that coin is held by Charles G. Wright Family sole finest MS65 GEM that was auction by Heritage Auctions in 2014 for $282,000. The BigMo-Hansen specimen is not on the same playing field as that coin. Today, I will focus on the quarter eagle coins.
1862 Quarter Eagle, MS64+, CAC Approved
David Akers describes the 1862 Quarter Eagle as: Once again, you can totally disregard the valuations for this coin in the standard pricing guides, particularly in uncirculated condition. Strictly uncircualted specimens are really very rare and this date is actually available more often in proof than it is in uncirculated condition.
The new Hansen coin appeared in a Heritage 2017 US Coins Signature Auction in Dallas. We may be able to assume that was where Monte purchased the coin. Legend does not mention that was where Monte purchased his coin, but they do mention the sale. They wrote: This piece last sold for $35,250 in April 2017. Things are much different since it last sold. Demand for better gold is off the charts-and that is exactly the category this coin fits in to, Good luck! The author was correct because the coin realize a nice uptick over the sale three years prior.
There was no prior history offered in the Heritage 2017 sale. They described the coin as Finest Certified at Both Services and in more detail as Although the 1862 quarter eagle has a mintage that tops 98,000 coins -- one of the higher production totals of the period -- Mint State examples are still rare in all grades. Most such pieces are heavily bagmarked, and few grade finer than MS62. The finest known are three NGC MS64 coins and four PCGS MS64, including this piece, the sole MS64+ example (2/17). The present coin is a true near-Gem and easily among the most eye-appealing top-grade pieces known. The strike is razor-sharp, and vibrant orange-gold mint luster attractively blends with mild reflectivity in the fields. A few trivial grazes in the fields limit the grade, while Liberty's cheek is pleasantly clean. An outstanding example of this conditionally rare Philadelphia issue. The coin has maintained that sole top coin from the 2017 sale until today.
Legend hints that as good as the coin is, it may not be the sole finest. They wrote: A remarkable coin, the single FINEST graded by PCGS and tied with just a single MS64+ at NGC. There were 98,508 quarter eagles struck, and most disappeared into circulation after the war ended and specie began to be used in commercial channels again. Perhaps 140 examples exist in all grades with 30 estimated to survive in Mint State grades. Again, this is the FINEST example graded at PCGS. Not only is the Hansen coin the finest by PCGS, the auction results were very eye opening. The single MS64+ NGC specimen sold August 2020 in a Heritage sale and realized only $21,000. The coin does not carry the CAC sticker. You would think a difference in price would be likely, but what we saw in two sales less than four months apart was really astonishing. Anyone disagree of think differently?
As typical for a coin in a Legend Auction, a very nice and appealing description is given for the coin. An intense luster has a combination of satiny, flashy, and frosty textures that together offer a stunning GEM brilliance. Radiant golden hues are intoxicating and truly seductive. Sharply struck up on both sides from heavily clashed dies, you can clearly see the outline of Liberty's portrait surrounding the eagle. Liberty's cheek and neck have a wonderful, thick frosty texture. There is just a tiny toning spot in the field between the neck and the 8 in the date. The eye appeal is SUPERB!
The two quarter eagle upgrades were this “remarkable” coin and the 1865-S PCGS MS63+ CAC, PCGS POP 1/1. The coin realized $49,937.50, which makes the total for the two quarter eagles just over $100K. The 1865-S PCGS MS63+ has one coin graded finer by PCGS and it is the Harry Bass MS64 specimen that last appeared in auction over 20 years ago. By today’s grading standard, the Bass coin could be a little better than MS64 now. Both of the new Hansen quarter eagles were nice upgrades to the overall collection and specifically to the Civil War set. Stay turn, we will see the two Double Eagles in the next posting.
Provenance: US Coins Signature (Heritage, 4/2017), lot 15916, realized $35,240; BigMo Civil War Collection in The Regency 42 Auction (Legend 12/2020) lot 8, realized $52,875, D.L. Hansen Collection.
1862 Quarter Eagle, MS64+
PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved
Certification #83499673, PCGS #7796
PCGS Value Guide: $35,000 / realized $52,875
CAUTION: This coin can be intoxicating according to LRCA
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
I'm drooling over the rims on that 1862 $2.5
IG: DeCourcyCoinsEbay: neilrobertson
"Numismatic categorizations, if left unconstrained, will increase spontaneously over time." -me
I looked at this thread briefly for the third time ever as I was interested. In what the various posters reaction was to the Hansen collection pursuit and their comments.
However, I do limit my time studying Hansen’s hunt to complete his collection as it takes away from my hunt to expand my own collection. Nothing against Hansen but my own hunt is important to me.
I might be jaded since I spent so many hours with Mrs. Norweb in her vault room In Ohio back in 1971 through 1973 when I was still a young coin collector attending College and did not fully comprehend how amazing her coin collection was.
Upgrades for the BigMo Civil War Auction Sale #2 – Part 2
Legend’s Regency 42 Auction was held on December 3rd, including the Big Mo Gold Civil War Issues Part 2. The D. L. Hansen Collection purchased four coins that upgraded the top Civil War Registry set. I reported on the two quarter eagles a couple days ago. This update will be for the two Double Eagles. One of them according to a Legend press release set a World Record at $105,750, 1865 PCGS MS65 CAC Approved.
The Hansen Civil War Set is the currently the best in the registry. With the additions of the BigMo coins, the #1 set has become much better. The Civil War Collection with Circulation Strikes Gold (1861-1865) set has a weighted GPA of 62.45 and with bonus points, 63.23. The only other completed set in the registry is the retired BIgMo set and is trailing the Hansen set by more than a full GPA point. If you recall, Mr. Hansen won 18 coins in the Legend’s Regency 39 Auction containing BigMo Part 1. In that sale, Mr. Hansen won six of the twelve auction record setting BigMo Collection coins. He won eight gold coins, and four of them were Auction records in the Part 2 sale. As a total result, The D.L. Hansen Collection picked up 26 coins from the BigMo sales with 10 setting Auction Records. Also, let’s keep in mind, not all of them went into his number one set. The BigMo sale has been one of the fun ones to watch in 2020.
The four lots that resulted in updates to the top set as follows:
Lot #8 - $2.50 1862 PCGS MS64+ CAC, realized $52,875, PCGS POP 1/0
Lot #24 - $20 1864 PCGS MS63+, realized $88,125, PCGS POP 1/1
Lot #26 - $2.50 1865-S PCGS MS63+ CAC, realized $49,937.50, PCGS POP 1/1
Lot $30 - $20 1865 PCGS MS65 CAC, realized $105,750, PCGS POP 2/0
Today, I will focus on the double eagle coins. The pair realized a little less than $200K total.
1865 Double Eagle, MS65, CAC Approved
David Akers describes the 1865 Double Eagle as: The 1865 is a scarce date but it is not as rare as the 1855-1859 P-Mint issues or the 1862, 1863 and 1864. It is, however, more rare than the 1854 or 1860. When available, the typical 1865 is VF or EF although an occasional AU can also be located. In full mint state, the 1865 is rare and choice (63) quality uncs are very rare. I have never personally seen a gem 1865 and so I cannot say for sure whether or not one exists. In a PCGS update, Ron Guth wrote: Much of what we know about the 1865 $20 has changed since David Akers wrote about them decades ago. The most significant development was the discovery in 2003 of approximately three hundred 1865 $20 gold pieces in the shipwreck of the S.S. Republic. After conservation, numerous Mint State examples swelled the population and the condition census. Despite the addition of hundreds of coins to the known populations, the 1865 still conforms to Akers' conclusions of long ago -- the 1865 $20 remains rarer than all the dates cited by Akers (1855, 1856, 1857, 1858, 1859, 1862, 1863, and 1864) and it remains less common than the 1854 and the 1860. However, Akers' comments on condition are no longer relevant. Now, every 1865 $20 in the PCGS Condition Census grades at least MS64 and the finest examples rate out at MS65.
Actually in the PCGS POP report, the Gem rates out at two certified specimens. NGC paints a different story. There are 22 MS65 GEMs in that report and two certified as MS66. This is a fairly large difference. I would think some of the NGC GEMs would cross to PCGS GEMs, but I don’t know how many. Still with the big unknown, the BigMo MS65 specimen ran up to a World Record price and over six figures. According to Doug Winter: The finest known is an NGC MS66 from the S.S. Republic which I sold to a New England collector in 2014. It set a record price for a business strike of this date. Being the coin was in a private sale, I have not been able to determine if the coin brought more than six figures. At the time the coin was considered the sole finest as Mr. Winter wrote on his website: It is the single finest-known 1865 double eagle. The next best example is probably the PCGS/CAC MS65 which sold for $88,125 in a Heritage 2013 auction. With this statement, we know the MS66 NGC specimen brought more than $88,125.
Legend Auctions describes the coin as: A truly SPECTACULAR GEM example of this important Type 1 Double Eagle and tied for FINEST at PCGS with just a single example. This coin truly is a miracle of survival and a real Civil War era treasure coin. Historically interesting as the final year of the No Motto reverse type struck in Philadelphia, this date used to be rare in Mint State, but thanks to the discovery of some 300 examples in the wreck of the S.S. Republic, it has become more available for collectors. Prior to that, most collectors either opted for circulated examples, the best that Harry Bass had was an AU, or in the case of the Garrett and Eliasberg Collections, Proofs. Even with those coins from the S.S. Republic, it is still EXCESSIVELY RARE in this quality.
According, Legend indicated that Monte really like this coin. They wrote: Speaking volumes about this spectacular coin is our consignor's own words, "this is my favorite coin in the entire BigMo Collection!" Legend Auctions connects the coin the PCGS MS65 that Mr. Winter mention: This is the ONLY PCGS MS65 to ever sell in auction, realizing $88,125 back in April 2013. NO OTHER CAC example has ever sold in auction. In the Heritage Auction, the coin was described as: The Finest Seen at PCGS - Our current Gem offering (which cannot be traced to the Republic recovery) is the solitary MS65 seen by PCGS, as well as the finest 1865 twenty at that service! Both sides yield vibrant luster on its yellow-gold surfaces that are tinted with hints of apricot. The design features are well defined, including full delineation in the obverse star centrils. A small mark on the lower-left part of Liberty's neck will help identify the coin for future catalogers. This classic piece of Americana is sure to generate spirited bidding.
Also Legend Auctions makes no mention this coin is connected to one of the shipwrecks. Honestly, without being able to trace an early provenance, I not sure how you could assume anything but a shipwreck source. One of the problems, many of the great early collections did not have one of these coins. Heritage wrote: The 1865 was therefore either missing from important earlier collections (Garrett and Guth, in their 2006 Encyclopedia, indicate: "The Smithsonian currently lacks an example"), consisted of a lower-grade specimen (the previous authors state: "The best Harry W. Bass Jr. could acquire in 30-plus years of collecting was About Uncirculated"), or filled in with a proof (the collection of James Ten Eyck, sold in 1922 by B. Max Mehl, is listed in the catalog as a Brilliant Proof, the specimen in the Garrett collection was described in the 1980 Bowers and Ruddy catalog as a Choice Brilliant Proof, and the Eliasberg coin was listed as a Proof 67 in the 1982 Bowers and Ruddy catalog).
Legend described the coin as: Boasting a blazing golden luster that has the vivid vibrance and strong rolling cartwheel luster of an 1881-S Morgan dollar, not a Civil War era Philly mint double eagle. The radial bands of brilliance accentuate a bright yellow-gold coloration that is evenly distributed on both sides. The strike is complete with fully defined design types on both sides. While a few tiny traces of contact are seen, mostly on the reverse, these can be forgiven in light of the stunning visual allure of this impressive GEM, and the obverse is essentially flawless.
The double eagle upgrades were two really great Type 1 Double Eagle specimens. The other coin, 1864 MS63+ Double Eagle was a PCGS POP 1/1 PCGS specimen. The sole finest at PCGS is the Charles G. Wright Family MS65 GEM that was auction by Heritage Auctions in 2014 for $282,000. Legend Auctions described the BigMo-Hansen 1865 MS63+ coin as: This is a GORGEOUS and high end example, the SECOND FINEST GRADED by PCGS! Despite a mintage of 204,235 PCGS CoinFacts estimates fewer than 600 survive in all grades, with just a few dozen Mint State examples in Mint State grades, mostly clustered around MS60-62. No PCGS MS63 or MS63+ has ever sold in auction. An NGC MS63 sold for $70,500 back in April 2014, and an NGC MS64 sold for $99,000 in January 2020. In MS63+ and MS64 the 1864 $20 is unpriced in the PCGS Price Guide, but in MS63 it is listed at $72,500 and is $275,000 in MS65. With the initial look of a GEM quality coin, this high end coin will see strong bidding, it would not be a shock if the final price realized approached six-figures! The coin came up a little short of six figures while realizing $88,125. This wraps up the four BigMo upgrades in the top set. For the first time ever, I will feature a coin that was purchased for the #2 set or as a duplicate. Stay turn if you want to be amazed.
Provenance: CSNS US Coin Signature (Heritage 4/2013), Lot # 4575, realized $88,125; BigMo Civil War Collection - The Regency Auction 42 (Legend 12/2020) lot 30, realized $105,750; D.L. Hansen Collection
1865 Double Eagle, MS65
PCGS POP 2/0, CAC Approved
Certification #40576586, PCGS #8943
PCGS Value Guide: $80,000 / realized $105,750
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Upgrades for the BigMo Civil War Auction Sale #2 – Part3
Today, we will put a bow on the BigMo Gold Civil War sale. To cover only five years, what a great little collection this set represents. Legend’s Regency 42 Auction hosted the Big Mo Gold Civil War Issues Part 2. I have covered most all the significant purchases, but have I really? I think this will be the first time that I have ever dedicated a post to duplicates. If we are going to do it, I cannot think of a better grouping than these four civil war coins that Mr. Hansen purchased in the recent Legend sale. The typical way a collector would populate their duplicate or #2 set would be to add duplicates when upgrading the top set. Makes sense right? Well, that is one way, but not the only way. Over the last few months, I have seen where Mr. Hansen has purchased coins specifically for the #2 sets. I have not really reported on it before, but I can recall seeing duplicates purchased from The McCoy Family Collection of Capped Head Half Eagles in an 8/2020 Heritage Sale. This has been taking placed all year. I have concluded that Mr. Hansen is very serious about building a #2 set as complete as possible. If that is true, then the only way to populate the set when there are great coins in the top set would be to purchased duplicates for the second set. This has not been anything that Mr. Hansen or John Brush has spoken about that I can recall. Maybe they will in the future.
So, today we will look at the duplicates that were purchased from the BigMo Collection and you can draw some conclusions yourself.
Lot # 5 - $10 1861-S PCGS AU58 CAC Approved, realized $29,375. This coin is described by Legend: PCGS has graded just a single AU58+ finer, a coin that sold in April 2018 for $45,500. The last PCGS AU58 to sell was the Warren Miller coin, way back in 1995. The current PCGS Price Guide value is listed at $35,000. A very RARE and important opportunity for anyone working on an advanced $10 gold piece collection, or cabinet of Civil War coins. The sole AU58+ CAC Approved specimen is correctly owned by the D.L. Hansen Collection. According to Legend Auction, the BigMo coin is the only AU58 of the five certified by PCGS that is CAC Approved. A really great coin for the #2 set.
Lot # 20 - $20 1863-S PCGS MS62+ CAC Approved, realized $22,912.50. This coin is described by Legend: There are 2 in MS62+ at PCGS and just eight graded higher. No MS62+ graded by PCGS or NGC has ever sold in auction. The most recent MS62 sold for $21,000 in June 2020 and NO PCGS MS63 has sold in nearly a decade! The current PCGS Price Guide value is $24,000. We anticipate very strong bidding to bring this prize home! This coin does not have the POP status as the 1861-S Eagle. D.L. Hansen Collection currently owns one of the two MS64 POP 2/0 specimens as its top coin.
Lot # 31 - $20 1865-S PCGS MS64 CAC Approved, realized $28,200. This coin is described by Legend: Do not let the Pops fool you, this coin is the ONLY CAC approved example to sell in auction, realizing $31,725 in the 2016 ANA auction. The current CAC CPG value is listed at $26,600 and the current PCGS Price Guide value is listed at $24,000. Rare finer, this is a superb example for any collector. Good luck. The current Hansen top coin is also MS64. With this purchase he now has two $20 1865-S PCGS MS64 specimens. The new coin is CAC Approved where his existing one was not. We could see a swap at some point. Presently, the new BigMo coin was placed in the #2 set.
Lot # 14 - $2.50 1863 PCGS PR65+ DCAM CAC Approved. This is the coin that peak my interest enough to post this duplicate feature. This coin is described by Legend: PCGS has graded 2 in PR65+ DCAM and two graded finer, one reported in PR66 DCAM and one in PR66+ DCAM. The BigMo collector bought this coin privately for $225,000 from David Hall. The current Collectors Universe value is $245,000. One of the classic gold rarities, the 1863 quarter eagle is ranked among the 100 Greatest Coins by Garrett and Guth; it is not hard to see why! Missing from many a great cabinet and worthy of a fantastic collection, and a strong bid! Good luck! Let’s look at this coin in a little more detail.
1863 Quarter Eagle, PR65+ DCAM, CAC Approved
David Akers wrote: No quarter eagles were minted for general circulation at the Philadelphia Mint in 1863. However, 30 proofs were struck and so this is one of the rarest and most desirable of all Liberty Head quarter eagles. Actually, in proof, the 1863 has appeared at auction more often than any other quarter eagle of the 1860's. However, other dates are available in other conditions, and therefore, this date has attained a much higher price level than other proofs of this decade. Of the 30 proofs originally minted, I would estimate that no more than 10 to 12 remain in unimpaired state. This purchase gives the D.L. Hansen Collection the second specimen of this rare coin.
Our friend Ron Guth added comments: The 1863 Quarter Eagle is extremely popular with collectors because it is a Proof-only issue and, thus, the only option available to anyone seeking a Quarter Eagle of this date from the Philadelphia Mint. With a mintage of only 30 examples, this date creates excitement whenever it appears on the market. Probably half of the original mintage survives. I know of thirteen demonstrably different examples, including two circulated examples and two in the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution. Most examples are cameos, though there are several that were certified before PCGS recognized the Cameo designation and which would receive either a CAM or a DCAM designation upon re-examination. The finest 1863 Quarter Eagle is a PCGS PR66DCAM which sold for a record price of $195,500 in 2012. It currently reposes in the Simpson Collection.
Presently, The D.L. Hansen Collection has the sole finest certified by PCGS, 1863 $2.50, DCAM PR66+ DCAM Certification #34485019. I do not think this is the Simpson PR66DCAM mentioned by Ron Guth. I believed the Simpson coin to be the second finest by PCGS. The BigMo coin that Mr. Hansen purchased is tied with one other PR65+ DCAM specimen for number three spot in the PCGS condition census report. Legend Auction described the coin as: A magnificent GEM example of this incredibly RARE Proof Only date. One of the RAREST dates in the extensive Liberty Head quarter eagle series. Demand for the denomination was nonexistent and the mint only produced 30 Proofs for collectors, all delivered on March 23. Today, these are listed in John Dannreuther's magnum opus on U.S. Gold Proof coins as JD-1, considered to be Rarity-6, with 18-22 pieces extant, and he positively enumerates 20 distinct examples, the present coin is listed as #2 on his listing of Significant Examples. Of the ones enumerated, three are impounded in museum collections, including two in the Smithsonian and one at the ANS. Of those that are available for private ownership, a number are impaired. Of the survivors, this piece is one of the VERY FINEST KNOWN and is a real trophy coin for the advanced U.S. gold coin collector. The BigMo coin that Mr. Hansen purchased is tied with one other PR65+ DCAM specimen for number three in the condition census report with Simpson and Hansen #1 coin grading higher. If the BigMo coin is #2, I wonder which of two top PCGS coins is below the BIgMo coin on John Dannreuther's list in his magnum opus.
This is truly a magnificent coin as described by Legend: Boasting essentially perfect surfaces, the GEM quality fields and devices are totally devoid of any marks, hairlines, lint marks, or distractions of any kind that would mar the outstanding eye appeal. The mirrors are deeply and boldly reflective with a strong brilliance. An amazing rich orange color radiates all over, with a thick frost on the devices, imparting a dramatic contrast between the devices and the fields. A strong glass brings out the wonderful original orange peel texture in the fields. The eye appeal is truly magnificent!
The D.L. Hansen has two of these rare coins. It is pretty obviously to me with this purchase; Mr. Hansen overall goal will be to have two very nice Civil War sets in the Collection. He did not let this coin slip away as can be confirm with his aggressive bidding. He was more than willing to pay a premium for a coin that he really did not need to improve his collection. Let’s watch a see what happens in the future with the #2 D.L. Hansen set.
Provenance: BigMo purchased from David Hall; BigMo Civil War Collection - The Regency Auction 42 (Legend 12/2020) lot 14, realized $270,250; D.L. Hansen Collection
1863 Quarter Eagle, PR65+ DCAM, (Hansen #2 Specimen)
PCGS POP 2/2, CAC Approved, Tied for 3rd Finest certified by PCGS
Certification #82452561, PCGS #97889
PCGS Value Guide: $245,000 / realized $270,250
Ex: David Hall – BigMo
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Provenance: Unknown. I appear to me the coin was purchased by Hansen about 2-3 years ago in a private transaction. The only hint that I have was from @earlyAurum (June 21, 2018): I think he also has an $2.5 1863 in PR66+ CAC which is unbelievably gorgeous. It was for sale on DLRC a few months back.
1863 Quarter Eagle, PR66+ DCAM (Hansen #1 Specimen)
PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved, Finest certified b y PCGS
PCGS Coin #97889/ PCGS Serial #34485019
PCGS Value Guide: Unknown / realized unknown
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Note: I included both the Hansen Specimens for your view and enjoyment
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
I see some of his complete sets have been retired.
Any speculation as to why he would do this?
"Got a flaming heart, can't get my fill"
Upgrades from the Mr. Perfection Sale
Mr. Perfection 8 set of Liberty Seated Half Dollars Basic Proof (1858-1891) is one of the best proof half dollar registry sets ever assembled. These self-described comments from Mr. Perfection were made in 2017: This was a very interesting year. Dell Hanson entered the coin market in a big way. I believe he purchased at least four complete sets and is also trying to acquire one of every other coin. He currently has over 500 sets in the works. WOW! Dell purchased the Chrismor PR Seated Half set. It was one of the best purchases Dell made. Yes he has also bought many single incredible coins, but this my far is his nicest set. Even though many coins are not CAC, Ted had a passion like myself for amazing eye appeal coins. This set is beautiful. Congratulations to both Dell and Ted…. Both the Hansen and the Perfection sets have amazing coins in them and are a compliment to the beauty of Seated halves.
PCGS describes the proof set this way: The dates from 1858-91 are much more collector-friendly than the earlier issues, but they still present a challenge. You’ll find the No Motto dates through 1865, then the Motto (IN GOD WE TRUST) dates from 1866 through 1891. In addition, there are the Arrows at Date coins of 1873-74. From the years just before the Civil War to the final decade of the 19th century, this set represents a major segment of American history and a significant numismatic accomplishment. As noted by Mr. Perfection, The D.L. Hansen Collection took the lead in March 2017 with the purchase of the Chrismor Collection. The All-Time ranking as the registry leaderboard stands today, #1-D.L. Hansen, #2- Mr. Perfection 8, #3- Chrismor, #4-D.L.Hansen Second Set, #5- Stokely Collection. The top nine sets with the exception of the two D.L. Hansen Sets are retired.
The Mr. Perfection set was recently sold in auction by David Lawrence Rare Coins. The pre-auction commentary by DLRC: Proof coins from the mid-19thcentury are among the most under-appreciated issues in numismatics. Proof issues of all denominations were minted sporadically until 1858, when it is generally believed that the sale of proof sets to individual collectors at a small premium began under Mint Director J.R. Snowden. With this landmark change in the mentality of the US Mint to work with collectors, a new segment of the hobby slowly developed and grew. During this new era of coin production, the mintages of the Proof Seated Half Dollar series, “soared” from mintages of 15 or fewer to 100 coins in 1858 which is marked as the beginning of the collectible set. They were struck yearly through 1891, spanning from the Civil War all the way up until the very end of the 1800s, a tumultuous time in American history. Even with the increase in proofs minted, the largest mintage was still only 1,355 pieces in 1880. Not a cheap or easy collection to complete, there are just seven active sets on the PCGS Set Registry. D. L. Hansen’s collection has been in the top spot since 2017, but before Hansen entered the scene, the race was between the Perfection and the now retired Chrismor sets. The Hansen Collection actually acquired the Chrismor set and improved upon it, which allowed the Perfection set to currently occupy second place overall. The Perfection Collection of Proof Seated Liberty Half Dollars may be second overall but is actually ranked as the #1 PCGS Registry Set for the series with CAC approval. While there are individual pieces graded finer than some of the examples, the quality and eye-appeal are nearly unmatched. With 34 of the 35 coins in the set earning the coveted CAC seal of approval, it would be impossible to complete a collection with a greater desire for quality. The cornerstone of DLRC’s Weekly Internet Auction #1145 ending on Sunday, November 29th, this collection offers quality, eye appeal, and perfection in every coin. One of the premier pieces of the collection is the stunning 1878 50c PCGS/CAC PR68CA. This beautifully toned example is the only PR68 at PCGS regardless of designation with no examples finer. Seafoam green around the obverse edge fades gently into a rose and golden center, complemented nicely by the blue and gold reverse. When factored in with the incredible technical grade and appealing cameo contrast, this gem is sure to be the highlight of any set. The first known sale of this example was back in August 1992 and it sold most recently in 2016 for $42,300, setting the record for the date. Another noteworthy lot is the 1858 50c PCGS/CAC PR63+CAM. With a mintage of 100-300 coins depending on the source, the 1858 saw the lowest mintage of the standard series. Only two cameo pieces are graded finer at PCGS. This example is very clean and white with strong cameo contrast and nicely reflective fields. A must-have first year issue, this piece is worth a serious look for anyone looking to build or improve their registry set.
DLRC Blog after the sale: DLRC concluded its offering of the Perfection Collection, the #1 rated PCGS Registry Set of Seated Liberty Proof Half Dollars with CAC approval on Nov. 29th with spectacular results. While each of the coins were offered with a minimum value to the consignor, the collection achieved an outstanding sell through rate of 28 out of 35 lots, which sold for over $400,000. Strong bidding from both collectors and dealers created record prices across the board on a series that has generally been considered quiet in recent years. In the words of Jason Smith, Vice President of DLRC, “As such a unique high-end Registry Set, it was encouraging to see the strong bidding activity on so many of these pieces.” In the end, Mr. Hansen purchased eight of the Perfection coins with not all going into the #1 set. In looking at the results, I saw several coins that would have improved the Hansen set that was not purchased. I sent Joh Brush a question on some of the coins that were not purchased, and he replied: ”We actually were outbid on 5-6 coins even after we chased them. Dell Loy actually had no problem with that and was glad it supported the hobby”. In a series that have taken a beaten lately, Mr. Hansen was not able to place low bids and walk away. He had to actually chase some of the better coins. Some he won, and some he did not (actually won eight and lost 5-6 coins).
There are 35 coins that are required in the set. The best I can tell, Mr. Hansen purchased eight of the Mr. Perfection coins. Five coins improve his top set by grade, and other one has the same grade that could go into either set.
Top Set Coins
1875 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 67, Cert #25247805, PCGS POP 3/0, realized $8,825
1878 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 68 CAM, Cert #33207228, PCGS POP 1/0, realized $41,900
1880 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 67+, Cert #6585080, PCGS POP 1/0, realized $18,055
1890 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 67+ CAM, Cert #25564662, PCGS POP 3/1, realized $13,325
1891 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 66+ CAM, Cert #25064754, PCGS POP 2/3, realized $18,483
Second Set Coins
1862 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 65+ CAM, Cert #25303984, Hansen Top Coin PR66 POP 6/0
1863 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 66 CAM, Cert #20242533, Hansen Top Coin PR66CAM CAC, POP 2/1
1884 50C PCGS/CAC PROOF 67 CAM, Cert #5944155, Hansen Top Coin PR68CAM, POP 1/0
As you can see, the coins improve the top set and well as three coins for the #2 set. John Brush mentioned in his blog that the 1858 50c PCGS/CAC PR63+CAM was a noteworthy coin. The current Hansen coin is a beautiful PR67, PCGS POP 1/0 specimen so that coin may not have been of any interest to the Hansen Collection. Let’s focus a little on the 1878 PR68CAM, PCGS POP 1/0 Specimen.
1878 Seated Liberty Half Dollar, PR68CAM, Ex: Gardner – Perfection
Our expert Ron Guth: Proof 1878 Half Dollars are slightly more rare than many of the other dates in the 1870's and follow the Proof 1876 Half Dollars rather closely in terms of the total number of certified survivors and the grade distribution. This makes the 1878 a good value for collectors who are seeking a low mintage coin at an affordable price. As with the other contemporary dates, the 1878 usually comes in average grades, usually in PR63. Gems are available (for a price) but anything better than PR65 is a condition-rarity. Nearly a quarter of the known examples are Cameo Proofs. Deep Cameo Proofs are exceedingly rare.
This is one of those exceeding rare specimens. It pedigrees to the Eugene H. Gardner Collection, but can be traced back to the Orlando Sale (Superior, 8/1992), lot 410. In the Heritage 2016 sale of the Garner Collection, the coin was described as: The Sole Finest Certified - Although plentiful in Choice and lower grades, the 1878 proof Seated half dollar is decidedly rare at the Superb Gem level. Only the example offered here has been certified PR68, with or without Cameo designations. This remarkable Superb Gem proof displays a beautiful blend of cobalt-blue and lavender toning around the obverse borders, framing the silver-gray central area. On the reverse, a sliver of gold clings to the margin, ceding to dominant sea-green over the remaining surface. The design features stand out markedly against the mirrored fields, and as expected, essentially unimprovable preservation characterizes both sides. An unsurpassable example in all regards. The coin realized the auction record of $42,300. In the recent sale, the coin came just a little short of that mark.
In the David Lawrence Auction, the coin was described as: From the Perfection Collection of Proof Seated Half Dollars. The Number 1 PCGS Registry Set with CAC Approval. Hailing from a low mintage of 800 coins struck in proof format, this ultra gem has been amazingly preserved! A beautiful blend of electric blue and lavender toning surrounds the obverse borders, framing the silver-gray centers. On the reverse blue-green coloration spans the interiors with hints of gold along the rims. As expected of the advanced grade no distractions are revealed beneath the rich patina and the contrast is bold. An exceptional and unmatched example in all regards! Finest known with cameo surfaces and the finest numerically graded piece across all levels of contrast. CAC approved for quality. If I see John Brush, I hope I remember to ask him why the Gardner connection was not made in the listing. It may not have made any difference in the results, but would have been a nice connection.
Over the years, the D.L. Hansen Collection has purchase many of the Perfection coins. Sometimes even complete sets. Therefore, when I saw these coins being offered by DLRC, was not surprise to see some of them purchased by Mr. Hansen. Also, I am glad to see the results were a success for Mr. Perfection and DLRC, even though Mr. Hansen was not able to get all the coins that he had hoped. Everyone wins.
Provenance:
Orlando Sale (Superior, 8/1992), lot 410; ANA Signature (Heritage, 3/2010), lot 1018, realized $34,500; Eugene H. Gardner Collection, Part III (Heritage, 5/2015, as PR68 NGC with CAC approval), lot 98511, realized $42,300; Mr. Perfection Collection (DLRC, 11/2020), Inventory #2177488, realized $41,900, D.L. Hansen Collection.
1878 Seated Liberty Half Dollar, PR68CAM
PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved, Sole Finest Certified
Certification #33207228, PCGS #86439
PCGS Value Guide: $42,500 / realized $41,900
Ex: Gardner – Perfection
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Very nice commentary. I do not agree with DLH not buying more of the coins.
This is not because they were mine. Another 20k-40k or so is nothing in the context of building his total collection. Yes it adds up but DLH should have purchased the coins to complete his CAC set. CAC coins should get one point or at least the same as a plus. They are simply better coins
and strictly graded. He will now have to add lower grades to complete the CAC set.
PR Seated are somewhat out of favor but they are special and he should have bought the 5-6 he was out bid on. Just my opinion.
Early Proof Quarter Eagle
The Early Quarter Eagle set to say that it is difficult, does not completely describe the effort that it will take. It is not just the quarter eagles, but just about across the board, trying to acquire specimens of any gold series is going to be very difficult. With this upgrade, Hansen now has 880 of the 1145 required for a complete registry set from 1801 to 1964 (76.86%) In other words, 265 coins are remaining. As stated a few days ago, the D.L. Hansen Collection is 87 coins away from completing the proof gold from 1859-1915. Those 87 is considered collectible. The 178 remaining coins between 1801 and 1857 is a very different story. It is possible to collect them all? Heck no. Some of the dates do not have any current PCGS certified specimens. For some dates, the validity of the coin actually exist proof finish is in question by PCGS, and others there are no known samples. Finally, there are unique coins locked up in institutions that will never be available. I have said before, if the set can be complete to 99%, it would be the greatest proof accomplishment of all-times. Time will tell just how many.
This update is one of the pair that is in that difficult date range (1801 and 1857). For gold, the date (1843) is about as difficult there can be. A complete gold set (set of three) was offered in Heritage August 2019, ANA World's Fair of Money US Coins Signature Auction in Chicago. The set was from The Joan Zieg Steinbrenner Collection. At that time, the focus of the D.L. Hansen Collection was elsewhere and I don’t think they had much interest in chasing the gold set. Another factor in that decision could be the gold set was in NGC holders. The Eagle specimen realized $480,000 and was purchase for the Tyrant Collection where it remains today. The quarter and half eagle was a dealer purchase and have been marketed for more than the last twelve months by U.S. Coins in Texas. I am pretty sure there have been some off and on negotiations with the Hansen Team during that time. Well around Thanksgiving, terms were agreed, and the D.L. Hansen Collection purchased both coins in a two coin deal. I had seen the coins offered on different sites for as much as $880,000 for the pair. I cannot imagine that was what they actually brought.
1843 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, PR65+DCAM CAC Approved, Ex: Pittman – Steinbrenner
Heritage Auctions described the rarity as: Only six proof 1843 Liberty quarter eagles have been reliably reported over the years and only half that number are available to collectors today. One coin resides in the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution, forever out of reach of collectors. Another example was stolen in 2007 and has never been recovered. A third specimen has not been traced since it was sold out of the Brand holdings in 1943. Of the remaining three coins, two were sold in the last few years and are currently held in strong hands, unlikely to be publicly offered any time soon. Heritage Auctions is delighted to offer the sixth and finest example of this early proof rarity in this important lot.
1843 Liberty Quarter Eagle Proof is extremely difficult. PCGS indicates the mintage at five examples produced. David Akers Comments: A few proofs are known, including one in the Smithsonian Institution and one in the John J. Pittman collection. On the proofs of this year, the 1 in the date actually touches the denticles, whereas on the circulation strikes, the 1 is just barely free of the denticles. The proofs are weakly struck on the eagle's right leg, and this weak strike is also typical of the circulation strikes. With a mintage of only five, oddly enough, most sources place the known specimens at six. To create an actual roster is not an easy task. In a 2019 Heritage sale, the quote was: Pedigrees for the 1843 gold proofs are notoriously difficult to compile and earlier researchers, like David Akers and John Dannreuther, did not have access to many resources on the Newman Portal today, like the Armin Brand notebooks. Thanks to John Dannreuther, Ron Guth, and Saul Teichman for their help preparing this roster. Grades are per the last auction appearance, unless a subsequent certification event is known. It is virtually certain that some coins have been submitted, or resubmitted, to the grading services since their last public offering. Grade of the Smithsonian specimen is per Jeff Garrett and Ron Guth.
So with that disclaimer, this is the roster of 1843 Proof Quarter Eagles:
1 - Pittman/Hansen Specimen - PR65+DCAM PCGS CAC. Possibly John Zug; sold to F.C.C. Boyd in 1939, per David Akers; World's Greatest Collection (Numismatic Gallery, 1/1946), lot 110 (a proof 1843 half eagle and eagle were also offered in separate lots in this auction, and in the two following sales); J.F. Bell (Jacob Shapiro); possibly 39th Mail Bid Sale (Hollinbeck-Kagin, 11/1946), lot 2245 (not sold); Memorable Collection (Numismatic Gallery, 3/1948), lot 103; John Jay Pittman; Pittman Collection, Part I (David Akers, 10/1997), lot 832, as part of a complete copper, silver, and gold proof set; Sil DiGenova and Mike Storeim; Ken Goldman (KGI) and Mark Yaffe (NGE); Blanchard & Co.; the three gold coins were reportedly sold by Blanchard & Company in a private treaty transaction in May of 2009 for $937,765; Joan Zieg Steinbrenner; The Joan Zieg Steinbrenner Collection, (Heritage 8/2019), Lot #3845, realized $240,000; In private transaction, U.S Coins sold to The D.L. Hansen Collection.
2 – Connecticut Specimen - PR65 Deep Cameo PCGS, CAC, Possibly the example that surfaced in a Connecticut estate sale in 2002 and sold by Nadeau Auctions for $66,125; Spectrum Numismatics; this coin was certified by PCGS on 1/16/2002 (thanks to Ron Guth for this information); John Albanese, purchased privately for $85,000; purchased by a private collector in 2004, via Al Pinkall; ANA Signature (Heritage, 8/2017), lot 4096, realized $211,500.
3 – Golden Jubilee Specimen - PR63 Cameo NGC, Possibly Jerome Kern; Golden Jubilee Sale (B. Max Mehl, 5/1950), lot 32; Mid-Western coin dealer; Long Beach Signature (Heritage, 1/2015), lot 3245, realized $70,500.
4 – Green/Carter Specimen (Stolen) - PR63 Cameo PCGS, A coin in the complete copper, silver, and gold proof set in the original yellow Morocco case reportedly presented by President Tyler in 1843 to an unnamed constituent; Fernand David Collection (Jacques Schulman, 3/1930), lot 112; purchased by an agent of B. Max Mehl at the Schulman sale in Amsterdam; Frank Stoddard; "Colonel" E.H.R. Green in 1932, via Mehl; Green Estate; B.G. Johnson; the set was offered to Ruth Green on 6/23/1943 for $1,000, returned; offered again to B. Max Mehl on 8/30/1944 for $1,000, returned; F.C.C. Boyd; purchased by B. Max Mehl; Will W. Neil; Neil Collection (Mehl, 6/1947), lot 2292; Amon Carter, Sr.; Amon Carter, Jr.; Carter Family Collection (Stack's, 1/1984), lot 630; Daniel Drykerman (per Walter Breen); Chris Napolitano; private collector; the set was stolen at the 2007 FUN convention and has not reappeared.
5 – Smithsonian Specimen - PR65 Cameo. Mint Cabinet; National Numismatic Collection, Smithsonian Institution.
6 – Possible Duplicate Specimen (Last Seen 1943) - Proof, A coin in the complete copper, silver, and gold proof set in the original red Morocco case reportedly presented by President Tyler in 1843 to his ward, Mrs. Octavia McMurray (per Frossard); Reverend T. Wilkinson Collection (Édouard Frossard, 2/1880), lot 651; purchased at the sale by George Cogan, probably acting as agent for Richard B. Winsor, for $100; Winsor Collection (S.H. & H. Chapman, 12/1895), lot 1067; purchased by Peter Mougey, bidding as "Gold"; William Woodin purchased Mougey's collection intact, after his death in 1908, and sold the majority of the collection through Thomas Elder in 1910, but he kept the three gold coins from the 1843 proof set; Woodin Collection (Thomas Elder, 3/1911), lot 966; Lyman Low, acting as agent for Virgil Brand, journal number 57049; Armin Brand; consigned to B.G. Johnson on October 25, 1937; sold on 7/1/1943, Note: not traced since, possibly number 2 or 3 above.
Some additional historical facts was given in the Heritage description: Although the coin offered here is not the quarter eagle from this proof set, which later passed to Virgil Brand and has not been traced since 1943, it does have a remarkable connection with this set. We can only trace the history of this coin back to 1939, when Maryland dealer John Zug sold it to prominent collector F.C.C. Boyd, along with proof specimens of the 1843 half eagle and eagle. These three gold coins later passed through the important collections of Jacob Shapiro (aka J.F. Bell) and John Jay Pittman, remaining together through the years. Pittman purchased the three gold pieces at the sale of the Memorable Collection (Numismatic Gallery, 3/1948). A few months later, he acquired the silver and copper coins and the original box from the 1843 proof set that had been sold in Frossard's 1880 sale. He combined the gold coins with the silver and minor proofs to reconstitute the complete 1843 proof set. This 1843 proof quarter eagle has accompanied the box and the other proof gold issues ever since. The eagle, half eagle, and box are offered in individual lots in their respective sections of this catalog.
The coin has great eye appeal and carries the CAC Approved green sticker. The coin was sold in the 2019 Auction in a PR66 Ultra Cameo NGC holder with no CAC sticker. The coin realized $240,000. Heritage Auctions described the coin: The present coin is a spectacular Premium Gem proof, with sharply detailed design elements and deeply reflective fields that contrast dramatically with the richly frosted devices. A partial wire rim is especially evident on the reverse. The well-preserved lemon-yellow surfaces show only a few faint hairlines in the field, above Liberty's head. Otherwise, no post-striking flaws are detected, even on close inspection with a loupe. Several tiny lint marks are scattered about, including one in the field between star 2 and the bust, a short one from star 6 to the dentils, and another above the eagle's left (facing) wing on the reverse. A minor planchet flake is seen near star 3. Overall eye appeal is terrific for this extremely rare early gold proof. This coin has not been publicly offered since the Pittman sale, 22 years ago. It is the finest of only three available 1843 proof quarter eagles, making this lot an important opportunity for the proof gold specialist.
The D.L. Hansen Collection is not a proof gold specialist collection. It is attempting to be a complete collection of US Issue coins in both proof and circulating strikes. In that attempt, they need to add coins like this which may be for a specialist collector a must. As great of coins they are, they are still small contributions to a multi-million dollar coin collection. I will share the 1843 Proof Half Eagle in the next posting. Wait and watch.
Provenance: See number 1 in the roster above.
1843 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, PR65+DCAM
PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved, Sole Finest Known
Certification #38446009, PCGS #97869, PCGS POP 1/0
PCGS Coin Guide Value: Unknown / Realized $240,000 (2019)
Ex: Pittman – Steinbrenner
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Early Proof Half Eagle
I shared the 1843 Proof Quarter Eagle a couple days ago. The second in the pair is the 1843 Proof Half Eagle. This completes the 1843 Proof set except for the very rare Golden Eagle. There is a little odd twist to the 1843 10-piece set. They have been assembled and broken several time in the past 150 years. In the 2019 Heritage sale of the Joan Zieg Steinbrenner gold set that this coin was in, a story of reassembling one of the 1843 proof sets was given: William Woodin owned a complete 1843 ten-piece copper, silver, and gold proof set in the original case after he bought Peter Mougey's collection in 1908. He split the set, selling the silver and copper coins, with the case, along with most of the rest of Mougey's collection, through Thomas Elder in 1910. He later sold the quarter eagle and eagle in the 1911 sale of his own gold collection, also through Elder, but retained the proof half eagle until later, and exhibited it at the 1914 ANS Exhibition. Woodin sold most of his half eagles (probably including the proof 1843) to Waldo Newcomer circa 1924. That coin probably went to "Colonel" Green, and was not included in the reassembled set. The quarter eagle went to Virgil Brand in 1911 and remained in the Brand Estate until it was sold by Armin Brand in 1943. We have not been able to trace it since. Likewise, the eagle from the original set went to Brand in 1911 and later went to Harry Bass. Someone, probably John Zug, reassembled the three-piece gold proof set before 1946, as F.C.C. Boyd had all three coins in his collection by that date, but none of the coins were from the original set. John Jay Pittman purchased the three gold proofs at the sale of the Memorable Collection, and united them with the silver and copper proofs of that date, which he purchased a few months later from Judge Joseph F. Sawicki, to reconstitute the complete 1843 proof set in the original case. This half eagle and the quarter eagle that I posted a couple a couple days ago are from the John Jay Pittman gold proofs purchased at the sale of the Memorable Collection. The third coin (1843 Eagle) was purchased in the 2019 Heritage sale by the Tyrant and is currently in his Eagle set. Today, there may not be a complete 10-piece set in private hands. Well, there could be if the stolen set is out there. Maybe I ought to say, there may not presently be a complete 10-piece set in private hands that can be shared with the general public.
I will note here that an original case for a seven-piece 1843 silver and minor proof set, modified by John Jay Pittman to include the three proof gold coins of that year in the lid was sold in the Joan Zieg Steinbrenner sale. The case is Morocco leather-bound wood exterior and is original. The case realized $7,200. Just to note, I think you would have a problem fitting certified coins in this case.
The D.L. Hansen collection has a nice set of 1843 Proofs, although the Eagle is missing. Mr. Hansen has not created an 1843 proof registry set, but his nine coins can be seen in the Complete Proof registry set with the filter set to 1843. The set is breathtaking. Six of his coins are sole finest PCGS POP 1/0 specimens. All coins appear to be CAC Approved. One coin is second finest PCGS graded, POP 1/1. One other is tied for second finest, POP 3/1. The only coin is the set that is not PCGS Condition Census Top Two is the 1843 1/2C Original, PR63BN, CAC Approved, POP 8/12. The half cent is the only real candidate for upgrading. Today, we will focus on the half eagle.
1843 Liberty Head Half Eagle, PR66DCAM CAC Approved, Ex: Pittman/Steinbrenner
Heritage Auctions described the rarity as: Early proof gold coins are among the most elusive issues in U.S. federal coinage. No records of proof mintages were kept before the Mint began its program of commercial proof offerings in 1858, but surviving populations are extremely low, so the production totals must have been tiny. Regarding the 1843 proof Liberty half eagle, only six examples are known to numismatists today. Two of those coins reside in institutional collections, forever out of reach of eager collectors. A third specimen was stolen in 2007 and has not been recovered. A fourth coin is in slightly impaired condition. Heritage Auctions is pleased to present the finest-certified specimen of this early proof rarity in this important offering.
As with the quarter eagle, the 1843 Liberty Half Eagle Proof is extremely difficult. PCGS indicates the mintage at four examples produced. The estimated survival is three and only one PR65 or better. With a mintage of only four, oddly enough, most sources place the known specimens at six. To create an actual roster is not an easy task. In a 2019 Heritage sale, the quote was: Pedigrees for the 1843 gold proofs are notoriously difficult to compile and earlier researchers, like David Akers and John Dannreuther, did not have access to many resources on the Newman Portal today, like the Armin Brand notebooks. Thanks to John Dannreuther, Ron Guth, and Saul Teichman for their help preparing this roster. Grades are per the last auction appearance, unless a subsequent certification event is known. It is virtually certain that some coins have been submitted, or resubmitted, to the grading services since their last public offering. Grade of the Smithsonian specimen is per Jeff Garrett and Ron Guth.
This group of experts actually created a roster of six specimens; therefore this is the roster of 1843 Proof Half Eagles:
1 - Pittman/Hansen Specimen - PR66DCAM CAC Approved, Possibly John Zug; sold to F.C.C. Boyd in 1939, per David Akers; World's Greatest Collection (Numismatic Gallery, 1/1946), lot 394 (a proof 1843 quarter eagle and eagle were also offered in separate lots in this auction, and in the two following sales); J.F. Bell (Jacob Shapiro); possibly 39th Mail Bid Sale (Hollinbeck-Kagin, 11/1946), lot 2255 (not sold); Memorable Collection (Numismatic Gallery, 3/1948), lot 343; John Jay Pittman; Pittman Collection, Part I (David Akers, 10/1997), lot 832, as part of a complete copper, silver, and gold proof set; Sil DiGenova and Mike Storeim; Ken Goldman (KGI) and Mark Yaffe (NGE); Blanchard & Co.; the three gold coins were reportedly sold in a private transaction by Blanchard & Company in May of 2009 for $937,765; Joan Zieg Steinbrenner; Zieg Steinbrenner Collection, (Heritage 8/2019), Lot #3880, realized $312,000; In private transaction, U.S Coins sold to The D.L. Hansen Collection.
2 – Smithsonian Specimen - PR66 Deep Cameo (grade per Garrett and Guth). Mint Cabinet in 1843 as part of a complete proof set, National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution.
3 - Wilkinson /Farouk Specimen - PR63 Cameo NGC. A coin in the complete copper, silver, and gold proof set in the original red Morocco case reportedly presented by President Tyler in 1843 to his ward, Mrs. Octavia McMurray (per Frossard); Reverend T. Wilkinson Collection (Edouard Frossard; 2/1880), lot 651; purchased at the sale by George Cogan, probably acting as agent for Richard B. Winsor, for $100; Winsor Collection (S.H. & H. Chapman, 12/1895), lot 1067; purchased by Peter Mougey, bidding as "Gold"; William Woodin purchased Mougey's collection intact, after his death in 1908, and sold the majority of the collection through Thomas Elder in 1910, but he kept the three gold coins from the 1843 proof set; William Woodin, exhibited at the 1914 ANS Exhibition; possibly Waldo Newcomer, inventory number 158; B. Max Mehl on consignment in 1931; possibly "Colonel" E.H.R. Green; King Farouk; Palace Collections of Egypt (Sotheby's, 2/1954), part of lot 250; Abe Kosoff; ANA Signature (Heritage, 8/2015), lot 4347, realized $117,500.
4 – Green/Carter Specimen (Stolen) - A coin in the complete copper, silver, and gold proof set in the original yellow Morocco case reportedly presented by President Tyler in 1843 to an unnamed constituent; Fernand David Collection (Jacques Schulman, 3/1930), lot 112; purchased by an agent of B. Max Mehl at the Schulman sale in Amsterdam; Frank Stoddard; "Colonel" E.H.R. Green in 1932, via Mehl; Green Estate; B.G. Johnson; offered to Ruth Green on 6/23/1943 for $1,000, returned; offered to B. Max Mehl on 8/30/1944 for $1,000, returned; F.C.C. Boyd; purchased by B. Max Mehl; Will W. Neil; Neil Collection (Mehl, 6/1947), lot 2292; Amon Carter, Sr.; Amon Carter, Jr.; Carter Family Collection (Stack's, 1/1984), lot 630; Daniel Drykerman (per Walter Breen); Chris Napolitano; private collector; the set was stolen at the 2007 FUN convention and has not reappeared.
5 - Vienna Specimen - Proof. A specimen in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, discovered by Dr. Richard Doty in 2002.
6 – Impaired Specimen - PR58 PCGS. Los Angeles ANA Auction (Bowers and Merena, 8/2009), lot 4520, previous pedigree unknown.
Some additional historical facts were given in the Heritage Description: The present coin traces its history to several important collections, including those of F.C.C. Boyd, J.F. Bell, and John Jay Pittman. It has been accompanied by examples of the 1843 proof quarter eagle and eagle, forming a gold proof set of the year, since it first appeared in 1939 (the proof 1843 quarter eagle, eagle, and original case are offered in separate lots in the appropriate sections of this catalog). Pittman acquired the three gold coins in 1948 and later combined them with a set of proof copper and silver coins of 1843 to form a complete 10-piece proof set in an original case. In his catalog of the Pittman Collection, David Akers described this coin as: "This coin is absolutely extraordinary ... It is likely that this is the finest known Proof Half Eagle of the 1840's ... This magnificent Proof 1843 Half Eagle has a superb strike, deep mirror fields that have no more than a few faint and almost totally insignificant hairlines, and the most spectacular deep original yellow gold color imaginable ... This coin is, in my opinion, the premier item of all the coins in the Proof sets of the 1840's in the John Jay Pittman Collection."
The coin has great eye appeal and carries the CAC Approved green sticker. It was sold in the 2019 Auction in a PR66 Ultra Cameo NGC holder with no CAC sticker. It realized $312,000. Heritage Auctions described the coins: We share Akers' enthusiasm for this remarkable coin, noting the terrific overall eye appeal. A few light copper alloy spots show on the obverse and some iridescent blue-violet highlights are seen at the reverse rim, below the FI in FIVE. Die polishing lines are visible in the reverse field and there is a small lint mark near the lowest arrowhead. The date is level and centered between the bust and dentils, identifying the JD-1 proof die. This lot represents an extremely important opportunity for the proof gold specialist, as there is no comparable example of this rare early proof available to collectors.
The D.L. Hansen Collection picked up a pair of the finest quarter and half eagle proofs for the date 1843. After missing out on the Eagle that was the third coin in the set, the D.L. Hansen Collection will be challenged to find another one. It will take one of three improbable possibilities. The Tyrant or Bass specimen will need to become available. The other possibility is the stole coin resurfaces. After all the legal issues are worked out, maybe that coin would go to public action as the 1854-S Half Eagle. If it happens, I hope offering of the coin is handled a little better. Bottom line, these two very old proof coins make nice additions to the D.L. Hansen Collection.
Provenance: See number 1 in the roster above.
1843 Liberty Head Half Eagle, PR66DCAM
PCGS POP 1/0, CAC Approved, Sole Finest Known
Certification #38446010, PCGS #98433
PCGS Coin Guide Value: Unknown / Realized $312,000 (2019)
Ex: Pittman – Steinbrenner
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Jefferson Nickel Update
Well, after spending a couple postings on the 1843 gold proofs, let’s downshift and take a look at a few recent Jefferson Nickel purchases. As I sometimes say, this is not the first update on the Jefferson Nickels series, but they are rare. As we have seen with some other modern series, Hansen works hard on updating and improving the modern collection. What he calls the last 55 years. As I have stated before, I think this demonstrates “The Collection” has something for everybody. In a collection with coins valued hundreds thousands of dollars as we just saw with the pair of 1843 proofs, a series as Jefferson Nickels could be very low on Hansen’s priority list. That does not seem to be the case, because this update is from Legend’s Regency 42 Auction a few weeks ago. If you remember, Mr. Hansen was focus in on the BigMo Civil War coins. That was not all, he also purchase a pretty good grouping of Jefferson nickels in the same sale.
I figure Mr. Hansen won about nine Jefferson Nickels in the sale. Of those purchased, he replace three coins in his top Jefferson set. Two of them are POP 1/0, sole finest certified by PCGS, 1947-D PCGS MS68 FS and 1953 PCGS MS66+ FS. The third coin was tied for finest, 1946 PCGS MS67 FS PCGS POP 3/0.
The D.L. Hansen Collection has the #1 All-Time set for Jefferson Nickels FS Basic Circulation Strikes (1938-1964). He has held the lead for three years now. Not only does The Collection have the #1 set, but also the #2 All-Time set. In the top 71 piece set, The Collection has eleven PCGS sole finest certified POP 1/0 specimens. Another 42 specimens are tied for finest by PCGS, and another ten coins are certified as tied for second finest. Another four are PCGS Condition Census Top Five with only four coins graded outside the top five. As good the set is, there is still room for improvement. The remainder of the purchase of nickels in the Legend Sale was to improve the second set.
1947-D Jefferson Nickel, MS68FS
The only five figure nickel purchased by Mr. Hansen in the Legend sale was the 1947-D PCGS MS68FS. The coin realized $12,925. Legend Auctions described the coin as: WOW! What a spectacular SUPERB GEM 47-D, the SINGLE FINEST graded at PCGS! This is the PERFECT coin for the discerning collector working on the #1 FINEST PCGS Registry Set. I am not sure if I ever saw what collection this great grouping of the Jefferson Nickels were from. Overall, it was a pretty nice run of coins.
This is not the finest graded coin in set. The best is the 1945-D 5C, MS68+FS. The set now has one MS68+FS and twelve MS68FS specimens! Legend Auctions described the appeal of this MS68FS as: Boasting the strongest of brilliant, satiny mint luster, this UBER GEM has a remarkably strong strike, showing off fully defined devices. Monticello has full definition throughout the steps, columns, windows, and facade. a pleasing rosy-pink and powder-blue iridescent toning frame the peripheral details of both sides. As to be expected for this otherworldly grade, the surfaces are essentially without flaw and pristine. The eye appeal is truly off the charts. Unpriced in the PCGS Price Guide, this marvelous coin will bring record bidding! Anyone working on the #1 PCGS Registry Set needs to have this.
The coin is not CAC Approved, but is the sole finest by both PCGS and NGC. The coin makes a nice addition to D.L. Hansen Collection.
1947-D Jefferson Nickel, MS68FS
PCGS POP 1/0, Sole Finest Known
Certification #38036042, PCGS #84032
PCGS Price Guide Unknown / Realized $12,925
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
New Orleans Quarter Dollar Update
This coin is an Eliasberg jewel. We don’t know how many Eliasberg coins are in the Hansen Collection. It will take some work to determine. We see for some updates for the new Hansen coins, notes for the pedigree are added in the comment field. I would say that is not the normal. In most cases, no comments are provided. This remarkable coin is one of those that have a lot to be comment about. So, let’s tell the story on this coin the best we can. Our expect Ron Guth: The 1853-O Quarter Dollar is far less common than the 1853 Arrows and Rays, but it is not a rare coin in circulated grades. In Mint State, it is quite scarce, with only a small handful of pieces in the MS62 to MS64 grade range (at PCGS). The auction record for this date is the NGC MS66 that sold way back in 2002 for $34,500. This NGC MS66 mentioned, is the Eliasberg /Hansen Specimen. It is a little amazing the record was set almost 20 years ago in a Superior Galleries Auction. The coin has appeared in auction once since.
The coin was a perfect fit in the Hansen 1853 New Orleans Collection of US Coins. This improves the nine piece collection to three sole finest by PCGS, POP 1/0. One other is tied for finest. The small group does have a couple candidates for upgrading.
1853-O, Arrows and Rays, Seated Liberty Quarter Dollar, MS65, Ex: Eliasberg
The coin is believed to be traced to the Dixie Land Collection. This is an interesting early collection by a collector that I think remains anonymous to this day. The collection is said to be a Collection of United States Coins that is One of the Finest Aggregations of the Coins of America Ever Offered: Consisting of Nearly Every Rarity in Gold, Silver and Copper, in a Condition Which Must Be Seen to Be Appreciated; The Work of a Life Time; The Choicest Specimens From the Great Auction Sales of the Past. There is an online catalog available. After a quick scan, I believe in is safe to say the collection was missing most of the ultra- rarities, i.e., the 1804 Dollar, 1894-S Dime, the 1884 & 1885 Trade Dollar, etc. The meat of the collection was in worn condition, otherwise very nice. The collection at first glance appears to be complete or close to it. The catalog has a few plate images, but not many. The auction date was 11/14/1906.
The coin was in the John H. Clapp Collection when his collection was sold intact in 1942 to Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. The Eliasberg Collection stayed intact until the Bowers & Merena Auction in 1997. In Eliasberg sale, the coin realized $25,300. After a few years, the coin turned up in the “1853 Collection”.
The “1853 Collection” was highlighted in the 2014 Stack’s Bowers Winter Baltimore sale. The sale was featured in a Coin World article. The article: The Rarities Night sale is one of numerous Stack’s Bowers auction sessions taking place during and immediately after the expo at the Baltimore Convention Center, Oct. 30 to Nov. 2. The piece is part of an extensive group of 1853 coins consigned to the sale from an anonymous collector described by the auctioneer as “a consummate collector, a gentleman with diverse interests, and a true student of numismatics.” He took it upon himself as a personal challenge “to build his set within the narrowest possible span of dates,” eventually settling on 1853 as it offered an “interesting inclusion of nearly all circulating American denominations, save for the two-cent piece, 20-cent piece and three-dollar gold.” One of the highlights of the sale was an 1853-O Seated Liberty, Without Arrows and Rays half dollar. This coin is just one of four. This coin is a G6 Grade, and is not the finest known. The finest known is the Hansen Collection, VF35, Ex: Garrett. There was no mention in the article of the finest known quarter dollar.
The coin is described in the StacksBowers sale as: Bold satiny texture and suggestions of prooflike character give this piece striking visual appeal. It is highly lustrous on both sides. Light silver gray dominates the obverse, with soft golden brown, olive and steel mottling. The reverse exhibits nearly brilliant silver in some of the recesses, while other areas show rich olive and golden brown mottling. All central details are nicely struck with just a trace of softness on a few of the reverse denticles. Very original, very beautiful, and extremely rare in high grade. At the time we last sold this coin as part of the Eliasberg Collection in 1997, it was considered hands down the finest known and it was the only Gem graded. Now, there is one record at MS-65, just below this one, but it remains the only one graded at this level by NGC or PCGS. Taking into consideration the fine provenance back to 1906, it is clear this piece has no equal among survivors from the mintage of well over 1.3 million coins. Most survivors tend to be in low grades. As coin collecting was not popular at the time around New Orleans, coins released there tended to be circulated and not saved by collectors. Furthermore, at the time collectors usually sought only the different dates, and not mintmarked coins, so the vast mintages from Philadelphia were more likely to end up in collectors' hands. In the present case, more than ten times the number of quarters struck in New Orleans were produced at the Philadelphia Mint in 1853. An exceptional coin for the finest of cabinets.
Since the 2014 Stack’s Bowers sale of “1853 Collection”, the coin whereabouts is in a cloud of mystery. At some point, the coin was crossed from the MS66 NGC to a MS65 PCGS. Even with this bump down, the coin is still the finest known and tops the PCGS POP report. The coin appears to have been purchased from Rare Coin Wholesalers at some point in November, 2020. There is not much more information available. PCGS values the coin at $50,000. I do not believe the coin has a CAC Approval sticker.
Provenance: Dixie Land Collection; John H. Clapp Collection, sold intact in 1942 to Louis E. Eliasberg; Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection, (Bowers & Merena 4/1997), Lot #1455, realized $25,300; (Superior 8/2002) Lot #871, realized $34,500; 1853 Collection, (Stack's/Bowers 10/2014), Lot #10025, realized $28,200; Rare Coin Wholesalers sold to D.L. Hansen Collection.
1853-O, Arrows and Rays, Seated Liberty Quarter Dollar
PCGS POP 1/0, The Finest Known
Certification #40253871, PCGS #5428
PCGS Price Guide Value: $50,000 / Unknown
Ex: Eliasberg
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Merry Christmas! Thanks for all of the great information @Currin.
Really great updates Currin. You continue to document so wonderfully the unfolding of this boundless collection.
Fairmont Collection Half Eagle Upgrade
There has been quite a bit written about the Fairmont Hoard or collection if you prefer. Actually Doug Winter wrote a few times about the coins. On his website blog on May of 2019 he wrote: “One of the Coolest Hoards of US Gold Coins Ever Seen Has Entered the Market, and You (Probably) Don't Even Know About It...” With some of the coins being sold a few months ago by StacksBowers, I think we all know about the collection now. He commented: Starting around May 2018, one of the most amazing hoards of United States gold coins I have ever seen started appearing for sale. Graded by PCGS and marketed by Stack’s Bowers, this massive group—likely containing tens of thousands++ of coins—consists of eagles and double eagles dated as early as 1850 and as late as the 1920s. Known as the Fairmont Collection, these coins derive from an overseas bank and they likely have been off the market for 75 to 125+ years. I have paid careful attention to these coins and have learned a tremendous amount about surface preservation, natural color, and rarity. I’d like to share some of my observations with you. When I first learned about this group, I was simultaneously excited and scared. Excited because I knew I would be able to purchase quantities of virgin original coins; the exact sort of coins that I have been championing for many years. Scared because I was unaware of quantities and wondered if some currently rare issues would be ruined by an oversupply of coins. Given my assumption that the majority of the really good 19th century coins have already been sold, I have been able to make an extremely important determination. Most of the No Motto eagles, Type One double eagles, and Type Two double eagles that I thought were really rare are. Dates that I scoffed at as faux-rarities have proven to be the traps that I always assumed they would be.
Yes, a hoard hitting the market can be scary. Especially for collections that have purchased rare high dollar items and then they become common, but there may be a positive side also. Steve Roach, a writer for Coin World authored an article titled: ‘Fairmont Collection’ offers up fresh gold to an eager market. In this article, the 1873-S Half Eagle was discussed in detail.
He continued by saying: The introduction of hoards to the market can change the relative rarity of coins. The Aug. 6 session offered the only Mint State 1873-S half eagle certified by PCGS, graded MS-61 and bearing a green Certified Acceptance Corp. sticker indicating quality within the grade. The issue saw 31,000 coins produced, and they are scarce in all grades. It had been largely unknown in Uncirculated grades, and most pieces have weakly defined Mint marks. Stack’s Bowers praised this example’s honey-orange patina, adding, “Striking detail is superior for a San Francisco Mint gold coin from the 1870s, the mintmark well defined and fairly crisp, and most other design elements sharply to fully impressed.” The new discovery sold for $28,800. In a CoinWeek article a few weeks later, the coin was described as: The coolest coin in the entire sale was the PCGS/CAC 1873-S, Lot 1438. This is the best example of this under-the-radar half eagle that I’ve seen. After more than a year floating around under the radar, in a recent David Lawrence Rare coin Auction on 10/20, the coin found its way into the D.L. Hansen Collection.
1873-S Half Eagle PCGS MS61 CAC Approved, Sole Finest Certified
David Hall stated several years ago: I believe the 1873-S $5 Liberty may be unknown in mint state condition. I have never seen one and I can find no auction records of one ever offered as uncirculated. This was before the Fairmont Hoard hit the market. David Akers offered: The 1873-S is extremely rare in any condition. It is more rare than the 1868-S, 1869-S, 1871-S or 1872-S and is equal in rarity to the 1870-S. Almost all known specimens are well worn. All 1873-S Half Eagles have a Closed 3 in the date, and the mintmark is always weak.
StacksBowers was the auctioneer for many of the Fairmont coins. They wrote on the rarity: The Fairmont specimen is the first and, as of this writing, the only 1873-S half eagle to be certified as Mint State by PCGS. Its offering in this sale marks the issue's first auction offering for a Mint State example. The only Mint State 1873-S five to have received a coveted CAC designation, as well, the significance of this coin for advanced collectors of San Francisco Mint and/or Liberty Head gold coinage can hardly be overstated. Interesting enough, the coin was not purchased by Mr. Hansen. If you recall, the same sale, the ESM Large Cents were being auctioned. This is the sale that Mr. Hansen purchased the Legendary 1793 Strawberry Leaf Cent. I am not sure the coin was even on Mr. Hansen’s radar at that time, although it was on John Brush’s.
In the StackBowers, August 2020 Rarities Night, featuring the ESM and Fairmont Collections, the coin was described as: In what could very well be a once-in-a-lifetime bidding opportunity for the advanced gold enthusiast, Stack's Bowers Galleries is proud to present the first ever public auction offering of a certified Mint State 1873-S half eagle. A beautiful coin, both sides exhibit attractively original patina in honey-orange. Striking detail is superior for a San Francisco Mint gold coin from the 1870s, the mintmark well defined and fairly crisp, and most other design elements sharply to fully impressed. Accuracy alone compels us to mention just a touch of softness to the hair curls over Liberty's brow and the eagle's neck feathers. The surfaces are lustrous with a satin to softly frosted texture and uncommonly smooth appearance overall for the assigned grade. A tiny reeding mark in the upper reverse field below the eagle's beak and a couple of shallow grazes in the field above the olive branch are useful identifiers for tracking this exceedingly rare coin through future market appearances. Highly appealing and sure to see spirited bidding among specialists. The coin realized $28,800 and I believe was purchased by David Lawrence Rare Coins. Once DLRC made the purchased, I am guessing the coin could have been sold to Mr. Hansen in a private transaction, but I have noticed that many times Mr. Hansen purchase top coins like this POP 1/0 specimen in DLRC Auctions. That is what took place with this coin. Mr. Hansen had to bid on the coin the same as you or I.
The coin was auctioned in Internet Auction #1139 on Sunday, October 18, 2020. The coin was described as: The sole finest known example from a very low original mintage of 31,000 coins. Lustrous surfaces are uncommonly smooth for the grade level and bathed in beautiful medium-gold patina. The striking detail is strong for the issue with sharp to full impression of all design elements. The eye appeal is fantastic, this rare beauty is sure to catch the eye of the specialist. CAC approved for quality. There was no mentioned to the connection to the Fairmont Hoard. This Finest Known coin brought $34,000, a new auction record. It appears the DLRC Company was able to make about $5000 on the purchase and sale. As we are given the pleasure to watch along, we are seeing some historic moments in the assembling of this US Collection one coin at a time. More to come I am sure. Keep watching.
Provenance: Fairmont “Hoard” Collection, (StacksBowers 8/2020), Lot #1438, realized $28,800; Internet Auction #1139, (DLRC 10/2020), Inventory #: 2140285, realized $34,000, D.L. Hansen Collection.
1873-S Half Eagle PCGS MS61
PCGS POP 1/0, Only Known Mint State Specimen
Certification #39366116, PCGS #8332
PCGS Value Guide: $32,500 / realized $34,000
Ex: Fairmont Hoard
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Peace Dollar Upgrade
This should be my last update for 2020. I do plan to share a 2020 year-end summary that I hope you will read and enjoy. I had several coins in my note pad that was worthy of sharing as the last coin for the year. I landed on a very nice Peace Silver Dollar for a couple of reasons. In looking back, I don’t think I have posted but a couple Peace Dollars this year with the last one being in February. To be honest and transparent, I do not do a great job with my posting notes and cataloging. If I have done one since February, please view as an honest mistake. Another reason that I picked the Peace Dollar, because of the coin was obtained in a recent Great Collections Auction. I thought it would be fitting to end with a Great Collections coin, because we have seen many Hansen Upgrades in 2020 from that auction site. Ian Russel and Raeleen Endo are doing a fabulous job with the site. Lastly, the coin was purchase in the last auction before Christmas (12/20). I know that Mr. Hansen places most of the bids on this site himself. I can see him buying this coin as one of his holiday presents for himself. Also a little information that many people may not know, he buys a lot of coins for family and friends as gifts.
Over the course of the past four years, we have observed Mr. Hansen applying a lot of resources to this Peace Silver Dollar series. The past few months, we have seen a lot of focus shifted to the Morgan Silver Dollars, but that does not necessary mean Mr. Hansen has lost focus on the Peace series. With this coin, he has added three Peace Dollar upgrades in December and one upgrade in November. The last action previous to these four coins dates back three upgrades in January 2020 and one other in February. This concludes the year with eight upgrades in the 24 coin set. The D.L. Hansen Collection earned its first Best of the Registry for Peace Dollars in 2020. Currently, the Collection is second in the All-Time Finest roster. The Hansen set is the only current set with the other four sets being retired.
The Hansen set only trails the PCGS Hall of Fame California 1 set. The set retired in 2015. The HOF set has two PCGS POP 1/0 sole finest. This really helps with set bonus points because oddly, the Hansen set presently have no POP 1/0 specimens (although at one time he did). With the recent purchase, and some earlier upgrades this year from the Linda Gail Collection and Illinois Collection of Peace Dollars, he is closing the gap little by little. Earlier in the year, he purchased the 1923 Peace Dollar MS67+, PCGS POP 1/0 from GreatCollections Auctions. That coin is now a Pop 4/0. As you can see, playing in the deep water of the registry can be very dynamic.
1935 Peace Dollar MS67, PCGS POP 2/0
Q. David Bowers described this coin in Silver Dollars & Trade Dollars of the United States: A Complete Encyclopedia" (Wolfeboro, NH: Bowers and Merena Galleries, Inc., 1993). His commentary (minor editing): The 1935, like the 1934, came out on the market slowly and over a long period of time. Little attention was paid to the issue in numismatic circles. Worn coins are slightly scarce now and are mostly in higher grades such as EF and AU. In the 1950s, mixed bags of dollars abounded with these and other issues of 1934 and 1935. The 1935 is readily available in Uncirculated grade. Most are in MS-60 through 63 or even 64 grades. MS-65 pieces are scarcer but can be found with ease. Lustre is often satiny, rather than deeply frosty. The strike is usually decent, including on the center of the reverse. Cherrypickers would go out of business if all Peace dollar issues were like the 1935! Some pieces show abrasions, often prominent on the face of Miss Liberty. It is not unusual for a 1934, 1935, or 1935-S to have frosty fields with few bagmarks, but to have the face nicked up, the latter possibly being from marks on the original planchet.
The Great Collection auction is the first appearance for a PCGS MS67 specimen, although MS66+ graded coin is fairly common and appear in auctions frequently. The coin description given by Great Collections reads: Tied for finest with just one other coin at PCGS, and the first to appear in auction. The bidding was very active with 13 bidders placing 45 bids. The coin realized $72,624.38 with Buyer’s Fee. This coin gets the Peace Dollar set one step closer the top Hall of Fame set. This should make a fun set to watch in 2021.
1935 Peace Dollar MS67, PCGS POP 2/0
Certification #40464658, PCGS #7378
PCGS Price Guide: $72,500 / GreatCollections Auction : $72,624.38
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
2020 - It’s over, now drop the ball
Building A Lasting Legacy - The Hansen Collection now involves more than 12,000 coins and is worth untold tens of millions of dollars. While it has already broken numerous numismatic records for size, completeness, and quality, there are still a few pieces to go. “There are a number of coins that are simply unobtainable unless they are released from museum holdings,” acknowledges Hansen. “Coins like the 1854-S $5 and the 1822 $5 are simply items that may one day be available but acquiring them may or may not happen in my lifetime.”
The paragraph is from Rare Coin Market Report (November-December 2019). The article was authored by Josha McMorrow Hernandez. A couple points to end 2020. If The Collection was 12,000 coins at the end of 2019, I would confidently suggest the number at the end of 2020 is somewhere between 14,000 to 15,000 coins. I will remind you, these are PCGS certified coins. Mr. Hernandez suggested The Collection was worth untold tens of millions of dollars. I would suggest The Collection is worth hundreds of millions of dollars. I cannot prove it; can you prove it is not? This short paragraph that appeared on page 7 is quite interesting. The article makes reference to the 1854-S $5 and the 1822 $5 pieces. The successful purchase of the 1854-S $5 in Stacks Bowers March 2020 auction of The D. Brent Pogue Collection Part VII: Masterpieces of United States Coinage was certainly the greatest accomplishment in 2020.
I posted 158 featured articles in 2020. Most postings featured at least one coin, and a few had two. What you saw as you watched was a small sample of the 2020 Hansen purchases (maybe 5-7%). Throughout the year, I did make an attempt to feature all the six figure purchases that I could uncover. I know the odds are high that I missed a few. In 2020, I posted 52 six-figure purchases and one seven. I estimated the total cost based on price realized in auction, PCGS price guide, ask price, or a recent auction if less than 24 months. Under these assumptions, the 53 top coins that I posted in 2020 are worth $14,866,725. Then there were another two to three thousand PCGS coins purchased. What do you think they are worth?
It is common practice in our community to create a box of 20 coins. I will share the top 20 coins in value that I posted in 2020. They are as follows:
1854-S $5 AU58+, CAC, Ex: Pogue- Boyd- Eliasberg, realized $1,920,000 (StacksBowers 3/2020)
1884-S $1 MS68, CAC, Ex: Lee-Miller, realized $750,000 (StacksBowers 11/2020)
1793 1C, Strawberry Leaf, VG10BN, Ex: Parmelee – ESM realized $660,000 (StacksBowers 8/2020)
1892-S $1 MS68, Ex: Lee-Miller, realized $630,000 (StacksBowers 11/2020)
1893-S $1 MS65, CAC, Ex: Larry Miller, realized $600,000 (StacksBowers 11/2020)
1795 50C 126a “Small Head” MS63, Ex: St. Oswald – Pogue –Simpson, realized $528,000 (HA 11/2020)
1895-O $1 MS67, CAC, Ex: Miller - Lee - Miller, realized $528,000 (StacksBowers 11/2020)
1883-S $1, PL MS67+ PL, CAC, Ex: Clapp-Eliasberg- Illinois, Private Transaction 12/2020 (Ask $475,000)
1819 $5 BD-1, “5D/50” MS65, Ex: Garrett – Pogue-McCoy, realized $444,000 (HA 8/2020)
1875 $10 AU50, Ex: Jacobson, realized $360,000 (HA 2/2020)
1893-O $1, MS65DMPL, CAC, Ex: Young – Lee- Miller, realized $360,000 (StacksBowers 11/2020)
1897-O $1 MS67, CAC, Ex: Lee-Miller, realized $348,000 (StacksBowers 11/2020)
1895-S $1, MS67DMPL, CAC, Ex: Lee-Miller, realized $336,000 (StacksBowers 11/2020)
1855 G$1, PR65+ DCAM, CAC, Ex: Boyd - Starr, realized $329,000 (Legend 7/2020)
1843 $5, PR66DCAM, CAC, Ex: Pittman – Steinbrenner, Private Transaction 11/2020 (est. $312,000)
1795 $1 “2 Leaves” MS64+, CAC, Ex: Bruce Morelan, realized $293,750 (Legend 10/2020)
1802 $ “Narrow Date” MS65, CAC, Ex: Eliasberg-Pogue-Morelan, realized $270,250 (Legend 10/2020)
1863 $2.50, PR65+ DCAM, CAC, Ex: BigMo, realized $270,250 (Legend 12/2020)
1801 $1 MS65, Ex: Green - Newman - Morelan, realized $246,750 (Legend 10/2020)
1831 $2.5 MS66+PL, Ex: Simpson, realized $240,000 (HA 9/2020)
The Hansen 2020 Box of 20 is valued at approx. $10,000,000. Some really nice purchases were left out. For the box to have eight Morgan Dollars was a little surprising. The three Early Dollars from Bruce Morelan Collection were pleasant to see in the box.
I thought I would wrap-up 2020 with my thoughts on the five most significant sales of the year. There were several great sales, and a couple just did not quite make my final list. The first out is the Morelan Early Dollars hosted Legend Auction in October. Mr. Hansen purchase three coins in the sale with 1795 $1 “2 Leaves” MS64+, CAC qualifying as the best. I think the BigMo sale should be honorable mention, but did not make the top five for significance to the collection. The D.L. Hansen Collection purchased more than twenty of the BigMo coins, but only one coin made the box of 20, 1863 $2.50, PR65+ DCAM, CAC. Also, this was not a significant coin to collection and was placed in the #2 set. Let’s start with the Pogue Sale.
The D. Brent Pogue Collection Part VII: Masterpieces of United States Coinage hosted by Stacks Bowers - March 2020 Baltimore U.S. Coins Auction
This sale consisted of approximately 420 lots of Mr. Pogue’s remaining collection. The D.L. Hansen Collection picked up several nice coins in the sale, but the most significant was the 1854-S Liberty Head Half Eagle. This is a must coin for The Collection to complete the Eliasberg Quest. With this purchase, only thirteen coins are remaining. With only two known specimens in private hands, this coin has to qualify as the most significant purchase in 2020.
1854-S Liberty Head Half Eagle. AU-58+ (PCGS) CAC
The Legendary Finest Known 1854-S Half Eagle
The F.C.C. Boyd Specimen, Ex: Eliasberg-Pogue
Certification #28572787 / PCGS #8260 / POP 1/0
PCGS Price Guide Value: $2,000,000 / Realized 3/20/2020: $1,920,000
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The Larry H. Miller Collection of Morgan Dollars hosted by Stacks Bowers - November 2020 U.S. Coins Auction
For me, the biggest Hansen surprised in 2020 was the purchases of the Morgan Dollars. I did not see this coming. I was very aware that The D.L. Hansen Collection had the finest all-time set of DMPL specimens. I was not aware of any interest to pursue any additional Morgan’s. I was wrong with that assumption. Mr. Hansen purchased eight of the top Morgans spending close to $4 Million Dollars. Due to the Utah connection and the proceeds going to a local charity, I would think that figured greatly in the decision. When it comes to Morgans, I do not think Mr. Hansen has achieved the status of Jack Lee and his undisputed all-time greatest set of Morgan dollars. His set consisted of 175 coins (mint state and proof-like and deep mirror proof-like) of 172 that qualify as the finest graded or tied for the finest graded. Mr. Hansen has both registry sets completed, but still need to work on the overall quality. The 1884-S is one that shows the collection is well on its way.
1884-S Morgan Dollar MS68
PCGS POP 1/0, Finest PCGS Certified
Certification #07455496, PCGS #7156
PCGS Value Guide: $900,000 / realized $750,000
Ex: Chuck Walanka / Jack Lee / Larry H. Miller
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Rarities Night, featuring the ESM Collection hosted by Stacks Bowers - Name: August 2020 U.S. Coins Auction
This auction offered some of the finest and rarest Large Cents. The ESM Half Cent Collection was offered by Stacks and Bowers in March of 2020. As results of the two auctions, the D.L. Hansen Collection of Half and Large Cents were completed for Major Varieties except for one coin each. The 1793 Flowing Hair Cent, “Strawberry Leaf”, VG-10BN is the centerpiece in the collection. The only Hansen copper that is valued more is the 1792 ‘Silver Cent” Cent, SP65BN with a current value of $2,100,000. The Strawberry Leaf is truly a famous coin that is a very significant addition to The Collection.
1793 Flowing Hair Cent, “Strawberry Leaf”, VG-10BN
PCGS, POP 1/0, Ex: Parmelle Collection (Finest Known)
Certification #12952855, PCGS 35483 (Variety of: 1353)
PCGSVG: $800,000 / realized $660,000
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The Bob R. Simpson Collection, Part II hosted by Heritage Auctions - 2020 November 19-22 U.S. Coins Signature Auction
In 2020, Heritage Auction hosted two of the six Bob R. Simpson auctions. The Hansen Collection purchased several of the Simpson coins in the first two sales. I believe the 1795 “Small head” Flowing Hair Half Dollar to be the most significant. The coin was only valued at $235,000 prior to the sale. PCGS has revalued to coin post sale to $550,000. The interest in this coin was to say the least as being intense. I am not sure, but to best of my memory, this is Hansen’s first Lord St. Oswald specimen. Another significance: I do not see the Early Half Dollars as one of D.L. Hansen Collection better sets. One reason I think, the Bust Half Dollars have a great collector organization and many of the better specimens are off the market. The Collection has no seven figure half dollars. Presently, the best coin is the 1853-O “No Arrows/Rays” VF35 Finest Known specimen. With the 1853-O “No Arrows/Rays” and the 1795 “Small Head”, The Collection now have two half million dollar specimens.
1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar “Overton 126a Small Head”, MS63
PCGS, POP 1/0 (The only 1795 Small Head graded Mint State by PCGS)
Certification #40274316, PCGS #39248
PCGSVG: $550,000 / realized $528,000
Ex: Lord St. Oswald / Pogue-Simpson
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The McCoy Family Collection of Capped Head Half Eagles hosted by Heritage Auctions - 2020 August 3-9 U.S. Coins Signature Auction in Dallas, TX
This sale represented a grouping of maybe the finest early half eagles to hit the market in recent years. The auction put 24 of these great half eagles on the block, and I believe Mr. Hansen won about a dozen of them. It was fun to see many of the remaining Half Eagles needed for the Major Variety set to get picked off one by one. The best coin purchased I believe was the 1819 BD-1 Half Eagle. This coin is now paired with the top pop 1819 BD-2 (purchased in 2019) to create the finest 1819 pair known. This coin goes a long ways in making the D.L. Hansen Early Half Eagles into something very special.
1819 Capped Bust Half Eagle, “BD-1, 5D/50”, MS65
PCGS, POP 1/0, CAC Approved
Certification #32189879, PCGS #45655 (Variety of: 8124)
PCGSVG: $450,000 / realized $$444,000 (Auction Recorded)
Ex: Mickley/Garrett/Naftzger/Pogue/McCoy
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
It would be interesting for you to reflect on your experience cataloguing the collection this last year. What personal insights did you gain, did you learn something about yourself, have this changed how you look at collecting, etc.
"Got a flaming heart, can't get my fill"
There will certainly be a box of
Monsters Mr Hansen acquires
in 2021.
IMO the most valuable asset he can acquire would be the Finest known
Brasher Dubloon.
Do you think it would fit into his existing collection? Or expand the focus of the collection?
Both
Not sure if Dell Loy will head into colonials. The finest known Brasher Doubloon certainly might transcend the colonial classification because of its fame and presence in famous historical collections of American coins. He has been so focused and determined in federal circulation strike and proof strike coinage, that would be quite a different direction for him. I don't know if you want to chime in Dell Loy on whether you were going to go off in any new tangents in 2021? Certainly, so much still to do in your main Eliasberg endeavor. I suspect the pace will slow somewhat in obtaining more coins from your final 20 list that Currin has been keeping, after your blistering 2020 pace. But you continue to surprise us all with your progress. Happy New Year to all. Wishing everyone health and happiness and a nice coin or two in 2021!
Happy 2021!
In the beginning…..
For Hansen, expanding his collection beyond SaintGaudens Double Eagles was a fateful decision. “After I finished my Saint-Gaudens collection, I decided to expand into $20 Liberty pieces,” he says. “One of my larger purchases was the AWA Collection of $20 Liberty gold coins which was put together over a lifetime of collecting. Once that transaction was completed, I looked to see what else could I do.” After that, he set his sights on the one collector whose name has loomed large in numismatics for generations. “At that point, I kind of got a bug to pursue the PCGS Registry’s idea of the Eliasberg collection. But, instead of stopping at 1964 and simply competing with him, why not expand on it another 55 years and do something no one else has done?” Hansen wanted to push the envelope. “In my career, I enjoy doing things that no one else has considered doing and what some consider ‘impossible’. The paragraph is from Rare Coin Market Report (November-December 2019).
After four years, what started with a 51-piece Saint-Gaudens set, The Collection has evolved to a mega collection of estimated 15,000 pieces. The first four years have been a full speed ahead; will we continue to see the same in 2021? We know there will be some opportunities, for example we still have four parts of the Bob Simpson sale to go. Some of his better pieces are yet to come.
Eliasberg Quest
Currently, the D.L. Hansen set needs thirteen coins to complete the Eliasberg Quest. I would think obtaining specimens from the list below would be the #1 Goal in 2021. One of the thirteen coins on the list will be in an upcoming Simpson sale. I know a very nice PR66 1880 Four Dollar Gold "Stella’s" (Flowing Hair) has been on the market by U.S. Coins for over twelve months now. Mr. Hansen has patiently missed opportunities for the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, 1838-0 Half Dollar BM, and 1827 "Original" Quarter Dollar. Will there be opportunities for more of these coins in 2021?
1870-S Half Dime (Unique Coin in Tom Bender PCGS Registry Collection)
1873-CC "No Arrows" Dime (Unique Coin in an anonymous collection)
1870-S Three Dollar Only (Unique Coin owned by the Bass Foundation displayed at the ANA)
1866 "No Motto" Dollar Proof Only (2 Minted, Unique Private Coin in Simpson Collection)
1933 Double Eagle (Known Survival 16, Unique Legally Owned Coin - anonymous collection)
1822 Half Eagle (Survival 3, Unique Private Owned Coin in the Pogue Collection)
1798 "Small Eagle" Half Eagle (Survival 7, possibly 2 nice examples could be purchased)
1913 Liberty Head Nickel Proof Only (5 Minted, 3 private owned)
1838-0 Half Dollar BM Only (Survival 9, six known for private purchase)
1827 "Original" Quarter Dollar Proof Only (Survival 9)
1880 Four Dollar Gold "Stella’s" (Coiled Hair) Proof Only (Survival 8)
1880 Four Dollar Gold "Stella’s" (Flowing Hair) Proof Only (Survival 24)
1839 Gobrecht Original Dollar (Survival 60-75) Note: DLH has an 1839 Restrike #32225780
Major Varieties
We witness a large focus in 2020 being placed on the Major Varieties in circulating strike finish. Many missing copper pieces were purchased in the two EMS sales, and several gold Half Eagles varieties in the McCory sale. The Hansen team is starting 2021 with only 19 remaining to complete the PCGS registry set. I think completing this list of 19 would be the #2 priority in 2021. Some of these coins are ultra-rarities. A few are fairly common and may be easy to locate. I don’t know the story of the 1887/6 Three Cent CN. Will the opportunities continue in 2021? Already, there are a couple specimens that will be offered for sale in 2021. If so, how many will come off of this list?
1797 Half Eagle "Large Eagle, 15 Stars" (1 Known – Permanently in Smithsonian) Uncollectable
1797 Half Eagle "Large Eagle, 16 Stars" (1 Known – Permanently in Smithsonian) Uncollectable
1861 Double Eagle "Paquet" (2 Known)
1804 Eagle "Plain 4 Proof" (3 Known)
1849-C Gold Dollar "Open Wreath" (4 Known w/ one defective)
1958 Small Cent "Doubled Die Obverse” (3 Known)
1795 Large Cent "Jefferson, Lettered Edge" (5 Known w/ VF Finest Known)
1810 Half Eagle "Large Date, Small 5" (5 Known w/ AU Finest Known)
1842 Half Dollar "Small Date, Rev of 1839" (Survival est. 10 w/ 1 Mint State)
1804 Quarter Eagle "13 Star Reverse" (Survival est. 11 w/ AU Finest Known)
1797 Half Cent "Gripped Edge" (Survival est. 13 w/ VG Finest Known)
1797 Half Eagle "Small Eagle, 15 Stars" (Survival est. 20 w/ 1 Mint State)
1820 Half Eagle "Curl Base 2, Sm Letters" (Survival est. 14 w/ 8 Mint State)
1800 Dollar "Wide Date, Low 8, AMERICAI" (Survival est. 25 w/ AU Finest Known)
1798/7 Eagle "7X6 Stars" (Survival est. 25 w/ 3 Mint State)
1839 Half Dollar "Receeded Edge, Small Letters” (Survival est. 50 w/ 4 Mint State)
1798 Quarter Eagle "Wide Date" (Survival est. 50 w/ 8 Mint State)
1798 Dollar "Large Eagle, Knob 9, 4 Lines" (Survival est. 125 w/ 2 Mint State)
1887/6 Three Cent CN (Survival est. 800 w/ 750 Mint State)
Other Interest
Will 2021 be a year that we will see some more significant action in the proof series? We have already seen just in recent days some efforts and resources being contributed to the proofs in examples of the 1843 Quarter and Half Eagles. The set of the “collectable proofs” could be an area of focus for 2021. The D.L. Hansen Collection is 89 coins away from completing the proof gold from 1859-1915. This is achievable, but note, there is not a registry set that would represent this set. The pre-1859 coins in the existing complete registry set are a mess. Many of the coins do not exist. Hopefully at some point in time, PCGS will do some much needed cleanup. In 2021, would be great!
I have seen activities in other areas, Commemoratives, Bullion, etc. I have seen several First Spouse $10 MS and Proof examples coming into the collection recently. Just a few days ago, The Collection added the difficult Grace Coolidge and Letitia Tyler specimens. They came from Justin (Monstercoinmart) via eBay. When all is said and done, I am not sure that I expect to see much change in Mr. Hansen’s focus in 2021, which is his fifth year of working on the mega collection.
Five Year Anniversary
It may be to some people unbelievable, but this collection is not five years old yet! Another paragraph from Rare Coin Market Report (November-December 2019): Hansen has been at this since only 2016. When the busy Utah billionaire and philanthropist revisited his numismatic pursuits a few years ago after finding some rare glimpses of leisure time he set a relatively humble numismatic objective. He wanted to build an exquisite collection of Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagles, known by many as the most beautiful coin the United States Mint ever struck. Achieving that goal in short order, he wanted more. “I decided to take a look at $20 Saint-Gaudens as a collection to not only put together and try to complete but also as an alternative investment,” Hansen recounts of his original numismatic goals. “But once I started collecting again, my competitive and obsessive nature took hold and I got really hooked into the registry set concept. I realized I could compete on another front and try to build something that is not only fun but historically important!”
So I was thinking (which can be dangerous) when did the mega collection start. Was it the summer of 2016 when Mr. Hansen started the famous Saint-Gaudens set (which only required a few weeks)? Did the mega set start on the day that he purchased the AWA Collection? No, not in my opinion. Mr. Hansen stated: my competitive and obsessive nature took hold and I got really hooked into the registry set concept. I think the start (or day one) of the mega collection was the day he created his first PCGS registry set after the purchase of the AWA Collection. It is just my opinion, and the validity of the opinion can be debated.
This places the date for the five year anniversary (or if you prefer, birthday on October 16th, 2016). Now, I don’t know if Mr. Hansen has any special or specific goals that he was trying to achieve in the first five years. If he did, I expect they have already been exceeded. Also, I don’t know if Mr. Hansen is planning an anniversary celebration. October 16th 2021 is on a Saturday and would make a great day for a party. Count me in!
To end on a more serious note, I think 2021 will be a great year to watch the Hansen additions and upgrades. I think we will see the vast amount of upgrades to continue. I think we will see the countdown lists shrink, but not sure how much. We could see the proofs come in focus with some big purchases. I don’t think we will see Mr. Hansen wandering to far from the farm. I think he will mainly stay focused on US legal issues. I expect the 2021 Box of 20 will be amazing. It will certainly be fun to watch and tag along.
No coin today. I do have a great proof to share before the weekend is out.
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
One thing I will say, is that Dell Loy has liked to pick up things at a good price and it's been possible to do for high end pieces in the Covid era, so the Stickney-Garett Brasher may be an opportunity for him if he chooses the branch out into private and colonial issues.
He still needs 3 proof saints.
There are a couple 1911 coins & a 1913 for sale now, they look very nice.
Hint-hint...No pressure
Also...Somebody is sneaking up on his date set.
(Not me)
My Saint Set
Another Early Proof Quarter Eagle
I refer to anything before 1859 as an early proof. That’s just the lingo that I use. I have been writing for the past few weeks that I am seeing something special happening with the D.L. Hansen Proof Collection, gold particular. The Collection has a compete run of non-gold proofs starting in the mid-1850s to 1915. This is a gold update that is in that mid-1850 range. The 1850-1859 decade is a very problematic if you are interested in proofs, especially proof gold. I have talked some recently about how it would be a significant challenge for The Hansen Collection to have a complete run from 1859. It is doable but not an easy task.
This new addition completes the 1856 Proof date set as required by the PCGS registry. PCGS describes the 12 item set as: The Flying Eagle cent of 1856 is probably the best known Proof of this year, being coined in fairly large numbers as examples to be distributed among lawmakers. Although strictly a pattern, it is included as it has long been collected as a regular issue. The remaining silver coins are represented by probably several dozen examples of each. As far as the gold coins are concerned, only a handful of examples exist of the smaller denominations ($1, $2.50 and $3.00) but none of the higher denominations have surfaced, but have been rumored to exist. Very ironically, the worst specimen in the set is the 1856 Flying Eagle cent. I think Mr. Hansen view that coin as one that he can pick up a better example down the road whenever he feels the need to. He has a very nice condition census 1856 Half Cent graded PR65BN traced to the Missouri Cabinet. The coin is Top POP for brown, but is outside the top 10 for the date. The remaining of the coins are condition census specimens.
I think 1856 is now the earliest date for a complete proof set in The Hansen Collection. If you recall, I featured the 1843 proof set a few days ago. That date is complete except for the Eagle. I am not sure that 1856 will become the first year in a future complete date run, but I could see it happening. It is a great set to start a run. The set has four sole finest certified by PCGS (POP 1/0) and one other tied for finest certified. As previously stated, the remainder is condition census except for the Half Cent and Flying Eagle cent. Let’s quickly discuss the missing higher gold denominations.
The 1856 Proof Half Eagle is required in some of the bigger registry sets, but not the PCGS date set. In Coin Facts, the mintage given is two. The rarity and survival estimate is one. There has not been an example certified by PCGS or NGC, and no examples have appeared in auction. I have not found any reference to any known examples. Although PCGS has a coin number (8446), it does not appear that one survived. The only 1850s Half Eagle Proof in the Smithsonian National Numismatic Collection is the 1858 and 1859.
As with the 1856 Proof Half Eagle, the Eagle is required in some of the bigger registry sets, but not the PCGS date set. Coin Facts, also gives a mintage of two. There is no rarity and survival estimate information given. David Akers wrote: Wayte Raymond reportedly knew of a proof but its existence is unsubstantiated. There has not been as example certified by PCGS or NGC, and no examples have appeared in auction. I think Mr. Akers was spot on by saying the existence is unsubstantiated. Although PCGS has a coin number (8792), it does not appear that one survived. Also, the only 1850s Eagle Proof in the Smithsonian National Numismatic Collection is the 1858 and 1859.
In Coin Facts, the 1856 Proof Double Eagle mintage is given N/A. I take this to mean, none were minted. The rarity and survival estimate is zero, although PCGS has a coin number (9068). It is generally considered, the first proofs for Double Eagles were minted in 1859 with the exception of the 1849 proof pattern.
I would consider this to be a complete 1856 proof set for all known denominations. Does everyone agree, or do you have information that could place this statement in dispute?
1856 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, PR65
Unlike the higher denominations of 1856 Liberty Head Gold Proofs, David Akers writes: Three or four proofs are known. I was able to trace three of them, the fourth is well hidden, if it does exist. Three that I could determine was the Hansen Specimen, the Eliasberg/ Trompeter Specimen, and the uncertified PR65DCAM specimen in the Smithsonian National Numismatic Collection. In Coin Facts, the mintage given is four. The rarity and survival estimate is two according to PCGS. There is not an example certified NGC, but PCGS have three, two PR65 and a lone PR65CAM. It is possible that one of the PR65 is a duplicate of the CAM specimen. I believe the Eliasberg coin may now be in a PR65CAM PCGS holder. It has sold in auction almost 20 years ago in a PR65 holder. Actually, the coin appeared in auction three times between 1991 and 2002. First, February 1991 as PR63 in Superior Galleries Auction of the Dennis Mendelson Collection, the coin realized $57,750. Then, the Ed Trompeter sale that was hosted by Superior Galleries in February 1992. The coin realized $48,400 in a PR65 PCGS holder. Last appearance was a Bowers & Merena Rarities Auction in July 2002, realizing $66,700. The coin was estimated grade in the Eliasberg sale with tracing to Mitchelson (1908); Clapp Collection (1942). The coin was sold by Bowers & Ruddy in October 1982 realizing $24,200. The complete pedigree of the coin is Ex. Mills; Mitchelson; Clapp; Eliasberg; Trompeter; Worrell.
Mr. Hansen’s coin does not have a perigee or a CAM designation. Even if the new Hansen coin is not a CAM, it really is not a bad example. The coin last appeared in Kagin's March 2017 ANA National Money Show Auction. The coin was described as: This attractive Proof Liberty quarter eagle is a “gem” at many levels – the eye appeal is superb, the toning highlights are grand, and the overall aesthetics rank high in our eyes. This bold fiery orange specimen has fared well over the years, maintaining its dignity and quality throughout 161 years of no doubt prideful ownership. The lightly frosted motifs and richly mirrored fields form a modest contrast that was no doubt somewhat deeper before the lovely toning highlights settled in. Liberty’s portrait enjoys pale powder blue iridescence at her shoulder and lowest hair curls, while the reverse eagle is afire with deep orange toning those verges on crimson in a bold light. There is no paper trail for this date in Proof, and just how many were struck is anybody’s guess. We can tell you that PCGS has established two grading events for the date at Proof-65, as here, with no others seen, and opines “3 known?” while at NGC the Census is empty for Proofs of the date. The call for Proofs prior to 1858 was nominal at best at the Mint though no doubt the usual “friends” of that venerable institution made their annual pilgrimage to pick up Proofs of various denominations; evidently quarter eagles were not very popular in 1856! The present Gem Proof rarity is absolutely one of the highlights of the present offering and will no doubt bring out the best of competitiveness at bidding time. If you’ve read this far we’ve piqued your interest, and we hope to see you at hammer time. PCGS Population: 2; none in any lesser or finer grade. The coin holds the auction record when it realized $102,812.50.
The coin was acquired in a private transaction with Rare Coin Wholesalers. The coin was described in the listing as: ONE OF ONLY THREE KNOWN. THIS IS TIED WITH THE OTHER KNOWN FOR HIGHEST GRADED. TRULY A FABULOUS 19TH CENTURY RARITY. The ask price for the coin was $185,000. I think the POP is now 2/1 when you consider the CAM specimen. The ad mentioned the coin was sold in auction by Kagin's 2017, but no mention of pedigree was given. I have determined the coin is not from the Eliasberg or Trompeter great proof collections. This coin was a nice purchase to complete the 1856 Proof Date Set.
Provenance: ANA National Money Show (Kagin's 3/2017), Lot #1405, realized auction record $102,812.50; Acquired from Rare Coin Wholesalers in private transaction in 12/2020, D. L. Hansen Collection
1856 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, PR65
PCGS POP 2/1, Only Three Absolute
Certification #40262532, PCGS #7882
PCGS Coin Guide Value: $135,000 / Ask $185,000
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
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I saw 1913 offered at US Coins. It may have been sold. I do not see any available on Collectors.com at this time. This is the website Mr. Hansen looks for coins. We can let John Brush know if they are still available.
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Great Observation. I did not see that. It looks like the Legend clan has started a collection of Eagles and Saints by date. Just FYI, Mr.Hansen has zero focus on date and type sets. These sets are a by-product of his complete, one of everything focus. If they are 100% complete, I don’t typically pay much attention to them either.
Just a tidbit on the Saints.
He created the registry set late 2016, with the set 100% completed. He upgraded 12 Saints the last three months in 2016. As you can see a big focus. The past four years, he has focus on the Saint set as follows:
2017, upgrade 9 coins
2018, upgrade 2 coins
2019, upgrade 11 coins
2020, upgrade 8 coins
His natural rate of upgrading the 51 piece set is about 7-8 per year. If coins are available in 2021, I would expect this tread to continue. So, I would expect the date set to improve over time by the natural upgrading habits of the Hansen Team. In the mean time, if the Legend set takes the lead in the date set, I would chalk it up as great for the hobby. At the end of the day, the Hansen Collection is playing the long game by building the greatest complete collection of sets as possible, understandable that every set will not be #1. Just being in the all-time Top 5 is a great accomplishment for anyone, including Mr. Hansen, but he is strives for the highest possible.
Jos, you have a great set of Saints. I hope you work hard and complete the 23 dates. PCGS wrote: However, don't get on this ride if you're pregnant, have back problems, or a bad heart -- the 1921 and the dates from 1929-1932 will test the mettle of any collector. Nevertheless, if you're up to the challenge, the rewards will be great.. They are still needed in your set. Save up your pennies, and go for it!
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Spectacular Sand Blast Proof 1908 Indian Half Eagle
I am puzzled, nothing new. PCGS describes the Proof Indian Half Eagles as: The $5 Indian series in proof is comprised of only eight coins, with mintages ranging from a low of 75 pieces for the 1915 to a high of 250 coins for the 1910. Obviously, all are rare. This series is similar to the $2 ½ Indians, being issued in matte and Roman finish proofs. I know they are rare, but the Proof Indian Half Eagles should be a great set to build for the high end collectors in the registry. The D.L. Hansen Collection registry set is the only one in progress currently. If he was not assembling his set, then there would zero. So, where are these coins? Are sets being assembled outside of the registry. Or are all the coins being purchased as investments? Or most of the coins are being purchased by collectors that are collecting one or two dates, and not the whole set? I find it puzzling because I see incomplete registry sets that require more coins than the eight coins in this set. The registry has many sets with one coin.
I know a lot of the proofs coins for this series are in NGC holders. We saw one in a recent Simpson sale a few months ago. We were once told that he had a complete high-end proof set with a mixture of PCGS and NGC coins. Are there other collectors with a similar case. Whatever the reason, The Hansen set is the only current set and the set is one coin from completion.
As you can see, the registry list eight complete sets by Hall of Fame collectors. It would be interesting to see if the registry would list Bob Simpson set as historical, if so, where would it fall on the list? The date 1911 is only needed Hansen coin remaining. For this date, there is a sole finest PCGS PR68 specimen. In addition, The NGC population report indicates four PR68 specimens. Are some duplicates? Maybe. In a recent Simpson sale, his 1911 NGC MS68 specimen realized $120,000. This is still below the PCGS MS68 current value of $165,000. If the coin is really good, and it can straight cross, then I could one day see the Simpson coin as filling the last hole in the Hansen set.
One of the problems I have with the sandblast proofs, they all look perfect to me. Another way to say it, the Simpson PR68 looks perfect. I could see it grading PR70. I could say the same about the Hansen PR66 coin that I will show you today. If I look hard, I may see a little imperfection, so maybe not a PR70. I hope you get the point. So, now let’s see the new Hansen coin.
1908 Indian Half Eagle, PR66, CAC Approved
The first issue in the Proof Indian half eagle series, the 1908 has one of the highest mintages of the type -- 167 pieces -- a result of the Mint's anticipation of strong demand from contemporary collectors. This issue actually was ordered in relatively large quantities, and it is now the most frequently encountered Proof Indian $5 in numismatic circles. The 1908 is still a classic U.S. Mint Proof gold coin, however, which means that it is at least very scarce in an absolute sense. Indeed, a mere 95-115 coins are believed extant (per Jeff Ambio in the 2008 revision to David W. Akers' work, A Handbook of 20th Century United States Gold Coins: 1907-1933).Unlike all preceding issues in the Proof half eagle series, the 1908 Indian was produced with a dark matte finish that does not reflect light in the manner of brilliant finish Proofs. (The Mint designated these as Sandblast Proofs, often nicknamed "Matte Proof" by collectors today.) Stacks Bowers 8/2013
Coin Facts place the survival estimate at 108 with 60 grading GEM or better. On paper, the new coin is not a PCGS Condition Top 5 due to the POP being 19/5. There is a possibility that at least one of the top five is a duplicate, but no way to know for sure. The coin does carry the sought after CAC sticker. The coin replaces a PR65, cert #21645859 in The Collection.
The new coin is described by the seller as: This Gem Proof 1908 Sand Blast $5 is bathed in medley of sandy-gold and tan patina which produces a striking effect under a light source. The surfaces are close to perfection, free from the distracting "shiny spots" that are readily revealed by the delicate finish on lower quality coins. Full striking detail and exceptional eye appeal round out an impressive list of attributes. Among just 60 or so Gem examples remaining, this piece is surely among the finest. Only 5 coins have been graded finer by PCGS through Proof-67+, making it ideal for inclusion in an advanced Registry Set. This issue introduced Bela Lyon Pratt's novel sunken-relief design for the half eagle, as well as the sand blast style of Proofing. Undoubtedly anticipating record sales given the issue's historic nature, the Philadelphia Mint struck 167 Proof half eagles in 1908. The bold sand blast finish, with its deep color, proved unpopular with contemporary collectors who had grown accustomed to the cameo, brilliant mirror Proofs of the Liberty gold coin era. The result is that some Proof 1908 half eagles failed to sell at the time of issue and were later destroyed in the Mint. Even so, with approximately 100 to 125 coins extant in all grades, this is the most readily obtainable Proof of the type in today's market. However, it is very rare in grades above the Proof-64 level. The present Proof-66 (PCGS) ranks among the best preserved and most attractively original survivors that we have had the privilege of handling in recent years.
The Proof 1908 Indian Half Eagle was purchase from Stacks Bowers Direct. This is the sales branch of the company. You could say “their store”. We have seen that many of the great Hansen coins were obtained from SBG Auctions. I think this may not be the first direct purchase, but it is the first that I have seen. According to the SBGD website, the coin sold for $85,000. PCGS current value is $80,000. As we discussed earlier, it is really difficult for me to see the minor differences in these proof coins. There just not that many identification markers to compare. Therefore, I was unsuccessful in identifying an earlier pedigree. The coin is really a nice little improvement the Proof Indian Half Eagle Set.
Provenance: Purchase from Stacks Bowers Direct for unconfirmed listed price of $85,000, D. L. Hanse Collection
1908 Indian Half Eagle, PR66
PCGS POP 19/5, CAC Approved
Certification #39100313, PCGS #8539
PCGS Coin Guide Value: $80,000 / Listed Price: $85,000
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Hi Currin, here's what I show for the pedigree on the 1908 $5 39100313:
Heritage 11/2013:3869 (as PCGS PR66 25384006), $55,813.00 - HFW² Collection - Heritage 1/2020:4439 (as PCGS PR66 25348980), $52,800.00 - D.L. Hansen Collection (as PCGS PR66 39100313)
Ron Guth, Chief Investigator
The Numismatic Detective Agency
Liberty Head Half Eagle Upgrade
It seems just yesterday that I was posting the 1873-S Half Eagle PCGS MS61 CAC Approved, Sole Finest Certified from the Fairmont Collection. Today, you will see another upgrade to the PCGS registry #1 - Liberty Head $5 Gold Basic Circulation Strikes (1839-1908) Set. The set is 100% complete and contains the World Renown 1854-S Half Eagle AU58+ from the Brett Pogue Collection. This multi-million dollar center piece has a two hundred piece supporting cast including a least a half dozen other six figure coins. If this was to be the last upgrade to this fantastic set of Liberty Head Half Eagles, the set would stand as a world class set for many years to come. We know this is not the last upgrade. Mr. Hansen has stated that he may never finish upgrading his collection.
The 201 piece set is described as: There is no other set of coins that features specimens from seven U. S. Mints—Philadelphia, Charlotte, Dahlonega, Carson City, Denver, New Orleans and San Francisco. This long-lived set includes one of the greatest rarities in numismatics, the 1854-S $5 gold piece. How many has PCGS graded? Zero! There are many sets-within-sets in this series, as most collectors focus on the coins from one particular Mint. It’s a long and challenging collection to complete, but it’s a tremendous achievement if you can do it. I agree, this is a little outdated.
As you can see, The D.L. Hansen Collection hold first and fifth place spots on the PCGS all-times list. The other great collections are the Harry W. Bass, Louis Eliasberg and our own National Numismatic Collection in the Smithsonian Institute. The Hansen set is sneaking up on the solid 60.0 grade point average. This would be a significant milestone for this set. The Half Eagle Liberty Head Collection has 33 PCGS POP1/0 Specimens, sole finest certified by PCGS. Another 32 are tied for PCGS finest. There are 152 (slightly more than 75%) of the set is PCGS Certified Condition Census Top Five.
1887-S Half Eagle PCGS MS66, Sole Finest Certified
The new coin replaces an 1887-S MS64+, Certification #82618399, POP 5/6. David Akers describes the coin as: The 1887-S is one of the common dates of the series and it is easily obtained in any condition including choice uncirculated. For PCGS certified, MS64 is the tipping point. There are 66 entries graded this condition but only 11 graded higher. PCGS estimate only five survived in GEM condition or better. PCGS POP report (with possible resubmissions) has six at GEM or better: four MS565, one MS65+ and the new Hansen specimen MS66. I believe the MS65+ and the MS66 specimens are fairly recent upgrades with no recorded auction appearances, except a Great Collections to be discussed later in this posting.
The coin made its first appearance in a Stacks Bowers August 2020 Auction in a MS65 PCGS holder with an old certification number 05618458, which is still active. In this sale, SBG states PCGS Population: 4; none finer. This leads to a couple conclusion and possibilities. First, there may not be four graded MS65 any longer (I am confident of at least one). Also, is it possible the MS65+ and MS66 are the same coin with back to back submissions? In the MS65 sale, the coin was CAC Approved, but now it is not. SBG describes the condition rarity as: Survivors from a generous mintage of 1,912,000 pieces are available in grades through MS-63, but any finer and the 1887-S becomes a noteworthy condition rarity. Tied for highest graded at the leading third-party certification services, this premium quality Gem is sure to see spirited bidding from gold enthusiasts. Approval by CAC emphasizes the high quality and surely contributes to the desirability.
In the August 2020 SBG Auction, the coin appearance was described as: Peach and pinkish suggestions dominate the complexion, accented by traces of patina at the obverse border. Intensely lustrous with a uniformly satiny texture across all elements. The surfaces remain incredibly untroubled beneath magnification, lacking all but the most trivial ticks. Beautiful to examine in-hand. The coin realized and currently holds the Coin Facts Auction Record of $15,600.
The coin made the big jump to MS66 POP 1/0 and showed up October 2020 in a Great Collections Auction. It had a new certification number 40309223, and was described as Single finest graded. The coin sold on Oct 18, 2020 and realized a new Auction Record of $22,557.38 with Buyer’s Fees. Being PCGS does not record Great Collections results, I image the previous action record from the SBG Auction will stand for now. It appears the Hansen Team passed to coin in the Great Collections Auction.
In December, the coin was offered on the Paradime Coins website. The coin was described as: ParadimeCoins is proud to offer the single finest 1887-S $5 Liberty Eagle. From a mintage of 1.912 Million Half Eagles minted, only 6,000 are known in all grades, a survival rate of 0.31%. In MS65 - 3 or 4 unique examples are known with PCGS showing 5 pop report. Nonetheless, only 1 single MS-66 is known for this incredibly tough conditional rarity. This example simply put is destined for the finest collection. In MS65 the most recent examples sold for $15,600 and $12,000. We see no reason why this pop 1 ms66 should not sell for 4 or 5 times this multiple. Beyond the number this coin is one of the most attractive $5 Libs with salmon pink hues enveloping both the obverse and reverse, we see no ticks or mark worth mentioning and the strike is incredibly well struck. There was no mention the coin sold in auction a few months earlier for $22,557. On their eBay webpage, the ask price was $30,000. The coin was not purchased thru the website, rather the coin was remove with message: This listing was ended by the seller because the item is no longer available. The listing end 10:42PM on Dec 25, 2020. This may be a little early Black Friday shopping.
August 2020 U.S. Coins, (Stacks Bowers 8/2020), lot 1265 (as PCGS MS65 05618458), realized $15,600; (Great Collections 10/2020), Item ID: 892209 (as PCGS MS66 40309223), realized $22,557.38; Purchased in Private Transaction (Paradime Coins 12/2020).
1887-S Half Eagle PCGS MS66
PCGS POP 1/0, Sole Finest by PCGS
Certification # 40309223, PCGS # 8371
PCGS Value Guide: $22,500 / unknown
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Liberty Head Eagle Upgrade
My last update was for the Half Eagle Set. Today’s is for the Eagle Set. As with the Liberty Head Half Eagles, the D.L. Hansen Collection has the PCGS registry #1 - Liberty Head $10 Gold Basic Circulation Strikes (1839-1908) Set. The set is 100% complete and features the 1839/8, Type of 1838, MS66 PCGS from the Gold Rush Collection. This near million dollar masterpiece has a 178 piece supporting cast including a least a half dozen other six figure coins. This is an extremely great set of Liberty Head Eagles while being the number one spot in the PCGS registry, but I would have to agree to the fact at this point in time, the Hansen set may not be the finest currently assembled. To my knowledge, the Hansen and Tyrant Sets have not been evaluated side-by-side. At this time, I would give a slight edge to the Tyrant Collection.
The 179 piece set is described as: This long, long series stretches from the time when Abe Lincoln was less than 30 years old to the years when Teddy Roosevelt was in power. The set is filled with rarities, but there are no so-called "impossible" coins as are seen in many other series. The classic rarity is the famed 1875. This set involves three distinct types: the No Motto Covered Ear, the No Motto and the With Motto. A complete date set in any condition is a major numismatic accomplishment. Mr. Hansen has a PCGS Condition Census famed 1875 Eagle that is second only to his PCGS POP 1/0 1839/8 Specimen.
You can see with the eagles as with the half eagles, The D.L. Hansen Collection holds first and fifth place spots on the PCGS all-time list. The other collections are ranked a little differently. Besides Mr. Hansen, the only other collector that made the top five for both half eagles and eagles was the Harry W. Bass. For eagle sets, the other top shelf collections were Bob Simpson and Ellen D. Collection (David Hall). With Louis Eliasberg dropping to number six, National Numismatic Collection could only muster eighth spot Liberty Head Eagles.
The Hansen set will still have work to do before it can reach grade point average of 60.0. The set currently is setting at 59.12. The Hansen Liberty Head Eagle Collection has 13 PCGS POP1/0 Specimens, sole finest certified by PCGS. Another 31 coins are tied for PCGS finest. There are 134 (slightly less than 75%) of the set is PCGS Certified Condition Census Top Five. The quality of Mr. Hansen Liberty Head Half Eagle and Eagle sets are very comparable. The big difference is there are more PCGS POP 1/0 Specimens in the Half Eagle Set.
1879-O Eagle PCGS MS60
The new coin replaces an 1879-O AU58 Certification #81875414, POP 7/2. Doug Winter describes the coin as: The 1879-O has the second lowest mintage figure of any New Orleans eagle and the second lowest mintage figure for any gold coin struck at this mint. It is the third rarest New Orleans eagle in terms of overall rarity, trailing the 1883-O and the 1859-O. There was just a single example of this date in the Bass collection and many of the great gold sales of the past either lacked an 1879-O eagle or were represented by an off-quality piece. The 1879-O is the third rarest New Orleans eagle. Only four to five dozen are known from an original mintage figure of 1,500. About eighty percent of the survivors grade VF to EF and are characterized by densely abraded surfaces. A properly graded AU50 to AU53 is rare and an AU55 to AU58 is very rare. In Uncirculated, the 1879-O eagle is unique. In the TPG world of today, the coin is no longer unique. In PCGS Population Reports, there are a MS60 and MS61. In the NGC report, there are a MS60 and a pair of MS61. It must be stated when looking at these reports; there are resubmissions and crossovers that could inflate the numbers. It is generally considered that the NGC MS61 in the Tyrant Collection is the top specimen. The Ex: Morgan Collection of Branch Mint Gold is described in a Tyrant account as: A review of the photographs of the top known examples will confirm how head and shoulders the present coin (Tyrant) is in terms of quality and appeal, over any other known example. Simply stunning! The finest certified by PCGS is the Auction Record coin that appeared in Heritage Auction on 6/2014, lot 4868, realizing $88,125. On face value, this would place the Hansen Specimen somewhere in the top five and maybe as high as number three on the 1879-O eagle roster.
The Hansen coin made its first appearance in a Stacks Bowers March 2017 Auction in an AU-58 PCGS holder with an old certification number 06584131, which is still active. In this sale, SBG states PCGS Population: 7; one finer. The appearance of the coin is described as: Handsome prooflike fields and frosty devices greet the viewer of this delightful near-Mint State example. The surfaces are primarily orange-gold with lighter yellow towards the peripheries, intermingled with pale blue highlights. The original mintage of 1,500 pieces was greatly reduced by time and attrition to perhaps 75 to 100 known today. This is one of the best to survive and is tied with six others at PCGS behind a single coin that has earned the grade of MS-61. One of the classic key dates to this challenging series and an important New Orleans Mint eagle. The coin realized $51,700.
At some point, the coin was upgrade to MS60 POP 1/1 with a new certification number 34631147. Question to the community, is there a chart that matches certification numbers with the year? Moving on, the coin was recently purchased from New York Gold Mint in a private transaction. We don’t know the negotiate price, but we do know PCGS Price Guide values a coin in this grade at $80,000. I am not fond of MS60 coins, but coins of this rarity in higher grades place limits on what choices are available. I took a peek in the Hansen #2 set, and he has an AU58, CAC Approved Specimen. I wonder if that coin could be the best of the three. The top three 1879-O Eagles currently listed in the Hansen sets are:
PCGS #1 Basic + MV Set – MS60, Certification #34631147
PCGS #1 Basic Set - AU58, Certification #81875414
PCGS #2 Basic Set - AU58, CAC Approved, Certification #05928644
There could be lower graded specimens, but these three are the only ones that I could find listed in the Hansen sets. A couple days ago, I showed you the Liberty Head Half Eagle set. Today, you saw the Eagle set. The two sets require 380 coins. Also, you saw the Hansen #2 sets were All-Time Top Five in both series. Then you saw at least one coin was not two coins deep but three. I am careful not to speculate on just how many Liberty Head Eagles and Half Eagles in this private inventory. If I did, I would start with a number of 500 and go up from there. Amazing!
Provenance: Rarities Night, (Stacks Bowers 3/2017), Lot 3119, (as PCGS AU58 PCGS 06584131), realized $51,700; Purchased in Private Transaction (New York Gold Mark, 1/2021).
1879-O Eagle PCGS MS60
PCGS POP 1/1
Certification #34631147, PCGS #8685
PCGS Value Guide: $80,000 / unknown
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Proof Eagle Addition
Well, if you didn’t like the last update, this one should be different. There are several great things going for this update. For one, it is a Proof Eagle, and very eye catching. Also, it is the finest known for date! If that’s not enough, the coin is from a great cabinet known for assembling a world class gold proof collection. If that still is not enough, then consider the specimen as being close to mid six-figures. Lastly you can top the coin off as being needed for the Civil War with Proof Gold (1861-1865) Set. That’s right. Was anyone really collecting proofs coins doing the Civil War? Well, must have because the Union Mint in Philadelphia continued to produce them. PCGS describes the set as: This challenging set represents four years of our country's most trying times, the Civil War. It is a sampling of all denominations including the very tough proof gold issues which are rare in nearly all denominations. Completing this set will be an accomplishment as well also an historic representation of a difficult war that took place over 150 years ago.
With this update, The D.L. Hansen Collection is down to needing only twelve gold proofs remaining in the Civil War era. The Collection has been complete with the non-gold portion for some time now. In fact, the Hansen Collection has two complete 43-piece sets of non-gold proofs. As for the Civil War with Proof Gold, there is no one competing in that set except for Mr. Hansen. I guess that speaks for itself on the difficulty of assembling the set. As for Mr. Hansen final twelve coins, the year 1861 still needs the $2.5, $3, $10 and $20. For 1862, still needs $2.5, $3, $20. For the 1863, still needs the $5, $10, $20. For 1865, still needs the $10 and $20. Amazingly, the 1864 is completed!
The Hansen 69-piece top set has nine PCGS sole finest POP 1/0 specimens, with four of them being gold coins. There are another eight tied for finest certified by PCGS. I am sure we will see more to come with this set.
1862 Liberty Head, PR65DCAM, Ex: Dr. Robert J. Loewinger
Expert Ron Guth Comment: In the early years of the Civil War, Americans had more on their minds than numismatics. Nonetheless, there were a few visionary collectors who avidly pursued the newest Mint issues, including the various Proof coins issued each year. Proof gold coins could be purchased for a small premium over their face value, but because of the high intrinsic value of their metal content, sales were low. In the case of the 1862 Eagle, the mintage of Proof examples has been estimated at fifty pieces, yet only a dozen or so examples have been accounted for. This low survival rate suggests that not all of the Proof 1862 Eagles were sold by the mint and that the excess supply was melted. Alternatively, there could be additional examples hidden away in collections, but it is doubtful that the overall population will expand much more beyond its present level. Most of the known Proof 1862 Eagles present a cameo contrast, sometimes to a strong degree. Most, if not all, of the non-Cameos listed in the PCGS Population Report were graded before PCGS began recognizing Cameo and Deep Cameo designations; this will be corrected as the pieces return for reexamination. The current finest example of a Proof 1862 $10 appears to be the former Dr. Robert Loewinger example, not in a PCGS PR65DCAM holder. Not surprisingly, it holds the price record for this date in Proof -- $152,750. The Dr. Robert Loewinger is now in a PCGS holder and as of this past week, is now in the D.L. Hansen Collection.
With the help of a Heritage description, I made an attempt to put a roster showing the known dozen specimens of the coin. This matches the survival estimate given by Coin Factors. That is not to say that this roster is prefect, but I think it to fairly good. Also according to the Coin Facts Rarity and Survival Estimates, the number of GEM specimens is one, and that one is at the top of this roster.
1 –Hansen Specimen, PR65 Deep Cameo PCGS, T. Harrison Garrett; Robert Garrett; John Work Garrett; Johns Hopkins University (Stack's, 3/1976), lot 399, as part of a complete six-piece proof set offered individually; Lisa L. Collection; Dr. Robert J. Loewinger Collection / FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/2007), lot 3136, realized $115,000; Baltimore Auction (Stack's, 3/2012), lot 4335, realized $109,250; Rosemont Signature (Heritage, 8/2013), lot 5884 (as PR65 Ultra Cameo NGC), realized $152,750 (Auction Record); Purchased in Private Transaction from Heritage Wholesale through David Lawrence as PR65DCAM PCGS, D.L. Hansen Collection.
2 – Olson Specimen, PR64 Ultra Cameo NGC, Dr. James Olson; FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/2013), lot 5908.
3 - Smithsonian #1 Specimen, PR64 Deep Cameo, National Numismatic Collection, Smithsonian Institution. Grade per Garrett and Guth.
4 - Smithsonian #2 Specimen, PR64 Deep Cameo, National Numismatic Collection, Smithsonian Institution. Grade per Garrett and Guth.
5 - Melish/Norweb Specimen, PR64 Cameo NGC, Thomas G. Melish Collection (Kosoff, 4/1956), lot 2449; Ben Stack; Norweb Collection, Part II (Bowers and Merena, 3/1988), lot 2185, realized $11,000;
Dennis Mendelson Sale (Superior, 8/1990), lot 1348, realized $15,950; Public Auction Sale (Stack's, 12/1991), lot 2283, realized $30,800; ANA Signature (Heritage, 8/2015), lot 4423, Lot Passed; FUN U.S. Coins Signature (Heritage, 1/2016, Lot 5626, Lot Passed Rarities Night, (Stack's, 8/2017), lot 2202, realized $94,000.
6 – Bass Specimen, PR64 Cameo PCGS, ANA Sale (Stack's, 8/1976), lot 3089; Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection, Part II (Bowers and Merena, 10/1999), lot 1487.
7 – Kaufman/ Mendelson Specimen PR64 Cameo PCGS, N.M. Kaufman Collection (RARCOA, 8/1978), lot 877; Dennis Mendelson Collection (Superior, 2/1991), lot 2859; Baltimore '93 Auction (Superior, 7/1993), lot 900; Medio Collection (Stack's/ANR, 6/2004), lot 1471; Chicago Signature (Heritage, 8/2011), lot 7619.
8 – Tyrant Specimen, PR64 Cameo PCGS, Dr. Richard Ariagno Collection (Goldberg, 5/1999), lot 791; Pre-Long Beach (Goldberg, 9/2003), lot 1183; Internet Sale (Heritage, 12/2003), lot 14377; Pre-Long Beach (Goldberg, 5-6/2005), lot 985; Eagles of the Tyrant Collection.
9 – Trompeter Specimen, PR64 PCGS, Possibly acquired directly from the Mint by George Davis; Davis-Graves Collection (Stack's, 4/1954), lot 873, as part of a complete six-piece proof set offered individually; Harold S. Bareford Collection (Stack's, 12/1978), lot 219, as part of a complete six-piece proof set offered individually; Jascha Heifetz Collection (Superior, 10/1989), lot 4751; Ed Trompeter.
10 – Eliasberg Specimen, PR64 NGC, James Ten Eyck Collection (B. Max Mehl, 5/1922), lot 316; John H. Clapp; Clapp Estate to Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. (1942); Louis Eliasberg, Sr. Collection (Bowers and Ruddy, 10/1982), lot 716; Amon G. Carter Collection (Stack's, 1/1984), lot 763; Auction '85 (RARCOA, 7/1985), lot 456; Charles Kramer Collection (Stack's, 11-12/1988), lot 592; Auction '89 (Superior, 7/1989), lot 917.
11 – Dines/Hardan Specimen, PR64 PCGS, Charles Jay Collection (Stack's, 10/1967), lot 318; James Dines (Stack's, 3/1969), lot 826; 55th Anniversary Sale (Stack's, 10/1990), lot 1690; James E. Haldan Collection (Sotheby's, 6/1996), lot 115.
12 – Morgan/ANS Specimen, Proof, R.C.H. Brock; J.P. Morgan; American Numismatic Society; Exhibited at the American Numismatic Society Exhibition (1914).
At the FUN Show in 2007, Heritage hosted the sale of Dr. Robert Loewinger Collection. The 1862 Liberty Head Eagle was just one of 66 Loewinger pieces sold in the sale. Heritiage pre-sale description: Dr. Robert Loewinger has assembled an almost unbelievable collection of American proof gold coins," noted Heritage President Greg Rohan. "This is a sensational collection of coins, many of which are the finest known as certified by NGC and PCGS. Among the highlights are his complete six-piece 1862 Gold Proof Set (plus other denominations), mostly certified PR65 Deep Cameo; a complete (1908-1915) set of Indian quarter eagle proofs, certified PR65 to PR68; and a complete (1908-1914) set of Indian half eagle proofs, all certified PR67. His early gold proofs are also extraordinary. This is a collection worthy of the highest praise and the most delightful inspection. The top coin was an Extremely Rare PR66 Deep Cameo 1855 Type Two Gold Dollar, Ex: Pittman that realized $316,250 in 2007. The second place coin was 1836 Classic Quarter Eagle, NGC PR66 Ultra Cameo realizing $253,000.
The new Hansen 1862 $20 PR65 Deep Cameo PCGS was eleventh highest in the sale realizing $115,000. The coin the sale was described as: On the reverse of this piece a few of the horizontal shield lines are thinner on their right (facing) sides because of die lapping, and the last three sets of vertical shield lines are also thinner due to lapping. This spectacular example has that most elusive of coin criteria, eye appeal, in spades, and despite the Gem Deep Cameo assessment from PCGS, appears quite conservatively graded. The deeply contrasting, "gold-on-black" appearance so coveted in proof gold is quite evident here, with profoundly mirrored fields and thickly frosted devices. The mint frost is extremely deep on the obverse, but is even thicker on the reverse. Although the pristine quality of the piece does not provide much in the way of distinctive pedigree markers, we can point to a small unfrosted patch on Liberty's neck, near the juncture with the lowest curl.
In a 2016 Heritage sale, an earlier provenance is traced to the T. Harrison Garrett Collection. Stacks, sold the coin in 1976, lot 399, as part of a complete six-piece proof set offered individually. Also, it is attributed to the Lisa L. Collection. I don’t know anything about this collection. Is there anyone in the community that can share any information? I am not sure why, but as the coin changed hands over the past thirteen years, the TPG holder changed back and forth. In the Loewinger Sale, the coin was an 1862 $20 PR65 Deep Cameo PCGS, with certification number 10165412. The next appearance of the specimen was in the Stacks Bowers - The March 2012 Baltimore Auction. This time the coin was listed as Proof-65 Ultra Cameo (NGC). There was no pedigree mention.
The coin was described as: One of the few Proof 1862 eagles available for private ownership, this piece exhibits warm, even, medium-gold color to both sides. Field to device contrast is sharp and pronounced, the former areas nicely mirrored and the latter with a bold satin texture. Fully struck and free of significant handling marks, an extremely faint planchet flaw (as made) in the obverse field above the digits 86 in the date is the most useful pedigree marker. Easily among the rarest gold coins in this sale, and a piece that represents a fleeting buying opportunity for the advanced collector. This coin is the finer of only two Ultra Cameo Proof 1862 eagles listed at NGC. There are no CAM or DCAM examples certified by PCGS, and no coins graded higher than Proof-65 in any category at that service. Q. David Bowers added “Numismatic Reflections”: Offered is a magnificent Gem, a great rarity with superb eye appeal. Here again the opportunity is more important than the price paid. If you capture this with your bid you will be the proud owner while most others will lack a Proof of this year. This piece is deserving of the highest praise.
Heritage offered the coin in August the following year at US Coins Signature Auction. Still in a NGC holder, this time the coin was contributed to Dr. Robert Loewinger again. The main description was contributed to being “Single Finest Certified Example”. It is this sale the coin achieves the Auction Record of $152,750. The coin currently still holds that record, but most certainly it would be shattered if the coin appeared today. The coin was recently listed for sale on the LCR Coin website. The coin currently is listed as “OUT OF STOCK”. The ask price on the coin was $297,000. PCGS Price Guide has a current value of $285,000. This is an all-around great addition to the Hansen Collection. It is truly gorgeous.
Provenance: See #1 above.
1862 Liberty Head, PR65DCAM, Ex: Garrett/ Loewinger
PCGS POP 1/0, Sole Finest Example
Certification #40745705, PCGS #98798
PCGS Coin Guide Value: $285,000 / Ask $297,000
My 20th Century Gold Major Design Type Set ---started : 11/17/1997 ---- completed : 1/21/2004
Just wow!
I really do not see why that coin is not in a 66 or 67 holder........ Great candidate for a regrade.
Except the upgrade % fee could be significant money. I am sure PCGS would love to upgrade that coin.
OINK
That's killer!
Sunshine Rare Coins
sunshinecoins.com/store/c1/Featured_Products.html
With having duplicate sets, Hansen acts as a vacuum cleaner on the high end market. This makes me wonder if it has a depressing effect on fellow whales.
"Got a flaming heart, can't get my fill"