It has been a while since my last e-newsletter. I put the blame squarely on the difficulty of coming up with enough items that are worthy of you, dear reader. I do not blame my laziness – not one little bit.


Question: Would You Rather Have 1.5 Million Dollars, or One Cent?
I guess, for we coin collectors (especially the well heeled among us) the answer is – it depends on the “cent”!

Without question, the most frequent question I am asked by the general public is: “What is the most expensive coin you have ever owned?”

My answer often prompts them to ask several follow up questions. Since these questions tend to be similar, I will attempt to answer all of them here.

What is the most expensive coin you have ever owned? ​

That's an easy one. Far and away the most expensive coin I have personally bought and sold was this coin:

It is a 1793 Chain Cent, With the word AMERICA abbreviated as “AMERI”. I purchased it for $1.5 million.

How did you discover the coin?

Well, I wish I could say something like, “I found it in a wooden chest in an attic of an old New England farmhouse”. The truth is more ordinary. I purchased it out of a major coin auction held in Florida in January of 2019.


What is the history associated with the coin?

The coin is quite famous in numismatic circles, and was previously owned by two prominent coin collectors. Ted Naftzger, who assembled the greatest collection of Large Cents ever formed, owned it from 1947 to 1996.

Alan Weinberg purchased it in 1996 at Mr. Naftzger's kitchen table. Mr. Weinberg owned it from 1996 to when he auctioned it off in 2019 along with the rest of his spectacular collection.


 What attributes of the coin lead to its significant value?

There are two big reasons why this coin is so darn valuable. The first is: It is considered by most to be the very first cent design. This design was used for only a few weeks back in 1793.

The second reason (and perhaps the more important one) is condition. This particular specimen is among the finest known. There is one finer specimen of this issue, but that coin is a little different; it was likely a presentation piece that was purposely made to be saved by someone important at the time. It is currently valued at $5 million or so.

The specimen I purchased, on the other hand, was obviously made to be spent by the public. For some reason it never circulated and was likely put away and saved in pristine condition back in 1793. As a result many collectors consider this coin to be the finest example of the first circulating US cent.

And that is a very big deal in the world of coins.


How did you initially authenticate the coin and assess its quality and value?

Because it is so well known within the coin collecting community, this coin “carries its own credentials”, as they say. But it has also been authenticated and graded as “MS-64 plus” by the PCGS grading service, and that grade has been verified by Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC).


What was your strategy for acquiring the coin in the auction?

I had known about this particular coin for decades. Because I have several collector customers who only want the very finest, I keep track of those coins as best I can.

I was aware that there was a collector who approached the owner of this coin several years ago with an $3 million offer for it. The offer was refused, as it was not for sale at the time.

Then in late 2018 it was announced the the coin was going to be sold at auction at auction in Orlando. I knew the collector who made that $3 million offer was (and is) still around, but he was not collecting those super-expensive “trophy coins” like he was in years prior, so he would not be bidding.
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Thus I thought there was a chance to acquire it at a favorable price, with a bit of luck. While many folks would not consider spending $1,500,000 for a penny a “favorable price”, in this case it really was.

When the coin came up for bid, I raised my paddle along with several others in the auction room. Then very quickly – it was all over. The auction house hammered the coin down to me. I was thrilled, and a bit terrified too, truth be told.


What did you do with the coin?

I sold it right after the sale. It now graces the collection of a prominent Midwestern family. They are quietly building a world class type set of US coins. This is the centerpiece of their collection obviously, but they have other amazing coins in their set.

All in all it was a great, if a bit stressful, experience.

Have You Ever Wanted to Receive a Nobel Prize?

So – are you still upset that you haven't won a Nobel prize yet? Not even one?

I know exactly how you feel. I haven't done anything great in my life, but I still feel like I should get one. Sure, Nobel prize winners have discovered penicillin and the structure of DNA and other wonderful stuff.

But only I have discovered a way to carry two heaping laundry baskets of dirty clothes down the stairs at one time – thus saving a second trip. And I have discovered many other equally amazing things too. But no medal for me … so far.

I have some good news though. You can now “win” (er, I mean purchase) a genuine Nobel medal in Gold – see below. And it's in nearly perfect condition to boot. See below.


Featured Item – A Gold Nobel Medal
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(1975) Nobel Nominating Committee Gold Medal For the Nobel Prize in Economics. PCGS graded Specimen-66.

Gold. 26 mm. 20.2 grams. Bright golden textured surfaces throughout. Privy marks and date on edge. This medal in silver is bestowed to members of the Royal Academy of Science during the nominating process for laureates in Economics. Upon receipt of ten silver versions they may be traded for one example in gold such as this. As these rare medals are given to non-collectors, they usually suffer from mishandling to one extent or the other. Hey – who wouldn't want to show it to friends and pass it around the dining room table. This example, however, is still in exceptional condition. Ex. Estate of Lars Ernster, Swedish researcher of the physiology and biochemistry of mitochondria and all-around good guy.  $4500.


US Coins
1877 3 Cent Nickel. NGC graded Proof-65 CAC (fatty holder).
The key, proof-only date in this completable series. Decent cameo contrast as well. PCGS #3773. $2850.

1811 Bust Half Dollar. PCGS graded VF30 CAC.
Small 8 Redbook variety. Beautiful multicolor toning. PCGS #6097. $375.

1883-CC Morgan $1. PCGS graded MS65 CAC (ogh).
Older generation slab from the 1990's. Untoned obverse, with a blush of golden reverse toning. PCGS #7144. $450.

1885-CC Morgan $1. PCGS graded MS65 CAC (ogh).
Older generation slab from the 1990's. Pure white - like the snow capped mountains in, um, someplace where you would find snow capped mountains. PCGS #7160. $950.

1922 Peace Dollar. PCGS graded MS62 CAC.
Naturally toned, attractive Peace dollars are very uncommon, and avidly sought by fans of toners. PCGS # 7357. $175.


World Coins, Exonumia, Flotsam & Jetsam

1794 dated Flowing Hair Half Dollar Copy. Double Struck.
Struck in silver by Ron Landis back when the Gallery Mint was operating.  Very collectible; “copy” stamped on the reverse. $295.

1794 counterfeit Flowing Hair Half Dime, Copper. Fine [uncertified].
This doesn't appear to me to be a contemporary counterfeit. Still, it is cool to see the first year of issue half dime “struck” in copper. This coin is ex “JD's” counterfeit collection. $495.

(ca. 1826-33) Boston Military Goods Token. Almost Uncirculated [uncertified].
MASSACHUSETTS. BOSTON. Horace Porter & Co. Rulau E-Mass 84 (R-7). Brass, RE.. Gleaming gold surfaces with plenty of silvering remaining. A high grade example. ex John Ford Collection, $375.

1856 Large Cent Inlaid with an 1859 Indian Head Cent. Fine [uncertified].
The first of these I have ever seen, made for a purpose unknown to me. It was purchased from a Connecticut estate. $250.

1857 Jacques Wiener Cathedral Medal. Silvered. Uncirculated [uncertified].
Van Hoydonck 152. St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. St. Peters is the largest house of worship in Christendom. Significantly, this specimen has been silvered at the time of striking, and quite rare as such. It has toned in gorgeous iridescent colors. $595.

(1911) Belgium Skull medal. Uncirculated [uncertified].
Nothing to see here. Just a big ol' medal with a big ol' skull on it. Medals and coins depicting skulls have become a popular collector item in recent years. Here is a large (38 mm) bronze medal made in Belgium in the early 20th century with a matte finish and with a reported mintage of just 50. $195.

1969 Large Silver Medal Depicting a Dragon. Uncirculated [uncertified].
A large (45 mm) and heavy (2.5 oz.) silver medal depicting the Prince of Wales on one side and a dragon on the other. Gorgeously toned. $195.

​Three Piece French Theater Tokens in felt display tray. Uncirculated [uncertified].
This is apparently a set of restrikes of French theater tokens originally made in the 1700's. I'm not sure when these uniface restrikes were made, but I assume it was circa 1900 or so. These were #116 of an issue of 500. Housed in a custom made display board of that era that they were made. $250.

Antique Whist Set Carved out of Whale Bone.
Such a neat item; I've never seen one before. The four numbered whist "chits" fit inside a case. The lower part of the outer case has a split. A perfect compliment to those brutal Early American Copper convention whist matches. $195.

1787 New Jersey Copper, with Undertype of an Extremely Rare CT Copper. PCGS graded Very Fine-25.
This New Jersey copper is the Maris 56-n variety – the popular (but not rare) Camel Head variety. However, the undertype is is of an extremely rare Connecticut copper – the Miller 33.28-Z.20, solidly in the Rarity-7 category. This is the rarest Connecticut undertype variety that I am aware of on a Camel Head New Jersey copper. To borrow from an old Certs Breath Mints commercial – “Its. two... two … two coins in one!”. The undertype attribution is guaranteed of course, and the coin comes with PCGS TrueView image so you can blow up the image to the size of New Jersey if you wish. $1950.

1795 Draped Bust $1 PCGS graded AU53.
B-15. Just a gorgeous example of this important type coin. Significant cartwheel luster under a ring of green-blue-gold peripheral toning. $19,750.

1840 No Drapery Seated Dime. PCGS graded AU58.
A lovely example of a 3 year type coin.  I sent this coin in myself and was honestly surprised when it did not grade mint state.  Judge for yourself.  $595.

1863 Indian Cent.  PCGS graded MS63 CAC.
A nice original coin, but what I love about this coin is the big ol' cud on the reverse at 9 o'clock. $495.

1879 Indian Cent. PCGS graded Proof-65 Red & Brown.
A stunning example of what specialists call a "greenie".  A proof Indian cent that has toned a vibrant green is a rare find, and avidly collected.  $1250.

1883 Indian Cent.  PCGS graded Proof-65 Brown CAC.
This Indian cent proof also shows that magic green color, albeit to a lesser extent.  $895.

1890-CC $20 Gold. PCGS AU58.
Pleasing appearance and close to full mint state.  $4975.

1900 Barber Half Dollar. PCGS graded MS64.
Pure white save for a ring of peripheral toning on both sides.  You will love this coin. $1050.

1923-S Monroe Commemorative. PCGS graded MS60, Gold CAC.
2 Piece PCGS holder. Pretty Coin. $195.

​1940 Walking Liberty Half Dollar. PCGS graded MS64 CAC.
Gorgeously toned. $295.
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1941 to 1947-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar Short Set. All graded PCGS MS64.
A neat 20 coin set, some on old holders as you can see. All are white or very lightly toned. A good value in today's market. $1595.

​

1547 Polish/Lithuanian ½ Grosz. NGC Graded MS65.
A blazing white, 100% full gem. Gem uncirculated coins in the 1500's nearly do not exist. $975.

1549 Polish/Lithuanian ½ Grosz. PCGS Graded MS65.
A blazing white, 100% full gem. Comes with PCGS TrueView Images. $1475.

1704 Louis d’or Contemporary counterfeit Gold Coin. Louis the 14th. Uncirculated [uncertified].
Struck on a cut down genuine Louis d'Or cold coin, and still retaining its mint flash . Considerable undertype is visible.  Coins like this undoubtedly circulated in the Americas in colonial times. $675.

1714-Mo J Philip V gold Cob 8 Escudos Gold Coin. NGC graded XF45.
From the famed 1715 Plate Fleet shipwreck. Mexico City mint. An outstanding, centrally-struck Mint State cob with impressive legends and central designs. Bright yellow-gold and almost never encountered at such a reasonable price. $8750.

(1774) Skull & Butterfly Medal. Silver. Almost Undirculated Details [uncertified]. 
40mm diameter. The obverse of this large and impressive medal has a portrait of Moses Mendelssohn. The reverse sports a really cool skull with a butterfly fluttering its wings and the writing: "Phaedon" and "Natus MDCCXXIX" [born, 1729]. Mendelssohn was considered a founder of the Jewish Enlightenment movement and is an ancestor of the composer Felix Mendelssohn. Quite rare, with only a very few specimens traced. This one has AU details with some subtle smoothing in the field. $1150.

Undated Bar Copper. Unlisted Struck Copy. Copper. Extremely Fine [uncertified].
114.8 grains. Approximately 25.5 mm x 27 mm. Struck on a slightly ovoid planchet, both sides are sharply defined overall. with a touch of softness at the left reverse border. Ex. Eric Newman estate (privately); Baldwin, August 1958. Envelope included. $975.

1857 Basilica of St. Peter's in Rome. Silver Plated Bronze. Uncirculated [uncertified].
This medal was engraved by Jacques Wiener. It was silver plated at the time of striking. I have also seen this medal in solid silver. Construction started in 1506 and was completed 109 short years later; I believe they used the same crew that has been working on a stretch of I-95 in Connecticut since I was a child. . Interestingly, it is the largest house of worship in Christendom. $995.

(1860-7) Japan Gold Koban. PCGS graded AU55.
JNDA 09-23 Man'en 万 延 variety. 3.30 grams. Gorgeous green-copper-gold in color. Most of these are found damaged or repaired, most likely due to their somewhat delicate nature. I'd be willing to bet most serious coin collectors do not have even one Koban in their collection. Here is your chance – and it is a real looker too. This is the second time I've offered this very specimen over the years. PCGS #392755. $1250.

1924-S over S over S Standing Liberty Quarter Contemporary Counterfeit. Very Fine [uncertified].
This was actually described as a genuine variety in the first edition of J.H. Cline’s book on Standing Liberty Quarters, though it was removed without explanation from later editions. It is a well made coin for the period, though with crude details under close examination. I am told that Dr. Michael Fey wrote an article on this counterfeit in 2008, but I was unable to locate it. $495.

1776-1976 Libertas Americana Silver Medal. PCGS graded MS64.
1976 Libertas Americana Medal. Modern Paris Mint Dies. Silver. 78 mm. Both sides exhibit matte-like pearl gray surfaces and a bold strike throughout.This is a modern striking that uses the design of the classic Libertas Americana medal (the original medal was ranked #1 in the 2007 reference “100 Greatest American Medals and Tokens” by Katherine Jaeger and Q. David Bowers). $1250.
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"1781" (2014) Libertas Americana Medal, Paris Mint Restrike. Silver, 5 oz. NGC graded Proof-69 Ultra Cameo.
A large, impressive, heavy silver medal made in the same mint that made them back in 1783.Dealers usually want a lot of money for these popular medals, but every once in a while I am able to buy one at a reasonable price, and when I do I pass it along to you. The last one I offered garnered several orders. $595.

1776 Continental 'Dollar'. PCGS graded AU58.
CURENCY variety, Newman 1-C, rarity-3. The origins of these coins are enigmatic. The most recent theory Is that they were produced in England to sell to contemporary collectors to commemorate American independence. Surprisingly to some, that theory has had little effect on either the demand or the prices of these hotly desired, 1776-dated items. PCGS #791. $62,500.

1867 Shield Nickel. PCGS graded Proof-64 Cameo, CAC.
Deep mirrors and nice contrast. This coin is accompanied by PCGS TrueView images. Interestingly, the reverse die was rusted. PCGS #83821. $1150.

1936 Buffalo Nickel. PCGS graded MS62. 15% Off center.
Surprising and neat. PCGS #E3977. $750.

1893 Barber Dime. NGC graded MS66 Plus Star.
An insanely toned Barber dime. MS-66 with a plus and a star. Can get too many more bells and whistles on the NGC label, and justifiably so. PCGS #4800. $2950.

1812 Bust half Dollar. PCGS graded MS62.
Light silvery gray toning and completely original. PCGS #6100. $2600.
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1828 Bust Half Dollar. PCGS graded AU-58 CAC.
Square base 2, Small 8, Large Letters. Light golden peripheral toning and very close to full uncirculated. PCGS # 39771. $950.

1835 Bust Half Dollar. PCGS graded AU50.
Overton-104. Wildly toned, with rings of blue and burnt orange. My photos do not do it justice. PCGS #39930. $875.

1884 Seated Half Dollar. PCGS graded MS67.
Stunning. One of the most beautiful seated half dollars of any date that I've ever seen. This is the second time I have handled this coin; the first was when it came out of a collection in rural Connecticut. PCGS #6366. $13,500.

1911-D Barber Half Dollar. PCGS graded MS65 Plus.
Mostly untoned, with a hint of green and gold. Well struck and reasonably priced; MS66's go for twice as much. This coin is accompanied by PCGS TrueView images. PCGS #6522. $2550.

1917-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar. PCGS graded AU58 CAC.
Mint mark on reverse. Fully lustrous and with just a blush of gold, this coin could easily stand in for a choice mint state example. PCGS #6573. $695.

​1900 Morgan Dollar. PCGS graded Proof-67 Cameo.
Just incredible. Nearly perfect. The way the Gods intended a Morgan silver dollar to look, and ever so close to a Deep Cameo designation. PCGS #87335. $24,500.​

​(ca. 1689) Electrotype Shells of the Obverse and Reverse of Irish Gun Money Halfcrown. Uncirculated [uncertified]
cf. Timmins 1A; cf Spink 6579D. Beautifully done electotype shells of the obverse and the reverse of a very high grade (uncirculated) Irish Gun Money Halfcrown Dated September of 1689. A fascinating example of a work-in-process high grade electrotype being made. Sourced in England. $175.

1803 $5 Kettle Token Counter. PCGS graded AU50.
These counters were listed in the appendix of the Judd pattern book for many years. No doubt more than a few were passed as genuine $5 gold coins to unsuspecting victims back in the day. A TrueView accompanies this coin. $495.

1856 Type Two Gold Dollar. Contemporary Counterfeit. Very Fine [uncertified].
A very well done contemporary counterfeit, struck in copper with a gold wash.  $275.

1858 Cathedral Medal. St Isaac Cathedral at St, Petersburg. PCGS graded Sprecimen-64.
Van Hoydonck-158, 59 mm. This imposing cathedral in St. Petersburg, Russia began construction in 1735 and was added to over the years. Gorgeous bronze color highlights the extreme intricacy of Jacques Wiener's masterful engraving. PCGS # 710452. $495.

1859 Cathedral Medal. St. Ouens Church at Rouen. PCGS graded Specimen-65.
Van Hoydonck-171, 59 mm. A gorgeous example of this medal depicting the cathedral at Rouen, which was the ancient capital of Normandy in France. Jacques Wiener's cathedral medals normally do not come so colorful. PCGS has graded 3 of these in all grades, this being the single finest. PCGS # 615113. $695

1894-A German New Guinea 10 Pfennig. PCGS graded MS64 Brown.
KM3, J-703. A stunning example of this popular “Bird of Paradise” design. This coin is accompanied by PCGS TrueView images. PCGS #550019. $495.

So You Want to Enter a Grading Contest?

PCGS held a few “grading contests” at major shows a few years ago. I never participated, and later regretted not doing so. So when NGC announced they were going to be doing one at the FUN show this year, I signed up right away.

Here is what a grading contest consists of. Basically, you have 10 minutes to grade 15 coins. The coins are both US and coins of other countries. The coins are already in slabs, but without grade designations. To make things interesting, they mix in a few counterfeit coins as well, because professional graders are expected to be expert at detecting counterfeits as well.

You get so many points for grading each coin correctly (i.e. grading them the same as the grading service), and for detecting each of the counterfeits. The scores are totaled up; the top few contestants each receive a gift certificate for free grading, and a slab with a special designation on the label.

Out of 88 contestants, I'm proud to say that I tied for second place. Considering the dealers who also finished in the top few slots, I felt that was quite an accomplishment.

Long story short – I strongly recommend you sign up for one the next time it is offered. It is a lot of fun, and it can be useful to pit your skills against the best collectors and dealers out there.


A Rediscovered Painting by Caravaggio Will Be Auctioned this Spring... But is It Really a Caravaggio?

This painting was found in the proverbial attic in Toulouse, France in 2014. Caravaggio's Judith beheading Holofernes (c. 1606-1607) will be auctioned in spring 2019. It is estimated to bring $135 million. It's a cheerful and vibrant painting depicting a gruesome murder scene.

Many experts are convinced that it is a genuine painting by that Renaissance master. Other experts, like the British critic Jonathan Jones, claim that the painting lacks the "psychological intensity" or characteristic realism of Caravaggio.
(Yeah; dat's the ting I wuz gonna say too.)

He feels it may have been painted by a contemporary of Caravaggio.

So – was it painted by one of the greatest painters in history and worth over $100 million? Or was it painted by some other dude and worth a whole lot less? All I can say is – I'm glad we don't face this particular conundrum in the coin hobby.

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Featured Coin

1828 Large Size Bust Quarter. PCGS graded MS64 CAC.
Browning 4, rarity-3. A magnificent and completely original example of this last year of the large size bust quarters. I happen to know a little of the history of this particular coin; It was discovered not long ago in Europe. Rare so fine. PCGS #5342 $15,950.

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US Coins

1905-O Micro O Barber Dime. PCGS graded AU55 CAC.
The mintmark is tiny on this Redbook listed variety. Most are scrubbed up; this one escaped that fate and is completely original. PCGS #94836 $1500.

1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar. PCGS graded Fine-15 CAC.
Overton-125, rarity 4. Really beautiful green, gold and russet toning gives this coin true personality. PCGS #6052 $2750.

1807 Draped Bust Half Dollar. PCGS graded AU53 CAC.
Overton-105, rarity 1. Well struck and colorful, this coin still retains the cartwheel luster in the protected areas of the design on both sides. A great example for a high end type set. PCGS #6079 $4250.

1818/7 Bust Half Dollar. NGC graded MS61.
Overton-101a, rarity1. Large 8 Redbook variety. Bold and brilliant, and with the cartwheel and strike of a much higher grade. Likely held back by a few areas of blue toning, but a wonderful example in hand. PCGS #6115 $3200.

1823 Bust Half Dollar. PCGS graded MS62 CAC.
Overton-112, rarity 1. Lovely green-gold toning over lustrous surfaces. PCGS #6131 $1975.

1824/1 Bust Half Dollar. PCGS graded AU58 CAC.
Overton-101a, rarity 2. Booming luster on this important overdate, with a few toning flecks. PCGS #6139 $2750.

1912 Barber Half Dollar. PCGS graded MS66 CAC.
A gorgeous coin, and one of the finest 1912 Barber halves in existence. PCGS has graded 4 at this level, and one finer (a 66+). This coin is accompanied by a PCGS TrueView image. PCGS #6524 $8500.

1881-S Morgan Dollar. PCGS graded MS65 CAC.
A toner of the first water. Copious amounts of green toning in various shades mix with russet and gold, as if Ms. Liberty was enjoying one of those psychedelic 1960's era parties. PCGS #7130. $950.

1900 Lafayette Dollar. PCGS graded MS64+.
Wild toning on this normally sedate issue. For the lover of beautiful color, this coin has it all: pull-away toning on some letters, rainbow peripheral toning, and deep cartwheel luster. How many Lafayette dollars have you seen with beautiful toning in your lifetime? That's-a-whatta-thought. PCGS #9222 $3250.

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World Coins, Exonumia, Flotsam & Jetsam

1792 Bolivia 8 Reales. PCGS graded AU55.
Potosi mint. Deep blue-gray toning that lightens as you approach the centers. PCGS TrueView images accompany this coin. PCGS #730535. $450.

1787 Clinton Cent Electrotype.  Uncirculated [uncertified].
The just ended (January 2019) auction of Alan Weinberg's early coppers produced what I believe are world records for electrotypes of US coins with prices into the 5 figures. This top quality electro looks like a screaming bargain in comparison. $1150.

1803 $5 Kettle Token Counter. PCGS graded AU58.
Almost never seen in this high a grade, this is a late die state, with the word “Kettle" partially effaced and some blue-russet toning over lustrous surfaces. PCGS #515881. $495.

1805 Ireland Penny. PCGS Proof-65.
Spink-6620. Bronzed, with an engrailed edge. Just a beautiful example of this 200+ year old proof copper coinage. PCGS TrueView images accompany this coin. PCGS #826875. $875.

1830 Contemporary Counterfeit Bust Half Dollar. Extremely Fine [uncertified].
Davignon 2-B. One of the less frequently seen bogus busties. This one is characterized by a tiny date and reverse lettering, as well as MS. Liberty looking very much like a Marine. $185.

1833 Contemporary Counterfeit Bust Half Dollar. Very Fine [uncertified]
Davignon 6-F. A reasonably high grade example of one of the more common bogus bust halves. $95.

1869 Shield Nickel. Contemporary Counterfeit. Very Fine [uncertified].
Quite nicely done. A few obverse spots, but high grade and undamaged. Shield nickel contemporary counterfeits are quite scarce and highly sought after. $225.

1892 Columbian Half Dollar “Opium Coin”.
These box coins are sometimes called “opium coins” because they allegedly were used to smuggle or store opium for their owners. This may be true in some rare cases, but more frequently they were used to house photos or other keepsakes of loved ones. But calling it an Opium Coin sounds way cooler. $250.

1937 “Reeded Edge” Buffalo Nickel & Wheat Cent. Uncirculated [uncertified].
I have read articles about these coins, but never owned any until now. The story goes that these coins had their edges reeded outside the Mint by Pennsylvania coin dealer Ira Reed, intended as a promotional gimmick to advertise his business at the 1941 ANA Convention in Philadelphia. It is thought that about 100 sets were prepared. Housed in a customer Capital Plastics holder. Heritage auctioned one of these 2 coin sets for $1997.50 in June of 2016. This pair in a custom holder is just $1350.


Contact info to reserve coins:
Website - www.DaveWcoins.com
My email address – davewnuck@gmail.com
Phone - (203) 231-1213 
Always Free Shipping. 

                                                             Another Cool Coin Lost... Forever?

Have you ever done something so dumb that you can't believe you just witnessed yourself doing it?
You haven't? Er … well, this is awkward then.
I was going for a, “Yeah Dave, I've done some really dumb stuff too,” sort of vibe here. Anyway, here's what happened with my adventure in stupidity.
A raw coin arrived in the mail for me last week. After I picked it up at the post office, I couldn't wait to see it in hand. So – like the eager genius I am I got into my car, opened the package right away and took the coin out of its 2x2 envelope.
Instantly it slipped through my fingers and fell into a tiny seam in the center console of my car.
One moment it was in my hand; the next – gone like it never existed. If I had 100 more tries I couldn't have dropped another coin into that tiny gap.
When I recovered from the shock of it I furiously tried to get at the coin from various angles, with no luck. In frustration I briefly considered turning the car upside down and shaking it until the coin fell out, but that seemed impractical.
To recover it will require some major dis-assembly of the interior of my car. I have a good coin friend who fixes up cars for resale who I know could help, but I don't know if I want to subject myself to the ridicule that will most assuredly come with his assistance.
Its not even about the money – I just wanted that damn COIN! For 200 years it survived in delightful shape against all odds. Two world wars, several financial panics, one worldwide depression –it was still pristine. Now in one quick second it is part of a sedan. Ugh.

                                                                       Here's an Idea: Collect Stardust

Scientists have discovered that every single speck of gold now on earth was the result of one or more collisions of two neutron stars in our galaxy. This likely occurred billions of years ago.
This sounds like something I would make up, but it is absolutely true. Such a collision was first observed last August (during the ANA convention, perhaps?) by astronomers in the US, Germany and Great Britain. In the words of one of those astronomers, Dr. Joe Lyman:
“The observations showed we were observing a kilonova, an object whose light is powered by extreme nuclear reactions. This tells us that the heavy elements, like the gold or platinum in jewelry, are the cinders, forged in the billion degree remnants of a merging neutron star.”
Here is a link to the story in Britain's Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/2017/10/16/secret-gold-finally-found-precious-metals-forged-cataclysmic/


Pretty cool, ay?


                                                        The Making the Grade Featured Coin


(1860-1867) Japan Gold Koban. PCGS graded AU-55.
JNDA 09-23 Man'en 万 延 variety.3.30 grams.
And now for something completely different. This coin stopped me in it's tracks when I saw it – it is just that beautiful. Gorgeous green-copper-gold in color. Most of these are found damaged or repaired, most likely due to their somewhat delicate nature. I'd be willing to bet most serious coin collectors do not have even one Koban in their collection. Here is your chance – and it is a real looker too. PCGS #392755. $1250.


                                                                                 New Listings

1652 Pine Tree Sixpence. PCGS graded AU50.
Salmon 2-B, Noe-33, rarity-3. Perfectly centered on the date side, and a bit off the flan on the tree side, as always found. PCGS # 22. $7500.

1833 Bust Half Dollar. PCGS graded Very Fine-30.
O-101, considered to be rarity-1. An ordinary coin blessed with extraordinary color on both sides. Likely dipped in the past and placed into a sulfur containing coin board, the result is quite pleasing. PCGS #39887. $250.

1853 Seated Half Dollar. PCGS graded XF45.
Arrows & Rays type. This coin and the next were housed in a Wayte Raymond style holder, with pastel toning being the delightful result. This coin is accompanied by TrueView images. PCGS #6275. $485.

1874-S Seated Half Dollar. PCGS graded XF40.
With Arrows type. Attractive pastel toning from being housed in a Wayte Raymond style coin board for decades. This coin is accompanied by TrueView images. PCGS #6348. $525.

1879-1901 Range. Lot of 9 $10 Liberty Gold Coins. Circulated [uncertified].
This is a collection of $10 Libs that was put together in the early 1970's. Normally I would just wholesale this group out because these aren't worth much more than their melt value these days, but it is kinda neat (by my standards, anyway). These were purchased be a collector in the early 1970's from the legendary firm of MTB (Manfra, Tordella & Brooks). MTB was a big importer of US gold from Europe, and also handled many great US gold rarities. Grades range from Choice XF to Choice AU. It looks like the collector paid $50 or so on average back then, so he did OK.  They are certainly not common dates, but in today's coin market they still sell for only a few percent over their gold value. The dates are: 1879, 1880, 1881, 1883, 1885, 1887, 1888, 1894-O and 1901-O.
Just $685 each = $6,165 for the group.


                                                                   World Coins, Exonumia, Flotsam & Jetsam

1717/6 8 Escudos, Spain. NGC graded AU58.
KM-260. The single highest graded coin of this rare date, and the highlight of this list. Flashy luster with russet color peeking around the rims. $ 8750.

1756 8 Escudos Gold. Peru. NGC graded AU58.
Lima mint, JM assayer. A flashy example of this large and heavy gold coin. $4950.

1768 8 Reales Pillar Dollar. Guatemala. NGC graded MS61.
Flashy, slightly prooflike surfaces over rich gold-green-blue toning. Pedigreed to the Richard Stuart collection, as stated on the NGC tag. A tough issue in such a high grade. $4350.

1773 8 Escudos Gold. Spain. NGC graded MS62.
The prooflike fields on both sides give this large gold coin fabulous eye appeal. Perfect for the collector that wants one amazing example of this historic coinage. $5500.

1797 $10 Gold Contemporary Counterfeit. Extremely Fine [uncertified].
Likely copper with a gold wash. There are several dates of contemporary counterfeit $10's known; though they are all quite rare. $3650.

1805 $10 Gold Contemporary Counterfeit. Uncirculated [uncertified].
These early $10 counterfeits are normally seen with some or all of the underlying copper exposed. To find one in such extraordinary condition is unprecedented. $4500.

1809 2 Escudos Gold. Spain. PCGS graded AU50.
KM-455. Seville mint, CN assayer. Pretty russet toned gold. A n historic gold coin for just $550.

1855 $5 Gold Contemporary Counterfeit. Almost Uncirculated [uncertified].
A beautifully crude example of this historic issue. The weight of the coin is 8.1 grams, or about the weight of a genuine gold example. This leads me (and previous owners) to believe that it is actually struck in platinum. Platinum was considered a cheap substitute for gold by counterfeiters in the mid 19th century, though platinum counterfeits of US coins are almost never seen today. Of extreme importance. $2500.

1861 CSA “Beauregard Dime”. NGC graded Very Fine Details.
 A prized Civil War rarity. An article published in 1868 noted that these medals were “presented by the city of New Orleans immediately after the first battle of Bull Run." There are fewer than 10 specimens known, and nearly all are impaired in some way. This one is called, “VF Details, mount removed, obverse tooled” by NGC. It actually presents very well. There are several auction records around $10,000 and above. This one is just $5750.

(Circa 1800's? 1900's?) $5 Gold Size Contemporary Counterfeit. Uncirculated [uncertified].
Likely struck in gold (or possibly platinum with a gold wash) this fascinating piece is difficult to categorize. I giant, fat Liberty head on the obverse, an undernourished eagle on the reverse and delightful gibberish for legends, this coin may best be categorized as an imitation. The counterfeiter (or gold smuggler?) was hoping to avoid prosecution under the counterfeiting laws of the time. Quite reasonably priced at $975.

"1781" (2014) Libertas Americana Medal. Paris Mint Restrike. Silver. 5 ounces. NGC graded Proof- 69 Ultra Cameo. 
A large, impressive, heavy silver medal made in the same mint that made them back in 1783.Dealers usually want a lot of money for these popular medals, but every once in a while I am able to buy one at a reasonable price, and when I do I pass it along to you. The last one I offered garnered several orders. $595.

“1781” (2014)  Libertas Americana Medal. Paris Mint Restrike. Gold. 1 ounce. NGC graded “Gem Proof”.
A terrific companion piece to the above medal. A 1 ounce rendition of this beautiful medal struck at the Paris mint. A restrike issue of particular importance to collectors of US medals, from a mintage of 5000 pieces. $1950.


Contact info to reserve coins:
Website - www.DaveWcoins.com
My email address – davewnuck@gmail.com
Phone - (203) 231-1213 
Always Free Shipping. 

This is Why We Can't Have Nice Things
 
It seems whenever I buy something new, something bad happens to it.

Within a week of buying every new car, someone's car door or a stray shopping cart has made a little dent in the side of it. 
 
I was reminded of this truism this morning.  I was looking at our kitchen table and the somewhat faded big red stain right in the center. 
 
Flash back 10 years.  We had 2 young kids, and our old kitchen table had permanent marker and glitter glue indelibly embedded in it from, well, 2 young kids. 
 
I was tired of looking at that crappy old table so we started fresh with a beautiful new oak table. We admonished our kids to always put something on top of the table before starting art projects.  Which they absolutely did, for a day or two anyway.
 
A week or so later I came home from a hard day of coin dealing and immediately noticed a large red stain on the new table. It looked as though someone slaughtered a meduim-sized animal there.   Neither kid did it, of course.
 
I set to work on removing it, but that stain wouldn't budge.  That was a decade ago. 
 
Every week since, when we clean the house and after every meal we give that stain an extra hard scrubbing.  The stain is still there, but it has faded very slightly.  I propose that the US Navy use whatever ink that stain was made from to coat our nuclear submarines; we'd never have to paint them again.

Why do I bring this up?  Well, partly because that stain still really bugs me when I see it, but mostly to make a point about coins.  Yes – this really does relate to coins. 
 
I was reminded of humans' frequent failure to keep nice things in pristine condition when I purchased a collection from a local estate.  It was a large collection consisting of very ordinary coins – circulated common date Morgan dollars, dateless Buffalo nickels, oodles of wheat cents and so on.
 
But in the midst of this there was a Morgan dollar.  A beautiful, unmarred, superb uncirculated 1885 Morgan dollar (see below).  It seemed to glow in the dark, especially in that morass of "stuff". How did it remain in this condition for all these years?  And how did it end up in there?  Seeing it in the midst of that typical, beat up coinage reminded me that every single high grade coin still in existence is a little round miracle. 
 
These objects were made to be used, and used hard.  When we see one that has somehow escaped the fate of nearly all of their brethren it gives me a renewed appreciation for each of them.
 
 
Six hacks to improve your coin buying...

... is a headline you’ll never see in this e-newsletter.  Er, not counting just now.

I see so many headlines these days with the word “hack” in them that I assume these articles are mostly written by, well, hack writers:

          * Twelve hacks to get your dog to eat more jello
          * Fifteen hacks to get rid of your hacking cough
          * Fourteen hacks to teach your child to count to fourteen

Enough.

 
Send a Friend a Freebie
 
If you think a fellow collector or dealer might enjoy these incredibly insightful articles along with images of gorgeous coins at practically give-away prices, let me know.
 
Drop me a line with their email address. I’ll contact them and ask if they want to be added to the email list.
 
Most likely they will be grateful to you.  Perhaps they will talk kindly of you behind your back.  Maybe even send you an expensive birthday gift.  Hey- it could happen!
 
 -------------------------
 
The “Making the Grade” Featured Coin

 1793 Chain Cent. AMERI Variety. PCGS graded Fine-15.
Sheldon-1, considered to be rarity-4. Here it is folks – the coin that is considered the very first regular issue of the Philadelphia mint. Nice brown color, no planchet defects, a bold chain and AMERI. You know you want one. $27,500.

------------------------
​New Listings

1652 Pine Tree Shilling. PCGS graded VF30.
Small Planchet. 68.2 grains. Blue, russet and gray toning with a bold tree and a bold date. $4750.

(circa 1694) Elephant Token. PCGS graded XF45.
Even brown, hard surfaces. Always a popular design. $1450.

1786 Vermont Landscape Copper. PCGS graded VF35.
Vermontensium Redbook type. Ryder-6. A lovely milk chocolate brown coin, with hard surfaces. These are so difficult to find that are pleasing to the eye, as here. There are always – always – issues that collectors have to deal with; it is just a matter of finding a specimen where the issues are not bothersome. $2950.

1835 Half Cent. PCGS graded MS64 Red [ogh].
Cohen-1, rarity-1. Full, screaming mint red over full, screaming cartwheel luster. This coin has sat in its slab for over 25 years, so you can be assured the color is stable. A few carbon spots near the rims on both sides. PCGS #1170. $3750.

1873 Two Cent Piece. NGC graded Proof-45.
Closed 3. A fantastic opportunity to obtain a choice, circulated example of this proof-only date. In high demand from those assembling matching sets of business strikes of this completeable series. $2200.

1851-O Three Cent Silver. PCGS graded MS65 CAC.
A gem example of the only mint marked 3c silver issue. $3450.

1944-S Washington Quarter. NGC graded MS68 CAC.
What can I say? Simply among the finest of this date that exists. $5500.

1820 50C No Serifs on E's Redbook Type. PCGS graded AU50.
Overton-107, considered to be rarity-5. This is in constant demand from both Redbook type collectors and from die variety collectors. The finest known is just AU58. Even low grade & damaged specimens sell for several thousand dollars. This is an opportunity to fill that tough spot in your set with one of the highest graded specimens. PCGS# 39571. $17,500.

1885 Morgan Dollar. PCGS graded MS66 CAC.
This is the very coin I referred to in the article above. This little jewel was in a collection of ordinary “stuff”. Somehow this coin escaped having the life beat out of it like nearly all of its companions. It makes me happy just to look at it. Perhaps it will do the same for you. $700.


World Coins, Exonumia, Flotsam & Jetsam

1691 Ireland Limerick Besieged Halfpenny. PCGS graded AU50.
A very high end example of this crude coinage. Struck over gun money, some of the undertype is visible. The “N” in HIBERNIA is backwards, there are die cracks everywhere and the engraving is laughably crude. A fun piece. $895.

1792 Guatemala 8 Reales. PCGS graded XF45.
NG mint, M assayer. Rich, original toning and a scarcer mint too. $795.

1795 Spain Half Real. PCGS graded AU58.
This diminutive coin (about the size of a half dime) is quite detailed & lustrous. A tough denomination to find. $275.

(ca. 1790's). Hanging Man Farthing Token. NGC graded MS65 Red & Brown.
Middlesex-Spence's, Dalton & Hamer-1110. A popular motif – a man hanging from a gallows having been executed, END OF PAIN around the periphery (a play on words, referring to the American rebel & author Thomas Paine, who was none too popular among the British monarchy). The reverse shows Pandora's breeches on fire. The coin is on fire as well, retaining close to 100% of the red that it possessed on the day it was struck. $2950.

1803 $5 Kettle Token. PCGS graded MS63.
Judd-C1803-3. Listed in the appendix of the Judd pattern book, these pieces look like $5 US gold coins but are are actually gaming counters struck by the English firm of Kettle & Co. This specimen is in the running for finest known. $1500.

1849-dated $5 Gold Rush Counter. NGC graded MS64.
Often collected with other gold-rush era coinage & ephemera, this specimen is by far the finest example of this popular token I have seen. Full gold wash on both sides. Add your name to the illustrious pedigree: Ex. John Ford & Q. David Bowers. $1200.

1852-dated ‘$20’ Brass Counter. NGC graded XF45.
A popular but rarely seen counter. Somewhat mottled lighter and darker brown patina. The record price for one of these was a raw specimen graded “nearly Extremely Fine” that sold for $978 (Stacks 10/16/2007:3258). $475.

(1863) Bolen's Bar Cent Stuck in Silver. PCGS graded MS62.
JAB-2. John Bolen's copy of the Bar Cent, stuck in silver and quite rare as such. The similar one in the Ford sale (Stacks 5/06:558) sold for $7475. This one...$5750.

circa 1863 Fredrick the Great medal in Fancy Box. Uncirculated [uncertified]
A beautiful bronze medal about the size of a half dollar. Frederick the Great's younger brother, Bubba-The-Slightly-Better-Than-Average, was always a bit jealous of him for some reason. Perhaps it was because of this medal, which comes with an elaborate box. $165.

2008 $50 Humbert Commemorative Copper Die Trial. Gem Uncirculated NGC. 
This is a die trial of the restrike of the $50 Humbert octagonal “slug". This is one of just 12 struck in Copper by the SS. Central America Marketing Group. $2300.

2008 $50 Humbert Commemorative Pewter Die Trial. Gem Uncirculated NGC. 
This is a die trial of the restrike of the $50 Humbert octagonal “slug. This is one of 49 struck in pewter by the SS. Central America Marketing Group. PCGS #661000. $1900.

2008 2.5 Ounce “Humbert Commemorative” Octagonal Slug. NGC Gem Proof Ultra Cameo.
This piece uses 2.5 ounces of "Pure California Gold" according to the inscription on the reverse. The octagonal shape was chosen to commemorate the original Augustus Humbert fifty dollar gold pieces. 500 pieces were struck. PCGS #10361 $3850.

1933 Huey Long Medal. NGC MS64.
A popular medal, made in the shape of a toilet seat. It commemorates an event where a loudmouth populist politician (Huey Long, a.k.a. “The Kingfish”) was punched in the nose after he drunkenly soiled the pants leg of the person next to him in the men's room of a supper club. The incident received much publicity, culminating in the striking of this medal. One original was struck in gold and was to be presented to the person who punched Mr. Long, but it was never claimed. That gold specimen now resides in the ANS museum. $750.

(2015 Restrike) Washington Before Boston Silver Medal. NGC graded Proof-70 Ultra Cameo.
A 1 ounce proof silver version of this rare and historic medal. If you don't feel like shelling out tens of thousands of dollars for an original, consider this substitute. $240.


Contact info to reserve coins:
Website - www.DaveWcoins.com
My email address – davewnuck@gmail.com
Phone - (203) 231-1213 
Always Free Shipping.  ​

 Well, you can find fantastic coins here, actually. Simply scroll past the painstakingly written but completely uninformative articles below and have a go at them.


Idea: Sell Your Stuff At Auction and Receive 10,000 Times What You Were Told Was Worth

Late last month in Switzerland, a Chinese vase that was estimated to be worth between $500 and $800 actually sold at auction for $5.1 million. Must be the brilliant work by that auction house to bring out such aggressive bidding, right?

Um, not really.

That incident reminded me of a similar situation here in Connecticut a few years back. A local antiques auction house had a $2.50 Liberty gold coin that they estimated at around $500. It actually sold for over $60,000 (I remember, because I was an underbidder).

The ridiculous part of the Connecticut auction house story was that for years afterward the auction house used that as an example in their advertising of the “strong prices” they generate at their sales.

What it actually tells me is that both those auction houses had no clue what they were selling. They likely have let other really desirable objects sell for way under their market value over the years due to their lack of competence.

It will be interesting to see if the Swiss auction house uses that result in their marketing. I suspect they will.

PS: Apropos of nothing – as this e-newsletter was going to press it has been reported that a record $37.7 million has been paid at Sotheby’s for a tiny dish from the Northern Song dynasty. Looking remarkably like a plain, light green cereal bowl to the untrained eye [i.e. to my eye], this is a record price for any Chinese ceramic.


A Book Recommendation from a Sister Hobby

I love books. I devour them at the rate of almost one per year.

Ok, so I'm no speed reader. But when I come across a book that might interest my fellow coin collectors I want to let them know. This book is called, “Art Collecting Today”, by Doug Woodham.

This book might not be obviously geared toward coin collectors. We numismatists feel that our problems, passions and pleasures are unique to us and to our hobby. But that is simply not the case.

They say that Leonardo Da Vinci's genius was his ability to see similarities and patterns across very different areas such as physics, art and biology. Maybe he had a few other things going for him too, but you get the idea.

The art world has many parallels to our own. Mr Woodham interviewed nearly 100 collectors, lawyers, art advisors, gallerists, and auction specialists in the United States and Europe.

He discusses the promoted areas, the trophy collectors, the condition issues, the pricing, the areas that became popular and then faded into semi-obscurity, and so on.

He discusses whether prices are more favorable at dealerships or at auction houses. He also proposes strategies for bidding at auction and other intriguing questions that pertain to both art and coin collecting. It is disarmingly honest, well written and extensively footnoted.

I found the wisdom from long time art collectors can help numismatists as well. Often their experiences collecting art were funny, and sometimes poignant too.

You can buy it on Amazon or your favorite bookseller. And if you mention my name, you will get zero percent off, as no one knows who the heck I am.


The “Making The Grade” Featured Coin

1838 Gobrecht Dollar.  NGC graded Proof-64.
Judd-84.  This is die alignment III, according to the NGC label (coin turn, eagle flying level).  The 1838 Gobrecht dollar is decidedly rarer than either the 1836 or the 1839.  This coin exhibits hard, reflective mirrors and light silvery gray toning.  $89,500.



New Listings

1786 Connecticut Copper. M. 2.2-D.2, the “Noble Head”. Good [uncertified].
One of the important rarities among 1786 CT varieties, with perhaps 15 or so known in total. And unlike most of those known, there is no damage or corrosion on this one. There are a number of serious CT copper collectors that either lack this variety, or lack a problem free example. Here is your chance. $6950.

1787 Fugio Copper. PCGS graded MS64 BN.
Newman 13-X, rarity-2. Undoubtedly from the Bank of New York Hoard, which was discovered in the 1850's. This coin has superb luster and traced of the original New Haven mint red. $4750.

1808 Draped Bust Half Cent. NGC graded MS63 Brown.
Cohen-3, rarity-1. The 1808 “normal date” has only one die variety, and the date is anything but normal. The last 8 is actually made up of two small zeroes; it does not match the other 8. This coin is among the finest known of the date; they simply do not come much nicer. $9500.

1880 Liberty Nickel.  PCGS graded MS65 CAC.
Just 16,000 were minted, and this date is considered an extreme rarity in gem uncirculated.  A prize for the date collector.  PCGS TrueView images accompany this coin.  $89,500.

1824/2 Bust Quarter. PCGS graded XF45.
Browning-1, rarity-3. Deep blue toning fading to russet and gray in the centers. Tough semi-key date. $5500.

1819 Bust Half Dollar. PCGS graded MS62.
A really choice coin at this grade level, and an earlier date too. $4350.

1824 Bust Half Dollar. PCGS graded AU58.
Overton-113 die variety, considered to be rarity-1. A stunner, and more attractive than most mint state examples one is likely to come across. $1750.

1902 Barber Half Dollar. PCGS graded MS65.
In the recent past, this date (1902) was considered a much better date in gem uncirculated and typically sold for twice what common dates sold for. Now that attention has focused elsewhere in the market, the 1902 sells for the same price as the most common dates. They haven’t found any more of these – it is just something that can happen in overlooked series from time to time. Word to the wise… $1975.

1921-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar.  PCGS graded MS64 [ogh].
The key to this popular series, housed in an older PCGS green tag holder.   The next grade higher is a solid six figure coin.  $62,500.

1923-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar.  PCGS graded MS65 CAC.
An absolutely gorgeous coin.  This date is nearly impossible to find this nice, and with this much eye appeal.  Destined for the finest set of Walkers.  $26,500.

1887 Morgan Dollar. PCGS graded MS65 CAC.
Zim zam! That's all I have to say about that. $775.


World Coins, Exonumia, Flotsam & Jetsam

(1526-1544) Henry VIII Fourpence. PCGS graded AU50.
Great Britain. He's 'Enery the Eighth He Is, He Is! A very high grade example of perhaps the most famous (infamous?) of the English kings. Spink-2337E. $975.

1721-H French Colonies 9 Deniers. Extremely Fine. Counterfeit. Electrotype. Almost Uncirculated [uncertified].
An electrotype of the very highest quality. This has actually been graded by PCGS as a genuine coin at one time; it came out of a PCGS XF-45 holder . Nobody’s perfect, and it is easy to see why they thought this coin was authentic. A superb example of the electrotypist's art – and it is made from a magnificent host coin. $775.

1764 Mexico Pillar Style Two Reales. PCGS graded AU50.
Mexico City Mint. A high grade example of the workhorse denomination in the US Colonies. These “two bit” pieces were heavily used, and thus are difficult to find in high grades such as this. A PCGS TrueView image accompanies this coin. $595.

1780 Mexico Two Reales. NGC graded AU58.
Mexico City Mint, FF assayer. Silvery gray light toning, with considerable prooflike flash in the fields. $550.

(1792) Washington Diplomatic Medal. Paris Mint Restrike. PCGS graded Gem Proof, DCAM.
This is a 2 oz. silver modern restrike of the rare original. The medal comes with a COA and a case of issue. $240.

1798 Peru Two Reales. NGC graded MS63.
Lima mint. IJ assayer. An incredible example of the portrait-style two reales coinage. They just don’t come like this. As I mentioned in the description of the 1764 two reales above, these coins were heavily used. Finding such a pristine example is a real treat for the eyes. Full, booming cartwheel luster, very light golden toning and struck just the slightest bit off center at one o’clock. $1250.

1836-O Contemporary Counterfeit Bust Half Dollar. Fine to Very Fine [uncertified].
Davignon 4-D. One of the delights of the Bogus Bustie series. A date that doesn’t exist in the “real world”; the counterfeiters in the 1840’s must have seen a genuine 1839-O bust half and assumed there were other dates with an obverse O mintmark. There are ten examples reported. $975.

1837 Contemporary Counterfeit Bust Half Dollar. Almost Uncirculated [uncertified].
Davignon 3-C. Also listed in JL Riddell’s 1845 book on US circulating coinage of that period, where it is listed as Riddell 472. This is a common variety in very uncommon condition. It is pedigreed to the personal collection of Anthony Terranova, and his tag accompanies the coin. $495.

1854 Arrows Seated Half Dollar, Counterstamped.  NGC graded AU details, Holed.
A lustrous seated half on the cusp of mint state that has been neatly counterstamped "C. Moore" and holed.  The counterstamp is listed as Brunk M-832.  $300.

1859 Cordoba Cathedral Medal by Jacques Wiener. Uncirculated [uncertified].
Hoydonck-168. Jacques Wiener's magnificent rendering of the cathedral at Cordoba, Spain. Built in 786 as a mosque and converted to a cathedral in the 1200's. There is no truth to the rumor that this cathedral was named after the Chrysler Cordoba automobile, by the way. I want to put that to rest for good. $550.

1860 Seated Quarter. Contemporary Counterfeit. Very Fine [uncertified].
C-101. A very rare contemporary counterfeit. There is a hard core of seated quarter contemporary counterfeit collectors out there so I expect this coin won't be around for long. $350

1877-1878 Collection of Four Box Trade Dollars.[uncertified].
A spectacular, if small, collection, decades in the making. Unlike most box dollars that are damaged to one extent or another, all four box dollars are choice. Includes:
   +  1877 Trade dollar. XF-45. Has a frame for a phtotographic image. The lid is the reverse.
   +  1877-S Trade Dollar. Inside is a period photo of aa gent with a large, bushy mustache. The lid is the reverse.
   +  1878 Trade Dollar. Fine. This coin does have some marks where folks have tried to open it. The lid is the obverse.
   +  1877-S Trade Dollar. AU50. Another, though this one sports a woman’s picture. The lid is the reverse.
All have pleasing silvery gray toning. $1850.


1902 Wells Fargo & Co. Semi-centennial Medal. Silver. PCGS graded MS62. With Original Box.
HK-295, rarity-5. Very popular due to the flavor of the old West that anything Wells Fargo conveys. These medals were given out to certain employees of the firm in 1902. Difficult to find with the original box, especially a box so fine. $1495.

1949 Silver Bar from a Brazil Numismatic Expo. As Made [uncertified].
This is a souvenir silver bar from the Brazil Numismatic Exposition held November 5-12, 1949; crowned shield SANPEX below / SANPEX across globe, date below, stamped with issue number 179. Rarely seen these days. $350.



Contact info to reserve coins:
Website - www.DaveWcoins.com
My email address – davewnuck@gmail.com
Phone - (203) 231-1213 
Always Free Shipping.  ​

The “Making the Grade” Featured Coin
​
1857 Flying Eagle Cent. PCGS graded MS64 CAC.
Attractively toned, lustrous, and quite choice. $1950.


New Listings

1825 Matron Head Large Cent. PCGS graded MS63 BN.
A full lustrous cartwheel sheen covers both sides in full. Light brown in color and quite pleasing in hand. $4500.

1865 Indian Cent. PCGS graded Proof-64 Red Cameo.
A stunning example of a rarely seen Cameo-ed Indian Cent. $5500.


1865 Seated Dime. PCGS graded MS67.
A spectacular example of this popular civil war date, and likely among the finest few in existence. $11,500.

1847 Seated Quarter. PCGS graded MS65 CAC.
This is the Gene Gardner specimen, last sold in 2014. It is among the finest known of this conditionally rare gem seated quarter date. It is accompanied by a PCGS TrueView image. $15,000.

1854-O Seated Quarter, With Arrows. PCGS graded VF-35.
Huge O variety. Very popular due to the ridiculous, crude O mintmark that was seemingly carved into the die with a steak knife. This coin is unknown above Choice AU. $3550.

1891 Seated Quarter. PCGS graded MS66.
Booming luster over light golden toning. A great example of the final year of this long lived series. $2400.

1835 Bust Half Dollar. PCGS graded AU53 CAC.
O-103.light golden russet in color. Ex. Dick Graham collection. $485.

1882 Morgan Dollar. MS66.
It is hard to find even one flaw on this coin. Knockout blue-green-red toning on the obverse $1475

1882-S Morgan Dollar. PCGS graded MS68 CAC.
Gorgeously toned, and nearly perfect, as one would expect from an MS68 CAC'd coin. $8950.

1888-O Morgan Dollar.  PCGS graded MS66.
Zippidy do dah!  Color everywhere.  A better date, priced at only a modest premium over an untoned example.  $2550.

1890 Morgan Dollar. PCGS graded MS65+, CAC.
Light golden toning with a hint of blue rim toning. $1975.


World Coins, Exonumia, Flotsam & Jetsam


(1652) dated Pine Tree Threepence, Wyatt Copy. PCGS graded AU50.
W-14060, per the Bowers' Colonial encyclopedia. Struck in silver, with crusty gray toning and just a hint of luster. Thomas Wyatt made these copies in New York City, most likely during the 1840-1856 period. They were first mentioned in a periodical of the day in June of 1856. A PCGS TrueView image of this coin is included. $975.


(1652) dated Pine Tree Sixpence, Wyatt Copy. PCGS graded XF45.
W-14072, per the Bowers' Colonial encyclopedia. Struck in silver and made circa 1856 or so. Crusty gray toning, and not conserved in any way.A PCGS TrueView image of this coin is included. This coin and the previous Wyatt copy on this list have been off the market since at least the 1960's. $975.

1792 Washington President Pattern. Electrotype Copy. Almost Uncirculated [uncertified].
A great,medium chocolate brown electrotype copy example of this rare pattern issue. I have never handled an original, so I have had to satisfy myself with this electrotype copy until that time comes. $295.

1793 Wreath Cent Electrotype Copy. Uncirculated [uncertified].
A well made example of an uncirculated wreath cent. The host coin could likely be identified with some detective work, as it would be valued into the six figures today. $295.

1803 Half Eagle Size Kettle Token. PCGS graded XF40.
A beautiful chocolate brown, with absolutely no trace of the gold wash that was likely originally present. These were manufactured in Birmingham, England for use as gaming tokens. They are often collected by US numismatists due to their similarity to US $5 gold pieces. This item is accompanied by PCGS TrueView images. $495.

1808-Mo Mexico Four Escudos Contemporary Counterfeit. Very Fine [uncertified].
Likely brass, with a gold colored finish. It took guts to try to pass a “gold” 4 escudos counterfeit, as that was a hefty sum. Double struck, with subtle and pretty toning. $195.

1810 So Chile 8 Reales. NGC graded AU53.
Santiago Mint. A well detailed portrait of Ferdinand VII (no relation to Franz Ferdinand, the 1980’s New Wave group, by the way). Lustrous and just one small step away from full uncirculated status. $1850.

1831 Bust Dime. Fine.  Counterstamped [uncertified].
As popular as the bust dime series is with collectors these days, what seems to be even more popular are those that sport counterstamps. This one says (or seems to say) EXTRA, but nearly all of the “A” is off the planchet. Attractive and crusty gray toning. $350.

1846-O Seated Dollar With Counterstamp. Very Fine [uncertified].
 Fantasy countermark, with a script FR VII for Frederik VII of Denmark on a US 1846 Seated Dollar. The FR VII countermarks on various coins of the world are believed to be fantasies produced in Paris at some time after 1860, as they appeared in coin auctions shortly afterward. There are no confirmed originals for these types. Still avidly collected when they show up. $495.

Ca.1630 KING RICHARD ll SILVER MEDALET/COUNTER BY SIMON DE PASSE
Silver medelet in imitation of engraving. This item has been in an extensive collection of tokens & medals formed in England over the past half century. The collector who formed it told me it was his single favorite item in the collection. $395

1913-A Prussia 3 Marks. PCGS graded MS62.
I’ll be honest – I bought this coin primarily for its crazy-go-nuts toning. More attractive even than the PCGS TrueView images would have you believe. $250.

1933 General Motors 25th Anniversary Medal.- NGC-61.
A huge 76 mm (3 inch) diameter medal, struck in bronze and silver plated. Very popular due to the classic art deco design and the fame of the designer – Norman Bel Geddes. Bel Geddes was the designer of the Original 1939 “Futurama”. No no no, not the animated TV show, but the exhibition. If you own a car, or if you have ever ridden in a car, you need to own this medal. $1175.

1978 Canada One Cent, Elizabeth II, deep reverse die cap error, Red & Brown Uncirculated [uncertified].
Holy moley is this thing cool!  Sorry for my sudden display of enthusiasm, but it is true. This coin tells a story – a story of a wayward planchet that deformed greatly and then somehow got past the legendary Canadian mint quality assurance personnel. If this was on a US coin it would sell for multiples of this price. If the next owner wants me to have it slabbed by either PCGS or NGC, I will do so at my cost. But quite honestly – it is quite fun to examine it “in the raw”. $895.

As the father of 2 teenagers, I have tried for years to get either or both interested in history in general, and in coins in particular.  Until now I have nothing to show for it.

My son (now 16) is a particularly tough nut to crack when it comes to being interested in the past. He once told me that any song more than a few months old is not worth listening to.  Clearly I have my work cut out for me.

So I perked up when he said: "Dad -- I'd like to learn more about the past.  Can you help teach me?"

I was stunned and delighted.

It took a while, but my years of planting those seeds of curiosity were about to pay off big time. 

I'm thinking: Father of the Year?  Well, I won't rule it out ...

I said, "Heh heh.  Sure, son.  What would you like to know?"

My son:  "I don't get all of the joke references in [the animated TV series] Family Guy.  For instance: who are Thelma & Louise?"

My ego deflated as quickly as my chest had puffed up.  But I must tell you - those 10 seconds when I thought he was becoming a serious student of history were amazing.  What a rush!​

My son might be a lost cause when it comes to interest in history & numismatics, but I am happy to say I run into plenty of serious teenagers and young adults who do have those interests. It seems to me that there are fewer young people casually interested in coins these days. But there are just about as many seriously interested as there always was.

Our hobby is tailor made for the internet. Coins are easy to photograph, study and ship safely through the mail. There is an endless explosion of new information out there, and you no longer need a $20,000 library to access it. And because there is now so much raw data out there from newspapers and old books as we digitize all of human knowledge, there are more discoveries being made and yet to come.
​
My son doesn't know what he is missing.

New Listings ​

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1752-Mo Mexico Half Real. NGC graded MS65.
Mexico City mint. Pillar style half reales in full gem condition are rare. This somewhat prooflike example has light toning on the reverse and is medallic in appearance. $2400.

1803 Half Eagle Size Kettle Token. PCGS graded VF35.
Looks remarkably like what it was designed to imitate: a genuine US $5 gold piece. These were manufactured in Birmingham, England for use as gaming tokens. They are often collected by US numismatists due to their similarity to US $5 gold pieces. I suspect that more than a few were passed as genuine US gold coins over the years. This specimen has an especially good look to it, with much of the gilding remaining. When you see it in it's PCGS slab, you will likely do a double-take. To make it even more convincing to the unwary of long ago, the “Kettle” signature under Ms. Liberty's bust has nearly faded away from the dies. This item is accompanied by PCGS TrueView images. $495.

(ca. 1815?) Caracas Macuquina-style One Real "781", PCGS graded Fine-12.
C12. cob-style silver 1 real "781". A very rare coin, and one that is almost never offered for sale. The most recent auction record I could find was an uncertified specimen in the Heritage April 2011 sale, lot # 26132. I quote from that catalog: “This ‘fantasy’ date was likely produced immediately prior to the standard round type of 1817-1821. What is exciting to the specialist is that the design elements seem to have been carefully located, relative to the times, upon first glance. However, upon close inspection it becomes clear that the lion and castles are randomly rotated, the L-M at the end of the cross is irregular and part of a date (?) is below (or above, as you wish) the cross ! Careless work, or just a die sinker who was not aware of the significance of the component elements.” That coin, described as very fine but not far from the detail on this coin, realized $5462 in that sale. $3500.

1795 Anti-Slavery Conder Token Farthing. NGC graded MS62 Brown.
Middlesex-Spence D&H-1118. A heartbreaking rendition of a man in chains, on his knees. The English were decades ahead of the Americans in abolishing the slave trade, though both countries profited mightily from the “peculiar institution” in the meantime. This example is an even light brown and very reasonably priced. $650.

1800-NG Guatemala Two Reales. NGC graded MS62.
Fully uncirculated and somewhat prooflike. This would make a great go-with piece for the collector of early US quarters, since these 2 reales were much more likely to be in the pockets of residents of early America than were the infrequently seen US quarter dollars. $950.