Athens controlled one of the richest silver mines in the ancient world. Wealth extracted by slave labor elevated the city into a cultural, economic, and political powerhouse. Athens maintained that position until Rome eclipsed it in the second century BCE. On its widely circulated coinage, the city placed the image of its patron goddess, Athena, and her sacred bird, the owl.

Nearly every collector of ancient coins wants to own an Athenian owl tetradrachm. On Harlan Berk’s list of the 100 Greatest Ancient Coins, the Athenian owl ranks number ten (Berk, 2023). Millions of classic owl tetradrachms, weighing about 17.2 grams of nearly pure silver, were struck between roughly 485 and 404 BCE.

The Classic Owl Tetradrachms

On the classic owl, Athena wears a crested helmet, and a faint smile appears on her lips. The flans were often too small for the dies. As a result, coins that display a complete helmet crest remain especially desirable.

The reverse shows a sprig of olive leaves in the upper left, a small crescent moon, and three bold Greek letters flanking the owl: AΘE, an abbreviation of the city’s name. Today, Very Fine examples sell for around $600, while Extremely Fine specimens bring approximately $1,500. Exceptional near–Mint State coins regularly achieve prices of $7,500 or more.

The Introduction of the New Style Coinage

Beginning around 165 BCE, Athenian coinage underwent a radical transformation. The tetradrachm became slightly lighter, averaging about 16.7 grams, and was struck on a larger, thinner flan.

Athena’s portrait appears more naturalistic and closely follows the monumental statue of the goddess that once stood in the Parthenon. On the reverse, the owl stands on an overturned amphora, a ceramic vessel used to store olive oil. A wreath of olive leaves surrounds the design. In addition to the abbreviated city name, a monogram appears in the field. This mark likely identifies the official responsible for the coinage. These early New Style issues remain very rare.

Expanding Symbols and Administrative Detail

A few years later, around 162 BCE, engravers added a dotted border to the obverse.

By approximately 150 BCE, the reverses became increasingly crowded. Coins now list up to three officials, with names fully or partially spelled out, alongside an expanding array of symbols and control letters.

On a typical example, a small image of the sun god Helios driving his chariot appears in the field to the right of the owl. A lengthy inscription fills much of the remaining space:
A-ΘΕ / ΔΙΟ-ΝΥΣ / ΔΙΟ / ΝΥΣI / AΣ / KΛA

The amphora bears the letter M, indicating the twelfth month of the Attic lunar calendar [1]. Letters from alpha through nu appear in this position, reflecting the need to add an intercalary month at irregular intervals. Because the Athenian year began in midsummer, modern dating of these coins spans two overlapping BCE years.

At the bottom of the reverse, a two-letter code, ME, appears. About twenty-nine such letter codes are known [2]. These likely represent mining contractors who supplied the silver.

Ivory, Elephants, and Symbolism

Elephant ivory ranked among the most prized luxury materials in the ancient Greek world. The statue of Athena Parthenos featured carved and polished ivory panels for the goddess’s skin [3].

This symbolism appears directly on New Style coinage. A tetradrachm dated to 131/0 BCE (Thompson 397k) features a small Indian elephant in the lower right field of the reverse [4].

Mithradates, Aristion, and the Roman Siege

One of the most historically significant New Style tetradrachms dates to 87/6 BCE (Thompson 1145). The coin bears the name of King Mithradates VI of Pontus, written as BAΣI-ΛE / MI-ΘPA / ΔA / THΣ, along with his dynastic emblem: a starburst flanked by two crescents [5] [6] [7]

The coin also names Aristion (APIΣ / TIΩN), an Athenian politician described in ancient sources as a tyrant [8]. Aristion briefly seized power in Athens and supported Mithradates during his disastrous war against the Roman Republic.

When the Roman general Lucius Cornelius Sulla besieged and captured Athens, Roman forces executed Aristion.

The Final Issues under Roman Control

The last New Style tetradrachms were struck under Roman occupation. These coins display crude engraving and feature two Greek monograms. The monogram on the left likely represents a Roman personal name, “of Marcus” (MARKOY). The monogram on the right reads TAMIOY, meaning treasurer or paymaster.

These inscriptions refer to Marcus Lucullus, who served as quaestor under Sulla. Dated to 86–84 BCE, an example (Thompson 1293a) realized CHF 7,000 ($6,063) at a Swiss auction in 2008 [9].

Collecting the New Style Owls

A search of the CoinArchives database, which catalogs more than 2.6 million auction records, returns over 3,000 results for “New Style” and “Athens.” Recent prices range from about $350 to more than $16,000 for exceptional rarities.

Solid Very Fine examples typically sell for around $1,000. Assembling a complete set of known New Style tetradrachm types would challenge even the wealthiest and most patient collector.

Collectors reference these coins by their Thompson numbers. The essential reference remains Margaret Thompson’s The New Style Silver Coinage of Athens (1961). The work spans 757 pages, with a separate 235-page volume of plates. Although long out of print, copies in good condition can sell for as much as $300. The full text remains available online through the American Numismatic Society [10].

As Thompson observed, this coinage speaks clearly, and sometimes tentatively, about a pivotal century in Athenian history. That era opened with the promise of freedom proclaimed by Roman general T. Quinctius Flaminius in 196 BCE and closed amid political dissension and looming catastrophe. By 146 BCE, Greece had become a Roman province [11].

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References

The post The “New Style” Owls of Athens appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Now, a once-in-a-generation opportunity presents itself as a prototype gold stater from the Cambridge Collection, one of the rarest and most historically important coins ever struck, heads to auction on January 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM ET during Heritage Auctions’ NYINC World & Ancient Coins Platinum Session at the InterContinental New York Barclay Hotel.

A Masterpiece with Monumental Significance

This extraordinary specimen, cataloged as a Prototype Lydian Croesus AV Stater, has been certified NGC Choice MS, 5/5 Strike, 5/5 Surface, indicating its pristine preservation and absolute historical weight. What makes this coin especially remarkable is its transitional style. It bridges the artistic and numismatic gap between the earlier electrum coinage and the standardized bimetallic gold and silver currency introduced by Croesus.

Unlike the more formalized gold staters that followed, this early prototype captures a raw, kinetic energy. Its lion and bull motif, a hallmark of Lydian coinage, displays a more animated and organic composition, a subtle yet powerful contrast to the later, more rigid designs. This unique characteristic not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also solidifies its role as a “missing link” between two distinct eras of ancient money.

The Cambridge Collection: A Numismatic Treasure Trove

The presence of this stater in the Cambridge Collection underscores the depth and scholarship behind this extraordinary cabinet. According to Kyle Johnson, Managing Director of World and Ancient Coins at Heritage Auctions, “The Cambridge Collection represents an opportunity for advanced collectors to pursue a remarkable array of artistically and numismatically significant early Greek coins.”

But what truly sets this collection apart is its comprehensive coverage of Croesus’s entire monetary legacy. Every denomination of his bimetallic coinage, both in gold and silver, is represented. From full staters down to fractional denominations like the 1/24th stater, the Cambridge Collection showcases the full spectrum of this economic revolution. Notably, it also includes coins struck in the light standard that succeeded Croesus, reflecting how his design philosophy endured beyond his reign.

Croesus: The Visionary Behind the World’s First Coinage

The stater is more than a collector’s dream; it is a tangible testament to one of history’s greatest monetary innovations. Croesus, who ascended to the Lydian throne around 561 BC, made an unprecedented move: he separated gold and silver in his coinage.

Prior to his reform, the Lydians issued electrum coins, an inconsistent alloy of gold and silver. While revolutionary, electrum’s unpredictable metal content led to confusion and inefficiency in trade. Croesus solved this by issuing coins in pure gold and pure silver, each with standardized weights and denominations.

The initial gold stater weighed about 10.7 grams, mirroring the weight of the new silver stater. However, because gold is denser and more valuable, the gold staters were smaller in diameter yet immensely more valuable in the ancient economy.

This dual-metal system became the blueprint for modern currency, adopted and adapted across the ancient world and influencing economic systems for centuries. The Cambridge Collection’s Croesus prototype captures the very genesis of that monetary standard, a cornerstone in both numismatics and economic history.

Why This Auction Matters

With the January 12 auction at Heritage Auctions’ NYINC Platinum Session, this coin enters the spotlight. Its sale will not merely be the transfer of a rare artifact—it will mark the passage of a foundation stone of Western monetary civilization into a new private collection.

Heritage’s world-class platform ensures that this stater receives the audience it deserves. Their NYINC event is one of the premier stages for high-profile ancient and world coin sales. With global bidders and expert eyes watching, this coin’s next home is bound to be an esteemed one.

Furthermore, the coin’s exceptional condition and undeniable provenance make it ideal for advanced collectors who value both artistic merit and historical gravity. It’s a coin that tells a story, one of innovation, transformation, and enduring legacy.

The Art Behind the Gold

Looking closely at the coin’s design, the lion and bull motif is not merely decorative. It symbolizes power and dominance, themes that were deeply embedded in Lydian royal ideology. The lion, often associated with kingship and the sun, may represent Lydia itself, while the bull possibly stands for neighboring Phrygia or rival forces.

What sets this prototype apart is its stylistic dynamism. Unlike the later staters, which depict a more symmetrical and static pairing of the lion and bull, the Cambridge stater bursts with movement. The lion appears mid-roar, and the bull braces itself in a naturalistic pose. These nuances suggest a transition from archaic formality to early classical expressiveness, underscoring the artistry that defined early Greek numismatics.

The Investment Case: Rare, Pristine, Historic

Collectors and investors alike understand that numismatic value stems from a triad of attributes: rarity, condition, and historical importance. The Croesus stater from the Cambridge Collection excels in all three.

Rarity: As a prototype issue, this coin is exceedingly rare. Few examples exist, and even fewer survive in mint-state condition.

Condition: Graded Choice Mint State 5/5 – 5/5, the coin exhibits flawless surfaces and an extraordinary strike, making it a showpiece for any cabinet.

Historical Importance: This is a coin that shaped civilizations. Its legacy extends from the Lydian kingdom to the modern global economy.

For serious collectors, this is not just a coin. It is a once-in-a-lifetime acquisition.

Conclusion: A Chance to Own the Beginning of Money

In every sense, the Early Croesus Stater from the Cambridge Collection is a numismatic milestone. It captures a moment when innovation reshaped society, when art met commerce, and when a king’s vision echoed through millennia.

Its upcoming sale is not just a marketplace transaction, it is a historical event. The winning bidder won’t merely be adding a coin to their collection. They’ll be safeguarding a legacy, preserving one of humanity’s earliest financial artifacts.

As the gavel, one question remains:

Who will write the next chapter in this coin’s extraordinary journey?

The post The Croesus Stater: A Golden Missing Link from the Cambridge Collection appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Certified NGC Ch VF, this coin offers collectors an appealing balance of artistry, history, and authenticity.

Taras and the Power of Greek Southern Italy

Taras, known today as Taranto, was founded as a Spartan colony and grew into one of the wealthiest and most influential Greek cities in Italy. During the late 4th and early 3rd centuries B.C., the city stood at a crossroads. While Hellenistic culture flourished, external pressures—from rival Italic peoples and the expanding Roman sphere—continued to mount.

Against this backdrop, Taras struck its iconic silver nomoi. These coins served not only as currency but also as powerful civic statements that celebrated the city’s military strength, maritime identity, and mythological origins.

The Horseman Obverse: A Civic Ideal

The obverse of this coin features a nude youth riding a horse to the right, rendered with naturalistic proportions and controlled motion. This horseman type dominates Tarentine silver coinage of the period.

Importantly, the image does not represent a specific historical individual. Instead, it symbolizes Taras itself—an aristocratic Greek polis renowned for its cavalry and equestrian tradition. In this way, the design projects civic pride and martial readiness, qualities Taras wished to emphasize during a turbulent era.

The Dolphin-Rider Reverse: Myth and the Sea

On the reverse, a nude male figure rides a dolphin to the right, holding a trident forward. This scene ranks among the most recognizable in all of ancient numismatics.

Scholars traditionally identify the figure as Taras, the mythical founder and namesake of the city, or sometimes as Phalanthos, depending on literary interpretation. While no inscription on the coin confirms the figure’s identity, the symbolism remains clear. The dolphin and trident firmly associate Taras with the sea and with Poseidon, the god regarded in myth as Taras’ divine father.

As a result, the reverse design reinforces Taras’ maritime power and its deep connection to the surrounding waters of southern Italy.

Denomination, Metal, and Date

This coin is a silver nomos, often described in modern auction catalogs as a didrachm. It conforms to the South Italian Greek weight standard and belongs to a well-established design group dated to circa 302–280 B.C.

The style, fabric, and iconography place it squarely in the late Classical to early Hellenistic period, after the death of Alexander the Great and before Roman domination of the region.

Certification and Condition

This example has been certified by NGC as Choice Very Fine (Ch VF). At this level, the coin retains strong overall detail, clear devices, and legible design elements, while also showing honest circulation wear consistent with its age.

For many collectors of ancient Greek coinage, Ch VF represents an ideal grade. It preserves artistic clarity without the cost premium commanded by higher Mint State or Extremely Fine examples.

Offered by GreatCollections

This Taras nomos is currently offered by GreatCollections, a leading auction venue known for its professional photography, transparent bidding platform, and expanding presence in the ancient-coin market.

• Issuer: Taras (Tarentum), Magna Graecia
• Date: c. 302–280 B.C.
• Metal: Silver (AR)
• Denomination: Nomos (Didrachm)
• Certification: NGC Ch VF
• Auction House: GreatCollections
• Auction End: Sunday, December 21, 2025, at 7:16:40 PM Pacific Time

Final Thoughts

Greek silver from Taras occupies a special place in ancient numismatics. It combines high artistic quality, consistent iconography, and deep historical significance. This NGC Ch VF Taras nomos, offered by GreatCollections, stands as a compelling representative of that tradition.

For collectors seeking a classic issue from Magna Graecia—one that reflects both myth and history—this upcoming auction presents an opportunity well worth watching.

The post A Classic Greek Silver Coin from Magna Graecia: Taras Nomos (c. 302–280 B.C.) Heads to Auction appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

In 2008, Whitman Publishing released 100 Greatest Ancient Coins by long-time Chicago coin dealer Harlan J. Berk. Now in its third edition, this large-format book has proven to be a valuable resource for classical numismatists. The choice of coins and their ranking were based on a survey of museum curators, classical scholars, dealers, and collectors. Thirty-eight of the coins were Roman; six were Byzantine; and the rest were loosely categorized as “Greek”, including some Phoenician, Carthaginian, and Judean issues. This article reviews our ten top-rated ancient Greek coins from Berk’s list.

Athens Dekadrachm

A dekadrachm is a ten-drachma piece, weighing about 43 grams. This amount of silver represented ten days’ wages for an ancient Greek laborer. Not part of the regular circulating coinage, dekadrachms were special issues commemorating significant events.

Unfortunately, we rarely know what these events were. Athens controlled one of the most productive silver mines in the ancient world, at Laurion [1] , about 50 km (31 miles) south of the city.

“Hoard finds and other research has since shown conclusively that these coins did not appear until after the Battle of Salamis [September, 480 BCE], leading other writers to suggest that the coins were minted to celebrate that victory. However, this date also seems a bit too early, as the hoard evidence seems to place the minting of the coins in the 460s BCE [2] .”

Coin dealer Bruce McNall in his autobiography describes his encounter with this coin, at the Zurich office of famous German numismatist, Leo Mildenberg (1913- 2001):

“Leo practically danced as he led us to his vault to show me some of those coins. They were all beautiful Roman and Greek specimens. In an almost reverent voice I quietly asked him which was the best. He reached for a try that held one single silver coin.
“This my good friend is the greatest coin in the world.”

Resting in the center of the velvet lined tray was a silver decadrachm of Athens [3].

About 40 examples are known, including one broken half [4] . The coin on display in the numismatic museum of Athens is mounted on a slowly rotating motorized stand so visitors can view both sides [5] .

On Berk’s list this type is rated as #2 among the 100 greatest ancient coins.

Euainetos Dekadrachm

Toward the end of fifth century BCE, the art of coin die engraving reached a peak of excellence among ancient Greek cities of Sicily that would not be matched again until the 18th century in Europe.

Cities competed to have their coins designed by famous master engravers, who sometimes signed their work in almost microscopic letters.

Euainetos was among the greatest of these artisans, and the dekadrachm of Syracuse, struck c. 405-400 BCE, is considered his masterpiece. On the obverse four galloping horses draw a chariot while Nike, the winged goddess of Victory soars overhead. The reverse bears the head of Arethusa, the nymph who presided over the city’s vital fresh water spring, surrounded by four swimming dolphins.

On Berk’s list this type is rated as #3 among the greatest ancient coins.

Naxos Tetradrachm

The town of Naxos (near modern Taormina, Sicily) was founded by colonists from the Aegean island of the same name around 734 BCE. In 476 the city was destroyed by Hieron tyrant of Syracuse, who expelled its inhabitants.

With the return of democracy to Syracuse in 460, the Naxians reclaimed their homes. This was celebrated with a coin executed by an artist known only as the “Aitna Master.”

The obverse bears the head of wine god Dionysos, identified by his signature wreath of ivy leaves. His pointed beard breaks past the coin’s dotted border, giving the composition three-dimensionality.

The reverse design is even more remarkable. The god’s companion, the satyr Silenos squats, naked, raising a wine cup to his lips, surrounded by the letters of the inscription: Ν-ΑΧΙ-ΟΝ (“of the Naxians.”) An outstanding example of this coin brought almost $670,000 (UK £550,000) in a 2023 London auction.

A cataloguer writes:

“Universally celebrated for both its composition and execution, the Naxos tetradrachm attributed to the Aitna master is perhaps unique in that critics have historically judged it not merely by comparison to other coins, but as a work of art on its own, regardless of medium. The head of Dionysos, 'a god of nature manifest' is engraved with a sophisticated, sculptural monumentality, while the squatting, drunken Silenos, is a study in bravura composition, anatomical knowledge, perspective and execution” [6]

On Berk’s list this type is rated as #4 among the greatest ancient coins.

Syracuse Demareteion

Demarete was the wife of Gelon, who ruled Syracuse from 485 to 478 BCE. In 480 BCE Gelon defeated the Carthaginians at the battle of Himera. Demarete intervened to ensure the losers were treated humanely, and in gratitude they presented her with a massive golden crown. According to legend, proceeds from the sale of this crown financed a commemorative issue of silver dekadrachms.

The coin is known as the “Demareteion;” its engraver as the “Demareteion Master.” Unfortunately, this pleasant story doesn’t fit the chronology. Hoard evidence dates the coin to c. 470 BCE, and there is no reference to Demarete on it.

The female figure on the reverse is Arethusa, identified by the four dolphins swimming around her head.

The obverse might refer to the Syracusan chariot team’s victory at the Pythian Games of 470 BCE, or the Olympics of 468. Art historians consider this coin a masterpiece, standing at the transition between “Archaic” and “Classical” styles.

An example pedigreed to the famous Nelson Bunker Hunt collection brought $250,000 in a 2012 New York auction. Probably the finest known example resides in the British Museum (BM 1841,0726.287)

On Berk’s list this type is rated as #5 among the greatest ancient coins.

Syracuse Kimon Dekadrachm

In 415 Athens, the strongest sea-power in the Mediterranean, launched a vast expedition to conquer Syracuse. Faced with the need to hire mercenaries and man its fleet, Syracuse issued a series of superbly crafted silver dekadrachms and tetradrachms.

A cataloguer writes:

“Nothing is known about the personal life of the Syracusan master engraver Kimon, other than the approximate years he was active, circa 415-390 BC. The legacy of his art, however, is extensive and timeless. He worked in all the metals used for coinage – gold, silver and bronze – and left his distinctive signature (usually KI) on dies for denominations large and small. His unique style, the essence of cool classical beauty, and his attention to detail are apparent on all of his designs, whether a huge silver dekadrachm or a humble bronze fraction.” [7]

In a 2022 Swiss auction, a signed dekadrachm of Kimon brought 750,000 Swiss francs ($792,979) [8] .

On Berk’s list this type is rated as #6 among the greatest ancient coins.

Syracuse Kimon Facing Arethusa Tetradrachm

Dated to c. 410 BCE, following Syracuse’s decisive victory over Athens, Kimon’s masterpiece is this “Facing Head” tetradrachm. Described by a cataloguer as “the most important Greek silver coin ever sold,” it brought 1.7 million Swiss francs ($1,721,345) in a 2019 auction [9] .

A cataloguer writes:

“This masterful facing head tetradrachm, however, sets Kimon apart from all of his contemporaries. His rendition of the nymph Arethusa displays a degree of delicacy and control that set a new precedent in die engraving. The composition's beautiful three dimensional perspective is augmented by a fluid style that effectively conveys the natural motion of the nymph's hair in her liquid environment. The nymph's underwater environment is further emphasized by the placement of the dolphins, who weave themselves within her hair in a playful manner. The serenity of Arethusa’s countenance, with her full, pouting lips and other-worldly gaze from her almond-shaped eyes, conveys a sense of her place aloof from the realm of man, while the entire scene firmly secures her within our natural world.” [10]

On Berk’s list this type is rated as #7 among the greatest ancient coins.

Akragas Dekadrachm

Akragas (Agrigentum in Latin, now Agrigento, Italy) was founded around 582 BCE by Greek colonists from the nearby city of Gela on the south coast of Sicily. The most famous coin of Akragas, is the massive 42-gram decadrachm issued c.409-406 BCE, shortly before the Carthaginians destroyed the city.

Struck from just five dies (two obverse, three reverse) the coins are extremely rare, with about ten examples known, most in museums.

The chariot of the sun god, Helios, on the obverse is (uncertainly) attributed to an engraver named Myron. An eagle flying above the horses, and a crab below, locates the scene between sea and sky.

The superb pair of eagles on the reverse is thought to be the work of an engraver named Polyainos. An example of this coin from the famous Hunt collection drew a bid of almost $2.5 million in a 2012 Swiss auction; at the time a record for an ancient Greek coin

On Berk’s list this type is rated as #8 among the greatest ancient coins.

Kroisos Gold Stater

Kroisos or “Croesus” was king of Lydia in the western part of what is now Türkiye, from 585 BCE until his defeat by Persian king Cyrus the Great in 546 or 547. Renowned for his wealth, the saying “as rich as Croesus,” became proverbialHis great innovation was the replacement of early electrum alloy coinage with a series of new denominations in pure gold and pure silver, struck at his capital of Sardis.

A cataloguer writes:

“Kroisos’ gold staters represent the largest denomination in the world’s first gold coinage. They come in two series, the earlier heavy and the somewhat later light standard. Our beautiful example belongs to the later, boasting a very sharply struck rendering of the famous lion and bull type, which forms one of the most recognizable types in all of ancient coinage” [11] .

On Berk’s list this type is rated as #9 among the greatest ancient coins.

Athens Tetradrachm

Beginning around 515 BCE, Athens issued silver tetradrachms bearing the helmeted head of the goddess Athena on the obverse, and her bird companion, the owl, on the reverse with a sprig of olive leaves, a small crescent moon and bold letters AΘE abbreviating Athenaion (“of the Athenians”).

Because of their pure metal and consistent weight (about 17.28 g,) these coins were gladly accepted in trade across the ancient world, and widely imitated. Millions were minted for over two centuries, and tens of thousands survive today.

The coins were struck on irregular blanks that were often too small for the dies, so perfectly centered examples showing a full crest on Athena’s helmet command strong prices from collectors.

On Berk’s list this type is rated as #10 among the greatest ancient coins.

Aegina Sea Turtle Stater

Located just 27 km (17 miles) from Athens, the island of Aegina was a bitter rival of the Athenians for centuries. Aegina was the first Greek city to mint silver coins, beginning about 550 BCE 12 .

These staters of about 12.2 g. bore a sea turtle, the city’s emblem. The reverse was a simple punch-mark. Most surviving examples of this coin are heavily worn, and many bear “banker’s marks” — punches applied by money changers to certify them as good silver.

Following the conquest of Aegina by Athens in 457 BCE the island lost its fleet, and the sea turtle was replaced on the coinage by a land tortoise.

On Berk’s list this type is rated as #16 among the greatest ancient coins.

References:

Berk, Harlan J. 100 Greatest Ancient Coins. Pelham, AL (2008)

Kimball Art Museum. Wealth of the Ancient World: The Nelson Bunker Hunt and

William Herbert Hunt Collections. Fort Worth, TX (1983)

McNall, Bruce. Fun While It Lasted: My Rise and Fall in the Land of Fame and
Fortune. New York (2003)

Sayles, Wayne G. Ancient Coin Collecting II: Numismatic Art of the Greek World.
Iola, WI (1997)

Citations

The post Top Ten Ancient Greek Coins appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

A magnificent Elizabeth I (1558-1603) gold “Ship” Ryal of 15 Shillings ND (1584-1586) MS63 NGC from The Cara Collection of Highly Provenanced British Rarities, Part II sold for $372,000, setting a world record for an Elizabeth Ship Ryal and leading Heritage’s Nov. 6-7 World & Ancient Coins Platinum Session and Signature® Auction to $5,725,535.

“This is an incredible coin from an incredible collection, and it’s only appropriate that it produced a record result,” says Kyle Johnson, Heritage’s Managing Director of World & Ancient Coins. “It is one of the most coveted and eagerly pursued pieces among British numismatic collectors and among the last coins struck in this medieval design style. These types are noticeably rare, one of the greatest numismatic rarities of the Elizabethan era.”

More than a dozen bids came in for a Victoria gold Proof “Una and the Lion” 5 Pounds 1839, PR62 Deep Cameo, PCGS, before it closed at $234,000. One of engraver William Wyon’s most celebrated and arguably most famous designs, this Deep Cameo beauty is a stellar example of a coin that enjoys widespread popularity among collectors. Reinforcing the coin’s popularity, another Victoria gold Proof “Una and the Lion” 5 Pounds 1839 UNC Details (Repaired) PCGS brought $81,000.

Another world record was set when a British Colony. George II gold Counterstamped 1/2 Pistole (12 Shilling 6 Pence) ND (1758) VF30 NGC sold for $60,000 — a total that briefly set a world record for any Jamaican coin. The coin is a prized rarity, offered at Heritage Auctions for the first time and either unlisted completely or listed as “Unknown” in the major references. This type has flown under the radar despite such high demand for this Jamaican counterstamped series.

That result stood as the world record for three lots, until a British Colony. George II gold Counterstamped 8 Escudos (Doubloon) ND (c. 1773) XF45 NGC more than doubled it and nearly tripled its high pre-auction estimate at $144,000, the new world record for any Jamaican coin.

Once a part of the Virgil Brand Collection, this plugged piece is one of four incredibly rare counterstamped Jamaican gold coins and one of the most sought-after types in the Jamaican counterstamped series, referred to across references as a Private Token, Doubloon or 8 Escudos.

Cryptocurrency

A wide array of offerings were presented, including a Casascius brass “Double Error” Loaded (Unredeemed) 1 Bitcoin (BTC) 2011 MS66 NGC that drew a winning bid of $114,000.

The first “error” refers to the well-known misspelling on the hologram, where “CASACIOUS” leaves out the second “s” in an error that was corrected in later releases.

The second “error” involves the unusual placement of the firstbits, printed approximately 3mm higher than normal.

Other top cryptocurrency lots included, but were not limited to:

• A Casascius gold-plated brass “Storage Bar” Bearer Bar Loaded (Unredeemed) 1 Bitcoin (BTC) 2011 Genuine PCGS: $105,000
• A Casascius brass Loaded (Unredeemed) 1 Bitcoin (BTC) 2013 MS65 PCGS: $105,000
• A Casascius brass Loaded (Unredeemed) 1 Bitcoin (BTC) 2013 MS64 NGC: $103,200

Ancient Coins

Among the exceptional results among ancients in this auction was a MACEDONIAN KINGDOM. Alexander III the Great (336-323 BC). AV distater NGC AU★ 5/5 – 5/5, Fine Style that more than tripled its high pre-auction estimate when it achieved $156,000.

It features one of the most renowned military leaders and conquerors in history, who ascended to the throne after the assassination of his father, Philip II, in 336 BC.

His kingdom brought about significant cultural and political change, spreading Greek culture throughout the known world.

Other examples of the Alexander III the Great AV distater also generated major interest among collectors: one ended at $96,000 after soaring past its pre-auction estimates, while another brought $50,400.

Nineteen bids came in for a Claudius I (AD 41-54). AV aureus NGC Choice AU★ 5/5 – 4/5, light marks to drive it up to $78,000. The reverse features Pax-Nemesis walking to the right, pointing at a coiled serpent and lifting a fold of drapery to spit on her chest — an apotropaic gesture in Ancient Rome to ward off Nemesis and the ill fortunes she brings.

The auction featured treasures for collectors at all levels, including a JUDAEA. Jewish War (AD 66-70). AR shekel NGC XF 4/5 – 3/5 that more than tripled its high pre-auction estimate when it sold for $26,400.

The post Multiple Records Set in Heritage’s $5.7 Million World & Ancient Coins Auction appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

On May 13, 2025, it is time for Heidelberger Münzhandlung’s biannual auction sale. Once again, Herbert Grün has put together a fascinating mix of interesting coins and medals from various fields and, most importantly, from multiple price segments. Collectors with a small budget will find their dream coins here, as will investors looking to spend tens of thousands of euros on numismatic items.

Special highlights of the sale include an extensive collection of ancient gold with many aurei, a large run of French pieces (including peripheral areas such as Luxembourg and Monaco), Chinese rarities, and magnificent gold medals – especially from the House of Nassau.

As always, the section with German coins is the richest and most comprehensive chapter of this auction sale. Collectors will find some great rarities in gold and silver, as well as an extensive collection of pieces from the Palatinate. Of course, the German Empire and the Weimar Republic are also well represented -cafter all, Heidelberger Münzhandlung specializes in this area.

The paper money section of the auction as become increasingly important in recent years. This time, it presents, among other things, a small series of U.S. banknotes, including rare specimens.

((No. 4 – Treveri. Gold stater. Very rare. Very fine / Extremely fine. Estimate: 4,500 euros.))

((No. 79 – Ptolemaic dynasty. Ptolemy IV, 221-204 BC. Octodrachm / Mnaieion, Alexandria. Extremely fine. Estimate: 13,000 euros.))

Ancient Gold Coins

As always, the auction begins with ancient coins. Some 350 lots are on offer, including many multiple lots. They present what true collectors love: gold, silver, and bronze coins with reasonable estimates in conditions ranging from very fine to extremely fine + from the Celtic, Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods.

Particularly noteworthy is the collection of gold coins, items of which can be found across the entire chapter presenting ancient specimens. Here you can see a gold stater of the Treveri modelled on Philippian staters. The reverse, in particular, shows how creatively Celtic artists re-interpreted the Greek model. An octodrachm of Ptolemy IV serves as an example from the Greek section.

Aurei are the crown jewels of Roman coinage. A great deal of effort and skill went into their creation, which is why imperial portraits on aurei are often of exquisite quality. Those who appreciate this artistry can choose between many different pieces featured in Auction 90. Their quality ranges from very fine to extremely fine. Estimates start at 1,000 euros. Some pieces have excellent provenances, coming from holdings of Münzen & Medaillen AG in Basel or from Auctiones auctions managed by MMAG.

Coins of Antoninus Pius

For those who can only dream of purchasing Roman gold coins, Auction 90 also offers a rich selection of exquisitely preserved Roman denarii, some of whose portraits are just as excellent as those of the aurei. The era of the adoptive emperors is particularly well represented. There are 43 lots from Peace Emperor Antoninus Pius, including coins for him, his wife and Caesar Marcus Aurelius.

Large Section from France, Luxembourg, Monaco

Let us move on to the next chapter. Among the 500 lots with world coins, there are many fascinating pieces from all over the globe. France and the neighbouring countries of Monaco and Luxembourg are particularly well represented with 150 lots.

The House of Nassau, whose origins can be tracked back to the 11th century, still rules Luxembourg today. This is just the last remnant of the many territories that were once under the control of a member of the House of Nassau. This time-honoured dynasty is represented in Auction 90 of Heidelberger Münzhandlung with some spectacular gold medals, which can be found in several sections: the Netherlands and Nassau-Weilburg, i.e., the house that took over the rule of Luxembourg after the extinction of the House of Orange-Nassau.

Heidelberger Münzhandlung offers two medals of William IV Friso, the first hereditary governor of the United Provinces of the Netherlands. He held this high office from 1747 until 1751. His two excellent medals are impressive – they have a weight of seven and 11 ducats respectively.

Chinese Rarities

Two coins of great rarity commemorate the last years of the Chinese Empire. They were struck at a time when the central government was attempting to introduce a single currency throughout the Empire. The bear the inscription “Hsuan Tung”, which roughly translates as “tradition obliges”. This was the government motto of the child emperor known as Puyi, who ascended the throne in 1908 at the age of two. A 20-cent piece dates from the first year of his reign, a 10-cent piece from the last. The reign of six-year-old Puyi came to an end when the Wuchang Uprising broke out on 10 October 1911 and escalated into a revolution.

Heidelberger Münzhandlung can also offer some very rare silver dollars from the early years of the People’s Republic. The first coin shown here commemorates the rise to power of Sun Yat-sen, a second commemorates the second man in the state, Vice-President Li Yuanhong, who later became President of China himself.

Even rarer is this 1907 Xinjiang gold coin, produced at the Shuimogou arms factory. It was minted with the machines that were available there. But due to the inappropriate equipment, the coin were usually of poor quality. People in China joked that the relief was so faint, it could almost be rubbed off by hand. But there was another problem with the coins. They were supposed to be worth three taels of silver. But since the silver price was tumbling on the international market, local businessmen took advantage of this to buy gold coins with cheap silver. They would then go on to melt down the gold coins and sell the metal abroad at a much higher price. As a result, these gold coins are extremely rare today.

They were created under Puyi’s predecessor, Guangxu. He was only a de jure ruler at this point; in reality, Empress Dowager Cixi controlled the empire. She forced Guangxu to adopt the two-year-old Puyi and is said to have ordered progressive Guangxu to be poisoned the day before she died. In fact, when his body was examined in 2008, it was found to contain an excessive amount of arsenic, more than 2,000 times the expected level. Scientists believe that he was given this dose at once, supporting the poison theory.

German States: A Speciality of Heidelberger Münzhandlung

It goes without saying that German coins are the speciality of Heidelberger Münzhandlung. They make up the largest part of the auction and represent the entire spectrum from “A” for Anhalt to “W” for Würzburg. Particularly noteworthy are the many well-assembled multiple lots at reasonable prices.

We have put together a selection of special pieces that are characterised by their excellent condition and great rarity.

Collectors of pieces from the Palatinate and all the branches of this house will be spoilt for choice at Auction 90 of Heidelberger Münzhandlung. It contains a rich selection of Palatinate coins and medals from the High Middle Ages to the end of the 18th century. It is a real collection, put together with great passion. As a result, there are many great rarities among the 240 or so lots.

The German Empire: Another Speciality of Heidelberger Münzhandlung

Anyone familiar with Heidelberger Münzhandlung will have been waiting for this: Auction 90 will also feature an extensive selection of coins from the German Empire, the Weimar Republic, the FRG and the GDR, as well as colonies and other territories.

Paper Money

Do you collect paper money? Then you should definitely take a look at the about 300 lots with paper money on offer at Heidelberger Münzhandlung. There are plenty of rarities to discover!

Let us begin with U.S. issues. There is an extensive series of US banknotes, starting in 1886 and going up to the 1930s. There are dollar notes from the Fed as well as issues from various banks in Indiana, New York, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee. In addition, there are military payment certificates and gold certificates.

But there are also other world rarities in the catalogue, such as a very rare and extremely fine 2-karbovanet note from Ukraine, issued under German occupation in 1942.

Always wanted to be a trillionaire? You can make this dream come true with lot No. 2385 of Auction 90. It is an unopened pack of the Reichsbankkasse with 10 bundles of 100 notes each, with the 1,000-mark banknotes of 15 December 1922 overprinted with 1 billion marks. The pack is extremely rare in this unopened form and would look wonderful in a museum display case.

Fourteen lots with banknotes from German East Africa are another exciting highlight of the paper money auction, including many rarities such as a 200-rupee banknote from Tabora dated 15 June 1915. Even rarer is the so-called bush note (“Buschnote”). This is the extremely rare 50-rupee note – the highest face value of the series – dated 1 October 1917. If you are puzzled by the strange printing, you should know that the banknotes were produced during the First World War using the printing plates of a children’s printing press discovered on a farm. They were intended to compensate for a shortage of banknotes until real money could be imported from Germany again.

The auction catalogue can be purchased for the nominal fee of 12.50 euros at Heidelberger Münzhandlung Herbert Grün, Gaisbergstr. 40, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany; phone: +49 / 6221 / 65 2970; fax: +49 / 6221 / 65 297-29; email: kontakt@hdmhg.de. Of course, the catalogue is also available online at Sixbid, biddr.com, and Numisbids.

All pictures for this auction preview were created by Lübke + Wiedemann KG (please note as the source for the image material).

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Scheduled to close on May 1, the CSNS World and Ancient Coins Platinum Session and Signature Auction from Heritage Auctions highlights some of the finest coinage from the ancient world. They display prominent moments in history, including a gold aureus that marks Emperor Augustus’ struggle to secure an heir.

In 23 BCE, Augustus fell ill. After years of legitimizing his position as heir to the late Julius Caesar, Augustus had to turn his focus on his own future succession. Unfortunately, his favorite nephew, Marcellus, whom Augustus hoped to become his heir, would fatally contract the same illness that very year. Augustus had to act quickly. He would look to Marcus Agrippa, a childhood friend who had not only remained a Julius Caesar loyalist after the assassination but also helped solidify Augustus’ right to rule by defeating Mark Antony and Cleopatra in 31 BCE. He was a successful politician, acting as consul three times before Augustus rose to power. Agrippa was a strong choice for Augustus to secure an heir and would offer his signet ring as a contractual agreement in 23 BCE.

In 21 BCE, Agrippa would marry Augustus’ daughter Julia, who was formerly married to Marcellus. They would have five children – all of whom were viable options as Augustus’ heir. The two oldest boys, Gaius (20 BCE) and Lucius (19 BCE), quickly caught Augustus’ eye, featuring on the gold aureus in this auction. He would formally adopt them both and raise them to be his successors. The same year, Augustus hosted the fifth-ever Secular Games where he announced his Pax Romana due to his secured succession. While Gaius and Lucius were sent to provinces to train as consul-elects, Augustus’ stepson Tiberius (43 BCE) was creating problems.

Son of Livia, Tiberius’ mother left his father to marry Augustus in 38 BCE. After Caesar’s assassination, the elder Tiberius would offer loyalty to Mark Antony, and after Antony’s demise, would flee Rome with his family. A few years later he would be pardoned, only to have Augustus marry Livia while she was pregnant with their second child. Tiberius would be raised by Livia and Augustus by the time he was nine but showed little ambition despite later serving as praetor in 16 BCE and consul in 13 BCE.

His relationship with Augustus turned sour when, after the death of Agrippa, Tiberius was forced to divorce Agrippa’s daughter, Vipsania, and marry the widowed Julia. Tiberius’ political career would take a dive, going as far as being exiled to Rhodes in 6 BCE due to tensions with Gaius, while Tiberius saw it as a retirement away from his failing marriage and political responsibilities. By 2 BCE, Julia would herself be exiled for adultery, though scholars speculate if the reason was more politically motivated. Tiberius was free to divorce Julia and would return to his political duties.

In AD 1, Gaius was sent to the eastern front to help alleviate the Parthian conflict, while Lucius was sent the following year to aid the Spanish Campaign. However, Lucius would die on his way near Marseille. Two years later, Gaius would die in Lycia of his wounds from battle in Armenia. Augustus was devastated and marked this as the lowest period of his life. He turned to his last resort and adopted Tiberius as his heir, who had been successful in his military campaigns since his return from Rhodes. Tiberius would be granted imperium maius (“supreme command”) and tribunicia potestas (“tribunician power”) until Augustus died in August of AD 14 – Tiberius accepting the principate quickly after.

The aureus of Augustus in the May 1 auction, minted sometime between 2 BC and AD 4, marks the moment immediately before or after the deaths of Lucius and Gaius. It memorializes Augustus’ grandchildren, the dreams of his succession, and subsequently, the future of the Roman Empire.

View all the lots in the May 1 – 2 CSNS World & Ancient Coins Platinum Session and Signature Auction.

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The post Augustus Gold Aureus Featured in Heritage Auction CSNS Sale appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Photos can be a wonderful aid or an absolute danger. Depending on the type of lighting used by the photographer, a coin’s surface can show every bump and scratch, or it can look like a piece of glass. Some auction firms go to great pains and expense to produce realistic photos. Some don’t (Sayles, 25).

Much of what I have learned about ancient coins over the years has come from books, articles, and conversations with dealers, scholars, and other collectors. But a great deal has come from studying ancient coin auction catalogs. I’ve accumulated hundreds of these catalogs, to the point that shelf space has run out and they are beginning to pile up on the floor.

For beginning collectors, coin auction catalogs–even those written in English and well-illustrated–can be baffling. Let’s consider how to make sense of them.

Here is a detailed description of “the most famous of all Roman coins,” from a recent auction catalog^[1]:

622. The Republicans. Brutus. Late summer – autumn 42 BC. AR denarius (17.5mm, 3.75 g. 12h). Military mint traveling with Brutus and Cassius in western Asia Minor or northern Greece. L. Plaetorius Cestianus, magistrate. Bare head of Brutus, right BRVT above IMP to right, L • PLAET • CEST around to left / Pileus between two daggers pointing downward. EID • MAR below. Crawford 508/3; Campana, Eid Mar,40-1 (O2/R13); Cahn 13a-b; CRI 216; Sydenham 1301; RSC 15; BMCRR East 68-70, Kestner -; RBW-. Toned with hints of iridescence, minor marks and scratches, scrapes on obverse, banker’s mark on reverse. Good VF. Very rare. The most famous of all Roman coins. This coin is not plated in Campana. ($250,000)

From the collection of a Connoisseur Classicist, purchased from Numismatic Ars Classica, early 1990s

Lot Number: 622. The “lot number” identifies the coin in the auction. During the bidding, lots are sold sequentially by lot number.

Issuing Authority: Answers the questions of who issued the coin, where, and when. In this case, “The Republicans” refers to Julius Caesar’s assassins in the Roman civil war of 44- 42 BCE. Lucius Plaetorius Cestianus, otherwise unknown to history, was probably the paymaster in the army of Brutus.

Date: Unlike modern coins, most ancient coins do not carry a date. Thanks to diligent work by generations of numismatic scholars, the dates for most Roman coins are known with considerable precision. For most ancient Greek and other coins, the dates are only approximate estimates.

Metal: The material of a coin is usually given as an abbreviation derived from Latin: “AV” for gold, “EL” for electrum, “AR” for silver, and “AE” for bronze.

Denomination and Dimensions: The coin is a denarius. In parentheses, the diameter is given in millimeters, the weight in grams, and the “die axis” in terms of a clock face. “12h” means that both sides are oriented in the same direction; “6h” means that the reverse is upside-down relative to the obverse.

Obverse Type and Inscription: The obverse or “heads” side design is described. The inscription is transcribed and may be translated. There is a rich vocabulary of technical terms describing features of a portrait; for example, “draped” means the fabric of a garment is visible, “cuirassed” means the figure is wearing body armor, and “laureate” means the figure is crowned with a wreath of laurel leaves.

Reverse Type and Inscription: The design on the reverse or “tails” side is described. The inscription is transcribed and may be translated. The pileus, a felt cap worn by freed slaves, became a symbol of liberation.

References: Listings of the coin type by number in standard reference books. A dash after the author’s name means the coin is missing from that reference. In this case, “Campana” refers to the Italian numismatist Alberto Campana (1947- ), who authored a definitive study of this type.

Grade: Traditional grades for ancient coins are F (Fine), VF (Very Fine), EF or XF (Extremely Fine), and MS (Mint State). Rarely, one might see FDC (Fleur de coin), French for “flower of coinage”, indicating that the coin is absolutely flawless). The 70-point Sheldon Scale, familiar to collectors of American coins, is meaningless for ancient coins. If there is a hole in the coin, the term “pierced” will appear. If the coin has been tooled to improve its appearance, this should be noted. In the 19th century, tooling was quite common, but today it is considered a serious defect by most collectors. The grade may be followed by an indication of rarity.

Estimate: The cataloguer usually provides an estimate of the price, or sometimes a “starting price” or minimum acceptable bid. These days, desirable coins sell for two or three times the estimate – sometimes far more, if several collectors with deep pockets get into a bidding war over a coveted rarity.

Provenance: Ancient coins are like puppies: the better the pedigree, the higher the price. If a coin has been in a famous sale or collection, this will often be called out in the listing. If a specific coin is the example cited in a standard reference book, the phrase “this coin” may appear, and if the specific coin is illustrated in that reference, then you may see the phrase “plate coin”. Such select coins often sell for a premium.

How Ancient Coin Catalogs are Organized

Auction catalogs begin with some pages that set out the rules of the auction. Pay particular attention to the “Buyer’s Fee”, which is a service charge added to the winning bid. This typically ranges from 15 to 25%. There may be some background on the auction house and its personnel, and notes on any particular collections offered for sale. For major European auction houses, this introductory material is often provided in several languages.

The coin listings begin with Greek and related coins, followed by Roman, “Byzantine” and (if present) medieval, Islamic, Asian and modern world coinages.

The arrangement of ancient Greek coins in most auction catalogs is based on a system developed originally by Austrian numismatist Joseph Eckhel^[2] (1737-1798). He based his categories on historic regions of the ancient world, moving from West to East, beginning with the Iberian Peninsula. So the first coins in the catalog are typically Celtic, followed by Italy, Sicily, North Africa, the Greek mainland, the Greek islands, Asia Minor, etc. For example, coins of Athens are listed under “Attica”, and coins of Ephesus are listed under “Ionia”. After the regions, the coins of the later Hellenistic kingdoms (c. 323 – 30 BCE), which sprawled across many regions, are listed.

Roman coins are arranged chronologically, beginning with the Republic, continuing through the so-called “Imperatorial” era of civil wars (c. 82 – 27 BCE), and concluding with the sequence of emperors. Roman provincial coins (sometimes called Greek Imperial) may be in a separate section, or included under the respective emperor listing.

Catalogs of “important”^[3] auctions can become reference works that are highly collectible themselves. For example, the three-volume catalog of the massive Garrett Collection of ancient and foreign coins sold by Johns Hopkins University (1984-85) currently sells for over $100. Two catalogs for the sale of the William Herbert Hunt collection of Byzantine coins (December 5-6, 1990 and June 21, 1991) are highly valued by collectors of this series. Copies currently sell for $45 to $75 and up.

One thing that makes a catalog even more useful to collectors is the list of “Prices Realized”, a few sheets listing the winning bids for each coin or group lot. If there is no price listed for a specific lot, then that lot was probably unsold, or possibly withdrawn before the sale. Prices Realized are sometimes archived on the auction house website and can be downloaded. Older sales, however, can be difficult or impossible to find. Occasionally, you may see prices realized penciled in by a collector beside the listings

How to Obtain Catalogs

Auction houses mail out catalogs well ahead of the sale to regular buyers. These catalogs are costly to print and mail; some are substantial hardcover books with glossy full-color illustrations, so there may be a subscription fee. New buyers can often obtain a catalog by writing or emailing the auction house. At local coin shows, there is often a “freebie” table where collectors can leave unwanted old catalogs for others to take. Many historic catalogs have been digitized and can be downloaded free from sites like the Newman Numismatic Portal maintained by Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

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Notes

[1] CNG Triton XXVIII, January 14-15, 2025, Lot 622. Realized $450,000 USD (estimate $250,000).

[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Hilarius_Eckhel

[3] “Important” is a term of art in numismatics that means “expensive”.
 

References for How to Read an Ancient Coin Auction Catalog

Numismatic Fine Arts and Bank Leu. The Garrett Collection, Part I. (Beverly Hills, May 16-18, 1984)

–. The Garrett Collection, Part II. (Zurich, October 16-18, 1984)

–. The Garrett Collection, Part III. (Beverly Hills, March 29, 1985)

Sayles, Wayne. Ancient Coin Collecting. Iola, WI (1996)

Sotheby’s. The William Herbert Hunt Collection: Highly Important Byzantine Coins. New York (December 5-6, 1990)

–. The William Herbert Hunt Collection: Important Byzantine Coins. New York (June 21, 1991)

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The post How to Read an Ancient Coin Auction Catalog: Mike Markowitz appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

On March 17, 2025, Künker’s held Auction 419 presenting 638 lots of ancient coins, including numerous Roman aurei. Many of them are of the highest historical importance and wonderful quality, some have spectacular provenances – and this was reflected in the results. The total estimate of two million euros doubled to four million euros (or almost $4.33 million). We present the top five lots of the total auction sale as well as the most expensive coins from the Celtic, Greek, Byzantine, and Crusader categories.

Top Five Results From Künker Auction 419

Roman aurei of excellent quality are a safe bet when it comes to impressive results – especially if they are rare coin types such as this aureus of Caligula, showing his mother Agrippina on the reverse. The coin was sold for 120,000 euros.

Agrippina was one of the most influential women of the early Roman Empire. She was the offspring of the marriage between Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, the victor of Actium, and Julia, daughter of the first emperor, Augustus. The husband chosen for her was Germanicus, who was supposed to become Augustus’ successor. They had nine children, including future Emperor Caligula. The latter focused on dynastic connections in his coinage and his mother played a major role in this. We know several coin types with her profile, including this aureus from 37/8. It makes us forget that Agrippina was exiled in 29 AD and starved herself to death on Pandataria in 33 AD.

Actually, aurei of Commodus are not really rare, at least most of them. But aurei showing Commodus as Hercules Romanus are extremely rare in top condition. Künker was able to offer such a rarity in Auction 419; the result was 170,000 euros.

The reason for this is the history of the image, and above all the controversy surrounding it. After all, historians were only too happy to illustrate Commodus’ megalomania by claiming that he showed up dressed as Hercules in the arena at gladiator fights. The point is that historians did so after his damnatio memoriae. They did not want to explain his actions but to make him appear as mad as possible. After all, it was nothing unusual for an ancient ruler to identify with Hercules – even Alexander the Great had done so. It is not surprising, then, that Septimius Severus, having successfully navigated the turmoil following the assassination of Commodus, defended his predecessor’s appearance as Hercules before the Senate when he had Commodus’ damnatio memoriae revoked.

Even more impressive – at a hammer price of 190,000 euros – was the result of an aureus of Postumus, whom many French and Germans claim as “their” emperor – after all, he came from Gaul and established his center of power in Cologne. Coins of Postumus are among the most beautiful pieces we know from the time of the Barracks Emperors, and the example offered by Künker is an outstanding specimen. It features Postumus and Heracles on the obverse, with whom the emperor liked to identify himself. The reverse shows Victoria and Felicitas, representing Postumus’ military successes. More important for the price of this piece, however, was its excellent pedigree. Coins like this were photographed for auction catalogs as early as the 19th century, which is why this one’s ownership can reliably be traced back to 1888.

It is challenging to assemble a complete series of Roman emperors. It is even more difficult if you want this complete series to consist of gold coins of perfect quality. There will always be some gaps that require a lot of time and money to fill. Künker Auction 419 offered the opportunity to fill such a gap with an aureus of Pescennius Niger. No wonder it climbed to 220,000 euros, making it the second most expensive piece in the auction sale.

It is probably the most iconic denarius in Roman history – the portrait denarius of Marcus Iunius Brutus, depicting the liberty cap between two daggers on the reverse. This was reflected in its price as the coin realized 280,000 euros, the highest result of the auction. The denarius is one of the few coins described by ancient historians. However, it only really became known in the humanist world during the war of the Dutch cities against the Spanish Crown. The Dutch used this denarius for their own propaganda. This is how the liberty cap that is prominently featured on this Roman coin found its way into Dutch coinage and, from there, into the coinage of other republics.

280,000 euros for a denarius whose condition is described as Fine to Very Fine! This is probably the best example to demonstrate that numismatics is still about the history and the stories behind the pieces.

Celtic Coins

It would be unfair to compare the results of Celtic coins with those of Roman aurei. The number of collectors interested in Celtic coins is much smaller and they often have a limited budget. However, this should not detract from the fact that some exceptional prices were achieved by Celtic coins in Künker’s auction 419, for example this magnificent tetradrachm of the “horseman type” produced in Pannonia around 150 BC. Its price jumped from 15,000 euros to impressive 24,000 euros.

Greek Coins

Prices for Greek coins have risen too, although not to the same extent as those for Roman aurei. This is an opportunity for any collector attracted by the aesthetics of Greek die-cutting. For example, 48,000 euros for a stater from Caulonia with an excellent provenance is a big sum, but it is only a fraction of what is being paid for a perfect aureus.

Byzantine Coins

Byzantine coins are still considered an insiders’ tip, even though the history of Byzantine emperors is well documented and so eventful that it could overshadow that of Roman emperors. Take Michael II for example, who was born around 770 in Amorion in Phrygia, Asia Minor. He rose to become commander of the imperial palace guard, married the emperor’s daughter, became an eminence gris and, in this capacity, placed Leo V on the throne. The latter wanted to eliminate him and sentenced him to death in 820. But Leo had misjudged the balance of power. Michael’s followers assassinated Emperor Leo, got Michael out of prison and made him ruler. That was no easy job! Michael had to defend himself against Arab expansion – including in Syracuse, where this coin was struck, probably to pay soldiers. He fought off a usurpation attempt under Thomas the Slav, mediated between iconoclasts and iconodules, and kept an increasingly radical clergy in check. Michael died peacefully of kidney failure in 829, and power passed to his son Theophilos without a problem. With this extremely rare solidus, a victorious collector bought a coin representing this much history for just 4,600 euros.

Crusader Coins

Let us round off this review with a spectacular result from the Crusader States. An inconspicuous but extremely rare lead seal rose from an estimate of 400 euros to almost 24 times that amount: 9,500 euros. The seal belonged to a very short-lived Grand Master of the Order of St. John with the beautiful name of Geoffroy the Rat. Of course, he was not so named because of any fault in his character. No, history probably gave him the nickname Mus (Latin for “mouse/rat”) for family reasons. There seems to have been a noble family of the same name in Touraine.

Beyond Künker Auction 419

We hope you enjoyed the wonderful rarities in Künker Auction 419 as much as we did. But do not be misled. Although coins are considered valuable investment objects around the globe, collectors with a limited budget also have the opportunity to discover fascinating fields. Just take a look at Künker’s web shop or at one of the many e-Live and e-Live Premium Auctions. You can find all current offers at www.kuenker.de/en.

You can find all auction results online at www.kuenker.de/en. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Künker, Nobbenburger Str. 4a, 49076 Osnabrück; phone: +49 541 / 962020; fax: +49 541 / 9620222; or via e-mail: service@kuenker.de.

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The post Künker Auction 419 Review: Over $302,000 for a Brutus Portrait Denarius appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

The Collier Collection Auction of Ancient Coins

The American Numismatic Society (ANS) announces that the Collection of James M. Collier will be offered at auction by Nomos AG (Zurich, Switzerland) from April 5-6, 2025. All proceeds from the collection will establish an endowment at the ANS to offer the Collier Prize in Ancient Numismatics in perpetuity. The Collier Prize was established in 2020 with the generous support of ANS Trustee Carole Anne Menzi Collier in honor of her late husband Professor James M. Collier. It is the most substantial financial award supporting scholarship in ancient numismatics. Nomos AG Auction 35 will include many fine examples of ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine coins from the Collier collection.

James Collier initially taught art history before fully dedicating himself to painting, in which he drew inspiration both from the rich tapestry of art history and the world around him. His work is deeply influenced by his understanding of artistic periods–in particular of the Renaissance–yet he remained attuned to the nuances of objects he loved, such as coins and medals, blending the two to create a unique and compelling visual narrative. His coin collection contains many of the great highlights of ancient numismatics, such as an exceptional group of coins of Syracuse, including a stunning decadrachm of Euainetos (Lot 169). In the extensive Roman series, there are many highlights, such as a remarkable specimen of the sesterius of Nero with his lost triumphal arch (Lot 659) and a full set of the Twelve Caesars in silver (Lot 640).

What Is the Collier Prize?

The Collier Prize is awarded biennially to the best single or multi-authored work in the field of ancient numismatics, with the winner(s) receiving $20,000 (to be split equally for a multi-authored work). The prize was first awarded in 2021 to Roman Imperial Coinage (RIC) II.3 (Spink, 2020) by Richard Abdy and Peter Mittag, and most recently to Moneda Ibérica (monedaiberica.org), developed and edited by Manuel Gozalbes Fernández de Palencia, Pere Pau Ripollès Alegre, Alejandro Peña, and Juan Francisco Onielfa, in a ceremony on March 18, 2025, at the ANS in New York City.

The Sydney F. Martin Executive Director, Dr. Ute Wartenberg Kagan, commented on the auction: “We are most grateful for the generous support of our trustee, Carole Anne Menzi Collier, and Nomos AG for hosting this auction. The proceeds will help the ANS continue to enrich the study of ancient numismatics by supporting this prize and honoring significant research publications in the field.”

The auction of the Collier Collection will begin at 14:00 CEST (8:00 AM ET) on April 5. For more information, visit www.nomosag.com/auction. We hope that you will support the ANS by bidding in the auction!

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This Saturday, March 15, marks the closing of Heritage Auctions’ Spotlight: The Twelve Caesars Ancient Coin Showcase Auction, as well as the anniversary of Julius Caesar’s assassination in 44 BC.

“Beware the Ides of March” in the Twelve Caesars Showcase Auction

Caesar had an unremarkable early political career, holding many of the offices that would be expected of a man of his standing. He first held the consulship in 59 BC following successful military campaigns in Spain, winning the election thanks to his supporters among both the aristocracy and the general populace. Once he was in office, Caesar forged a political alliance now known as the “First Triumvirate” with Pompey, a political powerhouse, and Crassus, the richest man in Rome, using his position in the Senate to push forward bills on behalf of his new allies.

After Crassus’ death in battle in 53 BC, tensions began to build between Caesar and Pompey. Many in the Senate urged Pompey to recall Caesar from his command in Gaul. Eventually, this faction was successful in convincing Pompey to take a firm stance against Caesar’s continued command. In response, throughout 50 BC, Caesar built up troops in southern Gaul while Pompey fortified northern Italy. As the threat of a civil war loomed, attempts from Caesar to negotiate disarmament were rejected by hardliners in the Senate, with Caesar eventually being named an enemy of the state.

In response to this decree from the Senate, Caesar ignited civil war when he marched troops across the Rubicon River, crossing a line and making a decision which could not be undone — the origin of the phrase “to cross the Rubicon.” Pompey fled south immediately, believing correctly that Caesar would be quick to march on Rome. As Pompey escaped to Greece, Caesar occupied Rome for about two weeks, forcefully seizing the treasury and having his ally Lepidus name him Dictator (an official office in ancient Rome) so that he could conduct the consular elections. Pompey was eventually pushed towards Egypt, where he was killed upon arrival. Caesar arrived in Egypt soon after in October for 48 BC and was prevented from leaving by unfavorable winds, though he was appointed in-absentia to a year-long dictatorship of Rome.

By April 46 BC, Caesar was given a new dictatorship annually. While not a direct source of legal power, the dictatorships reflected his dominate position in the state. The Senate gave unprecedented honors to Caesar, such as the title Praefectus Moribus, historically associated with the power to censure senators, and control over war and peace, a power traditionally held by the Comitia Centuriata. He was also the first living Roman to ever have his portrait on a coin.

In January 44 BC, two tribunes shut down attempts to call Caesar Rex – literally “king” — a title associated with the cruel tyranny of the last king of Rome, Lucius Tarquinius Superbus. Caesar had these tribunes ejected from the Senate for supposedly infringing on his honor, angering the public, which viewed tribunes as protectors of popular freedom. In February of that same year, Caesar assumed the dictatorship for life, making clear that he had no intention of restoring a free republic.

On March 15, 44 BC, Caesar was approached by conspirators and stabbed at least 23 times, poetically dying at the feet of a large statue of Pompey. The last words of Caesar remain a source of disagreement. In popular culture, Caesar is remembered by the famous words “Et tu, Brute?” However, this phrase is not attested by ancient sources, rather apparently being invented by Richard Edes for his play Caesar Interfectus, which would later inspire Shakespeare’s dialogue in his own Caesar play. Ancient sources vary on whether Caesar said nothing at all in his last moments or if he instead uttered the Greek phrase “Kai su, teknon?” – translating literally to “And you, child?” and directed at the infamous Brutus, who was the son of one of Caesar’s mistresses. Despite the recent discontent of the people towards Caesar, the assassins were received coldly in the Forum and made to flee the city, subsequently minting the famous “Eid Mar” coin commemorating this event. Caesar’s heir, Octavian, would go on to exploit the chaos following Caesar’s death to seize the consulship and establish his own autocracy under the guise of restoring a republic he would eventually destroy.

Octavian’s subsequent rise to power and the early years of the Empire can be traced in the iconic coinage of the Twelve Caesars offered in this special auction. Join us Saturday to witness the rise of the Roman Empire as told through numismatics.

View all the lots in the Spotlight: The Twelve Caesars Ancient Coin Showcase Auction.

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The post Heritage to Hold Twelve Caesars Ancient Coin Showcase Auction March 15 appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

The top coin of interest to buyers is this ½ Rupee that showcases Queen Victoria and is the second-best known example of this type. Following the Indian Rebellion of 1857, Queen Victoria chose to dissolve the British East India Company, the de facto sovereign authority in India, and formally declare India an English Colony. She acquired a fondness for India and sought to learn more about its cultures. There are many consequences to the 89-year-long British Raj, both good and bad, but there is no doubt that Queen Victoria’s decision to consolidate her influence had a lasting impact on India’s position as a world power. This beautiful ½ Rupee exemplifies Queen Victoria’s time as Empress of India.

Perhaps the most interesting piece in this auction is a medal that may be one of a kind. This remarkably preserved copper medal marks a visit by three Mysorean ambassadors to King Louis XVI to try to get aid to push back against English expansionism in India. At the time of this medal’s production, the British East India Company was expanding its reach as it enjoyed the riches it acquired from the people of India. The Second Anglo-Mysore War had recently concluded, and the Third Anglo-Mysore War had yet to begin – in which France did send aid to India. This medal is a tangible piece of the India’s fight against colonization.

One of the oldest coins in this auction, is a beautiful tetradrachm showing Demetrius I of the Bactrian Kingdom. The Bactrian Kingdom brought Hellenistic influence to India while also coopting some of its symbolism on their coinage, such as the elephant headdress seen here on Demetrius I. Bactrian coins show a unique mix of these cultures as seen through Hindu gods, Karosthi script, and animals native to India alongside gods of the Greek pantheon, Greek alphabet, and a Hellenistic artistic style.

Among the many noteworthy coins on offer in the Heritage Spotlight on India auction, here are a few highlights:

• Mughal Empire. Aurangzeb Alamgir gold Mohur AH 1098 Year 30 (1687) MS63 NGC
• British India. William IV Proof Restrike 1/2 Rupee 1835.-(c) PR64 PCGS
• Tripura. Durga Manikya silver Tanka (Rupee) ND (1809-1821) AU55 NGC
• British India. Victoria gold Mohur 1841.-(c) AU50 ANACS
• INDIA. Kushano-Sasanian. Ardaxsir (Ardashir) I (ca. AD 230-245). AV dinar (25mm, 12h). ANACS MS 63

View All the Lots in the March 2 Spotlight: India World and Ancient Coins Showcase Auction Here

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The post Heritage Spotlights World and Ancient Coins of India in Upcoming Auction appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Stack’s Bowers Galleries, in its role as an official auctioneer of the New York International Numismatic Convention (NYINC), always hosts one of the year’s most hotly anticipated auction events at the January NYINC. This year’s auction was no exception, with numerous record-breaking results that brought the price realized totals across the ancient coins, world coins, and world currency categories to $12,398,470 (all prices include the buyer’s premium).

Claiming the position of top-selling lot was the colossal 1637 Austrian 20 Ducats of Ferdinand II. Very rare, exceptionally beautiful, and graded MS64+, strong bidding brought this lot to $360,000. Another Central European gold rarity, the 1639 Hungarian 10 Ducats, took second place at $192,000. The stunningly rare 1801 Pattern Ruble Novodel of Russian emperor Alexander I sold for $96,000, while a very special Salzburg 10 Ducat Klippe from 1668 brought $90,000, reinforcing the strength of European coinage at the NYINC sale.

The firm’s offerings of Latin American coins and countermarks at their NYINC sales have earned a reputation for quality, which was amplified this year with several high-end rarities. The 1916 Mexican 60 Pesos from Oaxaca, consistently one of the most desired and famous issues of the vast Mexican Revolution series, realized $66,000, comfortably exceeding its estimate. One of the most intriguing countermarks was an exceptionally rare bifacial Costa Rican 4 Reales countermark on a Bolivian host that inspired a bidding war resulting in an impressive $52,800 realization. A magnificent Peruvian gold medal featuring Simon Bolivar performed admirably achieving $45,600. The leader among the colonial issues was a Mexican Cob 8 Escudos dated 1715, pedigreed to the famous 1715 Plate Fleet shipwreck, which landed at $45,600 after competitive bidding.

The annual NYINC auction is Stack’s Bowers Galleries’ top venue for ancient coins, and this year’s robust selection was anchored by the S.P. Rutherford Collection. The collection’s top lot, a massive Ptolemaic silver Pentakaidekadrachm of Berenike II, achieved $38,400, while another oversized rarity, a Macedonian Dodekadrachm issued by the Derrones, crushed its estimate when it brought $26,400. Other standouts include an always-popular Syracuse Dekadrachm that realized $19,800 and a gorgeous Mint State Year 2 Jewish War Shekel that sold for $18,000.

The Richard Margolis Collection of exceptional French rarities had its own dedicated session which saw intense competition in the auction room. The clear leader was a wonderful Proof Napoleon 40 Francs in MS65 that climbed to $144,000. Not far behind, another Proof striking of Napoleon, this one a 5 Francs, brought $102,000, well exceeding its presale estimate. The immensely rare Specimen 20 Francs of Louis XVIII soared to $66,000.

As with Latin American coins, the NYINC has proven to be Stack’s Bowers Galleries’ premier venue for Latin American paper money. Venezuelan banknotes were especially well-represented, with an incredible 1811 8 Pesos from the early days of the Republic leading the results at $60,000. Russian notes had a strong showing, with rare offerings such as a 3 Rubles from South Russia and a 1940 25 Aksha from Tannu Tuva, each of which sold for $31,200. A beautiful high-grade Egyptian 50 Piastres of 1899 was the second-highest selling lot among the paper money offerings realizing $38,400.

The physical cryptocurrency sale was led by a loaded 0.5 Bitcoin of the popular Casascius type that sold for $58,800. The colorful “poker chip” type comprised most of the other top-selling lots in the session, with a loaded 2016 0.1 Bitcoin reaching $16,800.

All results from the January 2025 NYINC Auction are available at StacksBowers.com. These results set up Stack’s Bowers Galleries for another year of growth and market expansion. The firm now looks ahead to its busy 2025 calendar, beginning with the February Collectors Choice Online Auction, followed in March by Part II of the landmark L.E. Bruun Collection and The Zurich Sale, taking place in Zurich, Switzerland. Shortly after comes the April 2025 Hong Kong Auction, the firm’s premier venue for high-end Asian numismatics.

To consign your ancient coins, world coins, and world paper money to an upcoming Stack’s Bowers Galleries event, visit StacksBowers.com, call 800-458-4646, or email Consign@StacksBowers.com.

The post Intense Bidding Delivers Outstanding Results at Stack’s Bowers 2025 NYINC Auction appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Stack’s Bowers Galleries had another year of price records, numerous awards, and exciting growth. In the auction category, total prices realized set a new firm record of $275.6 million for the year. Several items crossed the million-dollar mark and, in fact, Stack’s Bowers Galleries was the only firm to sell any million dollar coins from February through December, five in total. In addition, the company was selected to bring to market several special offerings on behalf of the United States Mint and The Royal Mint.

At the top of the prices realized list for 2024 was the newly discovered Undated (1652) Massachusetts silver threepence graded EF-45 (PCGS) CMQ-X. After heated competition, this piece set a record for any non-gold U.S. coin struck before the founding of the United States Mint when it sold for $2,520,000 in the November Showcase auction held in conjunction with the Whitman Expo. One of only of two known and the only example available to collectors, the threepence in the Stack’s Bowers Galleries sale represented the first auction offering of the type in more than 150 years.

Also sold in the November Showcase event was the finest certified 1870-CC Liberty Head Double Eagle, a legendary Carson City rarity that is currently unknown in Mint State. This coin, off the market since 1986, was graded AU-55 (PCGS) CMQ and realized $1,440,000. In the same auction, an exquisite 1850 Baldwin and Co. $10 graded MS-63+ (PCGS) CAC CMQ, held privately since 1988, crossed the block at $1,260,000.

In September, the firm hosted its first European auction on site in Denmark with Part I of the L.E. Bruun Collection, the most valuable collection of world coins ever assembled. Showcased was a rarity from Denmark, a 1496 Hans Gold Noble graded NGC AU-55, unique in private hands, which soared to €1,200,000 (approximately $1,243,866). Rounding out the list of seven figure items was the landmark 1825/4/1 Capped Head Left Half Eagle pedigreed to the Bass Collection. Graded Proof-62 (PCGS) CMQ, the coin realized $1,080,000 – $450,000 more than it brought less than two years ago.

Prices realized achievements continued in all numismatic areas. In the Numismatic Americana category, the extraordinary John Stewart at Stony Point medal in bronze graded MS-62 (PCGS), the key to the entire Comitia Americana series, brought $900,000. Among U.S. paper money offerings, a magnificent 1934 Light Green Seal Fr. 2231-B $10,000 Federal Reserve Note PCGS MS-64 sold for $240,000. In the Ancient coins category, an exceptional Kaulonia AR Stater, ca. 525-500 B.C. graded NGC AU★, brought $36,000. Asian coins were led by the remarkable Gold K’uping Tael Pattern, CD (1907) PCGS SP-61 from China that exceeded presale estimates at $720,000. A highly important group of nine Russian Government of Olonets proofs, including the front and back proofs for the 1, 5, 10, 25 & 100 Rubles graded PMG Choice Very Fine 35 to About Uncirculated 53 EPQ, went through the roof at $300,000. In the fairly new category of Physical Cryptocurrency, an incredibly rare Series 2 Casascius 5 Bitcoin MS-66 (PCGS) sold for an amazing $360,000.

Members of the Stack’s Bowers Galleries team were recognized by several revered numismatic organizations in 2024. Ronald J. Gillio was presented the Harvey G. Stack Lifetime Achievement Award at the Professional Numismatist Guild’s (PNG) annual meeting. This prestigious award is presented to someone who has shown extraordinary devotion to numismatics and significantly contributed to the hobby or profession. Ronald J. Gillio and Christine Karstedt were inducted into the PCGS CoinFacts Coin Dealer Hall of Fame. This group honors coin dealers past and present who have shaped the coin hobby through their dedication, expertise, innovation, and commitment to making “the hobby of kings” something millions can enjoy.

Stack’s Bowers Galleries was honored with numerous 2024 Numismatic Literary Guild (NLG) Awards for its contributions across various media. Since the NLG’s establishment in 1968, Stack’s Bowers Galleries and its predecessor firms have won more Auction Catalog of the Year awards than any other firm, dozens of Book of the Year honors across multiple categories, as well as a variety of website and media awards. These awards attest to the firm’s legacy of informative and enduring contributions to the literature, knowledge and culture of the hobby. In August 2024, NLG presented Stack’s Bowers Galleries with the following awards:

• Best U.S. Coins Auction Catalog – The Sydney F. Martin Collection Part IV.
• Best Exonumia/Americana or Numismatic Literature Auction Catalog – The Richard Margolis Collection Part I.
• Best Paper Money (U.S. or World) Auction Catalog – The London Chelsea Collection of People’s Bank Banknotes 1948-1980.
• Best Numismatic Social Media Account – Instagram.
• The David Lisot Memorial Video Award – The L. E. Bruun Collection: The Most Valuable Collection of World Coins to Ever Come to Market.
• Best Book for U.S. Paper Money – U.S. Treasury Notes 1812-1865: An Illustrated History, author Nicholas Bruyer, published by Stack’s Bowers Galleries.

Also in 2024, the firm continued its legacy of contributing to numismatic literature with Paper Dreams in the Golden State: A History of California Through Its Paper Money, a new book by Dennis Hengeveld. Dennis is a renowned authority in rare paper money and world coins, and Stack’s Bowers Galleries was thrilled to welcome him and his firm, World Banknote Auctions, to the team in 2024.

Stack’s Bowers Galleries’ worldwide presence continued to grow in 2024 with the opening of a new office in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark. This location will provide enhanced service to European clientele and manage the continuing sales of the L.E. Bruun Collection, the world’s finest private collection of Scandinavian coinage and the world’s most valuable collection of international coins ever to be sold.

In February 2024, Stack’s Bowers Galleries announced their latest customer service program – secure, insured storage through the SBG Vault. A concern at the forefront for many experienced collectors is the safe-keeping of their rare coins, paper money, and precious metals. SBG Vault clients enjoy numerous benefits and a no-cost or low-cost fee structure.

The firm’s Professional Numismatist Program (PNP), a one week all-expense paid seminar, was launched in summer 2023 and continued in the summer of 2024. Hosted in the Costa Mesa, California headquarters and led by renowned numismatist Devin Hipp, the mission statement of this fun and educational event is to provide practical tools and build professional connections for the next generation of young adult numismatists. Covered topics include advanced coin grading, wholesale trading and valuation, bullion trading, introduction to world numismatics, cataloging, and auctioneering. Applications for the class of 2025 will be available soon.

Looking forward to 2025, the list of extraordinary events planned by the Stack’s Bowers Galleries team continues to grow. In a few weeks, their newest full-service gallery will be opening in Miami, Florida. The expert team to staff the gallery is now being assembled – interested parties should contact MSchimel@StacksBowers.com. Soon to be available as a consumer service will be the firm’s trademarked Coins in Motion technology. On the auction front, 2025 will feature continued offerings of the Richard Margolis Collection in January and additional presentations from the L.E. Bruun Collection, with Part II scheduled to be held in Zurich, Switzerland in March. In addition, the firm has been selected to auction the Richard August Collection, with the inaugural offering from this remarkable cabinet featured in the January 2025 NYINC Auction.

For more information on Stack’s Bowers Galleries auctions and numismatic programs, please visit StacksBowers.com or email Info@StacksBowers.com. To consign to a Stack’s Bowers Galleries auction, call 800-458-4646 or email Consign@StacksBowers.com.

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The post Stack’s Bowers Galleries Announces Record Year in 2024 appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Stack’s Bowers Galleries is pleased to unveil their January 2025 Showcase Auction to be held in conjunction with the 2025 New York International Numismatic Convention (NYINC). This landmark sale includes over 6,500 lots of ancient coins, world coins, world paper money, and physical cryptocurrency, with total estimates surpassing $13 million. The live portion of the auction will take place January 17-19 at the InterContinental New York Barclay Hotel in New York City. The Cryptocurrency session will be held January 20 at Griffin Studios in the firm’s California headquarters, followed by internet-only sessions January 20-23.

Several named collections anchor the sale, including Part III of the Richard Margolis Collection, showcased in its own catalog, and offered in Session 5 on Sunday, January 19. Among its many 19th-century French rarities are an outstanding Proof 40 Francs of Napoleon I that depicts the emperor in elegant cameo, a gorgeously toned Proof 5 Francs with remarkable eye appeal, and an incredibly rare pattern 20 Francs of Louis XVIII.

Session 1 comprises high-end Latin American coins as well as a diverse array of exceptional countermarks and is sure to see spirited bidding. It offers immensely popular rarities such as the 1916 Oaxaca 60 Pesos, a massive gold coin of the Mexican Revolution with a mintage of just 45 or fewer. Other standouts include an awe-inspiring 1715 Mexican cob 8 Escudos, graded MS-62 and featuring exceptionally crisp and complete details, and a Peruvian gold medal of Simon Bolivar, a type that is nearly always only found in silver. The countermark section features many interesting lots; among the most intriguing are a Filipino countermark of Ferdinand VII struck on a Mexican “hookneck” 8 Reales and a fascinating Bolivian 4 Soles struck with a Costa Rican bifacial countermark and a digit “4” square punch.

Numerous other treasures of note include an astonishing nearly Gem Austrian 20 Ducats of Ferdinand II, graded MS-64+ by NGC. The coin’s colossal size is surpassed only by its immense rarity. Other special lots include a stunning, sculptural Iranian medal of Muzaffar al-Din Shah and a wonderful Russian Ruble pattern novodel featuring a “long neck” bust of Alexander I. The British section is noteworthy, highlighted by a stellar near-Mint gold Pound of Elizabeth I, a beautifully toned Commonwealth Crown in NGC MS-64, and a gorgeous 5 Guineas of George II in PCGS AU-53.

Ancient coins are always popular in New York, and this year’s selection is headlined by the S.P. Rutherford Collection. Stack’s Bowers Galleries previously offered Rutherford’s extensive collection of Latin American coinage to brilliant results in 2024, and his collection of ancient coins is just as impressive. Top lots from the collection include the massive silver Pentakaidekadrachm of Berenike II and the formidable Dodekadrachm and Oktadrachm issued by the Macedonian tribes. Additional ancient offerings feature the always-popular Syracusan Dekadrachm in the style of master engraver Euainetos, a gorgeous gold Pantikapaion Stater, and an exceptionally beautiful Lysimachos Tetradrachm. Among Roman coins, a magnificent aureus of Faustina the Younger leads the category bearing perfect strike and surface grades as well as the star designation from NGC.

The Stack’s Bowers Galleries January NYINC World Paper Money Auction is sure to attract attention, with highly prized offerings such as an extremely rare 100 Dollar note from the British Caribbean Territories, a 50 Florins of British East Africa with serial number 1, and a very special Banco de Venezuela 100 Pesos.

The physical cryptocurrency session features numerous types and denominations of different cryptocurrencies, many highly collectable with values well exceeding their “peel” values. Some interesting lots include a 2013 Casascius 0.5 Bitcoin in MS68 and a 2016 BTCC 0.1 Bitcoin “Poker Chip”.

The entire Stack’s Bowers Galleries January 2025 NYINC Auction is available for viewing and presale bidding at StacksBowers.com. The firm is currently accepting consignments for their 2025 Showcase and Internet auctions. To including your coins, medals, tokens, and paper money contact Stack’s Bowers Galleries by telephone at 800-458-4646 or by email at Consign@StacksBowers.com.

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The post Exciting World and Ancient Coins Highlight the Stack’s Bowers January 2025 NYINC Auction appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.