Virologist Harald zur Hausen’s Nobel Prize Spotlights Heritage’s ANA World & Ancient Coins Auction

Australian Sovereigns and Carpathian Collection of Romanian coins also among August 15-17 event highlights

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A 2008 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, which was awarded in 2008 to virologist Harald zur Hausen, will be among the top attractions in Heritage’s ANA World & Ancient Coins Platinum Session and Signature® Auction August 15-17.

2008 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine Awarded to Harald zur Hausen
2008 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine Awarded to Harald zur Hausen

zur Hausen received the award for his research that led to the isolation of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA from cervical cancer cells.

"The scientific and medicinal significance of his research, and the benefits afforded to countless women over the years can not be overstated," says Cris Bierrenbach, Executive Vice President of Internationa Numismatics at Heritage Auctions. "He conducted his research in the face of considerable skepticism from within the scientific community, but his determination led to irrefutable evidence of the connection between HPV and cervical cancer. His research also fueled a broader investigation into the role of viruses in other types of cancer, leading to the identification of viral links to liver cancer and various lymphomas, as well as advancements in molecular biology techniques.

"The winning bidder will be acquiring an enduring symbol of immeasurably important scientific research."

The auction also features a trio of notable collections, including the James D. Wolfensohn Collection of Australian Sovereigns, a 262-lot assemblage that is one of the finest troves of Australian gold ever assembled.

Among the top lots from the collection is a stunning George V gold Sovereign 1920-S MS63 PCGS, which is one of the rarest circulation-strike sovereigns from anywhere in the British Commonwealth, and the rarest from Australia. This date and mint pairing is so rare that it has earned the title of "King of Australia’s Sovereigns" and was hailed in the Quartermaster catalog as "Australia’s rarest circulating Sovereign."

George V gold Sovereign 1920-S MS63 PCGS
George V gold Sovereign 1920-S MS63 PCGS

Also from the Wolfensohn Collection is an exceptionally rare South Australia. British Colony gold "Adelaide" Pound 1852 AU55 PCGS. The Type 1 Adelaide Pound is significantly scarcer among the two reverse types, with most surviving examples being of the crenulated variety-a design element introduced to new dies after the noted obverse die crack. This alteration occurred early in the production of these emergency Adelaide Assay Office issues, explaining the large disparity in surviving specimens. Of the total recorded montage of 24,648, it is estimated that fewer than 50 were produced with Type 1 reverse die – a total that also is reflected in the current certified populations, in which Type 2 outnumbers Type 1 with a ratio of 10-to-1. At PCGS only three Type 1B "coarse reeding" examples, like the one offered here, are witnessed, compared to six Type 1A "fine reeding" pieces.

South Australia. British Colony gold "Adelaide" Pound 1852 AU55 PCGS
South Australia. British Colony gold “Adelaide” Pound 1852 AU55 PCGS

Other selections from the Wolfensohn Collection include, but are not limited to:

Another prominent collection in the auction is the Carpathian Collection of Romanian Coins, which is one of the finest troves of coins from the European nation ever assembled.

Among the highlights in the collection is a Carol I gold Specimen Pattern 20 Lei 1868 SP63 Deep Cameo PCGS, a choice rarity in the series, one of the most celebrated in all of Romanian numismatics and the finest piece known at either major grading service. A lesser example sold at Heritage’s NYCINC auction in January for $336,000. Only 100 were minted, but it is believed that far fewer survive today, with those in major collections and museums typically faring as "circulated." The example offered in this auction is believed to be the finest known example.

Carol I gold Specimen Pattern 20 Lei 1868 SP63 Deep Cameo PCGS
Carol I gold Specimen Pattern 20 Lei 1868 SP63 Deep Cameo PCGS

Also from the collection comes a Carol II gold "Angel over Arms" 100 Lei 1939 UNC Details (Rim Filing, Cleaned) NGC. Struck in celebration of the centennial of the birth of Carol I, this magnificent coin is a behemoth within the greater Romanian series and one that is pursued eagerly regardless of conditional assignment, because so few are ever available. It can be found more frequently as a Pattern, but this auction marks just the second time Heritage has offered an example in gold – the first being the Paramount specimen in 2021. Despite sharing a mintage with its "large arms" counterpart, examples of the "angel over arms" type appear at auction almost half as often. The example offered in this auction is one of just three certified by NGC.

Carol II gold "Angel over Arms" 100 Lei 1939 UNC Details (Rim Filing, Cleaned) NGC
Carol II gold “Angel over Arms” 100 Lei 1939 UNC Details (Rim Filing, Cleaned) NGC

Other top attractions from the collection include, but are not limited to:

A third prominent collection in the auction is the Otoh Collection of Physical Cryptocurrency, Part II. Heritage Auctions made numismatic collectibles history in November when The Otoh Collection of Physical Cryptocurrency, Part I Platinum Session Signature® Auction totaled $7,198,200. The Otoh – or "On The Other Hand" – Collection, named after the online handle of the consignor, is the most significant offering of physical cryptocurrency ever brought to auction. Currency, whether coins or paper, historically has been a tactile entity, something that can be touched, held and carried and then exchanged for goods and services. However, the value of digital currencies is dematerialized into units of coded data, or "bits." Bitcoin, which was founded by an anonymous person (or persons) in 2009, enjoys preeminent stature among digital currencies.

"Part of the appeal in cryptocurrency," Bierrenbach says, "is that digital currency can be received, stored and sent without intermediaries, affording the owner a previously non-existent measure of financial control.

"Otoh is one of the early adopters of physical Bitcoin, and his thoughtful approach and analysis of cryptocurrency trends is reflected in this extraordinary collection."

Among the top lots in Part II of the collection are:

The auction includes an exceptional array of British coins, including the finest Anne gold 5 Guineas 1709 MS61 PCGS graded by PCGS. It is among the scarcest post-union issues to locate at auction, especially at this advanced tier of preservation. The example offered in this is just the fourth to come through Heritage Auctions; the best of the first three an AU58+ that brought $132,000 at Heritage’s ANA auction last year. Any Mint State offering from this series, like the offered example, is a conditional outlier and is the finest entry at PCGS, and only two representatives submitted higher to NGC.

Anne gold 5 Guineas 1709 MS61 PCGS
Anne gold 5 Guineas 1709 MS61 PCGS

Also in play is a George IV gold Proof 5 Pounds 1826 PR63+ Deep Cameo PCGS that is the largest inclusion in George IV’s mid-reign Proof set. Among the earliest creations by Britain’s most famous engraver, William Wyon, the offered example is the finer of just two offered through Heritage Auctions.

George IV gold Proof 5 Pounds 1826 PR63+ Deep Cameo PCGS
George IV gold Proof 5 Pounds 1826 PR63+ Deep Cameo PCGS

Ancient Coins

The Maximinus I (AD 235-238). AV aureus (21mm, 6.56 gm, 7h). NGC Choice XF★ 5/5 – 3/5, brushed offered in this auction is extremely rare. It is just the fifth example to come to market in the last two decades, and the only one graded by NGC.

Maximinus I (AD 235-238). AV aureus (21mm, 6.56 gm, 7h). NGC Choice XF★ 5/5 - 3/5, brushed
Maximinus I (AD 235-238). AV aureus (21mm, 6.56 gm, 7h). NGC Choice XF★ 5/5 – 3/5, brushed

An ANTIQUITIES. Roman Imperial. Severus Alexander (AD 222-235). AV aureus (19mm, 11h) in contemporary gold setting and chain. Choice XF holds enormous crossover appeal, with a Severus Alexander aureus pendant with an openwork border of leaf pattern and a ribbed suspension that is attached to a knitted herringbone chain. It is believed that necklaces that contained coins, like this one, were worn to serve as a form of protection with both apotropaic (to ward off evil) and prophylactic (to ward off sickness) purposes, as it established a connection to the emperor, and also was a way to show support for the emperor; since the beginning of the Roman Empire, imperial cults were formed to worship the emperors as gods as a direct result of the deification of Julius Caesar.

ANTIQUITIES. Roman Imperial. Severus Alexander (AD 222-235). AV aureus (19mm, 11h) in contemporary gold setting and chain
ANTIQUITIES. Roman Imperial. Severus Alexander (AD 222-235). AV aureus (19mm, 11h) in contemporary gold setting and chain

A Vespasian (AD 69-79). AV aureus (19mm, 7.40 gm, 6h). NGC MS 5/5 – 2/5, brushed is an extraordinary example of an important coin from the Judaea Capta series, which was created after the Roman Empire’s victory in the Jewish-Roman War to celebrate Rome’s conquest of Judea. Issued under Emperors Vespasian, Titus and Domitian, these coins served as powerful propaganda tools, reinforcing Rome’s authority and Vespasian’s role in securing peace and stability for the empire.

Vespasian (AD 69-79). AV aureus (19mm, 7.40 gm, 6h). NGC MS 5/5 - 2/5, brushed
Vespasian (AD 69-79). AV aureus (19mm, 7.40 gm, 6h). NGC MS 5/5 – 2/5, brushed

Another fascinating offering in the auction is a Rare and Complete Aes Signatum Currency Bar that is exceedingly rare; just two other examples are shown in literature – one in a British museum and another in a museum in Naples.

A SICILY. Siculo-Punic. Ca. 264-260 BC. AR 5-shekels or decadrachm (41mm, 37.91 gm, 12h). NGC XF 5/5 – 3/5, Fine Style was struck during the First Punic War with Rome (264-241 BC) and was of the earliest phase, being on the Punic instead of the Attic standard. Jenkins translated the Punic as meaning "in the land," perhaps a statement by the Carthaginians that they were the rightful occupants of Sicily, instead of the newly arrived Romans.

SICILY. Siculo-Punic. Ca. 264-260 BC. AR 5-shekels or decadrachm
SICILY. Siculo-Punic. Ca. 264-260 BC. AR 5-shekels or decadrachm

Images and information about all lots in the auction can be found at HA.com/3118.

About Heritage Auctions

Heritage Auctions is the largest fine art and collectibles auction house founded in the United States, and the world’s largest collectibles auctioneer. Heritage maintains offices in New York, Dallas, Beverly Hills, Chicago, Palm Beach, London, Paris, Amsterdam, Brussels, Hong Kong and Tokyo.

Heritage also enjoys the highest Online traffic and dollar volume of any auction house on earth (source: SimilarWeb and Hiscox Report). The Internet’s most popular auction-house website, HA.com, has more than 1,750,000 registered bidder-members and searchable free archives of more than 6,000,000 past auction records with prices realized, descriptions and enlargeable photos. Reproduction rights routinely granted to media for photo credit.

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DAVESWFL

A very nice advertisement for the wealthy .

Silver is approaching opportunity levels!

I would love to see a budget figure and tax rates for the Harris promise speech.

AKBob

CaliSkier

Oh boy Dave, do you recognize or are you aware, we no longer are allowed to mention Any names that may lead to a political blow out here on Coin News? LOL Now if we can just get ANY others, to not “open the can of worms” or “throw some gas” on an unlit fire, leading to a spontaneous combustion oriented, series of exchanges? Hmmm…. PS If instead inside the proverbial “glass house” throwing rocks, definitely avoid hitting a pane of “unobtainium” or we will all suffer from the ricochets flying around uncontrollably!

Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier,

Thanks for being heard in the interests of calm. We all know that since no one is going to change anyone else’s mind those little jabs and digs are pointless.

Major D

Oh boy, CaliSkier, you sure are a hoot! LMAO uncontrollably!.

Kaiser Wilhelm

Major D,

I concur absolutely that CaliSkier has an extraordinary sense of humor. He also deserves acclaim for being so extremely adept at knowing how to gently nip any manner of politically-oriented commentary in the bud.

Christo

Since we don’t want that door opened (usually by the same people, btw) why recognize them at all? Even by responding to the offenders we give them legitimacy.

Kaiser Wilhelm

Christo,

While I understand your point, the conundrum happens to be that all of our past experience along this line – and there has been more of this particular history than we care to recall – has demonstrated that said “illegitimate offenders”, so to speak, have a proclivity to continue to escalate rather than tone themselves down when left to their own irrepressible devices.

Christo

Exactly. Just ignore.

Kaiser Wilhelm

It’s curious how people can so easily come to a rather different conclusion following a review of like points. As I’ve said many times before, Christo, “Each to his own.” It’s all good.

Major D

No, not so much.

Kaiser Wilhelm

Major D,

Clarity would be help as I am clueless regarding your meaning. Thanks.

Kaiser Wilhelm

“Helpful”, not “help”. Thanks.

Major D

Sarcasm, Kaiser, sarcasm. I find nothing funny in CaliSkier’s attempt to bait the conversation yet again.

Kaiser Wilhelm

Major D, I sometimes have a hard time keeping track of “Who’s on first?”

Anyway, since that whole theme is clearly our one “sore subject” here any reference to any politician or to any political or political-economic stance is innately counter-productive.

music-chill
Kaiser Wilhelm

Tax the rich
Feed the poor
Til there are no
Rich no more

  • Alvin Lee / Ten Years After
https___images.genius.com_8bc81fb33827ada6104e3a5879b9449a.600x600x1
Kaiser Wilhelm

Commenter’s Note: The above lyrics are in no way, shape, manner or form meant to to be construed as an opinion of, response to or endorsement for anything whatsoever. This is no more than a moment of musical nostalgia. Thank you.

Last edited 1 month ago by Kaiser Wilhelm
Kaiser Wilhelm

On an entirely “more keeping with the theme” note. aren’t those some glorious coins!

CaliSkier

Ironically Kaiser Wilhelm, in the above pictured coins my favorite is the “King Kam” (loaded, 1BTC) 2oz Ag from 2016. The others just don’t “strike” my fancy. Kind of a big Meh IMO.

Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier,

My favorite of that entire lineup is the 1852 South Australia British Colony Gold “Adelaide” Pound. I find the design to be exceptionally attractive, especially thanks to its being rather dramatically different from so much of British coinage.

South-Australia.-British-Colony-gold-_Adelaide_-Pound-1852-AU55-PCGS-1068x1052
CaliSkier

You got me wondering a bit more about this coins and so I had to check it out further. Not knowing much about the “Monarchy” coins issued, I was surprised to not find an effigy of a ruler or past ruler(King/Queen) on the coins opposing side. I use opposing side as without further research, I wasn’t positive about whether or not the side with the “Crown” was the actual obverse. However that would have been my first guess after seeing the other side of the coin. After checking the Heritage auction and entering 30002 into their search, I saw that… Read more »

Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier, That’s fascinating! I didn’t take that further step to ascertain what the “other” side consisted of so it’s very interesting to find that its value, purity and weight were in fact depicted there. Nevertheless, and I admit I hate to say this, but it seems to me we still don’t know for certain even with the help of this new information which is the obverse and which is the reverse of this British colonial Australian piece. Considering yet another possibility, perhaps there isn’t any conclusion to be drawn regarding which side is which from the appearance of the two… Read more »

Last edited 1 month ago by Kaiser Wilhelm
DaveSWFL

Absolutely! Wish I could afford them.
Sorry if I offended anyone with my budget comments – not intended to be political, but reinforce the idea that even at current prices silver is CHEAP (as is gold per Cag) due to certain explosion of the National (let alone personal) debt levels. It’s just not gonna end well.

Kaiser Wilhelm

DaveSWFL,

What I find curious about precious metal prices these days is that they no longer seem to be adhering nearly as reliably to the old tried and true pattern of rising when stocks are losing ground and dropping when stocks are on their way up. Recently, in fact, there have been multiple times when precious metals and the stock market have been either rising or falling in concert rather than in opposition.

CaliSkier

Since none(?) of us have the kind of deep pockets needed for the above offerings or are at least not willing to part with that kind of money for coins, next up at the US Mint will be next Tuesday(7/30), the 2024 American Innovation $1 Coin Proof set. Any buyers? Major D, Kaiser, Reb, Craig, Jeff, or any OG MNB’ers? Just curious… also wonder if any have any input on how the PF Golden dollars are holding up, finish wise in regards to possible toning or other discoloration anomalies?

Craig

CaliSkier,

I have some ‘good sized’ pockets and have yet to purchase a single coin from the mint this year. I’m a disciplined buyer (of stocks and PM coins) and like buying low and selling higher. With the mints premiums and high mintage numbers, I just don’t see any value in their offerings. All the value is scooped up by the mint. That’s just my humble opinion.

CaliSkier

Thanks Craig for your honest and respectful reply!

Kaiser Wilhelm

Craig,

That’s a very well put analysis of the prospects for products sold by the Mint these days. Since funds are not the issue for you I have to admire your sense of restraint when it comes to picking up any of the Mint’s often overpriced items. Unfortunately, I can’t lay claim to that degree of purchasing discretion and all too easily tend to fall prey to the infamous FOMO “buying inspiration”.

Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier,

Ordinarily I might have gone for this 2024 AI Proof Set once again as I had regularly done so in the past; however, considering I already acquired a roll of the Saturn V Dollars from the Mint I think I will content myself with that prior purchase and call it a day on this particular set. I’m still giving the to be released later 2024 Reverse Proof Set some thought as that would be markedly different from the roll of AI coins I already have, but even that is in the yet to be determined category.

Jeff Legan

Hi CaliSkier,
I had no interest in the AI coins so I have not bought any, no matter what they are made of. We have all discussed this here more than once before, but still put me in the camp of the Mint has way too many products on offer.

Kaiser Wilhelm

Nice to see you back/hear from you again, Jeff Legan. I fully understand your lack of interest in that series and I admit to a similar although apparently not quite equally serious lack of enthusiasm for those coins. The specific way the Mint gets to me in this regard is that the subject matter presented on some of those coins just happens to resonate with my own particular interests, at least enough so that I feel the need to acquire them to add to my collection.

REB

Agreed.

Kaiser Wilhelm

Jeff Legan,

I just realized I neglected to address the issue of the sheer number of different products the US Mint chooses to produce. I can’t say with any certainty whether this is simply due to what amounts to an overly large institutional ambition or is related to the idea that the more items the Mint makes the better the chances are for more sales and and a bigger profit to show for it at the end of the year.

REB

I think I bought one AI coin years ago and gave it away. Not my cup of tea. So, no, I’m not a buyer.

Kaiser Wilhelm

REB,

I’m gratified you didn’t take it to the nearest body of water and skip it over the waves.

REB

LOL.

Mark In Florida

I’ve bought a couple bags of innovation dollars in the last couple years, the only things I’ve bought from the Mint in years. People seem to like them as tips. Something different. Used to buy gold and platinum proofs from the Mint but not at these premiums.I traded all my proofs to my LCD for 15% more weight in bullion.

Kaiser Wilhelm

Mark In Florida,

Yet a couple more interesting and different variations on a theme the likes of which seem to be getting all the more common these days. AI’s being away as tips and precious metal proofs exchanged for precious metal bullion. Very enterprising indeed!

Kaiser Wilhelm

“being given away” as opposed to “being away.” Sorry.

CaliSkier

Another US Mint, Hmm…? So after nine months of sales the US Mint 2023 American Innovation $1 Proof set, has a reported total sales of 56,455, out of a total possible mintage/product limit of 80,055. An “odd” number BTW! Sales have been and are so robust(JK), that the Mint saw potential(?) for greater profits and raised the Mintage limit for the 2024 AI $1 Proof set to 99,972? Additionally the US Mint 2022 AI $1 Proof set began sales on June 7, 2022, a little over 2 years ago, with a mintage and product limit of “None”. Sales to date… Read more »

0B20BFFE-3319-41F7-B7E3-705AFDFF9461
Major D

It’s an odd limit to be sure. Makes me think they already made them, then set the limit = inventory. As for why 2024 increased in limit over 2023, it’s likely due to the strength of the Alabama rocket sales. But ponder, why do you care?

Kaiser Wilhelm

Major D,

As to your first two points, rather probably yes and yes. Regarding the third issue, there are likely as many answers to that question as there are participants here.

Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier,

Just a cursory numbers check, if I may. The Mintage Limit for the 2023 AI $1 Proof Set is 80,055. The Sales Totals for the 2022 AI $1 Proof Set stand at 81,052. Doesn’t this indicate that the Sales Totals for the 2022 AI $1 Proof Set have in fact at this point exceeded the Mintage Limit of 80,055 for the 2023 AI $1 Proof Set? Thanks.

CaliSkier

LOL, Thanks Kaiser, you are correct. A “faux pas” of which, escaped my usual attention to detail and desire
to provide irrefutable, replicable facts. Doh! In the words of a favorite/famous character of old, “I missed it by that much”!(Don Adams) Indeed, 2022 AI $1 sets have eclipsed 2023 set limits by 997 units. Appreciate the correction and attention to detail!

1B460D48-A064-400A-BA33-C9E25B7B13E5
Last edited 1 month ago by CaliSkier
Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier,

I sincerely hope you understand the only reason I picked up on that is the intense scrutiny of everything that crosses my path thanks to my affinity for detail. What I’m trying to say is that you provide so very much useful numismatic knowledge to us here that I actually hated bringing up such a minor point, but as the German bounty hunter portrayed by Christoph Waltz said apologetically after he shot the slave owner played by Leonardo DiCaprio in Django Unchained, “I just couldn’t help myself.”

f3OcZR3
Rick

Tarantino at his best…

Kaiser Wilhelm

Rick,

That one, Pulp Fiction and Jackie Brown are my Tarantino favorites.

CaliSkier

So Kaiser, it looks like that 2022 AI $1 Proof set cracked the 2023 product/mintage limit of 2023’s(80,055) on the June 2, 2024 sales report. By obtaining quite a significant jump from the May 26, 2024 report(79,996), might I add. Just so happened to be the 4th best seller, on Mike Unser’s sales report update posted on June 5, with reported sales of +507. So the time it took to do that was also off as I stated it “took a little over 2 years”, when in it actually in “fact” took 1 year, 360 days to break 80,055. I… Read more »

Kaiser Wilhelm

Well, CaliSkier, it appears you were off a grand total of five days when you originally stated “it took a little over 2 years”; now that is what I would conservatively call being just little bit too hard on yourself. LOL.

As to that one time sales spurt of 507 units in the June 5 report, I wonder what might have prompted such an uncharacteristic event? It shall likely remain one of the Secrets of the Occident unless The Shadow Knows.

Kaiser Wilhelm

Precious metals wise, as may be becoming somewhat customary, gold is on the express elevator going up while the others are riding the slower freight elevator down.

Rich

Sir Kaiser, speaking of one of those down PMs, platinum, I wonder why the Mint hasn’t minted and released the 2024 $100 (1 oz) Platinum American Eagle bullion coin yet? It’s getting rather late in the year for its release, as it usually is out by this time.

Kaiser Wilhelm

That is a very pertinent and timely question indeed, Rich. Aside from the obvious fact that just about any and all decisions of the US Mint could be considered as more than a little what might be termed opaque these days, anything to do with precious metals is, at least in my humble and admittedly unlearned opinion, likely to add yet another dimension to the Mint’s general operational fogginess.

CaliSkier

Rick, Kaiser you have to go back to July and August of 2016, to see 1st reported sales for USM bullion APtE’s, this late in the year. If anyone’s interested, last 10 years mintages and months of production. Listed below Is also a link to the Mints bullion sales where you can search by product, monthly sales and year. Months with a number (xxx) indicate the month with max production, typically 1st month with reported sales. Other years mintage numbers listed individually due to low number of months having sales/production. In the last 10 years, there has been only 2… Read more »

CaliSkier

Rich vs Rick above.

Rick

What did you call me Cali? Lol my name is Rich/Richard anyway! But some call me ‘Dick’ (I can see the nods from here) Lol! Maybe they won’t produce the Pt bullion coins this year? But you know what? I might just check into getting a Pt coin for spot if possible?.. I could see Pt jumping in value soon enough since EV’s are not as popular as some claim imo.(I speak to the Hertz Top Brass on occasion –they cannot get rid of their Tesla rentals fast enough)… I remember when Pt was valued higher than Gold for a… Read more »

CaliSkier

“Tricky”, Richie, Rick! LOL

Last edited 1 month ago by CaliSkier
Kaiser Wilhelm

Rick,

Now I’m somewhat befuddled. How would a decline in electric vehicle production numbers result in a rise in the price of Platinum; wouldn’t exactly the opposite be the case? Just curious.

Rick

Opinion; Pt, Pd, and Rh are undervalued presently yet still rare imo. When combined they make a great catalyst to help clean up emissions in gas & diesel internal combustion engines. Yes, you’ll see Pt in certain EV fuel cells, but that is on the decline. The old fashioned ‘gassers’ that you & I drive aren’t going anywhere anytime soon, and will continue to be produced for a long, long time to come. Within a year or two the price of gas will be back to 2020 levels($2 bucks)…Ev’s are only of interest to the people that somehow have been… Read more »

Last edited 1 month ago by Rick
Kaiser Wilhelm

Rick,

Thanks to your excellent clarification I am now aware, and admittedly somewhat embarrassed, that I was clearly the perpetrator/victim of a monumental brain fart when I simply couldn’t understand how decreased EV production and likely concurrent increased ICE vehicle manufacture would result in the appreciation of those specific precious metals, primarily platinum and palladium, required for the operation of catalytic converters and not for EV batteries as in my at that moment blanked out mind I had foolishly imagined to be the case.

DaveSWFL

Kaiser,
Pt and Pall are the two predominant metals used in catalytic converters in ICE autos. As EV production declines, demand for those two PMs will increase

Kaiser Wilhelm

DaveSWFL,

Thanks to you also for clearing up this misunderstanding I had managed to bring upon myself with no one else to blame. Now this all makes a great deal of sense.

Rich

CaliSkier, that is the exact data I was alluding to, which you have brilliantly and accurately captured and summarized here to tell the whole story of the Platinum American Eagle bullion coin program since 2008, the last year in which the fractional and one ounce APE bullion coins were minted. For investors, it is also interesting to compare your data for 2009-2024 with the average annual spot price of platinum during those same years, for example: Average Annual Closing Price Platinum 2024 = $950 (to date) 2023 = $965 2022 = $958 2021 = $1,088 2020 = $893 2019 =… Read more »

Kaiser Wilhelm

Rich,

How did that work? When the APE fractional bullion coins were discontinued in 2009, was the only coin from that previous Set to still be manufactured the One Ounce American Platinum Eagle or was this subsequent 2009 Platinum Eagle release a different coin than the one which had come with the original Set? Inquiring minds, as usual, want to know.

Rich

Great question, Sir Kaiser. The American Platinum Eagle (APE) program began in 1997. For the years 1997-2008, both Bullion and Proof APEs were minted in 1 oz ($100), 1/2 oz ($50), 1/4 oz ($25) and 1/10 oz ($10) sizes/denominations. Only for the years 2006-2008, Uncirculated (Burnished) APEs were minted in 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz and 1/10 oz sizes. Since 2009, i.e., 2009-2024, only 1 oz ($100) Proof APEs have been minted; and only 1 oz ($100) Bullion APEs have been minted in 2014 and 2016-2023.

Rich

Additionally, there has been only one Reverse Proof APE minted in 2007 in the 1/2 oz ($50) size/denomination, which was part of the special 2-coin 10th Anniversary Set (along with the regular Proof 1/2 oz APE).

Kaiser Wilhelm

Rich,

Thanks for the interesting footnote, and by the way, I can only imagine that this 2007 $50 Reverse Proof American Platinum 1/2 oz. piece must be one heck of a striking looking coin!

Kaiser Wilhelm

Rich, What a fantastically complete and clear explanation, and I have to say very much appreciated at that! Prior to your elucidation of the sequence of Platinum coinage production by the Mint I had not the slightest idea how any of this had proceeded, but now I can happily say that thanks to your precise laying out of all the details and particulars I am definitely no longer in the (platinum) dark. As a bit of a codicil I must admit that without your above chronological diagram in front of me I would still likely stumble in my recollection of… Read more »

Kia99

Were you asking about the designs on the coins Kaiser? The bullion coins have had the same designs over the years but the reverse of the proof platinum eagle always changes on a yearly basis. Unlike the gold and silver proof versions which mirror their bullion coins.

Last edited 1 month ago by Kia99
Kaiser Wilhelm

Kia99,

Frankly, I was asking for anything and everything that could make me at least somewhat conversant as to the Mint’s Platinum series of either/both numismatic and bullion coins. In this I most definitely have not been in the least disappointed thanks to all of the great responses I’ve received in this very regard, and I must say that your own extremely helpful comment has certainly served to further enhance my at long last gradually growing knowledge of the ins and outs of the Mint’s Platinum coinage.

Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier,

Many thanks as always for all of that useful and handy information regarding the Platinum Eagle and for the by now customary thoroughness of content your assorted always welcome reports are known for.

It seems this particular Platinum coin has had a somewhat eratic production history at the Mint, so that it hasn’t appeared yet or possibly won’t be released at all this year are not among the biggest of surprises.

Mark In Florida

LOL! I’m working on a APtE year set and that’s why I can’t find a 2015 anywhere.

Kaiser Wilhelm

Isn’t that exactly the way the world is meant to stifle our aspirations?

Mark In Florida

A while back I was looking to buy my annual platinum bullion for 2024, and somewhere, I forget where, I read they might not be issued this year.

Kaiser Wilhelm

If it happened before, which I believe it did, then it can certainly happen again.

CaliSkier

Not sure MarkInFlorida if you watch YT videos, however 6 months back, Spegtacular and another YTuber(The Pt Beast) put videos out alluding to such(not being issued), based on information provided by a coin shop owner(?)/dealer. Perhaps, that’s where you heard about it?

Rich

CaliSkier and Mark In Florida, here is a recent Platinum Eagle bullion coin story with a Palladium twist… In 2021, the 2021 $100 APE BU was released/sold by the Mint in March (sales = 35,000) and in May (sales = 40,000). Then one day in November, CoinNews reported a sales figure of 8,700 for the 2021 APE bullion coin, which was also listed in the US Mint Bullion Sales figures that way. A couple of CoinsNews commenters immediately commented that this (November) was rather late in the year for APE bullion sales by the Mint. At the same time I… Read more »

Kaiser Wilhelm

Rich,

Talk about keeping your eyes open, following the story, assessing the situation, and making a timely move. Congrats!

Rick

AKBob, A PCGS story… Thanks for the heads up on how PCGS records the unpackaging upon receipt of the customers coins–I needed the video evidence today! Last week I sent a batch in for grading. Some brand new this year, and some up to 12 years old–Most all of them in Mint sealed boxes(15 coins)… 1) 2024 L&B Gold x1–Mint box sealed. “First Strike eligible”. 2) 2024 L&B Silver Medals x2–Mint box sealed. “First Strike eligible”. 3) 2024 Greatest Gen. 3 coin PF set–Mint box sealed. “First Strike eligible”. 4) 2021-D $1 Morgan. I opened it(x3) in 2021. It’ an… Read more »

RICKS-SEALED-BOX
Rick

How do I know that the 2012-S Reverse Proof is a PF69 coin as I mentioned above?
To the right of the date, to the left of her toe down there.
A thin blister/flake came off of the reverse proof right there. Even over there below the sun some more blistering happening, hard to see here…Bad coin unfortunately…

Last edited 1 month ago by Rick
Rick

2012-S RP

2012-rp
Kaiser Wilhelm

Rick,

To the best of your memory are you in fact now or have you ever been employed in the diamond cutting or sharpshooting enterprises? I mean, with that extraordinary evidence of visual acuity it’s got to be either a gemstones expert or a Marine Recon Sniper (“Scout” no longer included).

Kaiser Wilhelm

Nope. Don’t see any sealed boxes here. Appears all special slab labels are void.

CaliSkier

LOL Kaiser! Rick, not that I’ve submitted any coins for grading, however I agree that AKBob’s sharing of his experiences(video) and yours combined, as well as E1’s shares have increased my awareness and knowledge greatly, surrounding TPG’s operations, not to mention labels. Thanks! Kaiser keep those questions coming as many of us don’t have/know the answer, however some do and or this provides an impetus to research and learn! Education or educating oneself about as much of this hobby as possible provides years and years of enjoyment for those that thrive on “details”!(No Pun Intended LOL)

BB814E62-455A-4AC8-9D50-F9F2C099D453
Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier, As you can plainly see I had a somewhat delayed reaction to Rick’s (un)sealed boxes TPG story and its accompanying meme. My excuse, and I’m sticking to it, is that my gray matter doesn’t seem to operate in quite as high a gear these days as it once was able to. I’m definitely right there with you on learning on the run, so to speak, about grading and slabbing since before I took part in any of these discussions here about said subject I knew virtually nothing about the rather obviously complex and very involved procedure of the labeled… Read more »

CaliSkier

Sunday, “Funday” with numbers! Pricing breakdown for, 2024 Native American $1’s: 25-coin roll $34.50 Premium equates to $9.50/25 coins. That’s $1.38/$1-coin 100-coin Bag $117.50 Using the above 25-coin roll premium rate of $9.50/25 coins = $100+$38 = $138 The 100 coin bag offers a savings of $20.50, off the 25 $1 coin roll rate. $1.18/$1-coin 250-coin Box $289.75 Using above 25 coin roll premium rate of $9.50/25 coins = $250+$95 = $345 Savings of $55.25, off the 25 $1 coin roll rate. ($1.159) $1.16/$1-coin. 100-coin Bag $117.50 Premium equates to $4.375($4.38)/25 $1 coins. Also, for all intents and purposes, works… Read more »

B7A1B7D2-8D84-47DB-BCAD-FE93C7AB07EE
Major D

The best value is not buying any in the first place. But why stop there, you could buy a bulk bag of 140,000 at $1.085 per coin = a savings of $41,300 over buying 5,600 rolls. Pick-up at loading dock extra.

CaliSkier

For any that may have the deep pockets and wishing to buy the bulk amount of $1’s, Major D was nice enough to share, here is the USM order form. Let er’ Buck! Yee, haw!

“Native American and American Innovation™ Dollar Coins
To purchase Native American or American Innovation $1 Coins through the Circulating Bulk Purchase Program”

https://catalog.usmint.gov/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-USM-Library/default/dwd1baef13/images/PDFs/circulating-dollar-bulk-order-form-2019.pdf

BDEE0866-41C4-4ABE-99AF-59A70979B7D5
Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier,

I can’t imagine a better way to spend a fortune than to buy one of those bulk bags.

CaliSkier

Kaiser, I find that statement somewhat incredulous? LOL As I have found your imagination, creativity, not to mention your “word “smithing”, as well as “cents” of humor, to be somethings you aren’t lacking! Assuredly “you can imagine” a slew of other fun ways to burn up $140K??? Heck, I could burn up $30-$40K on a couple of week long HeliSki trips alone! I’ve always wanted to do that, however my lack of funds hasn’t allowed for such an exclusive adventure yet. Now, Father Time has started to kick in and the number of years left, being physically fit enough to… Read more »

Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier,

Not that I mind in the slightest that my completely over the top pronouncement regarding the faultless wisdom of spending $140,000 on something such as that Mint bag managed to inspire the production of an entire paragraph of varied and witty rejoinders. That being said, in the final analysis I believe it is nevertheless incumbent upon me to reveal I neglect to issue alerts with my 100% intentionally satirical statements.

CaliSkier

Fair enough Kaiser Wilhelm! I guess I hadn’t noticed, I’d been reading “Gullible’s Travels” vs “Gulliver’s Travels”?

Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier,

A lot is said about a man by the way he takes a joke, and I expected nothing else from you than to handle this one with your typically adroit finesse. Also, I love the “Gullible’s Travels” play on words; in fact, the Kaiser now has another memorable phrase to add to his growing collection of virtual Wall Plaques!

Mark In Florida

Hmmm… 140,000 looks like it would be about 2500 pounds? Guess I can’t pull up in my pickup truck. So besides the $11,800 markup I gotta pay a trucker to deliver it?

Kaiser Wilhelm

A thoroughly inspected truck and a fully credentialed trucker at that. What fun!

CaliSkier

Mark in Florida, I bet you someone would be willing to give it a try in a pickup truck! Don’t forget about that US Mint Dime heist of $234,000 in dimes around 2 million of them, approximately 10,000 pounds worth, @ 2.5 gms ea. I’m thinking you’d want some armored transport protection however that’s goin to eat into that $1.085/$1-coin cost average. However those protection and transportation costs go down significantly Im sure, if living in Philly or Denver. Also, for any that may not remember or missed the original story. “Chunk of change: four charged with stealing millions of… Read more »

Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier, Thanks for the story and the link to the original article. Apparently their first go at it with “Chunk of change: four charged with stealing millions of US dimes from truck” wasn’t the only bit of humorously inclined reporting The Guardian had to offer as witness both the similarly delivered “The men allegedly turned on a dime and escaped in a getaway car” and the addition of yet another such clever jocularity in the form of “The whereabouts of the rest of the dimes is a coin toss.” Incidentally, to be more precise, the thieves’ getaway car didn’t just turn… Read more »

ouqtvpwl
CaliSkier

Glad you enjoyed the coin talk!

Kaiser Wilhelm

I most certainly did, CaliSkier, and many thanks again for bringing it to my (and everybody else’s, of course) attention.

Kaiser Wilhelm

Major D,

I read recently that the best way to save money is precisely the one you just recommended, which is to not buy anything. As for the second part of your comment, that idea would fall into the category of “SPAVING”, as in spending more money to save more, but rther unfortunately that strategy is ultimately not really a winning one and as such should ordinarily be avoided.

Mark In Florida

Bah! When gold hits $10,000 an ounce it’s all gonna be just worth spot.

Kaiser Wilhelm

It may well all be worth just spot then, but I’m willing to bet that this will lead to the Mint adding the biggest premium yet to the retail price of their gold coins.

Rick

A 1952 USM Proof Set in the original packaging is up for auction tonight and is nearing $600 bucks..
What’s the draw here?…
PCGS states that a 1952-P Proof Franklin(mintage 81,980) graded PF66CAM is worth up to $600…
Anything graded higher, or if graded in PF66DCAM, you have just hit Paydirt$$$…
I’m beginning to get a grasp on what the draw is here…Do I dare go for this 1952 PF Set? 4 hours to go…..PS: 1950 and ’51 Proofs are no slouches in higher grades either. Wow.
https://www.greatcollections.com/Coin/1608749/1952-1c-50c-US-Proof-Set-Uncertified-in-Original-Packaging-5-Coins

Last edited 1 month ago by Rick
Kaiser Wilhelm

Rick,

Anytime a collector ventures outside the security of his “better safe than sorry lane” he should expect to hit a pothole in the road almost as likely as have a perfectly smooth ride.

Rick

Kind of like buying direct from the Mint. Smooth sailing, or a bit on the bumpy side!

Kaiser Wilhelm

Rick,

Couldn’t imagine it being said any better. Kudos, my friend!

CaliSkier

NOMB, however you asked Rick. If not already locked in, I say, take a pass. The other 4 coins look unimpressive and hazy and the Franklin image IMO appears to have had the fields darkened to create a more cameo, than it really is affect. I don’t know as the pic’s are low quality. also would have been nice to see the reverses IMO. I’d hang onto your $600 and be patient. Something else you have had your eye on is bound to come along very soon that I believe you’d be happier with for that same $600? Good luck,… Read more »

Rick

I passed Cali, it doesn’t cut it with only the obverse shown, that’s a no no and I’m surprised GG set it up that way? The 50C looked to be the money coin, but it, as well as the others looked to have wear/abbraisions on the high points & fields rubbed through the original cellophane. Not to mention the residue/toning left behind. It would’ve taken the E1 touch to get those coins up to speed.  I was hoping you would chime in E1, maybe not. I hope you’re doing ok? I miss chatting coins up with you buddy. Maybe… Read more »

1965-1970-KENNEDY-DNCROSS
Rick

2) An NCS & NGC Restoration & Regrade 2.0 final photo below…
Ooops, looks like something got in the way…
Oh well!?….

NGC-NCS-X-2-KENNEDYS
Kaiser Wilhelm

Rick,

Once again the intricacies of the matter under discussion are well above my pay grade but I still enjoy watching the situation unfold.

CaliSkier

Rick, I truly believe you made the correct decision, as much as your eyes were seeing $$$’s. Especially since you have previously been adamant, about how much you like the pic’s(2-3) GC “usually” provides for its auctions. One low grade pic, alone, should usually be a sign, to steer clear of that auction? Yes, no? I was trying to p/u on some of the visual cues you mentioned, however the picture was of such poor quality IMO, all I could really pick out was the haze on the coins and what I perceived as an “intentional” darkening of the fields,… Read more »

Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier,

I appears sometimes the hazy areas on a proof coin are the overflow from trying to fake an Ultra Cameo effect on it. They have no shame.

Rick

Look Cali,
I was right, someone indeed bought that condition/rare transitional 1C coin tonight for over $20k. The final 2 hours it jumped up 15k.
$28,600 final hammer. Wow!
https://www.greatcollections.com/Coin/1607946/1983-Lincoln-Cent-Struck-on-Bronze-Planchet-31g-PCGS-MS-65-RD

Kaiser Wilhelm

Rick,

When money is no object there is no object that money can’t buy.

REB

Like.

Kaiser Wilhelm

Thanks, REB.

CaliSkier

Dang Rick that was double my guesstimate at around $14,000! Whew! I’m thinking that has to now be in one of those top pop registry set collectors hands more than likely, what do you think? Sure is enticing to pick up a box of cents on EBay, since banks no longer serve 3 eyed aliens. then do some roll hunting? BTW, 2024 D minted nickel rolls are still fetching $45-$65+ per roll! Not a bad ROI to “flip a $100 face into $2,500 @ $50/roll, just saying…if able to p/u for face value? if you’ve managed to get your financial… Read more »

93FDC2E1-3A45-48F3-8860-63AF9B54C1EC
Last edited 1 month ago by CaliSkier
Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier,

Part of me wishes I had never laid eyes on those facts and figures adding up to a scenario of possibilities of fortune which you just shared with us. As I’m sure I’ve mentioned before, local banks here don’t look all that kindly on people who dare to enter their premises with the intent of pursuing transactions that don’t carry even a hint of profit for their hallowed institution. Rolls? Hardly!

2ylw8w
Major D

Watch silver slide back down to $24 later this year after the Fed cuts interest rates.

Rick

Everybody take note on who the instigator is!
¯\_( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)_/¯

Major D

There’s something in the air (Thunderclap Newman)

Kaiser Wilhelm

One of my all-time favorite songs by Speedy Keen (RIP). Even if no one else gets the humor inherent in that, Major D, I have no doubt you will.

Kaiser Wilhelm

Major D,

That’s the old conundrum again, the result of which is that one group of people end up cheering while the others are unhappy. Higher silver prices mean our collections rise in value while lower silver prices allows us to add to our holdings with less expense. It’s the tried and true “You can’t have everything” routine.

CaliSkier

More Fun with Native American $1 numbers! In 2024, there has been 2.24 million 2024 NA $1 circulating/Unc coins produced/minted so far, with 1.12 million each from Philly and Denver. The US Mints stated “Product Limits” for the 2024 NA $1, Rolls, Bags and Boxes are as follows: 24NA-24NB: 14,700 (ea) Rolls/ 24NC: 1,796; 24ND: 1,701 $250 boxes/ 24EF-24NF: 1,800(ea) $100 bags Also the 2024 Uncirculated Coin Set 190,000 Production in rolls P 367,500 D 367,500 735,000 Tot. Production in Bags P 180,000 D 180,000 360,000 Tot. Production in Boxes P 449,000 D 425,250 874,250 Tot. Production in Unc coin… Read more »

Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier,

After reading your comment I did have every intention of giving the Mint’s arithmetical mystery a run for its money, but upon further reflection I realized my cogitating facilities weren’t quite up to the challenge tonight and went back to tackling the simpler quantum mechanics equations I was engaged with earlier.

Major D

Actually, your number is off 190K because the Unc set has both P&D.

That said, note that the mintage limit is “none”– and production totals are only through May 2024–last one I saw anyways: U.S. Mint Produces 396 Million Coins for Circulation in May (coinnews.net). The mintage limits for P&D could ultimately exceed the total of the product limits. But I do not expect the Mint to be making any more of these.

Last edited 1 month ago by Major D
Kaiser Wilhelm

Major D,

Excellent catch regarding the total number of 2024 Native American Dollars required for the P and D parts of the Mint’s annual Uncirculated Coin Set! I think of myself as usually having an eye for detail but that one slipped right by.

CaliSkier

Kaiser Wilhelm said earlier re: 1852 “Adelaide” Pound from the CN article: “ Nevertheless, and I admit I hate to say this, but it seems to me we still don’t know for certain even with the help of this new information which is the obverse and which is the reverse of this British colonial Australian piece. Considering yet another possibility, perhaps there isn’t any conclusion to be drawn regarding which side is which from the appearance of the two rather uniquely decorated sides of this coin.” Based on the info on Numista’s website Kaiser, it appears that indeed the side… Read more »

Kaiser Wilhelm

CaliSkier, Thank you for not giving up on the pursuit of the definitive answer to what appeared to be a continuation of our “mutual” question, unless, that is, I was the only one not entirely satisfied as to which side of this coin was which. Regardless, the solution is satisfactoriy pinned down now; the case is closed, as they say. I appreciated the additional information as to this coin’s medal versus coin equivalence in regard to the relative positioning of the inscription on the obverse and the reverse; it does make me wonder what the intent of that was. It… Read more »