An 1856-O AU55 PCGS Secure Liberty Double Eagle, the rarest issue in the 71-year history of the New Orleans Mint, realized US$364,250 to take the top spot in Heritage Auctions’ Long Beach Expo US Coins Signature Auction. When combined with Heritage’s June 10 & 12, 2016 Long Beach Expo Tokens & Medals Signature Auction, which brought $856,000, the events totaled nearly $14 million, featuring an impressive sell-through rate of more than 99% by total lots and 98% by total value.
“Bidding was steady and collectors were enthusiastic about the offerings,” said Greg Rohan, President of Heritage Auctions. “Overall, we’re happy with the results and look for continued strength in the market.”
An 1895-O Dollar MS65 NGC CAC, tied for finest at CAC, joined the Double Eagle at the pinnacle of the auction, selling for $258,500. The 1895-O issue was typically well-circulated, making it the third-rarest Morgan dollar in Uncirculated condition.
A 1921-S Liberty Walking Half Dollar MS66 NGC attracted considerable collector attention as one of only three examples certified MS66. It was the first offered at auction in more than two decades. Bidding was spirited for the rare opportunity and the $188,000 price realized is a new record for the issue.
One of the rarest US gold coins also starred at the Long Beach Event. An 1804 13 Stars Reverse Quarter Eagle AU50 PCGS realized $146,875. This example featured outstanding surface quality and is the fourth finest known of fewer than 14 estimated survivors. A scarce 1822 Quarter 25 over 50C MS65 PCGS ‘Blundered Reverse’ rounded out the event’s top quartet, bringing $108,687.
Further highlights include, but are not limited to:
- 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar, B-1, BB-1, VG10: Realized $105,750.
- 1915-S Panama-Pacific Fifty Dollar, MS63 NGC Octagonal Variant: Realized $70,500.
- 1839 Gobrecht Dollar, PR63 NGC CAC, Name Omitted Very Early State A Striking: Realized $67,562.
- 1838 Gobrecht Dollar, PR64 NGC, Plain Edge, Judd-85 Restrike: Realized $67,562.
- 1895 Morgan Dollar, PR64 NGC CAC: Realized $65,277.
Our next auction of US coins is open for bidding now at HA.com/Coins.
