Spink sells British error coins

The Spink New York sale in September proved extremely popular. The catalog came well-spiced with numerous rarities including a remarkable collection of British Royal Mint errors.

A very rare, if not unique, 1876 “Mauritius” medal in gold attracted considerable attention. The 43 mm, 2 oz medal had been awarded for the ‘HEROIC CONDUCT OF THE CAPTAIN, OFFICERS AND CREW OF THE AMERICAN BARQUE “YOUNG PHOENIX” IN THE RESCUE OF THE SURVIVORS FROM THE SHIP “STRATHMORE” WRECKED ON CROZET ISLANDS IN 1875.’ The edge was inscribed, ‘MR F.C. SWAIN, CHIEF OFFICER’.

It is unknown how many medals were struck. At least 2 are known in bronze. That on offer is the sole extant example in gold. It came housed in its original presentation box by Wyon and in uncirculated condition. When the dust settled it had sold for $9,600.

A large part of the sale was devoted to the Bill Snyder Collection of British Error Coins.

The highlight was the exceptional, uncirculated, 1872 gothic florin die cap. The “cap” measures over 6mm in depth. Given that this Royal Mint error is possibly unique it had few problems in realizing $10,200.

At a distant second came a James II double-struck halfcrown in which the second strike was 20 percent off center. It brought $3,900 in NGC XF 40. A double-struck George IV 1826 shilling with the second strike 50 percent off and showing two dates sold for $1,800 in NGC MS 62.

Full catalog details and prices realized can be viewed at the Spink website: https://www.spink.com/. A 20 percent buyers’ premium is included in the prices cited.

More Collecting Resources
• Come on down to the Chicago International Coin Fair in Rosemont, Ill. on April 14 to 17, 2016 to see impressive world coins, meet new collectors and participate in Heritage Auction’s fantastic coin auction.
• The Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1801-1900, 8th Edition is your guide to images, prices and information on the century's coins.