More valued as a coin than a King... Charles I gold piece tops the bill at Spink

The highly successful rare coin auction also saw a George IV set go under the hammer

Spink have just concluded their auction of Ancient, British and Foreign coins. The highlights included two we noted from the start; two lots associated with very different British kings.

The first rarity is a George IV, proof set from 1826. The set boasts gold Five-Pounds, as well as Two-Pounds, Sovereign and Half-Sovereign coins, a silver Crown, Halfcrown, Shilling and Sixpence and copper Penny, Halfpenny and Farthing pieces

There are some light hairlines on the gold coins but all show brilliance and are in a near mint state. The silver has some spots and the copper coins, now all with dark rich toning, are generally problem free.

Overall a very attractive set, held in later red leather case, which was expected to sell for £20,000-25,000 (up to $40,600). In the event, bidders went up as high as £34,000 ($55,500).

Charles I Triple Unite coin

More valuable still, however, was a Charles I, Civil War issues Triple Unite coin, minted in Oxford in 1642-46. The gold piece weighs 27.94g. Charles is shown at half-length facing left, crowned, armoured, holding sword and laurel branch.

Despite the edge being indented at the one o'clock position, this is a good/very fine piece and a very rare and exciting item to add to any collection - as well as being a strong investment. It was expected to sell for £25,000-35,000 (up to $57,000).

In the event, it was pressed up to £43,000 ($70,100). Both results serve as a reminder that investment-grade coins make excellent investments.