The coin that was once the most valuable ever found in the US - a 1652 New England Sixpence - is to sell at the Whitman Baltimore Coin Expo on November 16.
It will star on "Rarities Night" among seven days of sales which run from November 14-20, where an extraordinary array of US and world coins will be offered.
![]() The coin's simple design led to it being easily counterfeited |
Renowned throughout the numismatic community, it was discovered by a metal detectorist in February 1990 in a potato field in Long Island, attracting international media attention.
There are just eight examples of the sixpence known, four of which are currently housed in museums, including the American Numismatic Society and the British Museum. The example at auction has survived its time in the ground well, with an attractive grey-brown patina covering much of its surface.
![]() The coin looks set to retake its title as the most valuable ever found in the US |
The sixpence was first sold by Sotheby's shortly after its discovery, bringing $35,200 to become the most valuable coin ever found on US soil. It was surpassed by a Maryland denarium in 2007 - which brought $41,400 - but now looks set to regain its title. The auction house believes the coin to be worth in the region of $100,000 today, with no other examples appearing at auction since the 1991 sale.
The coin was struck in Boston and formed part of the first series of coins ever produced in what would later become the United States. Its rarity stems from its simple design, which was very easy to reproduce and led to a swift change in design before large quantities could be struck.
Paul Fraser Collectibles has a superb collection of investment-grade coins currently available. Our rare Italian double ducat is one of just five known to exist.
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