A rare silver coin from the 17th century, the 1652 New England Threepence, has made history by selling for $2.52 million. This auction, held on November 18, 2024, set a new world record for an American coin struck before the American Revolution. Its sale has captured the attention of collectors and historians alike, highlighting the importance and rarity of this incredible find.
The 1652 New England Threepence Coin
The 1652 New England Threepence is a small coin, about the size of a modern nickel, and was struck in Boston. Despite its small size, it holds incredible historical value. The coin was minted just weeks after the establishment of the first U.S. Mint. There is only one known specimen outside of museum collections, which makes its discovery and sale even more remarkable.
This coin has the letters “NE” (New England) and “III” (threepence), symbolizing its denomination. While the coin’s silver value is only about $1.03 based on current prices, its historical significance makes it worth millions. Its rarity and connection to the early days of American history are the key factors that led to its high auction price.
The Historical Importance of the Coin
The 1652 New England Threepence was created during the very early days of U.S. coinage, when the U.S. Mint had not yet been established. It was struck at the Boston Mint, which was the predecessor to the U.S. Mint. This coin was part of a series of coins produced by the New England Mint between 1652 and 1682. Many of these early coins, including the famous Pine Tree Shillings, are extremely rare, with the 1652 Threepence being one of the hardest to find.
The coin was discovered in Amsterdam around 2016, though its identity was unclear at first. After some research, it was confirmed to be the rare 1652 New England Threepence. It is believed to have come from the Quincy Family of Boston, who were connected to important historical figures like Abigail Adams and her husband, John Adams.
Coin Features and Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | Threepence |
| Year of Issue | 1652 |
| Mint Location | Boston, Massachusetts |
| Weight | 1.1 grams |
| Diameter | About the size of a nickel |
| Silver Content | $1.03 (based on current silver price) |
| Mintmark | NE (New England) |
| Auction Price | $2,520,000 |
| Rarity | Only one known example outside museum collections |
The Auction Details
The sale of the 1652 New England Threepence took place during an auction at Stack’s Bowers Galleries, a well-known auction house for rare coins. This coin was particularly valuable because it was one of only two known specimens—one is held by the Massachusetts Historical Society. The coin sold for three times its expected price, emphasizing its rarity and the strong demand from collectors.
Other Auction Highlights
Aside from the record-breaking Threepence coin, other notable items were also sold at the auction. These included:
- Two New England Shillings (1652): These coins sold for $60,000 and $192,000.
- Libertas Americana Medal: This silver medal, struck in 1783 to celebrate American independence, was sold for $144,000.
This auction also marked the 58th time that Stack’s Bowers Galleries had sold a coin for over $1 million, further demonstrating their importance in the world of numismatics.
Conclusion
The sale of the 1652 New England Threepence for $2.52 million is a major milestone in the world of coin collecting. This coin isn’t just a piece of currency—it’s a historical artifact that tells the story of early American coinage. Its rare discovery and high auction price remind us of the incredible value placed on historical items. For collectors and history buffs alike, this coin is a symbol of America’s beginnings and the fascinating world of numismatics.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1652 New England Threepence coin so valuable?
The coin is incredibly rare, with only one known example outside of museum collections. Its historical significance, being one of the first coins minted in Boston, adds to its value.
Who discovered the 1652 New England Threepence coin?
The coin was discovered in Amsterdam around 2016, but its identity was confirmed only after thorough research. It was believed to have come from the Quincy family of Boston.
What other notable items were sold at the same auction?
Other highlights included two New England Shillings (1652) and a Libertas Americana Medal, which also fetched high prices at the Stack’s Bowers Galleries auction.