Bowers and Merena's Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Baltimore Expo Features The Dr. Alfred R. Globus Collection Including Gem Example High Condition Census 1830 BD-1 Half Eagle

IRVINE, Calif. - Bowers and Merena Auctions, America's leading rare coin and currency auction house, will bring more than 6,000 lots of fine coins and currency to Baltimore, Md., for the Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Baltimore Expo scheduled for November 10-14, 2009. There are nearly 2,600 U.S. lots and close to 3,500 World lots. The auction will take place at the Baltimore Convention Center and begins with lot viewing Tuesday, November 10, through Saturday, November 14, coinciding with the seven-session auction on Thursday, November 12, through Saturday, November 14. The complete auction and lot viewing schedule is available at www.bowersandmerena.com.
 
"Bowers and Merena has presented many successful auctions in 2009, including two earlier Official Baltimore auctions and two Official ANA auctions, and I am very pleased to finish 2009 with our largest auction of the year by number of lots crossing the block," said Steve Deeds, president of Bowers and Merena auctions. "With more than 6,000 lots in the auction, including the incredible Globus Collection and many highlights, this is an auction that will offer something for everyone, be it U.S. or World, coins or currency."

The spotlight lot of the auction is lot 3685, a High Condition Census 1830 BD-1 Half Eagle, a Gem example of a rare and seldom-offered issue. Cataloged as 1830 BD-1, HBCC-3156, Miller-158. Rarity-6. Large 5D. MS-65 (PCGS), this fine specimen is part of The Dr. Alfred R. Globus Collection of U.S. and World Coins. The extant population for the 1830 Five is a mere 55-75 coins (per John W. Dannreuther, 2006), the vast majority of examples having been wiped out through the widespread melting that claimed most pre-1834 U.S. gold coins. The two die marriages are fairly similar in rarity, although a slight edge goes to BD-1 with only 25-35 coins known to exist. As a fully lustrous and minimally abraded Gem, this gorgeous BD-1 example is high in the Condition Census for both the issue and the die pair, with a PCGS Populations of just one and a mere two finer, both of which grade MS-66.

Dr. Alfred R. Globus was one of America's most renowned numismatic collectors. In addition to the 1830 Capped Bust Half Eagle, Bowers and Merena will present several hundred U.S. and World lots from his collection, including these impressive highlights:
? 1799 Capped Bust Right Half Eagle. Small Stars Reverse. MS-62 PCGS
? 1826 (6 over ‘5') Capped Bust Left Quarter Eagle. AU-55 PCGS
? China 10 Dollars, YR.1 (1916), FR.-3, Y-333, NGC-MS62
? Denmark Ducat, 1746 Frederik V, 1746-1766, FR.-264, KM-552, NGC-MS62
? Germany Saxony-Coburg-Gotha, 20 Marks, 1895-A, FR.-3853, Y-151, NGC-MS62

Additional highlights in the Official Baltimore Auction in November include lot 3871, an extremely rare Mint State
1879-O Double Eagle, Condition Census for this low-mintage, key-date issue. This 1879-O Winter Variety One, the only known dies graded MS-60 by NGC, has a combined PCGS and NGC Population of just eight with a mere two finer at the latter service (MS-63 finest).

Also noteworthy is lot 3869, highly elusive 1878 Double Eagle in Proof-64 Cameo by NGC. A very rare issue by any standard, the 1878 has one of the lowest mintages in the entire proof Type III Double Eagle series. Only 20 coins were produced, and survivors probably number fewer than 10 specimens in all grades. At least one of the survivors is impounded in a museum collection, and two or three of the others are impaired. The Proof-64 Cameo in this lot, therefore, is in extremely limited company as a high-quality proof 1878 Twenty in private hands.

Additional coin highlights include:
Lot 411 1867 Shield Nickel. Rays. Proof-65 (PCGS). OGH.
Lot 856 1796 Half Dollar. AU-58 (PCGS).
Lot 3001 1795 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar. BB-20, B-2. Rarity-3. Two Leaves. MS-65 (NGC).
Lot 3022 1799/8 Draped Bust Silver Dollar. BB-141, B-3. Rarity-3. Bowers Die State III. 15-Stars Reverse. MS-64 (NGC).
Lot 3034 1802 Draped Bust Silver Dollar. BB-241, B-6. Rarity-1. Bowers Die State III. Narrow Date. MS-65 (NGC).
Lot 3040 1838 Silver Dollar. Judd-84 Original. Proof-64 (NGC).
Lot 3086 1870-S Seated Liberty Silver Dollar. Genuine--Code 98, Damage (PCGS).
Lot 3161 1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar. MS-64 (NGC).
Lot 3225 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar. MS-67 (NGC).
Lot 3241 1895-O Morgan Silver Dollar. MS-64 (PCGS).
Lot 3261 1901 Morgan Silver Dollar. MS-65 (NGC).
Lot 3645 1854 Three-Dollar Gold Piece. MS-67 (NGC).
Lot 3665 1879 Four-Dollar Gold Stella. Flowing Hair. Judd-1635 Restrike, Pollock-1833. Rarity-3. Proof-58 (ANACS).
Lot 3716 1873 Liberty Half Eagle. Closed 3. Proof-65 Ultra Cameo (NGC). CAC.
Lot 3724 1883 Liberty Half Eagle. Proof-67 Ultra Cameo (NGC). CAC.
Lot 3725 1884 Liberty Half Eagle. Proof-66 Ultra Cameo (NGC).
Lot 3809 1903 Liberty Eagle. Proof-67 (NGC).
Lot 3849 1857-S Liberty Double Eagle. MS-67 (NGC).
Lot 3888 1892 Liberty Double Eagle. Proof-66 Ultra Cameo (NGC).
Lot 3894 1896 Liberty Double Eagle. Proof-66 Deep Cameo (PCGS).
Lot 3903 1900 Liberty Double Eagle. Proof-65 Cameo (NGC).
Lot 3909 1902 Liberty Double Eagle. Proof-66 Cameo (NGC).
Lot 3921 1906 Liberty Double Eagle. Proof-66 Cameo (NGC).

Currency highlights include:
Lot 2158 Denver, CO. Clark, Gruber & Co. Remainder. $5. Very Fine.
Lot 2522 Asheville, NC. $20 1902 Red Seal. Fr. 641. The American NB. Charter #(S)8772. Fine.
Lot 2321 Fr. 1180. 1905 $20 Gold Certificate. PMG Choice Extremely Fine 45EPQ.
Lot 2282 Fr. 289. 1880 $10 Silver Certificate. PCGS Choice New 63PPQ.
Lot 2306 Fr. 953a. 1914 $20 Federal Reserve Note. Red Seal. PMG Gem Uncirculated 66EPQ.
Lot 2253 Fr. 161. 1880 $50 Legal Tender Note. PMG About Uncirculated 50.
Lot 2277 Fr. 281. 1899 $5 Silver Certificate. Mule. PMG Superb Gem Uncirculated 67EPQ.
Lot 2393 Fr. 2201-G*. 1934 $500 Federal Reserve Star Note. PCGS Choice About New 58.
Lot 2412 Fr. 2404. 1928 $50 Gold Certificate. PMG Gem Uncirculated 65EPQ.

All lots and images in the Bowers and Merena Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Baltimore Expo can be viewed online at www.bowersandmerena.com, and printed catalogs are available upon request by calling 800.458.4646. Bidding is open and pre-auction bids are welcome at www.bowersandmerena.com; by e-mail at auction@bowersandmerena.com; by phone at 800.458.4646; by fax at 949.253.4091; and by postal mail addressed to Bowers and Merena, Baltimore November 2009, 18061 Fitch, Irvine, CA, 92614. Interested bidders are also encouraged to view lots in Baltimore November 10-14, 2009, and bid in-person at the live auction, or live online through the Bowers and Merena website. A complete auction and lot viewing schedule is available at www.bowersandmerena.com or by calling 800.458.4646.

Bowers and Merena Auctions was founded in 1983 and has grown to become the world's preeminent numismatic auctioneer with more than half a billion dollars in rare coin and currency sales. They were awarded the prestigious honor of Official Auctioneer for the 2009 American Numismatic Association Conventions in Portland and Los Angeles, in addition to their continued service as Official Auctioneer of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Baltimore Expos three times every year. Bowers and Merena has handled four of the five most valuable United States coin collections ever sold, including the Louis E. Eliasberg Sr. Collection, the Harry W. Bass Jr. Collection, the Garrett Collection for The Johns Hopkins University, and the Norweb Collection. In 2008, Bowers and Merena Auctions acquired Ponterio & Associates, Inc., which now serves as Bowers and Merena's auction division for world and ancient coins and currency.  Bowers and Merena Rare Coin Galleries offers direct buying and selling of exceptional quality gold and silver rare coins.

For more information about Bowers and Merena's Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Baltimore Expo in November, call 800.458.4646.  For media inquiries, ask for President Steve Deeds. Complete prices realized for all past auctions are available at www.bowersandmerena.com.  

IRVINE, Calif. - Ponterio & Associates, a division of Bowers and Merena Auctions, will bring 1,250 lots of world paper money to Baltimore, Md., as part Bowers and Merena's Official Auction of the Whitman Coin and Collectibles Baltimore Expo scheduled for November 10-14, 2009. The auction will take place at the Baltimore Convention Center and includes an impressive world catalog presented in four sessions.

Currency highlights include more notes from the popular "East Bay Collection" set to cross the auction block. One of the notable countries with an impressive variety is Iran, which will be illustrated by many Imperial Bank of Persia issues, always sure to garner considerable attention. One of the highlights of the Iranian notes is a 20 Tomans 1925 Pick-15 in a strikingly original Very Fine grade. More impressive notes will be displayed from countries of the British Commonwealth with a lovely selection of Straits Settlements highlighted by a Pick 12a Fifty Dollar note in an attractive Fine grade. Other countries of interest offering a pleasing assortment of scarce to rare notes includes Brazil, Canada, China, Columbia, Costa Rica, Danzig, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Russia, and Scotland. In addition, several other scarce to rare notes will be offered which include many stunning issued and specimen pieces from tough locations and issuing authorities.

All lots and images in the Bowers and Merena Official Auction of the Whitman Coin and Collectibles Baltimore Expo and world sessions presented by Ponterio & Associates can be viewed online at www.bowersandmerena.com, and printed catalogs are available upon request by calling 800.458.4646. Pre-auction bids are welcome at www.bowersandmerena.com; by e-mail at auction@bowersandmerena.com; by phone at 800.458.4646; by fax at 949.253.4091; and by postal mail addressed to Bowers and Merena, Baltimore November 2009, 18061 Fitch, Irvine, CA, 92614. Interested bidders are also encouraged to view lots in Baltimore and bid in-person at the live auction November 10-14, 2009, or live online through the Bowers and Merena website. A complete auction and lot viewing schedule is available at www.bowersandmerena.com or by calling 800.458.4646.

Bowers and Merena Auctions was founded in 1983 and has grown to become the world's preeminent numismatic auctioneer with more than half a billion dollars in rare coin and currency sales. They have been awarded the prestigious honor of Official Auctioneer for the 2009 American Numismatic Association Conventions in Portland and Los Angeles, in addition to their continued service as Official Auctioneer of the Baltimore Coin and Currency Conventions three times every year. Bowers and Merena has handled four of the five most valuable United States coin collections ever sold, including the Louis E. Eliasberg Sr. Collection, the Harry W. Bass Jr. Collection, the Garrett Collection for The Johns Hopkins University, and the Norweb Collection. In 2008, Bowers and Merena Auctions acquired Ponterio & Associates, Inc., which now serves as Bowers and Merena's auction division for world and ancient coins and currency.  Bowers and Merena Rare Coin Galleries offers direct buying and selling of exceptional quality gold and silver rare coins.

For more information about Bowers and Merena's Official Auction of the Whitman Coin and Collectibles Baltimore Expo in November, call 800.458.4646.  For media inquiries, ask for President Steve Deeds. Complete prices realized for all past auctions are available at www.bowersandmerena.com.

Eliasberg Specimen of Rare Lord Baltimore Shilling Takes Top Billing

IRVINE, Calif. - Bowers and Merena Auctions, America's leading rare coin and currency auction house, presented the Official Pre-show Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Philadelphia Expo on September 22, 2009. The two-session auction realized $2,520,460.

"Philadelphia was a wonderful choice for this Whitman show and Bowers and Merena's pre-show auction," said Steve Deeds, president of Bowers and Merena. "The city is so rich in American history which lends itself to the real nature of what we do in numismatics, and we were very fortunate to be able to present an extensive selection of rare Colonial and Early Federal Era coinage that was very much in keeping with this historic theme. The turnout was great and we are very pleased with our results."

A highpoint of the day came early with lot 15, an undated (circa 1659) Lord Baltimore Shilling graded MS-61 by PCGS, the Eliasberg Specimen, which realized an impressive $57,500. A definite highlight of the extensive Colonial-era coinage that Bowers and Merena offered in the sale, this Lord Baltimore Shilling is the highest graded by PCGS and may very well be the finest-known example of the type.

Additional highlights include:
Lot 12 1652 Massachusetts Bay Colony Pine Tree Shilling. Large Planchet. W-740, Noe-8, Crosby 1b-D. $43,700
 URS-9.Monogrammed NE in Legend. MS-64 (PCGS).
Lot 15 Undated (Circa 1659) Lord Baltimore Shilling. W-1080, Hodder -1A, Breen-64. URS-6.  $57,500
 Large Portrait, MARIAE. MS-61 (PCGS).
Lot 23 1787 Immune Columbia Copper Pattern. W-5680, Breen-1137. URS-8. IMMUNIS COLUMBIA,  $25,300
 Large Eagle Reverse, Plain Edge, Narrow Planchet. MS-64 BN (PCGS).
Lot 40 1818 New Spain (Texas) Jola. W-8542, Breen-1082. URS-6. Large Planchet. AU-58 (PCGS). $28,750
Lot 41 1820 North West Company Token. W-9250, Breen-1083. URS-9. Brass. VF-25 (PCGS). $8,050
Lot 135 1922 No D Lincoln Cent. FS-401 (FS-013.2), Die Pair II. Strong Reverse. MS-64 BN (NGC). $30,018
Lot 611 Fr. 304. 1908 $10 Silver Certificate. PCGS Superb Gem New 67PPQ. $17,710
Lot 1709 1926-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. MS-65 (PCGS). $25,300

Prices realized for all lots in the Bowers and Merena Official Pre-show Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Philadelphia Expo are available online at www.bowersandmerena.com. Bowers and Merena's next auction will be the Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Baltimore Expo held November 10-14, 2009, at the Baltimore Convention Center. Complete lot viewing and auction schedules will be posted at www.bowersandmerena.com, and U.S. and World catalogs will be available in print and online by late October.

Bowers and Merena Auctions was founded in 1983 and has grown to become the world's preeminent numismatic auctioneer with more than half a billion dollars in rare coin and currency sales. They have been awarded the prestigious honor of Official Auctioneer for the 2009 American Numismatic Association Conventions in Portland and Los Angeles, in addition to their continued service as Official Auctioneer of the Baltimore Coin and Currency Conventions three times every year. Bowers and Merena has handled four of the five most valuable United States coin collections ever sold, including the Louis E. Eliasberg Sr. Collection, the Harry W. Bass Jr. Collection, the Garrett Collection for The Johns Hopkins University, and the Norweb Collection. In 2008, Bowers and Merena Auctions acquired Ponterio & Associates, Inc., which now serves as Bowers and Merena's auction division for world and ancient coins and currency.  Bowers and Merena Rare Coin Galleries offers direct buying and selling of exceptional quality gold and silver rare coins.

For more information about Bowers and Merena's Official Pre-show Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Philadelphia Expo in September, call 800.458.4646.  For media inquiries, ask for President Steve Deeds. Complete prices realized for all past auctions are available at www.bowersandmerena.com.  

Auction Spotlights Remarkable 1652 Massachusetts Bay Colony Willow Tree Shilling

IRVINE, Calif. - Bowers and Merena Auctions, America's leading rare coin and currency auction house, will bring nearly 1,500 lots of fine coins to Philadelphia, Pa.., for the Official Pre-show Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Philadelphia Expo set for September 21-22, 2009. The auction will take place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center and begins with lot viewing Monday, September 21, and Tuesday, September 22, followed by the two-session auction on Tuesday at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. EDT.

"Bowers and Merena has had the privilege for many years to present the Official Baltimore Auction with Whitman, so we are very pleased for this opportunity to work with them in Philadelphia as the Official Pre-show Auctioneer," said Steve Deeds, president of Bowers and Merena. "Whitman produces excellent coin shows. And Philadelphia is rich in history and tradition, really two of the cornerstones of numismatics."

The auction will present an important selection of rare Colonial and Early Federal Era coinage. Of special note is lot 10, a remarkable 1652 Massachusetts Bay Colony Willow Tree Shilling, the Clark-Wurtzbach-Wiseman Specimen of this extremely rare type and the finest certified by PCGS at AU-58. Limited press runs combined with a high rate of attrition explain the extreme rarity of Willow Tree Shillings in numismatic circles. "This particular example is superior to most and represents an important find for the specialist," said Deeds. "For the type, it is hard to imagine a more visually appealing, technically sound, and desirable representative of this rare and historic issue from the earliest era of coinage operations in Colonial America, and Philadelphia is a very fitting venue to present it at auction."

Another Colonial Era highlight is lot 44, a historic 1776 Continental Dollar, a beautiful, high-grade pewter striking of the EG FECIT variety in PCGS MS-64 with the CAC designation. PCGS Population is 10 and only four are finer in
MS-65.The Continental Currency pieces (or Dollars) are among the most historically significant and important coins ever struck within the borders of what is now the United States of America. W-8460 as represented in this lot is easily attributable by the addition of the inscription EG FECIT on the band below the central-obverse device.

Lot 1714 is a glorious gem BU 1932 Double Eagle in MS-66 * graded by NGC. Rarer than the 1929 and 1931-D, the 1932 in mint state is the seventh scarcest date of the entire series, with a mere 75 to 95 pieces believed extant in all grades.

Additional highlights include:
Lot 12 1652 Massachusetts Bay Colony Pine Tree Shilling. Large Planchet. W-740, Noe-8, Crosby 1b-D. URS-9.
 Monogrammed NE in Legend. MS-64 (PCGS).
Lot 15 Undated (Circa 1659) Lord Baltimore Shilling. W-1080, Hodder -1A, Breen-64. URS-6. Large Portrait,
 MARIAE. MS-61 (PCGS).
Lot 18 Undated (1737) Higley or Granby Copper. Standing Deer, VALUE ME AS YOU PLEASE III. W-8280,
 Friedus 3.3-C, Crosby-25. URS-3. J CUT MY WAY THROUGH, Broad Axe. Fine-15 (PCGS).
Lot 23 1787 Immune Columbia Copper Pattern. W-5680, Breen-1137. URS-8. IMMUNIS COLUMBIA, Large Eagle
 Reverse, Plain Edge, Narrow Planchet. MS-64 BN (PCGS).
Lot 40 1818 New Spain (Texas) Jola. W-8542, Breen-1082. URS-6. Large Planchet. AU-58 (PCGS).
Lot 41 1820 North West Company Token. W-9250, Breen-1083. URS-9. Brass. VF-25 (PCGS).
Lot 135 1922 No D Lincoln Cent. FS-401 (FS-013.2), Die Pair II. Strong Reverse. MS-64 BN (NGC).
Lot 195 1867 Shield Nickel. Rays. Proof-65 (PCGS). OGH.
Lot 253 1792 Pattern Half Disme. Judd-7, Pollock-7. Rarity-4. EF-40 (PCGS).
Lot 344 1796 Draped Bust Quarter. B-1. Rarity-4. EF-45 (PCGS).
Lot 611 Fr. 304. 1908 $10 Silver Certificate. PCGS Superb Gem New 67PPQ.
Lot 676 Fr. 2221-B. 1934 $5,000 Federal Reserve Note. Serial B00000003A. PCGS APPARENT Extremely Fine 45.
 Minor Restoration in UL Corner.
Lot 1475 1852 Augustus Humbert. $50 Gold. K-11. Rarity-5. Reeded Edge. 887 THOUS. AU-58 (NGC).
Lot 1538 1911-D Indian Quarter Eagle. MS-65 (NGC).
Lot 1709 1926-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. MS-65 (PCGS).

All lots and images in the Bowers and Merena Official Pre-show Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Philadelphia Expo can be viewed online at www.bowersandmerena.com, and printed catalogs are available upon request by calling 800.458.4646. Bidding is open first week of September and pre-auction bids are welcome at www.bowersandmerena.com; by e-mail at auction@bowersandmerena.com; by phone at 800.458.4646; by fax at 949.253.4091; and by postal mail addressed to Bowers and Merena, Philadelphia 2009, 18061 Fitch, Irvine, CA, 92614. Interested bidders are also encouraged to view lots in Philadelphia September 21-22, 2009, and bid in-person at the live auction September 22, 2009, or live online through the Bowers and Merena website. A complete auction and lot viewing schedule is available at www.bowersandmerena.com or by calling 800.458.4646.

Bowers and Merena Auctions was founded in 1983 and has grown to become the world's preeminent numismatic auctioneer with more than half a billion dollars in rare coin and currency sales. They have been awarded the prestigious honor of Official Auctioneer for the 2009 American Numismatic Association Conventions in Portland and Los Angeles, in addition to their continued service as Official Auctioneer of the Baltimore Coin and Currency Conventions three times every year. Bowers and Merena has handled four of the five most valuable United States coin collections ever sold, including the Louis E. Eliasberg Sr. Collection, the Harry W. Bass Jr. Collection, the Garrett Collection for The Johns Hopkins University, and the Norweb Collection. In 2008, Bowers and Merena Auctions acquired Ponterio & Associates, Inc., which now serves as Bowers and Merena's auction division for world and ancient coins and currency.  Bowers and Merena Rare Coin Galleries offers direct buying and selling of exceptional quality gold and silver rare coins.

For more information about Bowers and Merena's Official Pre-show Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Philadelphia Expo in September, call 800.458.4646.  For media inquiries, ask for President Steve Deeds. Complete prices realized for all past auctions are available at www.bowersandmerena.com.  

Bowers and Merena's Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Baltimore Expo Will Feature
Collection of the Late Dr. Alfred R. Globus

IRVINE, Calif. - Bowers and Merena Auctions, America's leading rare coin and currency auction house, returns to Baltimore, Md., for the Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Expo scheduled for November 10-14, 2009. The auction will feature the collection of U.S. and world coins assembled by one of America's most renowned numismatic collectors, Dr. Alfred R. Globus.

Dr. Alfred R. Globus was born July 1, 1920, in Brooklyn, New York. He received his Doctor of Science degree from Hanover College in Indiana and for a short time served as professor of biochemistry at Fairleigh Dickinson University. He licensed his first chemical process at age 20 for the electrolytic recovery of iron from iron ore, and just two years after that he formed the company that would later become United-Guardian, Inc. In 1943, he built a commercial plant for the production of vitally needed tungsten concentrates, and served as a consultant to the War Production Board during World War II. Dr. Globus served as the chief executive officer of United-Guardian for more than 60 years. Over those years he was granted at least 35 patents for the many products and processes that he developed. Dr. Globus passed away in April of 2009 at age 88.

"During his lifetime Dr. Globus was an avid collector of coins and stamps," said Steve Deeds, president of Bowers and Merena. "He was known worldwide as an expert in both fields, and auctions of his coins over the years have brought intense interest on the part of expert collectors in the United States and overseas."

Bowers and Merena will present Dr. Globus' collection of U.S. and world coins in the November Official Baltimore Auction, consisting of several hundred lots. Spotlight coins include:

• 1799 Capped Bust Right Half Eagle. Small Stars Reverse. MS-62 PCGS
• 1826 (6 over ‘5') Capped Bust Left Quarter Eagle. AU-55 PCGS
• 1830 Capped Bust Half Eagle. MS-65 PCGS
• China 10 Dollars, YR.1 (1916), FR.-3, Y-333, NGC-MS62
• Denmark Ducat, 1746 Frederik V, 1746-1766, FR.-264, KM-552, NGC-MS62
• Germany Saxony-Coburg-Gotha, 20 Marks, 1895-A, FR.-3853, Y-151, NGC-MS62

"I was fortunate to know Dr. Globus for many years, since the 1980s," said Richard Ponterio, executive vice president of Bowers and Merena and founder of Ponterio & Associates. "Many of these coins have been in his possession for decades, and the sale of these coins will be keenly anticipated by knowledgeable and eager collectors throughout the world. Some of these coins were even in the original 1970s flips. It's an incredible collection and will surely draw worldwide attention."

Bowers and Merena is accepting U.S. consignments alongside the Alfred R. Globus Collection until September 28, and world consignments until August 10. Interested consignors should call Bowers and Merena at 800.458.4646 for more information. Printed catalogs will be available in late October and will be posted online at www.bowersandmerena.com.

Bowers and Merena Auctions was founded in 1983 and has grown to become the world's preeminent numismatic auctioneer with more than half a billion dollars in rare coin and currency sales. They have been awarded the prestigious honor of Official Auctioneer for the 2009 American Numismatic Association Conventions in Portland and Los Angeles, in addition to their continued service as Official Auctioneer of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Baltimore Expo three times every year. Bowers and Merena has handled four of the five most valuable United States coin collections ever sold, including the Louis E. Eliasberg Sr. Collection, the Harry W. Bass Jr. Collection, the Garrett Collection for The Johns Hopkins University, and the Norweb Collection. In 2008, Bowers and Merena Auctions acquired Ponterio & Associates, Inc., which now serves as Bowers and Merena's auction division for world and ancient coins and currency.  Bowers and Merena Rare Coin Galleries offers direct buying and selling of exceptional quality gold and silver rare coins.

For more information about Bowers and Merena's Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Baltimore Expo in November, call 800.458.4646.  For media inquiries, ask for President Steve Deeds. Complete prices realized for all past auctions are available at www.bowersandmerena.com.  

Condition Census 1796 Small Eagle Quarter Shines in Bowers and Merena Auction

IRVINE, Calif. - Bowers and Merena Auctions, America's leading rare coin and currency auction house, conducted its second of two official American Numismatic Association auctions for 2009 over five live sessions last week at the Los Angeles Convention Center as the Official Auctioneer of the ANA World's Fair of Money. Teletrade Certified Coin & Currency Auctions, sister company to Bowers and Merena, served as the official online auctioneer for the show, conducting auctions on Sunday and Monday, August 9-10. Together they realized a total in excess of $15 million.

"It has been a tremendous opportunity to work with the ANA over this past year, first in Portland and especially now in our own backyard of Los Angeles. The ANA consistently presents a first rate show and it was a privilege to play such an important role in this event as the only official auctioneer," said Steve Deeds, president of Bowers and Merena. "We are very pleased with the results of the auction. This was our second largest auction in the past five years by both value and number of lots, and under the present economy I think that speaks volumes."

The standout highlight of the auction was lot 1018, a Condition Census 1796 Small Eagle Quarter, B-2, Rarity-3, graded MS-64 by PCGS and realizing an impressive $103,500. An issue that enjoys strong and unflagging demand among type collectors, the 1796 is the first Quarter struck in the United States Mint and the only one of the Draped Bust, Small Eagle design. Two die marriages are known, of which the High 6 B-2 combination is the more plentiful in numismatic circles. "Plentiful" is a relative term in this context, for the 1796 as an issue is a scarce coin when viewed in the wider context of U.S. numismatics. Mint State coins are rare, and they can actually be described as very rare from a market availability standpoint. Indeed, most high-grade examples are in tightly held collections and trade only once in a long while, with this prime example logged in with a PCGS Population (both die combinations) of only 7 with 8 finer through MS-67, yielding an exceptional realization.

Additional U.S. highlights of Bowers and Merena's Official ANA Los Angeles Auction include lot 253, an Extremely Rare Proof 1864 L on Ribbon Indian Cent, the unique Snow-PR3 Discovery Coin, graded Proof-64 RD and realizing a notable $94,875. A legendary and well-known rarity in the proof Indian Cent series, the 1864 L on Ribbon has an estimated mintage of just 20 pieces. The discovery piece for the Snow-PR3 die marriage remains unique, and it was returned to Bowers and Merena for the 2009 Los Angeles ANA Auction after appearing in the sale of the Herman Halpern & Gerald O. Warner Collections, in March 1997 at lot 232.

The Annapolis Collection produced several noteworthy lots including lot 4753, a High Condition Census 1909-D Indian Eagle, The William Thomas Michaels-John Kutasi Specimen, graded MS-66 by PCGS and realizing $53,475. It boasts a PCGS Population of just 5, with a mere two finer graded MS-67. Also lot 4808, a Condition Census 1916-S Indian Eagle graded PCGS MS-66 with a realization of $47,150.

Currency made an outstanding showing as well, topped by lot 3216, a Rare $100 California Gold Bank Note, San Francisco, CA, $100 1870 Fr. 1162, The First National Gold Bank, Charter #1741, PMG NET Choice Fine 15, Restoration, which realized an extraordinary $207,000. Considered to be one of the greatest National Bank Note rarities of all time, this $100 Gold Bank Note from charter #1741 San Francisco is one of only eight known examples in private hands and three of the Friedberg number, this being equal to the third finest.

Other top-notch U.S. highlights include:
Lot 645 1925-S Buffalo Nickel. MS-66 (NGC). $87,400
Lot 1699 1838 Gobrecht Silver Dollar. Name Omitted. Judd-84 Restrike, Pollock-93. Rarity-5. Proof-65 (PCGS). CAC. $126,500
Lot 3151 Fr. 2220-F. 1928 $5,000 Federal Reserve Note. PMG Very Fine 30. $83,375
Lot 4224 1852 Augustus Humbert. $50 Gold. K-11. Rarity-5. Reeded Edge. 887 THOUS. AU-58 (PCGS). $70,150
Lot 4313 1808 Capped Bust Left Quarter Eagle. BD-1, HBCC-3017, the only known dies. Rarity-4. MS-61 (PCGS). $161,000

World and ancient items did extremely well in the auction over two dedicated sessions, realizing more than $2.3 million. "We presented some really outstanding lots in this auction, and judging from the lot viewing traffic and the activity of the two live floor sessions, the interest level was quite high and very enthusiastic," said Richard Ponterio, executive vice president of Bowers and Merena and founder of Ponterio & Associates. "We are reaching the whole world with our sessions, many collectors in their home countries looking for coins that represent them and their collections, whose own economies may allow them more purchasing power during this time."

The eyes of the world were on several key lots, especially lot 8701, a unique Poland Second Republic Gold Constitution 5 Zlotych that realized $132,250. According to the Parchimowicz catalog of Polish coins, there were a total of no more than four Constitution 5 Zlotych struck in gold, comprised of 3 different varieties: this 81 Pearl, a 100 Pearl, and two 100 Pearl with raised initials "SW," "WG," and the date "3/V." Believed to be UNIQUE as stated by catalogers at Sotheby's, CNG and Stack's when previously sold at auction and purported to be the only gold Constitution in private hands. This piece is of the highest rarity and utmost importance with an impeccable and impressive pedigree, and was auctioned for well above catalog estimate.

Also garnering worldwide attention for weeks leading up to the auction was lot 8666, an attractive Manen Oban 10 Ryo with original inking in Extremely Fine condition that realized $43,700. A beautiful specimen, it is the only type that was produced using machinery. In addition, lot 8190, a scarce Lebanon 5 Livres realized an astonishing $23,575 after a session of highly spirited floor and phone bidding during the live auction. This coin catalogs for $250 in the current Standard Catalog of World Paper Money.                  

Chinese coinage was very popular, as well, topped by lot 9286, a China Hunan Dollar, Year 11 (1922), graded MS-66 by NGC, which realized $18,400. It was followed by lot 9264, a beautiful large character Dragon and Peacock China Pattern Dollar, Year 12 (1923), graded MS-65 by NGC, that realized $14,950; and lot 9257, a Rare and Choice China Pattern Dollar, 1910, in NGC MS-65, that realized $13,800.

The spotlight collection of the world sessions was The Kent M. Ponterio Collection of the Coinage of Mexico Struck During the Reign of Charles and Johanna, a collection of about 100 lots that enjoyed a 98 percent sell-through. It was originally assembled as a numismatic study collection focused on assayer and mint mark combinations, and contains many pieces that largely contributed to the proper cataloging of the series, as well as the radical reassignment of assayer sequencing. Top lots included 9092, a Very Rare and seldom-offered Mexico Carlos and Johanna Early Series 3 Reales Assayer that realized $23,000, and lot 9153, Mexico Carlos and Johanna Late Series 4 Reales, an Extremely Rare issue without Assayer or Mint Mark, which realized $12,075.

Additional U.S. coin highlights include:
Lot 130 1793 Chain Cent. S-3. Rarity-3-. AMERICA. No Periods. EF-40 (PCGS).  $50,600
Lot 139 1793 Liberty Cap Cent. S-13. Rarity-4-. VF-30 (PCGS). $57,500
Lot 413 1922 No D Lincoln Cent. FS-401 (FS-013.2). Die Pair II. Strong Reverse. MS-64 RB (NGC).  $46,000
Lot 738 1796 Draped Bust Dime. JR-4. Rarity-4. MS-65 (NGC).  $48,300
Lot 1697 1836 Gobrecht Silver Dollar. Name on Base. Judd-60 Restrike, Pollock-65. Rarity-5. Proof-64 (PCGS).  $47,150
Lot 4119 1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition $50. Octagonal. MS-64 (PCGS). OGH.  $80,500
Lot 4120 1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition $50. Round. MS-64 (PCGS).  $91,425
Lot 4441 1862 Three-Dollar Gold Piece. Proof-66 Ultra Cameo (NGC).  $74,750
Lot 4487 1802/1 Capped Bust Right Half Eagle. BD-7, HBCC-3076, Miller-52. Rarity-5. MS-64 (PCGS).  $54,625
Lot 4547 1864 Liberty Half Eagle. Proof-65 Deep Cameo (PCGS).  $86,250
Lot 4593 1904 Liberty Half Eagle. Proof-67 Cameo (NGC).  $46,000
Lot 4607 1909 Indian Half Eagle. Proof-67 * (NGC).  $50,600
Lot 4623 1910 Indian Half Eagle. Proof-67 * (NGC).  $48,300
Lot 4660 1797 Capped Bust Right Eagle. Large Eagle. BD-4, HBCC-3179, Taraszka-12. Rarity-4+. MS-61 (PCGS). $51,750
Lot 4737 1907 Indian Eagle. Judd-1774 (Judd-1901), Pollock-1995. Rarity-3. Wire Rim. MS-65 (PCGS).  $64,975
Lot 4747 1908 Indian Eagle. Motto. Proof-67 (NGC).  $54,625
Lot 4791 1914 Indian Eagle. Proof-66 (NGC).  $46,000
Lot 5014 1911 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. Proof-66 (NGC).  $54,050
Lot 5020 1912 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. Proof-67 (NGC).  $69,000
Lot 5021 1912 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. Proof-66 (NGC).  $55,200
Lot 5104 1931 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. MS-65 (PCGS). $80,500

Additional U.S. and world currency highlights include:
Lot 3044 Fr. 122. 1901 $10 Legal Tender Note. PCGS Gem New 66PPQ. $10,638
Lot 3074 Fr. 263. 1886 $5 Silver Certificate. PCGS Gem New 66PPQ. $26,450
Lot 3078 Fr. 271. 1899 $5 Silver Certificate. PCGS Superb Gem New 67PPQ. $10,925
Lot 3080 Fr. 282. 1923 $5 Silver Certificate. PMG Gem Uncirculated 66EPQ. $8,913
Lot 3151 Fr. 2220-F. 1928 $5,000 Federal Reserve Note. PMG Very Fine 30. $83,375
Lot 3187 Fr. 1935-D. 1976 $2 Federal Reserve Note. ERROR. Double Print Serial Number.  $12,075
 PMG Choice Uncirculated 64EPQ. 
Lot 3214 San Francisco, CA. $10 1870 Fr. 1142. The First National Gold Bank. Charter #1741. PCGS APPARENT  $44,850
 Very Fine 30. Minor Edge Restorations. 
Lot 8043 CANADA. 1,000 Dollars, 1935. P-56. $19,550
Lot 8045 CANADA. 1,000 Dollars, 2.1.1937. P-65. $21,275
Lot 8074 CHINA. Russo-Asiatic Bank. 50 Dollars, ND (1910). P-S465.  $8,625
Lot 8146 HONG KONG. 500 Dollars, 1.6.1934. P-59s. $8,050
Lot 8256 RUSSIA--RUSSIAN SOCIALIST FEDERATED SOVIET REPUBLIC. 5 Gold Rubles, 1923. P-178s.  $4,715
Lot 8278 RUSSIA--EAST SIBERIA. 5,000 Rubles, 1920. P-S1196b. $6,900

Additional world coin highlights include:
Lot 8043 CANADA. 1,000 Dollars, 1935. P-56.  $19,550
Lot 8045 CANADA. 1,000 Dollars, 2.1.1937. P-65.  $21,275
Lot 8361 KINGDOM OF MACEDON. Alexander I, 498-454 B.C. AR Octadrachm (27.59 gms). $11,500
Lot 8387 KINGDOM OF LYDIA. Kroisos, 561-546 B.C. AV Stater (8.02 gms, Sardes Mint). $10,925
Lot 8400 SICULO PUNIC. Panoramus. AR Tetradrachm (16.95 gms), ca. 350-300 B.C. $11,500
Lot 8592 GUATEMALA. 10 Pesos Gold Essai Proof Pattern by Jean LaGrange, Chief Engraver of the Paris Mint, 1894-A. $16,100
Lot 8640 ITALY. 50 Lire, 1936. $14,950
Lot 8690 PERU. 4 Escudos, (1)708-H. $14,375
Lot 8716 RUSSIA. 5 Rubles, 1762. $23,000
Lot 8717 RUSSIA. 10 Rubles, 1804. $29,900
Lot 8720 RUSSIA. 10 Rubles, 1898-AT. $17,250
Lot 9164 MEXICO. Carlos and Johanna, Late Series, 4 Reales Assayer S/L (S/L-M) V over Inverted V in  $13,800
 "HISPANIARVM," ND (ca. 1553).  
Lot 9258 CHINA. Pattern Dollar "Long Whisker Dragon," Year 3 (1911). $26,450
Lot 9287 CHINA. Hupeh. Tael, Year 30 (1904). $13,225
Lot 9404 GREAT BRITAIN. Pound, 1642. $14,950
Lot 9495 PHILIPPINES. 8 Reales, 1830. $34,500
Lot 9533 THAILAND. 2 Keping, 1835. $10,350

Prices realized for all lots in the Bowers and Merena Official Auction of the ANA Los Angeles World's Fair of Money are available online at www.bowersandmerena.com. Bowers and Merena's next auction will be the Official Pre-show Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Philadelphia Expo scheduled for September 21-23, 2009. Complete lot viewing and auction schedules are available at www.bowersandmerena.com, and U.S. catalogs will be available in print and online by early September.

Bowers and Merena Auctions was founded in 1983 and has grown to become the world's preeminent numismatic auctioneer with more than half a billion dollars in rare coin and currency sales. They have been awarded the prestigious honor of Official Auctioneer for the 2009 American Numismatic Association Conventions in Portland and Los Angeles, in addition to their continued service as Official Auctioneer of the Baltimore Coin and Currency Conventions three times every year. Bowers and Merena has handled four of the five most valuable United States coin collections ever sold, including the Louis E. Eliasberg Sr. Collection, the Harry W. Bass Jr. Collection, the Garrett Collection for The Johns Hopkins University, and the Norweb Collection. In 2008, Bowers and Merena Auctions acquired Ponterio & Associates, Inc., which now serves as Bowers and Merena's auction division for world and ancient coins and currency.  Bowers and Merena Rare Coin Galleries offers direct buying and selling of exceptional quality gold and silver rare coins.

For more information about Bowers and Merena's Official Auction of the ANA Los Angeles World's Fair of Money in August, call 800.458.4646.  For media inquiries, ask for President Steve Deeds. Complete prices realized for all past auctions are available at www.bowersandmerena.com.  

IRVINE, Calif. - A 1907 Rolled Edge Indian Eagle, a gorgeous and conditionally rare representative of this classic issue in the 20th century gold series, will be offered in Bowers and Merena's Official Auction of the American Numismatic Association World's Fair of Money® at the Los Angeles Convention Center and online, August 5-8, 2009, with lot viewing August 1- 8. The auction will also spotlight one of the most important California Gold Rush-era coins produced in San Francisco, the unique Kellogg and Company specimen $20 territorial gold piece personally owned by former U.S. Assayer Augustus Humbert.

Listed in the auction catalog as 1907 Judd-1903 (Judd-1775), Pollock-1997, Rarity-5, Rolled Edge, it is described as "a bright, satiny piece" with a strike that is "characteristic of the issue, meaning that it is bold-to-sharp elsewhere yet noticeably soft in the center of the obverse." The example boasts a Condition Census MS-67 Grade from NGC with a combined PCGS and NGC Population of just 6, 0 finer.

"This is one of only 42 potential examples to have survived the melting of the issue at the Philadelphia Mint, and three of these survivors are known to be in the Smithsonian Institution," said Steve Deeds, President of Bowers and Merena (www.BowersandMerena.com).  "It is very infrequent for any of these remaining specimens to appear at auction, so we fully appreciate how special it is to be able to present coin this coin to our bidding audience."

The unique specimen striking of the 1854 Kellogg & Co. $20 Gold coin is graded PCGS Specimen-69 and is described in the auction catalog as "possessed of awe-inspiring eye appeal" with a strike that "is 100 percent complete over all the elements of the design."

"This is the single most important twenty-dollar gold piece issued by Kellogg & Co.," said Deeds. "It was struck on February 9, 1854, and given by John Glover Kellogg to Augustus Humbert, his friend and future business partner.  It later was a highlight of the legendary Garrett Collection at The Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore for decades."

The auction also includes other rare or even unique United States proof and pattern coins with impressive numismatic pedigrees. Other highlights of the auction are:

• The only confirmed proof 1876-CC Seated Dime, Type I reverse, certified PCGS Proof-66 Branch Mint;
• 1893-CC Morgan Dollar VAM-2, PCGS Proof-65, a Class I Branch Mint proof in the Morgan Dollar series;
• 1796 Capped Bust Right Quarter Eagle. BD-3, HBCC-3003. Rarity-5+. Stars Obverse. MS-63 by NGC;
• The unique matte proof 1909 Indian Half Eagle from the Gaston DiBello and Ed Trompeter collections, graded NGC Proof-67;
• 1795 Capped Bust Right Half Eagle. Small Eagle. BD-3, HBCC-3033, Miller-2. Rarity-3+. MS-63 (PCGS).

"The annual ANA conventions are among the most important numismatic events in the world, and we want to offer collectors and dealers a wide range of outstanding coins and bank notes as part of the ANA's Official Auction," said Deeds.

Additional highlights in the Bowers and Merena Auctions Los Angeles sale include:

• 1864 Indian Head Cent, Snow-PR3 L on ribbon, PCGS Proof-64 RD;
• 1796 Quarter Dollar, PCGS MS-64
• 1853 Seated Liberty Quarter with arrows and rays, NGC Proof-65 Cameo;
• 1834 Capped Bust Half Dollar restrike, crushed lettered edge, NGC Proof-67;
• 1863 Seated Liberty Dollar, NGC Proof-68 Cameo;
• 1889-CC Morgan Dollar, PCGS MS-64 CAC;
• 1895-S Morgan Dollar, PCGS MS-66 DMPL;
• 1896 Morgan Dollar, NGC Proof-69 Ultra Cameo;
• 1829 Capped Head Left Quarter Eagle, the only known dies, BD-1, HBCC-
3026, Rarity 4+, NGC MS-65;
• 1862 $3 gold, NGC Proof-66 Ultra Cameo;
• 1810 Capped Bust Left Half Eagle, large date, large 5, BD-4, HBCC-3117,
Miller-109, Rarity 2, NGC MS-65;
• 1909 $5, NGC Proof-67;
• 1909-O Indian Half Eagle, NGC MS-65;
• 1795 Capped Bust Right Eagle. BD-1, HBCC-3169, Taraszka-1. Rarity-3+.
13 Leaves. MS-64 (NGC);
• 1804 Capped Bust Right Eagle, crosslet 4, BD-1, HBCC-3201, Taraszka-31,
Rarity 4+, NGC MS-63;
• 1908 $10 with motto, NGC Proof-67;
• 1870-CC $20, NGC VF-20;
• 1874 Liberty Double Eagle, NGC Proof-64 (star) Ultra Cameo;
• 1875 Liberty Double Eagle, PCGS Proof-63 CAC;
• 1911 $20, NGC Proof-66;
• 1912 $20, NGC Proof-67;
• 1925-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, NGC MS-66;
• 1931 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, PCGS MS-65;
• 1915-S Panama-Pacific $50 round, PCGS MS-64;
• 1915-S Panama-Pacific $50 octagonal, PCGS MS-64;

Highlights of the bank note section of the auction include a 1928 $5,000 Federal Reserve Note (Fr. 2220-F), graded PMG Very Fine-30, and an 1870 $100 Gold National Bank Note, San Francisco Charter #1741, The First National Gold Bank (Fr. 1162), graded PMG Fine 12 Net.

Pre-auction bids are welcome at www.BowersandMerena.com; by e-mail at auction@BowersandMerena.com; by phone at (800) 458-4646 in the U.S. and 1-949-253-0916 outside the U.S.; by fax at 1-949-253-4091; and by postal mail addressed to Bowers and Merena, Los Angeles ANA 2009, 18061 Fitch, Irvine, CA 92614. Interested bidders are also encouraged to view lots and bid in-person at the live auction in Los Angeles in August, or live online through the Bowers and Merena web site where a complete auction and lot viewing schedule is available.

The ANA World's Fair of Money, August 5 - 9 in the Los Angeles Convention Center Hall A, features more than 1,000 dealers, a Museum Showcase with a special exhibit of national treasures from the Smithsonian Institution, mints from around the world and a variety of educational programs and family activities.   For more information, visit www.WorldsFairofMoney.com.

(Irvine, California) - A wide selection of rare ancient and world coins will be offered in Bowers and Merena's Official Auction of the American Numismatic Association World's Fair of Money® at the Los Angeles Convention Center and online, August 2 - 8, 2009. Ponterio & Associates, Inc., a division of Bowers and Merena, will present the world sessions on Saturday, August 8.

One of the many highlights among the over 1,300 lots of desirable and appealing world coins is a Japanese undated (1860 - 1862) Manen oban (10 Ryo, 112.26 gms) with security edge (Fr. 7; JNDA-09-11; C24a2) in Extremely Fine condition.

"This is a beautiful specimen," said Richard Ponterio, executive vice president of Bowers and Merena. "This Manen oban is the only type that was produced using machinery. Prior to this type obans were hand made. The use of obans halted shortly after the time of Commandore Perry forcing Japan to open its trade with the west in the mid 1800s."  (www.BowersandMerena.com).

Two other marquee coins in the ANA auction are a rare Year 3 (1911) "Long Whisker Dragon" Tientsin Mint China Pattern Dollar (L&M-28; Kann-223; KM-Pn-304), graded NGC AU-58, and  a Macedonia Mende silver Tetradrachm (16.88 gms) ca. 425 B.C.

"This was struck from the same dies as described in the Noe-ANS Monogram #27 of 1926, "The Mende (Kaliandra) Hoard #70.  It has a well struck reverse and nice <_SCRIPT$3> Among the many other highlights of the auction are:
• Bruttium Caulonia silver Stater ca. 525 - 480 B.C.
• Chile 8 Reales 1849-ML (KM-96.2; EL-103)
• China Pattern Dollar Year 12 (1923) Tientsin Mint, Large Character, NGC MS-65;
• China Pattern Dollar 1910 Tientsin Mint, NGC MS-65;
• China Pattern Dollar 1907 Tientsin Mint, NGC MS-62;
• Great Britain undated (1605 - 1606) Rose Ryal, James I (1603 - 1625), NGC AU-55;
• Great Britain 5 Guineas 1741, George II (1727 - 1760), NGC AU-58;
• Honduras 10 Pesos 1883
• Iran 10 Tomans AH1297 (1880) Tehran Mint, Nasir Al-din Shah AH 1264 - 1313 (1848 - 1896)
• Italy 50 Lire 1911-R "50th Anniversary of the Kingdom," NGC MS-63;
• Italy 50 Lire 1912-R, NGC MS-62;
• Kingdom of Lydia, Kroisos (561 - 546 B.C.) gold Stater, NGC CH AU;
• Korea 1 Whan Year 502 (1893)
• Mexico Empire of Iturbide 8 Escudos 1822-JIM, NGC AU-55;
• Mexico Carlos & Johanna, Early Series 4 Reales, Assayer R undated (1538), Francisco del Rincón
• Roman Empire, Tiberius (12 - 37 A.D.) gold Aureus, NGC MS;
• Russia, 5 Roubles 1762 St. Petersburg Mint, Catherine II (1762 - 1796), PCGS MS-62;
The auction also will include U.S. coins and U.S. and world bank notes.

Bidding opens in July and pre-auction bids are welcome at www.BowersandMerena.com; by e-mail at auction@BowersandMerena.com; by phone at (800) 458-4646 in the U.S. and 1-949-253-0916 outside the U.S.; by fax at 1-949-253-4091; and by postal mail addressed to Bowers and Merena, Los Angeles ANA 2009, 18061 Fitch, Irvine, CA 92614.

Interested bidders are also encouraged to view lots and bid in-person at the live auction in Los Angeles in August, or live online through the Bowers and Merena web site where a complete auction and lot viewing schedule is available.

Bowers and Merena Auctions was founded in 1983 and has grown to become the world's preeminent numismatic auctioneer with more than half a billion dollars in rare coin and currency sales. They have been awarded the prestigious honor of Official Auctioneer for the 2009 American Numismatic Association Conventions in Portland and Los Angeles, in addition to their continued service as Official Auctioneer of the Baltimore Coin and Currency Conventions three times every year.

Ponterio & Associates, Inc. was founded in 1982 by renowned specialist in world and ancient numismatics, Richard Ponterio.  The company was acquired by Bowers and Merena Auctions in 2008, creating an auction powerhouse that covers the collecting interests of U.S. and international coin and currency enthusiasts.  Annual Ponterio auctions include the Official Auction of the Chicago International Coin Fair and the New York International Numismatic Convention.

The ANA World's Fair of Money, August 5 - 9 in the Los Angeles Convention Center Hall A, features more than 1,000 dealers, a Museum Showcase with a special exhibit of national treasures from the Smithsonian Institution, mints from around the world and a variety of educational programs and family activities.   For more information, visit www.WorldsFairofMoney.com.

(Irvine, California) - More than 500 U.S. and world bank notes including two $1,000 Canadian notes will be offered in the Official Auction of the American Numismatic Association World's Fair of Money® conducted by Bowers and Merena Auctions at the Los Angeles, California Convention Center and online, August 2 - 8, 2009. 

The two gem condition $1,000 Canada notes are a 1935 (Pick 56, BC-19), graded PMG Gem Uncirculated-65 EPQ, and a low-numbered, 1937 (Pick 65, BC-28), graded PCGS Gem New-65 PPQ.

"The 1937 $1,000 is a tremendously scarce note with a terrific low serial number of A/K0000100.  This example shows nice original paper along with stunning color which illuminates the design.  The reverse allegorical scene is breathtaking showing a woman with a sword and sheltering a young child," said Rick Ponterio, Executive Vice President of Bowers and Merena.

Another of the many highlights is an 1870 $100 Gold National Bank Note, San Francisco Charter #1741, The First National Gold Bank (Fr. 1162), graded PMG Fine 12 Net (restorations).

"This classic rarity is one of only eight notes of this type in private hands, and one of three of this Friedberg number.  Those others are in strong hands and not likely to become available in the foreseeable future.  In fact, only three examples have been offered for public sale in the last decade and the latest example, nearly identical to this one, sold for $258,700 in 2007," said Steve Deeds, President of Bowers and Merena (www.BowersandMerena.com).

"With collectors holding tightly to the others, we're not sure when there will be another opportunity to acquire such a rare and elusive note."

Three other 1870 National Gold Bank Charter #1741 notes are also being offered, $5 (Fr. 1136) PMG VF 30, $10 (Fr. 1142) PCGS Apparent VF 30, and $20 (Fr. 1172) PMG Very Good 10 Net.
 Other U.S. currency highlights in the auction include:
• Third Issue Spinner 50 Cent Fractional (Fr. 1342), PMG Superb Gem Uncirculated-67 EPQ;
• 1886 $5 Silver Certificate (Fr. 263), PCGS Very Choice New-64 PPQ;
• 1901 $10 Legal Tender Note (Fr. 122), PCGS Gem New-66 PPQ;
• 1928 $1,000 Gold Certificate (Fr. 2408), PMG Very Fine-25;
• 1928 $5,000 Federal Reserve Note (Fr. 2220-F), PMG Very Fine-30;
• 1895 Republic of Hawaii $5 Silver Certificate (Pick 11a), PMG Very Good-8 (margin tears);
• 1880 Kingdom of Hawaii $10 Silver Certificate (Pick 1FP) PMG About Uncirculated-53 (face) and 64 EPQ (back);
• 1976 $2 Federal Reserve (Fr. 1935-D) double print error, PMG Choice Uncirculated-64 EPQ.
 Other world currency highlights include:
• Angola, January 1, 1921 1 to 100 Angolares (Pick 55s to 61s), Uncirculated.
• China, Japanese Imperial Government lot of five notes (Pick M1 - M5), Year 12 (1937) 10 Sen to 10 Yen, PMG Extremely Fine to Uncirculated;
• China, Russo-Asiatic Bank 1914 10 Dollars (Pick S487), Fine;
• New Zealand, ND (1956-1957) 50 Pounds (Pick 162), Uncirculated;
• Philippines 1.6.1896 10 Pesos (Pick A8a), Very Good;
• Russia, 1884 100 Rubles (Pick A53), Good/Very Good;
• Western Samoa, July 8,1958 5 Pounds (Pick 9A), Very Fine.

The auction also will include U.S. and world coins.

Bidding opens in July and pre-auction bids are welcome at www.BowersandMerena.com; by e-mail at auction@BowersandMerena.com; by phone at (800) 458-4646 in the U.S. and 1-949-253-0916 outside the U.S.; by fax at 1-949-253-4091; and by postal mail addressed to Bowers and Merena, Los Angeles ANA 2009, 18061 Fitch, Irvine, CA 92614.

Interested bidders are also encouraged to view lots and bid in-person at the live auction in Los Angeles in August, or live online through the Bowers and Merena web site where a complete auction and lot viewing schedule is available.

Ponterio & Associates, Inc. was founded in 1982 by renowned specialist in world and ancient numismatics, Richard Ponterio.  The company was acquired by Bowers and Merena Auctions in 2008, creating an auction powerhouse that covers the collecting interests of U.S. and international coin and currency enthusiasts.  Annual Ponterio auctions include the Official Auction of the Chicago International Coin Fair and the New York International Numismatic Convention.

The ANA World's Fair of Money, August 5 - 9 in the Los Angeles Convention Center Hall A, features more than 1,000 dealers, a Museum Showcase with a special exhibit of national treasures from the Smithsonian Institution, mints from around the world and a variety of educational programs and family activities.   For more information, visit www.WorldsFairofMoney.com.

Bowers and Merena's Official Auction of the Baltimore Coin and Currency Convention Includes Legendary 1876-CC Twenty-Cent Piece with Five-Generation History

IRVINE, Calif. - Bowers and Merena Auctions, America's leading rare coin and currency auction house, will bring nearly 2,500 lots of fine coins and currency to Baltimore, Md., for the Official Auction of the Baltimore Coin and Currency Convention scheduled for June 10-13, 2009. The auction will take place at the Baltimore Convention Center and begins with lot viewing Wednesday, June 10, through Friday, June 12, followed by the three-session auction on Thursday, June 11, at 6 p.m. EDT, and Friday, June 12, at 2 p.m. and again at 6 p.m. EDT.

The standout highlight of the auction is lot 757, an 1876-CC Twenty-Cent Piece in PCGS AU-58 with a fascinating history. Believed to be one of perhaps just 12 to 20 examples known, this specimen was acquired in Virginia City, Nev., by Gold Rush "Forty-Niner" John Seagraves Pick and has been kept in the Pick/Jurgensen family for the last 133 years. As a PCGS AU-58, this important piece is the only circulated 1876-CC Twenty-Cent piece known to PCGS and NGC. It was also previously certified AU-58 by ANACS from a submission that dates to the early 1990s.

The Pick/Jurgensen Specimen appears to have been acquired in circulation by John Seagraves Pick in 1876 and has been passed through five generations of his family, first to his son, John William Pick, who was born in Virginia City in 1872. He then passed it to his daughter, Virginia Pick Jurgensen, who was born in 1904 and survived the San Francisco earthquake when she was just two years old; she kept the coin for 47 years until her death in 1993, when it passed to her son Wilfred Pick Jurgensen. Upon Wilfred's passing at age 74, the coin passed to his widow, Jean Lorraine Jurgensen, and son, Steven Frederick Jurgensen.

"This is a very special coin and it is an honor to offer it at auction to the numismatic world for the first time ever," said Steve Deeds, president of Bowers and Merena. "Aside from the awesome rarity of the issue and the exceptional condition of this circulated example, its five-generation history tells a story that is rich with Americana and will be well appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts. The opportunity to acquire an example of the 1876-CC Twenty-Cent piece is infrequent, and the added story behind this particular specimen makes it even more extraordinary and sought after."

Additional highlights in the Official Baltimore Auction in June include lot 1071, an impressive 1915-S Pan-Pac $50 in Round format in a nicely preserved PCGS MS-64. This is the rarest classic gold Commemorative coin in the finer Mint State grades, with a net mintage of just 483 pieces. As a problem-free 64, the coin offered here is a superior representative of the type.

Also noteworthy is lot 3763, an appealing 1796 Bust Right Ten, BD-1, HBCC-3174, Taraszka-6, the only known dies, Rarity-4, graded AU-55 by PCGS. The 1796 is much rarer than the 1795 in Mint State, and Choice AUs in 55 and 58 represent the finest that is usually available to advanced gold collectors. With minimal rub to overall sharp features, this piece is solidly graded at the Choice AU level, backed by a PCGS Population of 18 with 22 finer, just 11 of which are Mint State.

Coin highlights include:
Lot 325 1846 Braided Hair Cent. N-22. Rarity-6+. Proof-64 BN (PCGS).
Lot 462 1909 V.D.B. Lincoln Cent. Proof-65 BN (NGC). OGH.
Lot 684 1871-CC Seated Liberty Dime. Fortin-101, the only known dies. MS-61 (NGC).
Lot 757 1876-CC Twenty-Cent Piece. AU-58 (PCGS).
Lot 773 1859 Seated Liberty Quarter. Briggs 1-B. Type I/II. Proof-67 (NGC).
Lot 976 1836 Gobrecht Silver Dollar. Name on Base. Judd-60 Original, Pollock-65. Rarity-1. Proof-62 (NGC).
Lot 1064 1905 Lewis and Clark Gold Dollar. MS-66 (PCGS).
Lot 1071 1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition $50. Round. MS-64 (PCGS).
Lot 1073 1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition $50. Octagonal. MS-64 (NGC).
Lot 3536 1865 Pattern Seated Liberty Dollar. Judd-434, Pollock-507. Rarity-7-. Proof-64 (PCGS).
Lot 3546 1853 U.S. Assay Office of Gold. $20 Gold. K-18. Rarity-2. 900 THOUS. MS-64 (NGC).
Lot 3587 1831 Capped Head Left Quarter Eagle. BD-1, HBCC-3028. Rarity-4. MS-61 (NGC).
Lot 3631 1913 Indian Quarter Eagle. Proof-66 (PCGS).
Lot 3686 1795 Capped Bust Right Half Eagle. Small Eagle. BD-1, HBCC-3035, Miller-4. Rarity-5. AU-55 (PCGS).
Lot 3690 1804 Capped Bust Right Half Eagle. BD-2, HBCC-3087, Miller-64. Rarity-4+. Small 8. MS-64 (NGC).
Lot 3706 1847-D Liberty Half Eagle. Winter 17-I. Repunched Date. MS-63 (NGC).
Lot 3763 1796 Capped Bust Right Eagle. BD-1, HBCC-3174, Taraszka-6, the only known dies. Rarity-4. AU-55 (PCGS).
Lot 3764 1799 Capped Bust Right Eagle. BD-10, HBCC-3191, Taraszka-22. Rarity-3. Large Stars Obverse. MS-61 (NGC).
Lot 3827 1865-S Liberty Double Eagle. MS-66 (NGC).
Lot 4018 MCMVII (1907) Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. High Relief. Wire Rim. Proof-64 (NGC).
Lot 4069 1920-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. MS-63 (PCGS).
Lot 4084 1926-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. MS-62 (PCGS).

Currency highlights include:
Lot 2070 Fr. 245. 1891 $2 Silver Certificate. Serial E7. PMG Choice Very Fine 35. Serial #7 Windom Note
Lot 2099  Fr. 1188. 1882 $50 Gold Certificate. PCGS Apparent Very Fine 20. Minor Edge and Internal
 Restorations. One of Eight Known Fr. 1188 $50 Gold Certificates
Lot 2112 Fr. 1501*. 1928 $2 Legal Tender Star Note. PCGS Very Choice New 64PPQ.
Lot 2151 Fr. 40. 1923 $1 Legal Tender Note. ERROR. Partial Overprint Shift on Face. PCGS About New 50PPQ.
 Dramatic Partial Shift Error.
Lot 2172 Pittsburgh, PA. $50 1902 Red Seal. Fr. 664. The Farmers Deposit NB. Charter #(E)685.
 PMG NET Fine 12. Repairs.

All lots and images in the Bowers and Merena Official Auction of the Baltimore Coin and Currency Convention can be viewed online at www.bowersandmerena.com, and printed catalogs are available upon request by calling 800.458.4646.
Bidding is open late May and pre-auction bids are welcome at www.bowersandmerena.com; by e-mail at auction@bowersandmerena.com; by phone at 800.458.4646; by fax at 949.253.4091; and by postal mail addressed to Bowers and Merena, Baltimore June 2009, 18061 Fitch, Irvine, CA, 92614. Interested bidders are also encouraged to view lots in Baltimore June 10-12, 2009, and bid in-person at the live auction June 11-12, 2009, or live online through the Bowers and Merena website. A complete auction and lot viewing schedule is available at www.bowersandmerena.com or by calling 800.458.4646.

Bowers and Merena Auctions was founded in 1983 and has grown to become the world's preeminent numismatic auctioneer with more than half a billion dollars in rare coin and currency sales. They have been awarded the prestigious honor of Official Auctioneer for the 2009 American Numismatic Association Conventions in Portland and Los Angeles, in addition to their continued service as Official Auctioneer of the Baltimore Coin and Currency Conventions three times every year. Bowers and Merena has handled four of the five most valuable United States coin collections ever sold, including the Louis E. Eliasberg Sr. Collection, the Harry W. Bass Jr. Collection, the Garrett Collection for The Johns Hopkins University, and the Norweb Collection. In 2008, Bowers and Merena Auctions acquired Ponterio & Associates, Inc., which now serves as Bowers and Merena's auction division for world and ancient coins and currency.  Bowers and Merena Rare Coin Galleries offers direct buying and selling of exceptional quality gold and silver rare coins.

For more information about Bowers and Merena's Official Auction of the Baltimore Coin and Currency Convention in June, call 800.458.4646.  For media inquiries, ask for President Steve Deeds. Complete prices realized for all past auctions are available at www.bowersandmerena.com.  

December 2009 Coin Galleries
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
New York, NY

For more information, please visit Stack's website.

November 19th 2009 Golden Opportunities
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Wolfeboro, NH

For more information, please visit Stack's website.

The 74th Anniversary Sale
Monday, November 9, 2009 - Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Baltimore, MD

For more information, please visit Stack's website.

November 5th 2009 Golden Opportunities
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Wolfeboro, NH

For more information, please visit Stack's website.

Stack's Mineral E-vents
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Wolfeboro, NH

For more information, please visit Stack's website.

October 22nd 2009 Golden Opportunities
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Wolfeboro, NH

For more information, please visit Stack's website.

October 15th 2009 Golden Opportunities
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Wolfeboro, NH

For more information, please visit Stack's website.

October 8th 2009 Golden Opportunities
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Wolfeboro, NH

For more information, please visit Stack's website.

October 1st 2009 Golden Opportunities
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Wolfeboro, NH

For more information, please visit Stack's website.

The Philadelphia Americana Sale
Wednesday, September 23, 2009 - Saturday, September 26, 2009
Philadelphia, PA

For more information, please visit Stack's website.