A rare silver coin from the 17th century recently made history by selling for an amazing $2.52 million at auction. This coin, known as a 1652 Threepence Coin, was discovered in an old cabinet in Amsterdam eight years ago. It highlights the importance of early American history and the growing independence of the New England region.
Origins of the 1652 Threepence Coin
The threepence coin was minted in 1652 in Boston, just weeks after the first mint in Massachusetts Bay was set up. This coin represents New England’s early economic independence under British rule. While its silver value today is only about $1.03, the coin’s age and historical significance boosted its worth, making it the most expensive non-gold U.S. coin minted before the United States Mint was founded.
Discovery in Amsterdam and Historical Validation
The remarkable story of this coin began in 2016, when it was found inside a box labeled “Silver token unknown/From Quincy Family/B. Ma. Dec, 1798” in Amsterdam. The coin’s owner had no idea of its true value until research and testing confirmed its importance. The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) authenticated the coin, confirming its historical worth.
Historical Context and Design
Coins minted in 1652 Boston are rare and feature a distinct “NE” stamp for New England on one side, with Roman numerals indicating their value on the other. The threepence coin, marked with the Roman numeral III, symbolizes New England’s push for independence. These coins were only minted for a few months, making them highly valuable to collectors.
Connection to Prominent Figures
The historical importance of this coin extends beyond its rarity. After the American Revolution, even English collectors showed interest in these coins. In 1781, Thomas Brand Hollis, an English collector, asked John Adams, the American ambassador to the Netherlands, for help acquiring one of these rare coins. Abigail Adams, John Adams’ wife, played a key role, as her great-grandfather was connected to the minting of these coins.
A Rare Opportunity for Collectors
This threepence coin is one of only two known to have survived. The other coin is part of the Massachusetts Historical Society’s collection, while another was stolen from Yale College, and its location remains unknown. Therefore, this coin represents the only known specimen available for private collectors.
Intense Bidding War
The auction for this rare coin was an exciting 12-minute bidding battle. The final price of $2.52 million was more than three times higher than the pre-sale estimate, showing just how valuable this piece of American history is to collectors.
Record-Breaking Coin Sales in U.S. History
This coin joins an exclusive list of U.S. coins that have sold for record-breaking amounts. Some of the most famous coins to break auction records include:
| Coin | Year Sold | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1794 Silver Dollar | 2013 | $10 million |
| 1933 Double Eagle Gold Coin | 2021 | $18.9 million |
The sale of this 1652 threepence not only set a new record but also reinforced the value of preserving historical artifacts. It reminds us that treasures from our past may be waiting to be discovered.
Conclusion
The 1652 Threepence coin’s auction sale proves how valuable historical artifacts can be. This rare coin, tied to early American independence, was sold for an extraordinary $2.52 million, making it the most expensive non-gold U.S. coin minted before the U.S. Mint was founded. It is a reminder of the rich history that coins can carry and the importance of preserving these treasures for future generations.
FAQ’s
What is a 1652 Threepence Coin?
A rare coin minted in Boston, representing early New England’s independence.
Why did it sell for $2.52 million?
Its rarity and historical importance made it extremely valuable.
How many exist today?
Only two known surviving 1652 Threepence Coins.