Hawaii Five-O "$100,000 Nickel" Sells For a Cool $3.7 Million

Article Written January, 2010

2010 started with a bang as the Olsen specimen of the 1913 Liberty nickel, often referred to as America's most famous coin, crossed the auction block in Heritage's Thursday evening Platinum sale. This same coin broke the $100,000 price threshold for a rare coin in 1973, and subsequently became the star of a Hawaii Five-O episode (a popular series from 1968-1980). That there were at least three different bidders willing to pay in excess of $3.25 million for this coin is testament to the strength of the market for special rarities. And it was not only six and seven figure coins garnering serious demand. Sales have been brisk for coins of especially high-quality in nearly all series and denominations.

While things were a bit quiet pre-show, with wholesale business surprisingly sluggish, collectors turned out in force on Thursday and Friday. We had the privilege of buying and selling from many long-time clients, as well as to a surprising number we had never before met. The FUN convention lags only the summer ANA as the best attended numismatic venue, and it is always a pleasure to visit with so many friendly faces. Although business has been decidedly strong for us in the office (especially for typically laggard December), volume exceeded our ample expectations.

One of the highlights was the purchase of the all-time finest Washington-Carver collection from a savvy Silver Commemorative collector in Florida we have worked with for many years. Each coin was splendidly toned and of the most exquisite quality. It included 4 of the 6 dates available in PCGS MS67 condition. We also purchased a spectacularly preserved 1911 $5 PCGS PR67, a near-gem example of the elusive 1837 Half Eagle in PCGS MS64, a great grouping of high-grade Barber dimes and Liberty nickels, and many other fabulous rarities. All in all we purchased nearly 100 coins. Of course, the majority are already sold or en route to collectors, so please give us an opportunity to purchase your treasures when it comes time to sell. We have many clients seeking a limited number of great coins, but fortunately we have placed many such coins with those of you reading this. In fact, this week we have an amazing 1923-S Walker in PCGS MS67 coming back to us from a client with whom we placed it back in 2004. (And yes, we already have want lists for this!)

2010 looks to be a great year for coins. We look forward to hearing from you!


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