A unique gold coin, hailed as one of the most famous among numismatic enthusiasts, recently sold for an astounding $9.36 million at auction. This historic coin, known as the New York-style Brasher Doubloon, holds an iconic place in the world of collectible coins.
The History Behind the Brasher Doubloon
- Minted in 1787, these coins are among the rare pre-federal, privately minted gold pieces in the United States.
- Designed and crafted by Ephraim Brasher, a goldsmith and silversmith, the doubloons were intended for circulation.
- Heritage Auctions described the coin as the “world’s most famous numismatic rarity,” underscoring its significance in the colonial coinage series.
Of the seven known examples, this auctioned piece is celebrated for its exceptional design and historical value.
Design Highlights
- Obverse (Front):
- Features a stylized version of the state coat of arms, showcasing the sun rising over a mountain peak.
- Brasher’s name is etched into the body of water at the mountain’s base.
- Reverse (Back):
- Depicts an eagle with outspread wings, clutching an olive branch in one claw and a bundle of arrows in the other—a symbol of peace and preparedness.
- The eagle bears a shield on its chest, with Brasher’s initials stamped in varying locations across the seven coins.
Around the rim, the coin bears the inscription “Unum E Pluribus” alongside its date, flanked by intricate rosettes.
- Composition: The doubloon is crafted from 89.3% gold, 6.4% copper, and trace elements, reflecting 18th-century minting practices.
Lost Treasure: Doubloons Discovered in Florida
Beyond auction houses, stories of gold doubloons often evoke dreams of buried treasures. One such tale unfolded off the coast of Vero Beach, Florida, where treasure hunter William Bartlett discovered a trove of 300-year-old gold coins.
- The haul, valued at $4.5 million, included nine royal eight escudos, rare artifacts linked to Spain’s colonial history.
- These coins were part of a shipment destined for the King of Spain, lost to a hurricane centuries ago.
Bartlett’s discovery was made at a wreck site owned by treasure hunter Brent Brisben’s company, which retained a share of the find’s value. Additionally, Florida’s state authorities claimed 20% of the treasure.
The Legacy Lives On
From auction rooms to the ocean floor, gold doubloons continue to captivate collectors and adventurers alike. Whether it’s the artistry of the Brasher Doubloon or the allure of sunken treasures, these coins remain a testament to the rich history and enduring fascination with numismatics.
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