The world of rare coin collecting witnessed a spectacular event in 2021 when two NGC-certified coins from the 1700s each soared past the million-dollar mark at a major auction. These results underscored the immense value and collector confidence in coins authenticated and graded by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). This trend highlights a vibrant market where historical significance, rarity, and third-party certification converge to create extraordinary value.
The Crown Jewels of the Auction
Two exceptional pieces stood out, each representing a unique chapter in early American numismatic history.
1792 Judd-13 Pattern Quarter
Graded NGC AU 58, this incredible rarity achieved a final price of $1.26 million. What makes this coin so special is its extreme scarcity; it is one of only four known examples. Struck in the early 1790s, this pattern was part of the US Mint's preparations for a national coinage. Although this specific design was never adopted for circulating quarters, its design elements influenced the first quarters issued just a few years later. This particular specimen had never before been offered at a public auction, adding to its allure and historic significance.
1776 Silver Continental Dollar
This iconic piece, graded NGC VF 35 and pedigreed to the prestigious Romano and Partrick Collections, realized $1.14 million. Continental Dollars are a highly prized niche due to their powerful designs and the all-important "1776" date. This coin is one of only four known examples struck in silver, and significantly, all four are certified by NGC. Each of these silver specimens has now achieved a selling price exceeding one million dollars, cementing their status as legendary rarities.
A Landmark Year for NGC-Certified Coins
With the sale of these two coins, a total of eight NGC-certified pieces had surpassed the million-dollar threshold in 2021 by the end of April. This demonstrated an unprecedented level of market performance and collector confidence.
The other six million-dollar-plus NGC-certified coins sold that year included:
- A 1787 ‘EB’ on Wing Brasher Doubloon (NGC MS 65★) that realized $9.36 million.
- A 1907 Extremely High Relief Double Eagle (NGC PF 68) that sold for $3.6 million.
- A Russia 1825 Rouble (NGC PF 62) that achieved $2.64 million.
- A Great Britain 1937 Gold Pattern Edward VIII 5 Sovereign (NGC PF 67 Ultra Cameo) that brought $2.28 million.
- A 1786 Lima-Style Brasher Doubloon (NGC MS 61) that sold for $2.1 million.
- An 1880 Coiled Hair Stella (NGC PF 67 Cameo) that realized $1.86 million.
This remarkable streak confirmed NGC's role as a critical facilitator of high-value numismatic transactions. As one expert noted, the consistent trust in NGC’s authentication and grading services empowers bidders from around the world to participate confidently in the market for extreme rarities.
Highlights from the Partrick Collection
The Central States auction also featured numerous other highlights from the renowned Donald G. Partrick Collection, many of which were NGC-certified.
A significant medal from this collection was a 1793 Oval George Washington Peace Medal, certified by NGC as genuine and pedigreed to the Brand Collection. With only about 50 genuine examples known—most residing in museums—this piece achieved a formidable $630,000.
The collection also included a 1796 No Pole Half Cent, graded NGC MS 63+ BN. This coin is one of only four known examples in Mint State and realized a strong price of $432,000.
Additional Auction Standouts
The sale was filled with other notable NGC-certified coins that performed exceptionally well, demonstrating the depth of the market for certified quality. Key results included:
- A 1796 With Pole Half Cent (NGC MS 65 RB) that sold for $384,000.
- Two separate 1870-CC $20 gold pieces (graded NGC XF 45 and XF 40) that realized $384,000 and $360,000, respectively.
- A 1943 Bronze Cent (NGC AU 55 BN) that achieved $240,000.
- An 1833 $5 proof coin (NGC PF 61) that sold for $240,000.
These prices, which include the buyer's premium, reflect a robust and discerning market where third-party certification is a key driver of value and liquidity.
Understanding the NGC Certification Advantage
The consistent performance of NGC-certified coins is no accident. NGC is the world's largest and most trusted third-party grading service, having certified over 49 million coins, tokens, and medals since its founding in 1987.
The core benefits of NGC certification include:
- Accuracy and Consistency: NGC provides an impartial and consistent assessment of a coin's authenticity and grade.
- Guarantee of Authenticity: Every certified coin is backed by a comprehensive guarantee, giving buyers supreme confidence in their purchase.
- Market Performance: This confidence directly translates into higher realized prices and greater liquidity for sellers, making NGC certification a valuable asset for any serious collector or investor. For those looking to understand the value of their own collections, exploring professional grading services is a highly recommended first step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean for a coin to be "NGC-certified"?
NGC-certified means that a coin has been independently authenticated, graded, and encapsulated by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation. This process verifies the coin is genuine and assigns it a grade on a standardized scale, which helps determine its market value.
Why do NGC-certified coins often sell for more money?
Collectors and investors place a high degree of trust in NGC's consistent and impartial grading standards. This trust reduces the risk of purchasing counterfeit or overgraded coins, leading to greater buyer confidence and, consequently, higher bidding and final sale prices.
What is a "pattern coin" like the 1792 Judd-13?
A pattern coin is a prototype piece struck by a mint to test a new design, metal composition, or denomination. They are typically produced in very small quantities and were never intended for general circulation, making them exceptionally rare and desirable to collectors.
How does a coin's "pedigree" affect its value?
A pedigree refers to the documented history of previous ownership of a coin. A provenance from a famous or esteemed collection can significantly enhance a coin's value and desirability, as it adds a layer of history and confirms the coin's importance within the numismatic community.
Are all high-value coins from the 1700s?
While many ultra-high-value coins are from the 18th and 19th centuries due to their rarity and historical importance, modern coins can also be extremely valuable. Key factors are always rarity, condition, and demand, regardless of the era.
What should I do if I think I have a rare coin?
First, handle it carefully by the edges to preserve its condition. Then, conduct research to compare it to known examples online. For a definitive assessment, consider submitting it to a professional grading service like NGC for authentication and grading. To get started with the evaluation process, research their submission guidelines.