By Numismatic News February 11, 2010

Gold coins highlighted a nearly $8 million auction conducted by Ira and Larry Goldberg Jan. 31-Feb. 2, just prior to the Long Beach Coin, Stamp and Collectibles Expo.

Topping the list of prices realized was $168,475 that purchased an 1879 Flowing Hair gold $4 that was graded Proof-65 by the Professional Coin Grading Service.

There were approximately 425+ specimens minted, the cataloger noted.

Also pointed out is that the coin is a nicely struck one for the issue, with only a trace of soft detail in some of Liberty’s hair curls above the temple.

It is described as a vivid gleaming gold specimen with some wonderful accents of color in the fields and on the devices of both sides and a small toned spot at UN(UM) on the reverse.

A 1930-S Saint-Gaudens $20 gold piece that PCGS graded MS-65 was bid to $161,000.

The cataloger said it is a stunning gem example bursting with rich mint bloom colors throughout.

Also noted is the coin has a Population of 8 with 5 finer in -66.

Bringing $157,550 was a high relief, wire rim. Roman numeral date 1907 Saint-Gaudens gold piece graded Proof-67 Star by Numismatic Guaranty Corp.

Population is 4; 3 finer, one in -68, one in -68 star, one in -69.

Another regular issue Saint-Gaudens was an auction highlight. A 1921 $20 NGC-graded MS-62 was bid to $143,750.

It was called a frosty example, by the cataloger, lightly toned with light bag marks on both sides.

The cataloger said in terms of total pieces known, the 1921 is fourth rarest in the Saint-Gaudens double eagle series after the 1907 ultra high relief, 1927-D, and 1933. Although there may be more 1921 double eagles in numismatic collections, the date is more difficult to find in Mint condition than even the widely admired 1930-S and 1931-D.

Fetching $120,750 was a Proof-66 Deep Cameo 1892 Liberty Head gold $20. It was graded by PCGS.

It was called a magnificent gem proof with superb rich golden-orange peel surfaces that glitter with deep mirror surfaces and heavily frosted devices in the catalog.

With only 93 proofs struck in 1892 (and an additional 4,000+ business strikes), the year is a noted rarity of the Liberty double eagle series.

For more information, contact the firm at (800) 978-2646, write 350 S. Beverly Drive, Suite 350, Beverly Hills, CA 90212, or visit www.goldbergcoins.com.



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• Strike It Rich with Pocket Change, 2nd Edition