Mint-State Sydney Mint Gold & Historical Medalets 2025-08-28 Auction - 349 Price Results - Smalls Auctions in NSW
Done
Sydney, Nsw, Australia
Auction Details

Mint-State Sydney Mint Gold & Historical Medalets

Welcome to Smalls Auctions Sale 331, which offers a rare and exciting selection for collectors. After nearly fifty years in the trade, it still surprises me that only two 1856 Sydney Mint Half Sovereigns have been graded Mint State by PCGS, both at MS62. While many recall seeing superb coins in the past, the rise of third-party grading has shown that not all would meet today’s strict criteria. The famous Quartermaster Collection, for example, contained many lightly cleaned coins, and although grading standards at PCGS and NGC have softened slightly in recent years, true originality remains highly prized. For this reason, I favour coins in their natural state, and this sale includes an outstanding 1856 Half Sovereign that matches the quality of the two recorded Mint State examples. Adding to the highlights are three Sydney Mint Sovereigns, each graded PCGS MS63, the highest or near-highest grade attainable for their dates, again in completely original condition. Beyond gold, the auction also showcases an appealing series of commemorative medalets from Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, struck across Australia in both cities and country towns. Many of these silver issues had mintages in the mere tens or low hundreds, with very few surviving examples today. Completing the offering is a charming group of ceramic pot lids, natural opal specimens, and a broad range of collector coins, providing opportunities for every level of bidder. This carefully curated sale reflects the enduring appeal of rarity, condition, and historical significance. Happy bidding from all of us at Smalls Auctions.