The 1787 DBLN New York-Style Brasher Doubloon is one of the most legendary and valuable coins in the world, holding a place of reverence in numismatic history. Known for its impeccable craftsmanship, historical significance, and extreme rarity, this coin reflects the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit of early America.
In 2021, this extraordinary coin was sold for a record-breaking $9,360,000, making it one of the highest-priced coins ever sold at auction.
The Origins Of The Brasher Doubloon
Creator And Era
The Brasher Doubloon was crafted in 1787 by Ephraim Brasher, a highly skilled New York goldsmith and silversmith. This period marked a crucial phase in American history when privately minted coins were necessary to supplement the fledgling economy.
Purpose And Use
Unlike decorative coins or collectibles, the Brasher Doubloon was privately minted for circulation. It was designed as practical currency, with its value backed by the intrinsic worth of gold, offering both reliability and beauty.
Iconic Design Of The Brasher Doubloon
Obverse Features
The obverse side of the coin showcases:
- An eagle holding an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing peace and strength.
- The inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM”, emphasizing unity and the fledgling nation’s motto.
Reverse Features
The reverse design displays:
- A sun rising over a mountain, symbolizing optimism and progress.
- The motto “NOVA EBORACA” (Latin for New York) and “EXCELSIOR” (meaning “ever upward”), reflecting the aspirations of the state of New York.
Purity And Weight
Each coin was crafted to exacting standards, featuring high gold purity and precise weight. These meticulous production methods elevated the Brasher Doubloon’s reputation as reliable and exquisite currency.
Why The Brasher Doubloon Holds Such Importance
Historical Significance
As one of the first privately minted gold coins in the U.S., the Brasher Doubloon symbolizes a pivotal era in American coinage. It showcases early Americans’ resourcefulness in creating a stable economy before the establishment of the federal mint.
Rarity
With only a handful of examples known to exist, the Brasher Doubloon is among the rarest coins in the world, fueling its immense desirability among collectors.
Quality And Craftsmanship
The design and production quality of this coin reflect Ephraim Brasher’s exceptional skill. Its intricate motifs and precision set a benchmark for pre-federal coinage.
Ownership And Auction Highlights
Early Ownership
The coin’s illustrious history began with Matthew Stickney, a prominent numismatist who acquired it in 1848. Stickney’s ownership brought early attention to this numismatic marvel.
Record-Breaking Auctions
The Brasher Doubloon has consistently set auction records:
- 1979 (Garret Collection): Sold for $725,000, a significant sum at the time.
- 2021 (Heritage Auctions): Achieved a groundbreaking price of $9,360,000, cementing its status as one of the most valuable coins in the world.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Year Minted | 1787 |
| Creator | Ephraim Brasher |
| Design Highlights | Eagle with olive branch, sunrise over mountains, Latin mottos |
| Material | Gold (high purity) |
| Purpose | Circulation as currency |
| Auction Record | $9,360,000 (2021) |
| Known Examples | Fewer than 10 |
| Rarity | Extremely rare |
The Finest Example: MS65 Graded Coin
The 2021 auctioned Brasher Doubloon was graded MS65 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), making it the finest-known example. Its pristine condition significantly contributed to its record-breaking price.
What is the Brasher Doubloon made of?
The Brasher Doubloon is crafted from high-purity gold, ensuring its intrinsic and historical value.
How many Brasher Doubloons exist today?
Fewer than 10 examples of the Brasher Doubloon are known to exist, making it extremely rare.
Why is the Brasher Doubloon so expensive?
Its rarity, historical significance, exceptional craftsmanship, and provenance contribute to its high value. The coin sold for $9,360,000 in 2021.
