In a remarkable discovery, a 17th-century silver coin minted in Boston has captivated the numismatic world by selling for an astounding $2.5 million.
This Massachusetts threepence, dating back to 1652, not only predates the American Revolution by over a century but also sets a new record for the highest price ever paid for a pre-Revolutionary American coin.
Historical Significance of the 1652 Massachusetts Threepence
The Massachusetts threepence holds immense historical value as one of the earliest coins produced in the American colonies. Struck in 1652, it was minted shortly after the establishment of the Boston Mint, which was created to address the shortage of currency in the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
The coin features the initials “NE” for New England on one side and the Roman numeral “III” indicating its value on the other, reflecting the colony’s early attempts at self-sufficiency and economic independence.
Discovery and Journey to Auction
The coin’s journey to the auction block is as fascinating as its historical context. It was discovered in 2016 in Amsterdam, hidden in a pasteboard box labeled “Silver token unknown/From Quincy Family/B. Ma. Dec, 1798.”
The owner, unaware of its significance, had inadvertently stumbled upon a rare piece of American history. After extensive testing and authentication, the coin was confirmed to be genuine, leading to its eventual sale at auction.
Auction Details and Record-Breaking Sale
The auction, conducted by Stack’s Bowers Galleries, saw the Massachusetts threepence sell for $2.5 million, shattering the previous record of $646,250 for a pre-Revolutionary American coin.
This sale underscores the coin’s rarity and the high demand for early American numismatic artifacts among collectors. The coin’s exceptional condition and historical importance contributed significantly to its record-breaking price.
Comparison of Notable Pre-Revolutionary American Coins
| Coin Name | Year | Mint Location | Previous Record Price | Current Record Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Threepence | 1652 | Boston | $646,250 | $2.5 million |
| New England Shilling | 1652 | Boston | $430,000 | $430,000 |
| Continental Dollar | 1776 | Philadelphia | $1.41 million | $1.41 million |
| Brasher Doubloon | 1787 | New York | $9.36 million | $9.36 million |
Implications for Numismatics and Historical Research
The sale of the Massachusetts threepence has significant implications for both numismatics and historical research. It highlights the enduring interest in colonial-era artifacts and the stories they tell about early American history.
For collectors, it emphasizes the value of rare and well-preserved coins, while historians gain a tangible connection to the economic practices and challenges of the 17th-century colonies.
