In a momentous event that captured the attention of numismatists and collectors alike, Heritage Auctions proudly presented the Harry W. Bass Jr. Core Collection Part IV US Coins Signature® Auction, which concluded with a staggering total of $20,739,900. This spectacular event, held in partnership with the ANA’s World Fair of Money, marked the fourth and final installment of the renowned collection, with all proceeds continuing to support various non-profit initiatives in Dallas through the Harry W. Bass Jr. Foundation.
The auction’s most notable highlights included two exceptional coins that stole the spotlight and showcased the fervor of the coin-collecting community. A 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle, PR69, and an 1829 Capped Head Left Half Eagle, PR66+ Cameo, commanded significant attention and fetched a combined sum of $8.16 million. These two remarkable coins showcased the diversity and historical significance of the collection, adding to its legacy as one of the most remarkable coin collections ever assembled.
The 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle, making its return to the auction block after nearly four decades, realized an impressive $4.32 million after 73 intense bidding rounds. With a rich history that includes ownership by notable collectors like John H. Clapp and Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr., this coin stands as a testament to the enduring allure of numismatic treasures.
Equally captivating, the 1829 Capped Head Left Half Eagle generated significant buzz, with 66 bids propelling its final price to an astonishing $3.84 million. This coin, a rarity in its own right, exemplifies the intricate design and craftsmanship that defines the collection.
Notably, the auction featured an array of coins that achieved seven-figure results, further emphasizing the exceptional quality of the collection. A 1798 Capped Bust Right Half Eagle, an 1828/7 Half Eagle, and a 1799 $10 Large Obverse Stars all reached remarkable prices, showcasing the depth and breadth of the collection’s significance in the numismatic world.
Todd Imhof, Executive Vice President at Heritage Auctions, expressed the team’s honor and pride in being chosen to showcase the Harry W. Bass Jr. Core Collection. Imhof reflected on the collection’s impact, stating, “It has surpassed every expectation, and we’re grateful not only to the Harry W. Bass Foundation for selecting Heritage but to our client-collectors who recognized the significance of the collection and, in the process, helped raise more than $83 million to benefit nonprofits in Heritage’s backyard.”
As the final hammer fell on this historic auction, it marked not only the end of a remarkable collection’s journey but also the continuation of its legacy through the impactful philanthropic endeavors it supports. The Harry W. Bass Jr. Core Collection Part IV Auction solidified its place in history as a testament to the passion and dedication of numismatic enthusiasts and collectors, leaving an indelible mark on the coin-collecting world.
For a comprehensive list of the auction’s results, interested parties can visit HA.com/1363 to explore the full scope of this extraordinary event. The auction stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of coin collecting and its ability to shape and enrich both cultural heritage and philanthropic efforts alike.
