Sedwick Auction 37: Record Prices and a Market for the Advanced Collector

Sedwick Auction 37 delivered exceptional results, marked by record-breaking prices for standout rarities and a stellar performance by the Almenara Collection of gold coins from Potosí and Lima. With finest known examples, multiple provenances, and strong historical significance, these colonial treasures drew intense bidding, reaffirming the market’s focus on rarity, condition, and pedigree.

The results confirmed a trend we’ve observed across recent sales: this is a market driven by knowledgeable and discerning collectors – those who seek out the most important pieces and are willing to compete for them. From rare milled coinage to hand-struck cobs, buyers responded strongly to top-tier material. Shipwreck coins continued their momentum, with rising prices across the board and sustained interest from collectors who value both history and preservation.

At the same time, Auction 37 offered meaningful opportunities for new and mid-level collectors. Strong bidding across a range of price points demonstrated that there is still room for growth and participation at all levels, making this auction a success not only for established specialists but also for newcomers with a passion for numismatics.

This auction also marked a special milestone – it was the first time Sedwick hosted a live sale in their new offices. The in-house event brought together collectors, consignors, and guests for an exclusive and memorable experience.

Over the course of six sessions held from May 7 to 9 at the Sedwick offices in Maitland, Florida, the following highlights unfolded:

Lot 92.

• Lot 92: Large silver ingot 728 from Potosí, Class Factor 1.0, 76 lb oz troy, marked with dated 1621. Result: $66,000.
• Lot 124: Spain, Seville, gold cob 2 escudos, 1619 (G), PCGS AU55 (Atocha). Result: $51,000.
• Lot 46: Peru, Lima, gold cob 2 escudos, 1748 R, very rare, NGC MS 65, finest and only example in NGC census. Result: $39,000.
• Lot 495: Mexico, Mexico City, 3 reales, Charles-Joanna, “Early Series,” assayer Rincón. Result: $48,000.

Lot 1037.

• Lot 1037: Santo Domingo, 4 reales, Charles-Joanna, “Early Series,” assayer F to left. Result: $75,000.

Lot 1026.

• Lot 1026: Costa Rica, San José, gold 20 pesos, 1873 GW, very rare, NGC UNC details. Result: $54,000.
• Lot 848: Bolivia, Potosí, gold bust 2 escudos, Charles IV (bust of Charles III) 1789 PR AU 58, finest. Result: $48,000.
• Lot 1216: Peru, Lima, gold bust 4 escudos, Charles III, 1765 JM, second bust (“rat nose”), very rare. Result: $42,000.

Lot 1399.

• Lot 1399: Philippines, Guam, and the Mariana Islands (Spanish East Indies), cast 2 Reales-sized Proclamation. Result: $45,000.
• Lot 1665: Gold pendant with diamonds and emeralds, ex-Tolosa (1724), Borrell Plate, Smithsonian Plate. Result: $42,000.