World · India Bureau
Texas family's 159-year-old gold coin fetches nearly $98,000 at auction
A rare 1867-S Liberty Half Eagle gold coin discovered in a Texas closet has sold for $97,600 after remaining in a family's possession for over a century and a half. The exceptional piece, once owned by a Union soldier, commanded significant interest among numismatic collectors.
LSN India ·
The gold coin, minted in San Francisco in 1867, emerged from obscurity when it was uncovered in a residential closet, where it had languished since the end of the American Civil War era. Experts attributed its remarkable auction value to both its scarcity and exceptional condition, which has preserved the coin's original lustre and detail across nearly two centuries.
The 1867-S Liberty Half Eagle represents one of the most coveted pieces among American gold coin collectors, with relatively few examples known to exist in pristine condition. The specific provenance linking the coin to a Union soldier added to its historical significance and appeal to bidders seeking artifacts with documented military heritage.
Competition at the auction proved intense, with multiple collectors vying for the piece before a private buyer ultimately secured it for the final price of $97,600. The sale underscores the enduring value of rare American coinage and the potential financial rewards for families who carefully preserve historical artifacts across generations.