$65.4M in Rare US Coins Ignites Heritage’s 2025 FUN Auctions to Over $78M

A Record-Breaking Start to 2025

Heritage Auctions kicked off the numismatic year with a blockbuster performance at the 2025 Florida United Numismatists (FUN) Convention, held January 15–19 in Orlando. The US Coins Signature Auction soared to $62.7 million, with an additional $2.8 million from the COL Steven K. Ellsworth Collection of Large Cents, totaling $65.4 million in coin sales. Combined with a $12.8 million US Currency Auction, the event reached $78.3 million, marking one of Heritage’s most successful FUN auctions ever. Five coins fetched seven-figure sums, driven by elite collections like that of Bruce Sherman, chairman of the Miami Marlins, showcasing the enduring allure of rare US coins.

Star Coins Steal the Spotlight

The auction’s crown jewel was a 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, graded MS65+ by PCGS, which sold for $3.84 million to GreatCollections. This coin, the rarest regular-issue 20th-century American coin, survived the 1933 gold recall, with only 12–13 known examples. Another standout was a 1798 Capped Bust Right Half Eagle (AU55 PCGS) from Sherman’s collection, fetching $3 million and surpassing its prior record of $1.98 million. The 1894-S Barber Dime (PR66 PCGS), one of nine known and part of the “Big Three” US rarities alongside the 1804 dollar and 1913 Liberty nickel, brought $2.16 million, eclipsing its 2016 record.

Coin	Grade	Sale Price
1927-D Double Eagle	MS65+ PCGS	$3.84M
1798 Half Eagle	AU55 PCGS	$3M
1894-S Barber Dime	PR66 PCGS	$2.16M

Elite Collections Fuel Demand

Sherman’s collection, among the finest in numismatics, produced multiple highlights, including a 1792 Silver Center Cent (SP45+ PCGS) that sold for $1.02 million. The Mississippi Collection of Double Eagles and the Kutz Collection of Indian gold coins also drew fierce bidding, with Kutz’s PCGS Registry Sets ranking among the all-time finest. The Ellsworth Collection of Large Cents, featuring 1796–1814 issues, added depth, with a single lot of rare cents fetching $2.8 million. Heritage’s ability to attract such prestigious consignments underscores its dominance, with over 12,100 bidders participating, reflecting a robust market.

A Thriving Numismatic Market

The FUN auction’s success signals a strong 2025 for coin collecting, with Heritage’s numismatic sales surpassing $100 million in January when combined with the NYINC World & Ancient Coins Auction. Todd Imhof, Heritage’s Executive VP, noted the “depth of our bidder base” absorbing high-value rarities at solid prices. However, some collectors on X expressed skepticism about auction house premiums, suggesting direct sales to avoid fees. Despite this, the sale of coins like the 1863 Liberty Double Eagle (PR65 NGC) for $480,000 from the Casady Collection highlights sustained demand for quality and rarity.

What’s Next for Collectors?

Heritage’s next major event, the Central States Numismatic Society Auction (April 30–May 4), will feature more from Sherman’s collection, promising further record-breaking opportunities. Collectors are advised to verify coin authenticity through PCGS or NGC and consult experts before consigning or bidding. The FUN auction’s results, with 59 lots exceeding $100,000, affirm numismatics as a vibrant investment and passion. As Heritage continues to innovate with online bidding platforms like Heritage Live!, the global collecting community eagerly awaits the next chance to own a piece of history.

Frequently Asked Questions