1652 New England threepence coin auction set for over $1M

A rare 1652 New England threepence coin will be auctioned in November by Stack's Bowers Galleries in Boston, with expectations of it selling for over a million dollars. This coin is one of only three known to exist, with one having been stolen from a Yale collection. The coin's pristine condition sets it apart, as the other known example has a hole in it. The coin was acquired from a shop in the Netherlands and has historical ties to Massachusetts, specifically the area now occupied by Macy's near Downtown Crossing. The coin is believed to have connections to the Quincy family, and it is speculated that notable figures like Abigail Adams and her husband, John Adams, may have possessed it at some point. The coin features distinct engravings, including 'N-E' representing New England and the Roman numeral three indicating its value of threepence. Stanley Chu, the Store Manager at Stack's Bowers Galleries, emphasizes the coin's remarkable preservation, suggesting that its previous owners may have recognized its potential value and stored it carefully. Stack's Bowers Galleries is known for handling rare New England coins and bills, including a note engraved by Paul Revere. However, the 1652 threepence is anticipated to be the most valuable item they have auctioned. The auction is expected to attract significant interest from collectors and historians alike, given the coin's rarity and historical significance. The upcoming auction not only highlights the coin's monetary value but also its cultural and historical importance, reflecting the rich heritage of colonial America. As the only example available to the public, this threepence coin represents a unique opportunity for collectors to own a piece of history.