Penny collection draws heated bids at Bell’s Toronto Coin Expo sale

By Mike Walsh

Collectors were energized by fierce bidding and impressive results as rare pennies, exceptional varieties, Indigenous peace medals and specialized decimals took centre stage at Geoffrey Bell Auctions’ Fall Sale, held Friday, Oct. 4 during the Toronto Coin Expo.

Brian Bell, the New Brunswick-based auctioneer, hailed the event as a “very solid auction,” with standout performances across a wide range of lots. As the auction unfolded, Bell noted the clear strength of the Canadian numismatic market, with collectors displaying remarkable dedication and passion for acquiring high-quality coins. All prices listed include the buyer’s premium.

The highlight of the auction was undoubtedly Reg Albright’s extraordinary penny collection, which exceeded expectations.

“Nice coins with solid results. I’m certain he will be very pleased,” Bell reflected.

Leading the collection was Lot 64, a rare 1858 Canadian large cent with both a narrow 9 and low 9 in outstanding condition, which fetched $3,400. The appeal of this early Canadian coin attracted strong competition, setting the tone for a successful auction.

Praised for its excellent strike and eye appeal, Lot 71, an 1859 large cent featuring an inverted 9 and graded ICCS EF-40, surpassed its estimate, selling for $1,680. Continuing the momentum, Lot 74, an 1876H cent with a re-punched “A” in “Gratia,” sold for $305. Lot 78, another standout, offered collectors the opportunity to own an 1881H large cent with a re-punched “D” in “Dei.” This red cent, graded ICCS MS-63, sold for $1,080.

A particularly notable piece was Lot 119, an 1899 red cent from the renowned Landon collection, featuring a re-punched 9 (not noted on the holder), which achieved an impressive $2,400. Similarly, Lot 146, a 1923 MS-64 red cent, drew strong interest due to its rarity and exceptional eye appeal, ultimately selling for $5,760.

Bell explained that many of the cents from the Albright collection, particularly those with high grades and red colour designations, are incredibly difficult to find, which contributed to the intense bidding. For example, Lot 160, a 1936 red cent in MS-66, had a pre-sale estimate of $750 but closed at $2,280. The excitement continued with Lot 172, a 1948 Specimen-66 red cent with an “A” off denticle, which far exceeded its $700 estimate, selling for $2,800. Wrapping up the highlights was Lot 200, a 2006P MS-65 non-magnetic red cent, which brought in $2,040, well above its original estimate of $500.

While Albright’s collection garnered much of the spotlight, several other lots made a significant impact. The Oct. 4 sale marked the debut of the Geoffrey Bell Indian Peace Medal Collection, a momentous occasion. Geoffrey Bell, a highly respected dealer and collector who died July 24, left behind a lasting legacy that deeply influenced the Canadian numismatic community.

One of the most highly anticipated pieces from the Bell collection was the  …

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