The Toronto-based auction firm Heffel has announced its plans to launch a website for its numismatics department later this year as the company looks to grow its presence in the sector.
Last May, Heffel made its first move into the numismatic world with the sale of “the Ultimate,” a one-of-a-kind one-kilo pure platinum coin issued by the Royal Canadian Mint with hundreds of pink diamonds, for $1.261 million (including buyer’s premium). Described by the Mint as a “singular masterpiece of numismatic art,” it set a price record for a coin auctioned in Canada when it sold to an anonymous bidder last May 31.
“We look forward to following its historic journey for decades to come,” President David Heffel said last year.
Formed in 1978 with a focus on fine art, Heffel now has offices in Toronto, Vancouver, Montréal, Ottawa and Calgary.
As part of its move into numismatics, the firm will also begin the retail sale of coins and bullion, including several of what it called “major pieces” from the Mint.
Long-time collector Katrina Cheng currently manages Heffel’s numismatics department. She previously worked as a numismatic specialist with the Royal Canadian Mint.
As of mid-February, Heffel is also seeking a full-time numismatist numismatic specialist to manage the firm’s forthcoming online retail coin store from either the Vancouver or Toronto office.