Heritage World Coin Auctions
NYINC Signature Sale 3051 8-9 January 2017
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Japan
Custom Box and "Replacement" Coins from Meiji 13 (1880) Proof Set, While the previous 11 lots represent what is likely the most complete assemblage of the Meiji 13 proof set to be offered publicly, it was not entirely complete, with three denominations, the Rin, the Sen and the gold Yen, having been separated from the original set at one time. In their place, this set included those denominations, in standard circulation strike form, for completion. They are as follows:
1) Meiji 16 (1883) Rin - MS63 Brown NGC
2) Meiji 31 (1898) Sen - MS64 Brown NGC
3) Meiji 4 (1871) "High Dot" Yen - MS63 NGC
Together with the 11 proofs, these coins were stored in a custom Japanned wooden presentation case that dates to the early 20th century. Inside, the box is lined with vibrant green fabric, the base of which has a sunken holes to fit each coin. A sleeve of green cloth also exists independent of the lining and was intended to sit atop the coins for protection. Atop the box, a silver plate is engraved:
Grandpa and Grandma Kohn / To / Arnold Kohn 2nd / Sept. Fifth, 1915.
Although we know this set has resided with the same family for approximately 50 years, the whereabouts immediately prior are unknown. The addition of this beautiful case however establishes a provenance dating back over 100 years. While the reason that this amazing set was gifted remains unknown (as well as the true identity of Arnold Kohn, since the Kohn surname is not uncommon), we could certainly speculate that this was received on Arnold's birth, for his wedding or perhaps even as a Bar Mitzvah gift. Whatever the circumstance, the case provides a undeniable historical link, and adds rarely paralleled charm for a collectible. For that reason, we truly hope this case and the "replacement" coins offered along with it, remain intact with the other proofs, so that future generations of numismatists will be able to enjoy it as we have. For those contemplating just that, we absolutely wish you luck in your attempt to own this once-in-a-lifetime set.
From the Commander Collection
Estimate: 1000-2000 USD
Custom Box and "Replacement" Coins from Meiji 13 (1880) Proof Set, While the previous 11 lots represent what is likely the most complete assemblage of the Meiji 13 proof set to be offered publicly, it was not entirely complete, with three denominations, the Rin, the Sen and the gold Yen, having been separated from the original set at one time. In their place, this set included those denominations, in standard circulation strike form, for completion. They are as follows:
1) Meiji 16 (1883) Rin - MS63 Brown NGC
2) Meiji 31 (1898) Sen - MS64 Brown NGC
3) Meiji 4 (1871) "High Dot" Yen - MS63 NGC
Together with the 11 proofs, these coins were stored in a custom Japanned wooden presentation case that dates to the early 20th century. Inside, the box is lined with vibrant green fabric, the base of which has a sunken holes to fit each coin. A sleeve of green cloth also exists independent of the lining and was intended to sit atop the coins for protection. Atop the box, a silver plate is engraved:
Grandpa and Grandma Kohn / To / Arnold Kohn 2nd / Sept. Fifth, 1915.
Although we know this set has resided with the same family for approximately 50 years, the whereabouts immediately prior are unknown. The addition of this beautiful case however establishes a provenance dating back over 100 years. While the reason that this amazing set was gifted remains unknown (as well as the true identity of Arnold Kohn, since the Kohn surname is not uncommon), we could certainly speculate that this was received on Arnold's birth, for his wedding or perhaps even as a Bar Mitzvah gift. Whatever the circumstance, the case provides a undeniable historical link, and adds rarely paralleled charm for a collectible. For that reason, we truly hope this case and the "replacement" coins offered along with it, remain intact with the other proofs, so that future generations of numismatists will be able to enjoy it as we have. For those contemplating just that, we absolutely wish you luck in your attempt to own this once-in-a-lifetime set.
From the Commander Collection
Estimate: 1000-2000 USD