‘Treasure trove’ of gold coins in Cotswolds sale

A ‘treasure trove’ of antique and later coinage has been unearthed in an Oxfordshire town. The haul of over one hundred gold coins, dating from the late 17th century to the 20th century was discovered in Oxfordshire and is to appear at auction on May 23 at Kinghams Auctioneers.

The collection comprises gold Guineas, sovereigns, and other gold coinage from the USA, Canada, Australia, France, Peru, Sweden, Norway, South Africa, and the Isle of Man. The auction house said it was accumulated by the vendor’s husband over many years.

A small sample was brought into the regular valuation day at Wardington  Antiques Centre overseen by Kinghams Auctioneers’ representative Steven Bruce.

Highlights from the haul include a James II Guinea from 1686, estimated at £1,200-1,500, and a William & Mary ‘Elephant & Castle’ Guinea from 1689, carrying a £1,100-1,300 estimate.

There are also numerous Guineas, Half Guineas and Sovereigns from the reigns of George III, George IV, William IV, Victoria, Edward VII, George V, and Elizabeth II.

One of the rarest coins is a George IV half sovereign from 1821, which has an estimate of £2,000-2,500.

Representing the foreign gold coins, there is a France Napolean I 40 francs from 1811, estimated at £500-600, and a USA Liberty head 10 dollars from 1901, with a £500-600 estimate.

Steven Bruce commented: “Some of the coins are of a very good grade. It is the best collection I have seen in my long career. The quantity and quality rarely come up for sale, particularly belonging to one owner. With the strong market for gold and particularly rare coinage, this collection will attract international interest from collectors and investors.”

The entire collection is expected to fetch over £40,000.