Heritage Auctions

Major Numismatic Auction House and Global Collectibles Marketplace

Founded in 1976, Heritage Auctions has grown into one of the largest collectibles auction houses in the world and one of the most influential firms in the rare coin and numismatic marketplace. Based in Dallas, Texas, Heritage conducts major auctions in U.S. coins, world and ancient coins, rare currency, medals, tokens, and other collectibles, while also offering online bidding, auction archives, direct purchase opportunities, appraisals, and consignment services.

History and Development

Heritage traces its roots to the rare coin businesses of Steve Ivy and James Halperin.

Steve Ivy began selling rare coins as a teenager in the 1960s and incorporated an auction company in 1976. James Halperin built New England Rare Coin Galleries and developed a reputation for consistent grading standards and technology-driven numismatics. In 1982, part of Halperin’s business merged with Ivy’s company, and the combined firm became Heritage.

Over the following decades, Heritage expanded from a numismatic auction firm into a major international collectibles marketplace.

Today, the company handles categories far beyond coins, but numismatics remains one of its core specialties.

Numismatic Auctions

Heritage conducts a wide range of numismatic auctions throughout the year.

Its coin and currency categories include:

• United States coins

• World coins

• Ancient coins

• United States currency

• World paper money

• Medals and tokens

• Certified rare coins

• Gold coinage

• Major named collections

Heritage holds Signature Auctions, weekly Internet-only coin auctions, world and ancient coin auctions, and other specialized auction formats.

Signature Auctions

Heritage’s Signature Auctions are among its most recognized auction formats.

These events often feature higher-value coins and major collections and may be scheduled in conjunction with important numismatic conventions or collector events.

Heritage also conducts dedicated Signature Auctions for world and ancient coins.

Weekly Internet Auctions

Heritage also conducts regular online-only auctions.

These auctions provide collectors with access to certified U.S. coins, world and ancient coins, and other numismatic material without requiring attendance at a live event.

The online format has become an important part of Heritage’s marketplace and allows bidders from around the world to participate.

Auction Archives

One of Heritage’s most useful resources is its permanent auction archive.

Collectors can research previous auction results and review information such as:

• Coin descriptions

• Images

• Pedigrees

• Certification details

• Realized prices

• Historical auction appearances

The archive can be valuable when researching the market history of a particular coin, variety, or collection.

Online Bidding and Technology

Heritage has been an early adopter of technology within the numismatic marketplace.

The company developed extensive online bidding systems and auction archives that allow collectors to research, register, bid, track lots, and review results through a single platform.

Heritage describes its auction system as designed to connect bidders across multiple auction formats while providing consistent access through its website.

U.S. Coins

United States coinage remains one of Heritage’s core specialties.

Its U.S. coin auctions can include:

• Early American coinage

• Colonial issues

• Federal coinage

• Gold coins

• Morgan and Peace dollars

• Commemoratives

• Proof coinage

• Mint State rarities

• Certified modern coins

Heritage maintains a dedicated U.S. coin team and offers both auctions and direct-purchase inventory.

World and Ancient Coins

Heritage also maintains a major international numismatic department.

Its world and ancient coin auctions include material from many countries, civilizations, and historical periods.

The company’s international numismatic division has expanded significantly over time and now conducts numerous specialized events each year.

Rare Currency and Paper Money

Heritage is also active in the currency market.

Its currency division handles:

• United States banknotes

• National Bank Notes

• Silver Certificates

• Confederate currency

• Obsolete banknotes

• World paper money

• Rare and high-grade certified notes

The company maintains dedicated currency specialists who oversee consignment acquisition, cataloging, marketing, and auction management.

Consignments

Collectors and estates may consign coins and other collectibles to Heritage for auction.

Heritage works with consignors to determine the most appropriate auction format based on the type, value, rarity, and marketability of the material being offered.

Depending on the collection, Heritage may recommend:

• Signature Auctions

• Weekly Internet Auctions

• World Coin Auctions

• Specialized catalog auctions

• Other targeted auction formats

A personal consignment specialist may assist with the process.

Appraisals

Heritage also offers appraisal-related services.

Collectors, families, estates, trusts, and institutions may seek assistance in understanding the potential auction value or marketability of numismatic holdings.

The company provides access to specialists across multiple collecting categories, including rare coins and currency.

Trusts and Estates

Heritage offers services for trusts and estates, which can be especially important when heirs or fiduciaries are responsible for disposing of a specialized collection.

The company provides resources for evaluating, organizing, and potentially consigning collections through its auction platform.

This can be useful when an estate contains rare coins, currency, or other collectibles that require specialized knowledge.

Collector Resources

Heritage provides numerous educational and research tools for collectors.

These resources include:

• Auction calendars

• Auction result archives

• Coin grading tutorials

• Price guides

• Collecting guides

• Expert Q&A

• Coin-care information

• Virtual collection tools

• Numismatic books and research materials

These tools extend Heritage’s role beyond auctioneering and make the site a useful research destination for collectors.

Global Reach

Heritage has developed a substantial international presence.

Its offices and operations extend beyond Dallas and include locations in major U.S. and international markets such as New York, Beverly Hills, Chicago, London, Paris, Munich, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Amsterdam, Brussels, Geneva, and others.

The company also reports millions of registered bidder-members from countries around the world.

Leadership

Heritage’s numismatic development has been closely associated with founders Steve Ivy and James Halperin.

Ivy began buying and selling rare coins as a teenager and later developed the auction business that became part of Heritage.

Halperin brought expertise in rare coin grading, technology, and large-scale numismatic trading.

Their combined experience helped establish Heritage as one of the dominant names in the American rare coin auction business.

Why Heritage Auctions Matters

Heritage Auctions has played an important role in the evolution of the modern rare coin marketplace.

Its combination of traditional auction expertise, digital bidding, extensive auction archives, specialist research, and global participation has helped make important coins and collections accessible to a wider audience.

For collectors, Heritage provides both a marketplace and a research resource.

Its influence is especially visible through:

• Major public auctions

• Online bidding

• Auction archives

• Certified coin sales

• Rare currency auctions

• World and ancient coin auctions

• Estate and consignment services

• Collector education

• Market research

Heritage remains one of the most recognizable names in numismatic auctioneering and a major venue for collectors buying and selling significant rare coins and currency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Heritage Auctions?

Heritage Auctions is a major collectibles auction house founded in 1976 and based in Dallas, Texas. It conducts auctions in rare coins, currency, art, jewelry, sports collectibles, and many other categories.

Does Heritage specialize in rare coins?

Yes. Numismatics is one of Heritage’s core specialties, including U.S. coins, world coins, ancient coins, rare currency, medals, and tokens.

Can collectors bid online?

Yes. Heritage conducts online bidding across its auction formats, including weekly Internet-only auctions and major Signature Auctions.

Can collectors consign coins to Heritage?

Yes. Heritage accepts consignments and works with sellers to determine the most appropriate auction format for their material.

Does Heritage publish past auction results?

Yes. Heritage maintains an extensive auction archive containing descriptions, images, pedigrees, and realized prices from past sales.

Does Heritage handle world and ancient coins?

Yes. Heritage has a dedicated World and Ancient Coins division and regularly conducts specialized auctions in those categories.

Does Heritage handle rare currency?

Yes. Heritage maintains a dedicated currency division covering U.S. and world paper money.

Does Heritage work with estates?

Yes. Heritage provides services related to trusts and estates and can assist with appraisal and disposition of collectible property.

Official Website

To learn more about Heritage Auctions, including upcoming rare coin and currency auctions, auction archives, bidding information, consignments, appraisals, and collector resources, visit the company’s official numismatic website.

Historic Rare Coin Auction House and Global Numismatic Firm

Stack’s Bowers Galleries is one of the most historically significant names in American numismatics, with roots dating to 1933. The firm conducts live, online, and specialized auctions of rare U.S., world, and ancient coins, paper money, medals, tokens, bullion, and other numismatic material while also providing direct sales, appraisals, collection management, estate-planning services, and other advisory services.

Over nearly a century, Stack’s Bowers has cataloged and sold some of the most important collections in numismatic history and remains one of the most recognized auction firms serving collectors, estates, institutions, and professional numismatists around the world.

History and Development

The Stack’s name entered professional numismatics in New York in 1933.

Over the decades, the firm became closely associated with major rare coin auctions, detailed cataloging, important private collections, and some of the most significant U.S. coins ever offered publicly.

The modern Stack’s Bowers Galleries combines that historic legacy with the Bowers numismatic tradition and today operates as a major international rare coin and currency firm.

Its auction history includes many famous collections, including:

• The D. Brent Pogue Collection

• The John J. Ford, Jr. Collection

• The Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection

• The Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection

• The Norweb Collection

• The Cardinal Collection

• The Joel R. Anderson Collection

• The Fairmont Collection

• The Battle Born Collection

These names represent some of the most significant pedigrees and collections in American numismatic history.

U.S. Coin Auctions

United States coins remain one of Stack’s Bowers Galleries’ core specialties.

Its auctions regularly feature:

• Colonial and early American coinage

• Half cents and large cents

• Early silver coinage

• Seated Liberty issues

• Morgan and Peace dollars

• United States gold coins

• Saint-Gaudens double eagles

• Commemorative coins

• Proof coinage

• Patterns and experimental issues

• Certified condition rarities

• Major pedigreed collections

The company conducts both major Showcase Auctions and more frequent Collectors Choice Online Auctions, giving collectors access to material across a wide range of price levels.

World and Ancient Coins

Stack’s Bowers is also active in the international numismatic marketplace.

Its world and ancient coin auctions may include:

• Ancient Greek coins

• Roman coinage

• Medieval issues

• European coinage

• Asian coinage

• Latin American coins

• World gold coins

• Historic crowns and talers

• Modern world rarities

• Important private collections

The firm has also handled major world-coin collections such as the Eliasberg World Gold Collection, the Kroisos Collection, the Wa She Wong Collection, the Belzberg Collection, and the Salton Collection. 

Rare Currency and Paper Money

Stack’s Bowers Galleries also conducts auctions of important United States and world paper money.

Material can include:

• Colonial notes

• Continental currency

• National Bank Notes

• Large-size U.S. currency

• Small-size notes

• Federal Reserve Notes

• Gold Certificates

• Silver Certificates

• Confederate currency

• Obsolete banknotes

• World paper money

• High-grade certified rarities

Currency sessions are frequently included in major Showcase Auctions and specialized sales.

Major Collections and Pedigrees

One of Stack’s Bowers Galleries’ defining strengths is its association with major named collections.

Pedigree can be particularly important in numismatics because ownership history may connect a coin to famous collectors, landmark auctions, or historically significant cabinets.

Stack’s Bowers has handled collections assembled by some of the most famous names in the hobby.

Detailed auction catalogs often preserve:

• Provenance

• Ownership history

• Prior auction appearances

• Rarity information

• Historical research

• Condition analysis

• Numismatic commentary

These catalogs have become research references in their own right.

The 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar

One of the most famous coins associated with Stack’s Bowers Galleries is the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar graded Specimen-66 by PCGS.

The coin was sold by Stack’s Bowers as part of the Cardinal Collection and realized more than $10 million, establishing a world auction record for a rare coin that stood from 2013 through 2021.

The sale remains one of the landmark moments in modern numismatic auction history.

Record-Setting Auctions

Stack’s Bowers continues to conduct major auctions producing substantial prices for important rarities.

For example, in its Spring 2026 Showcase Auction, an 1882 Proof $20 gold piece realized $810,000, more than doubling the previous auction record for that issue.

In 2025, Stack’s Bowers reported more than $325 million in total auction prices realized across over 134,000 lots of coins, banknotes, medals, tokens, and other numismatic collectibles.

Auction Formats

Stack’s Bowers Galleries offers several auction formats designed for different types of material and collectors.

These include:

• Major Showcase Auctions

• Collectors Choice Online Auctions

• Premier Collectors Choice Auctions

• Precious Metals Auctions

• Specialized collection auctions

• Convention auctions

• World and ancient coin auctions

• Currency auctions

• Live-streamed auctions

This variety allows both major rarities and more accessible collector material to reach the marketplace.

Griffin Studios

Stack’s Bowers operates Griffin Studios at its headquarters in Costa Mesa, California.

The company describes the facility as a custom-built broadcast, television, film, and event studio designed specifically to enhance live auction presentations.

Its live auctions incorporate technologies such as:

• Livestream bidding

• Professional broadcast production

• Online bidding

• Coins in Motion imaging

• Real-time lot presentation

This represents the firm’s effort to combine traditional auctioneering with modern digital participation.

Coins in Motion

Stack’s Bowers developed Coins in Motion, an imaging technology designed to show coins dynamically rather than relying solely on static photographs.

The technology helps bidders examine:

• Luster

• Surface appearance

• Reflectivity

• Color

• Relief

• Overall eye appeal

For online bidders who cannot inspect a coin in person, enhanced visual presentation can provide additional information when evaluating a lot.

Auction Archives

Stack’s Bowers maintains extensive online auction archives.

These archives allow collectors and researchers to study:

• Past auction lots

• Realized prices

• Coin descriptions

• Historical pedigrees

• Photographs

• Rarity information

• Previous appearances

• Important named collections

The company has continued expanding its searchable archives to include material from historic Stack’s, American Numismatic Rarities, and other predecessor sales.

Catalog Library

Stack’s Bowers also preserves a substantial catalog library.

Historic auction catalogs are valuable because they document coins, collections, pedigrees, market conditions, and numismatic scholarship from earlier generations.

For advanced collectors and researchers, old auction catalogs can sometimes provide information unavailable elsewhere.

Consigning Coins and Currency

Collectors may consign coins, currency, medals, tokens, and other numismatic material to Stack’s Bowers for auction.

The process generally begins with a consultation with a consignment specialist.

The company may assist with:

• Evaluation

• Auction placement

• Cataloging

• Professional photography

• Worldwide marketing

• Lot viewing

• Online bidding exposure

• Settlement following the auction

Consignors can work directly with specialists through the company’s offices or remotely.

Direct Purchase

Not every collection needs to be sold at auction.

Stack’s Bowers also purchases coins, currency, and bullion directly.

For some sellers, a direct purchase may provide:

• Faster settlement

• Immediate liquidity

• Simpler disposition

• Avoidance of the auction timeline

The appropriate method depends on the material, value, rarity, market demand, and goals of the owner.

Appraisals

Stack’s Bowers provides appraisal services for collectors, estates, fiduciaries, and institutions.

Available services can include:

• Verbal evaluations

• Estate appraisals

• Insurance appraisals

• IRS-related appraisals

• Collection evaluations

• Consignment consultations

The firm’s broad specialist network allows it to evaluate a wide range of numismatic material.

Estate Planning Services

Stack’s Bowers also specifically offers Numismatic Estate Planning Services.

This can be valuable for collectors who want to prepare in advance for the eventual transfer, management, or disposition of a collection.

Numismatic estate planning may involve:

• Collection documentation

• Valuation

• Organization

• Succession considerations

• Advice for heirs or fiduciaries

• Future auction or sale planning

This service reflects the reality that significant collections often require specialized planning beyond ordinary estate assets.

Collection Management

The company also provides collection-management services.

Collectors may use these resources to organize and understand holdings over time.

Collection management can become increasingly important as a collection grows in size, complexity, or value.

Institutional Services

Stack’s Bowers works not only with individual collectors but also with institutions.

Its institutional services can involve specialized numismatic expertise, valuation, acquisition, disposition, and collection-related consulting.

That broadens the company’s role beyond traditional public auctions.

Official Convention Auctions

Stack’s Bowers Galleries serves as an official auctioneer for several important numismatic conventions and events.

These have included:

• American Numismatic Association events

• New York International Numismatic Convention

• Baltimore numismatic auctions

• Hong Kong auctions

Association with major conventions gives collectors opportunities to combine lot viewing, education, dealer activity, and live auctions at significant hobby events.

Global Presence

Stack’s Bowers has expanded significantly beyond its historic New York roots.

The company is headquartered in Costa Mesa, California and maintains offices, galleries, or representatives in numerous locations.

These include:

• Costa Mesa

• Boston

• Miami

• New York

• Philadelphia

• San Francisco

• Tulsa

• Wolfeboro

• Hong Kong

• Copenhagen

• Paris

• Vancouver

Additional representatives serve clients in other regions.

Leadership

Stack’s Bowers Galleries is led by President Brian Kendrella.

Kendrella became president in 2013 when the company’s numismatic operations were consolidated into the Stack’s Bowers Galleries brand.

Under his leadership, the company has continued expanding its domestic and international presence while developing new technologies and services for collectors and consignors.

Research and Numismatic Scholarship

Stack’s Bowers Galleries has long been associated with detailed numismatic research.

Auction descriptions frequently contain information regarding:

• Coin history

• Mintage

• Rarity

• Die varieties

• Pedigree

• Previous auction appearances

• Condition census information

• Historical context

For important coins and collections, auction catalogs may become permanent scholarly references used by future collectors and researchers.

Why Stack’s Bowers Galleries Matters

Stack’s Bowers Galleries matters because its history is closely intertwined with the development of the American rare coin auction market.

For generations, the firm and its predecessors have handled some of the most important coins and collections ever assembled.

Its influence can be seen through:

• Major public auctions

• Historic named collections

• Record-setting coin sales

• Detailed auction catalogs

• Numismatic research

• World and ancient coin auctions

• Currency auctions

• Digital bidding technology

• Auction archives

• Estate-planning services

• Collection-management services

• International expansion

Few numismatic auction firms combine the same depth of historical legacy with modern auction technology and global reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stack’s Bowers Galleries?

Stack’s Bowers Galleries is a rare coin and currency auction and dealing firm with roots dating to 1933. It conducts live, online, and specialized auctions while also offering direct sales and numismatic services.

What does Stack’s Bowers auction?

The company handles U.S., world, and ancient coins, paper money, medals, tokens, bullion, and other numismatic collectibles.

Can collectors bid online?

Yes. Stack’s Bowers offers online bidding and livestream participation through its auction platform.

Can collectors consign coins to Stack’s Bowers?

Yes. Collectors can work with consignment specialists to place qualifying coins, currency, and collections into appropriate auctions.

Does Stack’s Bowers buy coins directly?

Yes. The company offers both auction consignment and direct-purchase options.

Does Stack’s Bowers work with estates?

Yes. It offers estate appraisals, numismatic estate-planning services, collection management, and other advisory services.

What famous collections has Stack’s Bowers sold?

Its auction history includes the Pogue, Eliasberg, Ford, Bass, Norweb, Cardinal, Anderson, Fairmont, Battle Born, and other major collections.

What is Griffin Studios?

Griffin Studios is Stack’s Bowers Galleries’ 

broadcast-ready auction facility in Costa Mesa, California, used for professional livestreamed auction presentations.

Where is Stack’s Bowers headquartered?

The company is headquartered in Costa Mesa, California.

Official Website

To learn more about Stack’s Bowers Galleries, including upcoming rare coin and currency auctions, auction archives, consignments, appraisals, collection management, estate-planning services, and collector resources, visit the company’s official website.

Online Rare Coin and Currency Auction House

GreatCollections is a major United States auction company specializing in certified rare coins, paper money, bullion, and other numismatic material.

Founded in 2010 by Ian Russell and Raeleen Endo, the company was created to provide collectors and consignors with a secure, transparent, and efficient way to buy and sell professionally certified numismatic material online.

Since its founding, GreatCollections has grown into one of the country’s leading certified coin auction companies, handling more than 1.5 million certified coins and banknotes with total sales exceeding $1.5 billion.

Founding and Development

GreatCollections was founded in 2010 by Ian Russell and Raeleen Endo.

Russell brought extensive auction experience to the company after previously serving in senior roles with Teletrade and Bowers and Merena Auctions.

Endo also had significant numismatic auction experience, including earlier work with PCGS and Bowers and Merena.

Together, they developed GreatCollections as an online-first marketplace focused primarily on certified coins and paper money.

Ian Russell

Ian Russell serves as president and co-founder of GreatCollections.

Originally from Sydney, Australia, Russell began working in collectibles as a teenager and later gained auction experience with Stanley Gibbons Australia.

After relocating to the United States, he held senior positions within several major collectibles and numismatic companies before founding GreatCollections.

His professional background includes:

• Rare coin auctions

• Paper money auctions

• Collection management

• Numismatic valuations

• Estate and trust evaluations

• Collector advisory services

• Major private acquisitions

Russell is also a member of the Professional Numismatists Guild and has been recognized as one of the influential figures in modern numismatics.

Certified Coin Specialization

GreatCollections focuses heavily on professionally certified coins.

Its auctions regularly feature coins graded by major third-party grading services including:

• PCGS

• CACG

• NGC

• ANACS

The company also handles certified paper money graded by leading currency-grading services.

All auction material is reviewed and professionally imaged by GreatCollections before being offered to bidders.

Weekly Online Auctions

One of the defining features of GreatCollections is its regular online auction schedule.

Rather than relying primarily on occasional major live auctions, GreatCollections continuously offers certified numismatic material through its online platform.

Collectors can find coins ranging from relatively affordable certified pieces to major six- and seven-figure rarities.

This format provides ongoing access to the marketplace for both buyers and consignors.

U.S. Coins

United States coins represent a major portion of GreatCollections’ business.

Its auctions can include:

• Early American coinage

• Lincoln cents

• Buffalo nickels

• Mercury dimes

• Morgan and Peace dollars

• Commemorative coins

• Proof coinage

• United States gold coins

• Saint-Gaudens double eagles

• Modern certified coins

• Registry-quality coins

• Condition rarities

• Major pedigreed collections

The company regularly handles coins across a wide range of grades and price levels.

World and Ancient Coins

GreatCollections also auctions world and ancient coins.

These offerings may include certified material from:

• Europe

• Asia

• Latin America

• Canada

• Mexico

• Australia

• Ancient civilizations

• Modern sovereign mints

Collectors can search the platform by country, denomination, grading service, grade, and other characteristics.

Rare Currency

Paper money is another important part of GreatCollections.

The company auctions certified:

• United States currency

• Large-size notes

• Small-size notes

• National Bank Notes

• Silver Certificates

• Gold Certificates

• Fractional currency

• Confederate currency

• World paper money

Certified currency is generally offered with professional grading and detailed online images.

Major Numismatic Rarities

GreatCollections has handled a number of highly important coins and collections.

Its published company materials cite major rarities including:

• Two 1804 Silver Dollars

• Two 1913 Liberty Head Nickels

• The finest 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar

• The Stewart Blay Collection of Small Cents

• The Elite Collection of Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles

These are among the most famous and closely followed areas of American numismatics.

Named Collections

GreatCollections frequently offers significant named collections assembled by advanced collectors.

Named collections may focus on:

• A particular denomination

• A complete coin series

• Registry sets

• High-grade type coins

• Proof coinage

• Gold coins

• Modern rarities

• Specialized varieties

Preserving a collection name can help document provenance and recognize the collector who assembled the group.

Official Auctioneer of the American Numismatic Association

GreatCollections serves as the exclusive Official Auctioneer of the American Numismatic Association.

That relationship places GreatCollections alongside one of the most important educational and collector organizations in American numismatics.

The company’s official materials state that its auctions attract bidders from around the world.

Auction Archive

GreatCollections maintains a substantial online auction archive.

Collectors can use the archive to research:

• Previous sales

• Prices realized

• Certification grades

• Coin images

• Past listings

• Specific dates and varieties

• Market activity

• Comparable examples

The company makes its completed-auction archive available as a research tool for collectors studying coin values and past market performance.

Record Coin Prices

GreatCollections also maintains dedicated sections highlighting major auction results.

These include:

• Notable Coin Realizations

• Record Coin Prices

• Record PCGS Coin Prices

• Record CACG Coin Prices

• Record NGC Coin Prices

• Record CAC Coin Prices

These resources allow collectors to research significant auction performances across different grading services and categories.

Consigning Coins

Collectors can consign certified coins and paper money directly to GreatCollections.

The company handles the auction process from receipt through settlement.

Services may include:

• Receiving and inventorying consignments

• Professional photography

• Listing preparation

• Auction marketing

• Secure storage

• Collecting buyer payments

• Shipping purchases

• Paying consignors

This allows sellers to place material into a professionally managed auction marketplace without having to manage individual buyer transactions themselves.

Raw and Uncertified Coins

GreatCollections primarily sells professionally certified coins.

When qualifying raw coins are consigned, the company can arrange submission to grading services such as PCGS, NGC, or ANACS before auction.

GreatCollections states that it does not generally sell raw consigned coins as raw coins through its auctions.

Auction Estimates and Appraisals

GreatCollections offers collectors the ability to request auction estimates for individual coins or entire collections.

Owners may provide:

• Collection descriptions

• Inventory spreadsheets

• Coin photographs

• Certification information

• Purchasing history

This can help determine whether material is appropriate for consignment and provide an initial assessment of potential auction value.

Estates, Trusts, and Professional Valuations

Ian Russell and the GreatCollections team also work with collectors, estates, trusts, accountants, attorneys, and other professionals requiring numismatic valuations.

This can be particularly important when a collection must be:

• Documented

• Valued

• Divided among heirs

• Sold

• Transferred to a trust

• Prepared for estate administration

Specialized numismatic knowledge can be especially valuable when heirs or fiduciaries are unfamiliar with the coins or currency they are responsible for managing.

Cash Advances

GreatCollections may offer qualified consignors cash advances against certified coins.

Its published policies state that advances may be available for up to approximately half of the estimated value of qualifying certified material.

This can provide consignors with access to funds before the final auction settlement.

Secure Custody

GreatCollections takes physical possession of the coins and currency it auctions.

This differs from marketplaces where individual sellers retain and ship their own items.

By holding the material itself, GreatCollections can control:

• Verification

• Photography

• Storage

• Shipping

• Buyer fulfillment

• Transaction security

The company also states that consignments are insured while in its possession.

Irvine Headquarters

GreatCollections is headquartered in Irvine, California.

The company acquired a dedicated headquarters building in 2022 that includes advanced security and a substantial UL-rated vault for storing numismatic property.

The facility supports the company’s auction, imaging, shipping, storage, and administrative operations.

Online-First Auction Model

GreatCollections differs from many traditional auction houses because its business model was built around continuous online participation.

Collectors can:

• Browse current auctions

• Create watchlists

• Place bids

• Review past results

• Search by denomination or series

• Purchase selected Buy Now items

• Track upcoming auction closings

• Access archived sales

This online-first structure has helped GreatCollections develop a broad bidder base without requiring collectors to attend physical auction rooms.

Bidding and Buying

Collectors register for an account before participating in auctions.

Once registered, bidders can search available inventory and place bids electronically.

The platform offers coins across a wide range of values, allowing participation by newer collectors as well as advanced collectors pursuing major rarities.

Confidentiality

GreatCollections emphasizes confidentiality as an important part of its marketplace.

Its founders specifically created the company with the goal of allowing buyers and sellers to transact through an established intermediary rather than dealing directly with unknown parties.

This structure allows GreatCollections to manage the 

transaction while maintaining privacy for participants.

Growth and Market Presence

Since beginning operations in 2010, GreatCollections has experienced significant growth.

The company reports:

• More than 1.5 million certified coins and banknotes auctioned

• More than $1.5 billion in total sales

• Major six- and seven-figure rarities handled

• Significant named collections sold

• International bidder participation

These figures place GreatCollections among the major certified coin auction companies operating in the United States today.

Why GreatCollections Matters

GreatCollections matters because it helped establish a modern online-first model for professional numismatic auctions.

Instead of requiring collectors to wait for a limited number of major live sales each year, GreatCollections created a marketplace where professionally certified coins can be offered continuously to a large network of bidders.

Its influence can be seen through:

• Weekly certified coin auctions

• Major rare coin sales

• Extensive auction archives

• Professional imaging

• Third-party certified inventory

• Registry-quality collections

• Estate and trust services

• Online bidding

• International collector participation

• Its role as Official Auctioneer of the American Numismatic Association

GreatCollections has become an important bridge between traditional numismatic auctioneering and the modern digital marketplace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is GreatCollections?

GreatCollections is an online auction company specializing primarily in certified rare coins, paper money, bullion, and numismatic collectibles.

When was GreatCollections founded?

GreatCollections was founded in 2010 by Ian Russell and Raeleen Endo.

Where is GreatCollections located?

GreatCollections is headquartered in Irvine, California.

Does GreatCollections specialize in certified coins?

Yes. The company primarily auctions coins certified by grading services such as PCGS, CACG, NGC, and ANACS.

Does GreatCollections auction paper money?

Yes. GreatCollections also auctions professionally certified United States and world paper money.

Can collectors consign coins to GreatCollections?

Yes. GreatCollections accepts qualifying coins and currency for consignment and manages the auction process from listing through buyer fulfillment and consignor settlement.

Will GreatCollections accept raw coins?

Qualifying raw coins can be submitted through GreatCollections for professional grading before auction. The company generally does not auction raw consigned coins as uncertified material.

Does GreatCollections maintain past auction results?

Yes. GreatCollections maintains a free auction archive containing past sales information that collectors can use for research.

Is GreatCollections associated with the American Numismatic Association?

Yes. GreatCollections is the exclusive Official Auctioneer of the American Numismatic Association.

Who is Ian Russell?

Ian Russell is the president and co-founder of GreatCollections and an experienced professional numismatist and auction executive.

Official Website

To learn more about GreatCollections, including current rare coin and currency auctions, completed auction results, consignments, collection valuations, bidder registration, and collector resources, visit the company’s official website.

International Auction Firm Specializing in Ancient, Medieval, World, and British Coins

Classical Numismatic Group, commonly known as CNG, is an international numismatic firm specializing in ancient, medieval, world, and British coinage.

Established in 1975, CNG has built a strong reputation for detailed cataloging, scholarly research, and a broad international collector base. The firm operates from offices in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, London, England, and The Hague, Netherlands.

CNG serves collectors through major feature auctions, continuous electronic auctions, fixed-price sales, publications, and consignment services, making it one of the most recognized specialist firms in classical and historical numismatics.

History and Development

CNG traces its origins to 1975 and has focused for decades on the fields of ancient, medieval, world, and British numismatics.

The company’s first auction was held on May 1, 1987. Since then, CNG has conducted more than 115 major printed auctions and hundreds of electronic auctions while building a large international collector base.

Its long-term emphasis has been on combining commercial auction activity with serious numismatic scholarship.

International Presence

CNG operates internationally, with offices in:

• Lancaster, Pennsylvania

• London, England

• The Hague, Netherlands

This international structure allows the firm to work closely with collectors, consignors, dealers, and researchers across North America and Europe.

Ancient Coins

Ancient coinage is one of CNG’s defining specialties.

Its auctions regularly include:

• Ancient Greek coins

• Roman Republican coins

• Roman Imperial coins

• Roman Provincial coins

• Byzantine coins

• Celtic coins

• Persian coinage

• Judaean coins

• Islamic coins

• Ancient Near Eastern issues

These areas often require detailed historical attribution, making CNG’s scholarly cataloging especially important to advanced collectors.

Medieval Coins

CNG also handles significant medieval coinage from Europe and surrounding regions.

Material may include:

• Anglo-Saxon coins

• Norman issues

• Crusader coinage

• Medieval English coins

• European feudal coinage

• Islamic medieval issues

• Byzantine material

• Early hammered coinage

For many collectors, this area connects ancient and modern numismatic history.

British Coins

British numismatics is another important area for CNG.

The firm regularly offers:

• Anglo-Saxon coins

• Medieval English coinage

• Tudor and Stuart issues

• Hammered coins

• Milled British coinage

• Crown and sovereign issues

• Colonial-related British coinage

• Modern British rarities

CNG’s London presence gives the firm a particularly strong connection to the British market.

World Coins

CNG’s world-coin offerings extend across many countries and historical periods.

These may include:

• European coins

• Asian coinage

• Latin American coins

• Colonial issues

• African coinage

• Middle Eastern coins

• Historic gold and silver issues

• Modern world rarities

The firm’s expertise is especially valuable when historical context and attribution are important to understanding a coin.

Triton Auctions

One of CNG’s best-known auction events is the Triton Auction.

Triton is held annually in New York in conjunction with the New York International Numismatic Convention.

The event has become one of the major annual sales for collectors of ancient and world coins and often features important collections, rare classical coinage, and high-value numismatic material.

Feature Auctions

CNG also conducts major Feature Auctions throughout the year.

In 2026, the schedule included:

• Triton XXIX — January 13–14

• CNG 132 — May 18–19

• CNG 133 — September 15–16

These major sales are designed for more significant material and typically include carefully cataloged ancient, world, and British coins.

Electronic Auctions

CNG is also well known for its continuous electronic auction program.

These sales generally run on two-week cycles and close on Wednesdays.

The company states that it offers tens of thousands of lots each year through electronic auctions, giving collectors frequent opportunities to bid on a wide range of ancient, medieval, world, and British coins.

Keystone Auctions

CNG has also developed Keystone Auctions, another online auction format.

These sales can feature specialized collections or focused groups of material and expand the company’s range of digital auction opportunities.

Recent Keystone sales have included ancient, British, and world coin collections.

Auction Catalogs

CNG is particularly well known for its illustrated auction catalogs.

The company states that its major catalogs are intended not only as sales tools but also as lasting numismatic references.

Catalog entries may include:

• Historical background

• Ruler information

• Mint attribution

• Dating

• Weight and diameter

• References

• Provenance

• Collection pedigree

• Condition commentary

• Bibliographic citations

This level of detail makes many CNG catalogs useful to researchers long after an auction has ended.

Scholarly Numismatics

CNG’s reputation is strongly connected to scholarship.

Ancient coins often require careful study because identifying them may depend on:

• Ruler portraits

• Legends

• Mintmarks

• Symbols

• Die styles

• Historical chronology

• Hoard evidence

• Published references

• Archaeological context

CNG frequently cites established numismatic literature directly within its descriptions.

Provenance and Pedigree

Provenance can be especially important in ancient and classical numismatics.

Auction descriptions often document earlier ownership and auction appearances.

A CNG lot may include information such as:

• Previous collections

• Prior CNG sales

• Older auction houses

• Published references

• Museum or academic provenance

• Historic dealer records

This information can help establish the history of an individual coin.

Example of Detailed Cataloging

A typical CNG auction listing can include far more than a simple date and grade.

For example, one 2026 electronic auction lot for a Persian Achaemenid silver siglos identified the ruler period, approximate date, weight, mint, type classification, multiple scholarly references, condition, provenance, and even the book in which the specific coin had been published.

That level of cataloging illustrates why CNG is highly regarded among classical collectors.

Fixed-Price Coin Shop

In addition to auctions, CNG maintains a fixed-price Coin Shop.

Collectors can purchase selected coins directly rather than bidding at auction.

The company regularly adds new material and also offers a want-list system that can alert registered users when coins matching their collecting interests become available.

Consignments

Collectors may consign coins to CNG for sale.

The firm evaluates material and determines whether it is best suited for:

• Feature Auctions

• Triton

• Electronic Auctions

• Keystone Auctions

• Direct purchase

CNG works with consignors to decide which sales method is most appropriate based on the material, value, rarity, and collector demand.

Direct Sales to CNG

CNG also purchases coins directly.

Collectors who prefer immediate payment rather than waiting for an auction may contact the firm to discuss selling outright.

The company specifically states that it regularly buys ancient, medieval, world, and British coins.

Bidding

CNG offers online bidding through its website.

Registered bidders can participate in both electronic and major feature sales.

Its bidding platform allows collectors to:

• Browse lots

• Place advance bids

• Track auctions

• Participate in live sales

• Review closing times

• Research auction material

CNG also maintains separate registration processes for bidding and fixed-price services.

Buyer’s Fees

Like most auction houses, CNG applies buyer’s fees to winning bids.

The exact fee depends on the auction type and current terms.

For example, some 2026 electronic auction listings showed a 20% buyer’s fee added to the hammer price.

Collectors should always review the terms of a particular auction before bidding.

Collector Education

CNG’s website includes research and educational resources beyond auction listings.

These include:

• Bibliographies

• Digital publications

• Article archives

• Book lists

• Collecting guides

• Auction catalogs

• Historical references

• Educational content on Greek and Roman coins

• Information on British and world coinage

These resources reinforce CNG’s role as both an auction company and a scholarly numismatic resource.

Publications

CNG publishes numismatic books and auction catalogs.

Its publications often focus on:

• Ancient Greek coins

• Roman coinage

• Byzantine issues

• Medieval coins

• British numismatics

• Specialized collections

• Historical research

These works are used by collectors, dealers, and academic researchers.

Major Collector Base

CNG reports having developed a large international client base.

The company states that its mailing list for collectors of ancient, medieval, world, and British coins includes more than 40,000 names, while thousands of clients are registered for electronic bidding.

This broad participation helps create competitive bidding for specialized material.

Professional Staff

CNG employs a large team of professional numismatists and support staff.

Its current leadership includes Mike Gasvoda as President, with Victor England and Eric McFadden serving as Consulting Directors.

The company also employs specialists, photographers, graphic artists, librarians, operations staff, and administrative personnel across its international offices.

Why Classical Numismatic Group Matters

Classical Numismatic Group matters because it combines the commercial reach of a major auction firm with the research standards expected by serious collectors of historical coinage.

Its influence can be seen through:

• Ancient coin auctions

• Triton sales

• Feature Auctions

• Continuous electronic auctions

• Detailed scholarly cataloging

• Provenance research

• Numismatic publications

• International offices

• Collector education

• Fixed-price sales

• Consignment services

• Strong participation from advanced collectors

For collectors of ancient, medieval, world, and British coins, CNG remains one of the most recognized specialist auction firms in the international numismatic marketplace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Classical Numismatic Group?

Classical Numismatic Group, or CNG, is an international numismatic auction and dealing firm specializing primarily in ancient, medieval, world, and British coins.

When was CNG founded?

CNG was established in 1975.

Where is CNG located?

CNG operates offices in Lancaster, Pennsylvania; London, England; and The Hague, Netherlands.

What does CNG specialize in?

CNG specializes primarily in ancient, medieval, world, and British numismatics.

What is the Triton Auction?

Triton is CNG’s major annual public auction held in New York in conjunction with the New York International Numismatic Convention.

Does CNG conduct online auctions?

Yes. CNG operates continuous electronic auctions in addition to major Feature and Triton sales.

Can collectors consign coins to CNG?

Yes. CNG accepts consignments for major auctions and electronic sales and can help determine which venue is appropriate for a collection.

Does CNG buy coins directly?

Yes. CNG also purchases qualifying ancient, medieval, world, and British coins directly.

Does CNG sell coins outside auctions?

Yes. CNG maintains a fixed-price Coin Shop in addition to its auction business.

Why are CNG catalogs respected?

CNG catalogs are known for detailed attribution, historical context, references, provenance, and high-quality illustrations, making them useful as research resources as well as auction catalogs.

Official Website

To learn more about Classical Numismatic Group, including upcoming ancient, medieval, world, and British coin auctions, Triton and Feature Auctions, electronic auctions, consignments, fixed-price offerings, publications, and collector resources, visit the company’s official website.