Baldwin Auction 112: The Patrick Deane Collection, Part III Achieves Astounding Results, surpassing the reserve price twofold

Baldwin’s is delighted to announce the remarkable success of Auction 112, featuring the London and political 18th-century tokens from the Patrick Deane Collection, Part III. The auction far exceeded expectations by achieving a total of just over £146,000, surpassing the estimated range of £58,000 to £80,000. Every single lot found a new home, and the intense bidding atmosphere led to some tokens selling for multiples of their initial estimates.

Notably, this auction drew significant attention from collectors and dealers in the United States, where the late 18th-century halfpennies are highly sought after. A rare sight in today’s era of online auctions, a dozen dealers and collectors were present in the room, with many American enthusiasts traveling specifically to closely examine this exceptional collection. Furthermore, the online bidding was fierce, primarily driven by American collectors and dealers.

One of the standout moments of the auction was Lot 1307, a halfpenny featuring a hanged man titled “End of Pain,” referring to Thomas Paine’s involvement in the drafting of the Declaration of American Independence. Despite being mis-struck, this remarkable token achieved an impressive hammer price of £3,000, surpassing the estimated range of £700-£1,000.

Another highlight was Lot 1369, a halfpenny depicting the curios dealer in Cavendish Street, London, Richard Summer, dated 1797. It featured the face of a Wildman from northern Japan and hammered for an astonishing £2,600, far surpassing the estimate of £500-£800. Notably, this token had last changed hands in 1931 for a mere 63 shillings (£3.15).

Spence’s tokens, issued in Holborn in the late 1790s, also garnered significant interest, particularly his silver farthing (Lot 1352) featuring Adam and Eve and a pig trampling the emblems of royalty. It sold for an impressive £2,100, exceeding the estimated range of £800-£1,000. This token had last been sold in 1930 for £2.50, along with 18 additional coins.

Lot 1267, a halfpenny dated 1795 displaying an American Indian holding a tomahawk with the inscription “if rents I once consent to pay, then is my liberty passed away,” fetched an extraordinary £750 in mint condition, greatly surpassing the estimated range of £150-£200.

Another notable token (Lot 1144), issued in 1796, depicted Newgate Gaol on one side and three men hanging on the other. It sold for £1,300 against an estimate of £225-£275. This token was issued by four inmates of the prison and served as a powerful commentary on the lack of liberty in the country.

The exceptional condition of these tokens, combined with their prestigious provenance from Francis Cokayne, generated immense interest and spirited bidding, especially through online platforms.

Baldwin’s would like to express our gratitude to all participants and bidders who made this auction such a resounding success. For the full list of prices realised, click here and for more information and to explore upcoming auctions, please check our website.

About A.H. Baldwin

Founded in 1872, A.H. Baldwin is one of the oldest and most respected numismatic firms in the world. The company offers a wide range of rare coins, medals, and other collectibles, as well as expert appraisal and auction services. With a reputation for excellence and a commitment to customer satisfaction, A.H. Baldwin has become a trusted partner for collectors and enthusiasts around the world.

Based at 399 Strand in London, A.H. Baldwin continues to be a leader in the world of numismatics, offering a wide range of rare coins, medals, and other collectibles. The company’s team of experts include some well know TV personalities, like Mark Smith a regular Medal Specialist on BBC Antiques Roadshow and Dominic Chorney who collaborates frequently with the BBC, including other of the most knowledgeable and experienced professionals in the field. Their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction is a hallmark of the A.H. Baldwin brand.

Throughout its long and storied history, A.H. Baldwin has remained true to its founding principles, providing collectors and enthusiasts with exceptional coins and collectibles. The company’s commitment to quality and service has earned it a reputation as one of the most respected and trusted names in the world of numismatics, and it continues to be a leading force in the industry today.

—END