As usual our latest Treasure Auction is full of surprises, but this time we feel it is also very well balanced across many fields, with more general world coins than ever before. Here are some highlights:

In great deference to the Sedwick patriarch, for the first time ever we are offering selections from the Frank Sedwick study collection of 1715-Fleet gold cobs, including plate coins from past editions of the Practical Book of Cobs and other pieces never seen or offered for sale, coins that the pioneering “Dr. Cobs” kept as the best examples among thousands that passed through his hands.

The unique opportunity to own a “Frank Sedwick” specimen will start in this auction with just two 1715-Fleet masterpieces: The finest-known Lima 4 escudos 1711 and one of the best Lima 8 escudos 1712 ever offered.

In the same category of quality as Frank Sedwick’s 1715-Fleet gold cobs is a choice Cuzco cob 2 escudos 1698, a plate coin in Marty Meylach’s classic book Diving to a Flash of Gold.

But perhaps most intriguing in the gold cobs this time is a 1715-Fleet Mexican 1 escudo that was flown aboard Apollo 14 in 1971, the only one of its kind. Before this specially engraved coin came to us, we had no idea that the Apollo astronauts included genuine shipwreck treasure in their “flown” souvenirs on their trips to the moon, but apparently the link between NASA and the Real Eight Co. was more than just geographic. We have come to understand that medallions made of 1715-Fleet silver flown to the moon are very hot with space collectors, who will no doubt go crazy for this genuine coin as well, but perhaps the treasure collectors will win out in the end.

Highlights in shipwreck silver coins include large offerings of lion daalders from the Campen (1627), Potosí cobs from the Consolación (1681) and the Boticaria site of the 1681 Fleet off Panama (first-ever offering, also with some artifacts, with updated history), and hundreds of choice (and some interestingly shaped) 1715-Fleet Mexican cobs from the estate of Karl H. Goodpaster (Real Eight Co. conservator), as well as hundreds of Mexican cobs from the Rooswijk (1739). The Goodpaster collection in particular will be fun to watch, as nothing is hotter today than Fleet silver cobs!

In the non-wreck cobs sections we feature the John Pullin collection of over 150 choice, dated Mexican silver cobs, in addition to Part II of the Mark Bir collection of cobs from Mexico, Lima and Potosi. Also highlighted are the mints of Panama and Santo Domingo, as we feature several Santo Domingo SILVER and copper coins of Charles-Joanna AND Philip II (yes, you read that right) in addition to THREE Panamanian silver cobs (half, 1 and 2 reales), following the record-setting prices for such coins in our last sale. Our Spain-cobs section has an abundance of Ferdinand-Isabel coins in all denominations, including a set once featured in the PLVS VLTRA newsletter. One last surprise: the Louis Hudson collection of zoomorphic cobs. You won’t want to miss it!

The world silver coins section this time is massive, featuring the John Pullin collection of Mexican War for Independence silver coins (just in time for this year’s Bicentennial of Mexican Independence), Mark Bir’s milled Spanish colonial coins (various mints) and a HUGE section on all periods of Venezuelan coins (over 100 coins), in addition to many other Latin American countries.

Before we get to the artifacts, let’s just say there is a wealth of gold and silver (and even copper) shipwreck ingots too, both Spanish and Dutch (VOC), including the world’s ONLY gold-bar clump! This museum-piece features twin, complete bars (each over 1 kilogram and 10+” long) fused in near parallel by white coral, just the way they were found on the “Golden Fleece wreck” of ca. 1550.

And then our trademark and exclusive, shipwreck artifacts: This time we will have a genuine bronze astrolabe, the most complete and intact one we have ever handled, fully dated 1656 and well detailed, solid and stable, alidade intact, one of fewer than 80 pieces known and among the best from any wreck. We are also showcasing the famous gold box from the ca.-1810 “Coconut wreck,” the single most important item found in this deep-water salvage venture, as it contained 13 gold coins (a Spanish dowry known as an arras) wrapped in an 1809 newspaper talking about sales of slaves… and yes, the intact newspaper comes with it! There is also a genuine gold chain and massive silver candlestick from the Atocha, emeralds from many different wrecks, swords, flintlocks, and much, much more.

It’s over a million dollars’ worth of treasure all in one place, and any part of it can be yours for the high bid – we wish everyone good luck and happy hunting!

Session I (Wednesday, April 7, 2010, 2:00 pm EDT)Gold coins, shipwreck ingots and coins.

Session II (Thursday, April 8, 2010, 2:00 pm EDT) Silver cobs, world silver up to Mexico.

Session III (Friday, April 9, 2010, 2:00 pm EDT) World silver starting with Mexico, medals and tokens, paper money, stamps, artifacts and books.

Daniel Frank Sedwick LLC
Phone Number 407-975-3325
Website http://www.sedwickcoins.com
Email questions@sedwickcoins.com

Related posts:

1. Daniel Frank Sedwick, LLC announces the release of their Treasure Auction #6, October 15-16, 2009
2. Daniel Frank Sedwick Treasure Auction #4
3. Sedwick’s Sixth Treasure Coin Auction Realizes Over $1.6 Million

For the full year 2009, Odyssey reported revenues of $4.3 million, compared to $4.1 million in 2008 while operating expenses decreased $6.4 million from $29.1 million in 2008 to $22.7 million in 2009.

The Company reported a net loss of $18.6 million for the full year 2009, compared to a net loss of $24.8 million in 2008. The net loss per share for the full year 2009 was $0.33, compared to a net loss per share of $0.50 in 2008.

“We are pleased with the results of our 2009 operations, which despite some interesting challenges, saw some key strategic opportunities realized that I believe will have a profound effect on our business going forward. Several significant announcements made in late 2009 and early 2010 represent outstanding new opportunities for Odyssey, including the intention to syndicate multiple shipwreck projects with Robert Fraser & Partners that will mirror the structure of the “Enigma” project already executed. Taking into account expected revenue from multiple sources including these syndicated projects, we believe our current cash position is sufficient to fund operating cash flows through 2010, barring unforeseen circumstances,” said Odyssey CEO Greg Stemm.

“Also in 2009, we acquired a stake in a venture to pursue the exploration of deep-ocean gold and copper deposits. By providing our technical expertise and certain marine assets, we believe this will provide a lucrative future opportunity and is a natural extension to leverage our core competencies in deep-ocean exploration,” stated Stemm.

“In 2010, Odyssey will remain focused on continuing to strengthen our relations with several governments to conduct shipwreck searches with no upfront cost to taxpayers while returning cultural heritage and economic value to the governments. In September 2009, the UK Government awarded Odyssey a salvage award for the two cannon recovered from HMS Victory, while discussions continue to determine future plans for the site. The UK Government also awarded the exclusive salvage contract to Odyssey for the cargo of silver from the SS Gairsoppa,” continued Stemm. “We have a very ambitious operational schedule planned for 2010, with seven separate projects planned, utilizing at least three ships as well as some outstanding new deep ocean assets we have just acquired. We also have some interesting new technology on the drawing board that will extend our capabilities to a depth of 6,000 meters.”

Revenue

Revenue is generated through the sale of coins, artifacts and merchandise, the lease of our themed attraction exhibit and expedition charters. In the fourth quarter 2009, expedition charter revenue included compensation to provide project research and shipwreck search and survey services to Robert Fraser Marine Ltd and client companies of Robert Fraser & Partners LLP located in the United Kingdom. In 2008, expedition charter revenue included revenue associated with the production of the shipwreck exploration television series Treasure Quest.

Artifact sales and other revenues primarily include coin sales, but also include other artifacts, merchandise, commissions, and other miscellaneous revenue. Artifact and other revenues for 2009 and 2008 were $1.6 million and $1.7 million, respectively. In 2009 we sold nearly 2,400 silver coins, a 35% increase over 2008. The decrease of $.1 million in artifact sales and other in 2009 primarily related to higher 2008 other revenue which included $.3 million representing the sale of customer lists to our direct marketing partner. In 2009 and 2008, we sold through several independent dealers of which two represented 72% and 69% of total artifact sales, respectively. As of December 31, 2009, we had a remaining inventory of approximately 29,000 silver coins. Our artifact and other and exhibit revenue for 2009 and 2008 was predominantly U.S. domestic-based.

Exhibit revenue was $.6 million and $.5 million in 2009 and 2008, respectively. Odyssey’s SHIPWRECK! Pirates & Treasure is an interactive multi-media exhibit and features hundreds of artifacts recovered from our deep-ocean shipwreck expeditions. In 2009 the exhibit was featured at two locations (Oklahoma City and Charlotte, North Carolina) and three locations in 2008 (Tampa, Detroit and Oklahoma City). Exhibit revenue varied dependent on the type of contract which was either a fixed rental or a per visitor basis.

Expedition charter revenue for fourth quarter 2009 included $.8 million for the sale of research and $1.2 million for shipwreck search and survey services related to the Robert Fraser Marine Ltd “Enigma” project (see Operational Projects, Item 1). In 2008, expedition charter revenue included $1.9 million of expedition charter revenue related to the television series Treasure Quest.

Cost and Expenses

Cost of sales consists of shipwreck recovery costs, grading, conservation, packaging, and shipping costs associated with artifact and merchandise sales. The primary cost component is from the sale of coins. Cost of sales for coins increased 38% for 2009 versus 2008 primarily because of more coins sold in 2009. However, overall cost of sales increased only 8% due to other miscellaneous charges in 2008. Actual cost as a percentage of coin sales was 44% and 40% in 2009 and 2008, respectively. There is no cost of sales component associated with the themed attraction and expedition charter revenues.

Operations and research expenses primarily include all costs within Archaeology, Conservation, Research, and Marine Operations, which include all vessel operations. Operations and research expenses were $12.6 million in 2009, compared to $18.6 million in 2008. The $6.0 million decrease, or 32%, was primarily related to a $3.0 million decrease in vessel operating expenses of which $2.4 million related to fewer ship charters utilized in 2009 (which were used in 2008 to supplement our operating schedule in the “Atlas” search area while the Ocean Alert was undergoing repairs), and $.6 million related to other vessel operating expenses primarily fuel, port fees, consumables and provisions.

We also had a decrease of $2.5 million in vessel repairs and maintenance expenses due to extensive repairs to both ships in 2008. The remaining decrease in operations and research expenses in 2009 of $.5 million was attributed to lower vessel miscellaneous operating expenses.

Marketing, general and administrative expenses primarily include all costs within the following departments: Executive, Finance & Accounting, Legal, Information Technology, Human Resources, Marketing & Communications, Sales and Business Development. Marketing, general and administrative expenses were $9.4 million in 2009 versus $9.8 million in 2008. The decrease of $.4 million was primarily attributable to reduced corporate overhead of $.7 million including professional fees and expenses and depreciation, offset by $.3 million of unfavorable employee-related expenses including share-based compensation and bonuses.

Operational Projects and Status

We have numerous shipwreck and other deep-ocean projects in various stages of development around the world. In order to protect the targets of our planned search or recovery operations, in some cases we will defer disclosing specific information relating to our projects until we have located a shipwreck or other potentially valuable resources of interest and determined a course of action to protect our property rights.

“Atlas” Search Project

Between 2005 and 2008, we searched more than 4,700 square nautical miles of seabed in the western English Channel and the Western Approaches to the Channel, recording 267 shipwrecks. The shipwrecks discovered include site “35-F”, the Marqise de Tornay, and HMS Victory (1744). Additional information about the current status of the admiralty legal proceedings on these three shipwreck sites is available in Admiralty Legal Proceedings following this section.

Site “35-F” (admiralty case number 8:06-cv-1685) is believed to be an armed English merchantman from the second half of the 17th century. The site has been heavily damaged by fishing activities, and a confirmed identification may not be possible. During a preliminary investigation of the site, Odyssey discovered a rare wooden folding carpenter’s rule – the oldest ever recovered from a shipwreck site. The ruler was on display at the Museum of the History of Science at Oxford in the UK. More information about the ruler is described in a paper available at www.shipwreck.net/publications.php.

Operations for the 2009 “Atlas” season commenced in February 2009 with the 251-foot Odyssey Explorer conducting search and inspection operations. In addition to search and inspection technology used in the past, our teams have integrated new technologies into the ZEUS platform that have significantly enhanced its inspection capabilities.

The Ocean Alert was utilized for some search operations in the “Atlas” search area in 2009 and after undergoing equipment upgrades, left the “Atlas” area in November to begin work on the “Enigma” project (see “Enigma” Project).

In 2009, approximately 1,000 square miles of seabed were mapped with side-scan sonar and magnetometer. Odyssey’s Remotely Operated Vehicle ZEUS completed 141 dives spending approximately 380 hours on the seabed. Of the 238 targets inspected in 2009, 11 shipwrecks were discovered. We anticipate resuming operations in the “Atlas” search area in the second quarter of 2010.

HMS Victory Project

We discovered and conducted a preliminary investigation of the shipwreck of Admiral Balchin’s HMS Victory (which sank in 1744) during our 2008 “Atlas” season. HMS Victory was the inspiration for and direct predecessor to Nelson’s Victory and was the mightiest and most technically advanced vessel of her age.

Odyssey has been cooperating closely with the United Kingdom (UK) Ministry of Defence (the “MOD”) on the HMS Victory project. All activities at the site, including the recovery of two bronze cannon, have been conducted in accordance with protocols agreed to by the UK Government and Royal Navy officials. The Victory discovery was announced publicly February 2, 2009, and since that date, various departments within the UK Government have been reviewing data from the site. On September 18, 2009, Odyssey announced it reached an agreement with the UK Government on an 80% salvage award for the cannon recovered from the site. Pursuant to the agreement, Odyssey dismissed without prejudice the admiralty arrest on this site. Odyssey is participating in the ongoing process of consultation with the UK Government to determine what approaches should be adopted towards the wreck. Terms of the collaboration between Odyssey and the UK MOD on the project are currently being negotiated.

Although the UK is not a signatory to the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) Convention for the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage (“CPUCH”) and therefore not bound by CPUCH, Odyssey’s proposal is consistent with the archaeological principles of the Rules of CPUCH.

“Gairsoppa” Project

On January 25, 2010, Odyssey was awarded the exclusive salvage contract for the cargo of the SS Gairsoppa by the United Kingdom (UK) Government Department for Transport. The contract was awarded after a competitive bid process and is for two (2) years, which commenced immediately.

The SS Gairsoppa was a British cargo steamer enlisted in the service of the United Kingdom for the Ministry of War Transport during World War II. It was torpedoed by a German U-Boat in February 1941 in the North Atlantic while reportedly carrying a significant cargo of silver.

Odyssey will assume the risk, expense, and responsibility for the search, cargo recovery, documentation, and marketing of the cargo. If the salvage is successful, Odyssey will be compensated with a salvage award which consists of 80% of the net value of the recovered cargo after deduction of expenses of search and salvage. This project aligns with our strategy to focus on partnership projects with several governments that provide straightforward legal ownership arrangements.

Robert Fraser Projects (“Enigma,” “Firebrand,”Shantaram”)

Odyssey and our wholly owned subsidiary, OVH, Inc. executed agreements in October 2009 to provide project research and shipwreck search and survey services to Robert Fraser Marine Ltd and client companies of Robert Fraser & Partners LLP in return for cash payments (approximately $3.5 million), deferred cash payments (approximately $20 million from proceeds of the “Enigma” project, if any) and a significant back-end interest in a project code-named “Enigma.” Search operations on “Enigma” commenced in November 2009. Side-scan operations were substantially completed by the end of February 2010 and final target inspections are expected to be completed in March.

Odyssey and syndication partner Robert Fraser & Partners LLP have jointly developed plans and signed a letter of intent on February 4, 2010, to execute a series (at least six) of additional deep-ocean projects in 2010 based on the model of the project code-named “Enigma.” Three projects are expected to target shipwrecks, while three or more projects will be aimed at mineral mining expeditions (see “Subsea Mineral Exploration Projects” included in this section).

Under the proposed structure, Odyssey will be compensated for search, survey and archaeological excavation as well as development of research files on specific shipwrecks and other projects. Odyssey will also receive deferred cash payments and have a substantial interest in the back-end of each project as well as being compensated for providing other services including conservation, documentation, marketing and sales of recovered cargoes. Under the proposed structure for mineral mining projects, Odyssey will be compensated for search and survey operations and development of geological research files on specific expeditions. If valuable mineral deposits are found and eventually sold, Odyssey will receive deferred cash payments and will benefit from its ownership in the mining company (see “Subsea Mineral Exploration Projects” included in this section).

We expect to execute the first two shipwreck agreements under the letter of intent during March 2010. Odyssey will provide project research and shipwreck search and survey services to Robert Fraser Marine Ltd and client companies of Robert Fraser & Partners LLP in return for cash payments, deferred payments and a significant back-end interest in the “Firebrand” and “Shantaram” projects. Search operations are expected to commence on “Shantaram” during April 2010 and “Firebrand” in July 2010.

We expect to execute agreements for mineral mining expeditions beginning in April 2010. To protect the security of the search area, specific location details for “Enigma”, “Firebrand” and “Shantaram” are not being released at this time.

Lebanon Projects

On January 25, 2010, Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 409 crashed into the Mediterranean Sea shortly after take-off from Beirut International Airport in Lebanon. Our search vessel, Ocean Alert, was operating near the area and had been using the Beirut port for fuel and supplies during these operations. In the weeks prior to the ET409 crash, Odyssey management had been negotiating an agreement with the Government of Lebanon to partner in a deep-ocean project so Lebanese officials were familiar with the capabilities of Odyssey and the Ocean Alert.

When ET 409 crashed, Lebanese authorities contacted Odyssey and asked the company to assist in the search and recovery efforts. The Alert returned to Beirut and was integrated into search operations that included the Lebanese Navy and Army, the US Navy (USS Ramage) and a German Navy ship, the Laboe.

Before the plane wreckage was discovered, the Government of Lebanon asked Odyssey to provide additional capabilities for more complex technical documentation of the site. Odyssey sent the Odyssey Explorer, which was based in the UK, on the approximate two-week transit to Lebanon to assist. We have tentatively agreed to a payment schedule for services provided which included vessels, management, and shore support. We may also furnish additional services to map the site and recover other parts of the aircraft wreckage if contracted to do so.

Odyssey is continuing negotiations with the Lebanese government for the original project. All operations on this project will be conducted in close coordination with the Government of Lebanon and will include official government observers on board Odyssey vessels. Search operations for this project are expected to commence in March 2010.

Subsea Mineral Mining Exploration Project

In November 2009, Odyssey acquired a 25% interest in SMM Project LLC, a company funded by a group of investors to bring together the exclusive licenses and skills of world renowned deep-ocean geologist Dr. Timothy McConachy of Bluewater Metals, the deep-ocean survey and exploration expertise of Odyssey, and the offshore coring and mining expertise of Robert Goodden and Subsea Minerals.

SMM Project LLC recently purchased a majority interest in Bluewater Metals Pty Ltd, an Australian company with licenses for mineral exploration of approximately 150,000 square kilometers of ocean floor in four different countries in the South Pacific. The group will focus on the exploration and monetization of gold, silver, zinc and copper-rich Seafloor Massive Sulfide (SMS) deposits through a new business entity, Dorado Ocean Resources Ltd (Dorado), which will acquire SMM Project LLC and the remaining interest in Bluewater, in accordance with a memorandum of understanding concluded between the parties.

It is anticipated that Odyssey will dedicate certain marine assets, including a ship and related marine exploration technology to the endeavor, and will initially own approximately 40% of Dorado prior to any additional dilution that may result from additional financing. In addition, Odyssey is expected to provide proprietary expertise and personnel management to the entity under contract, and will supervise operations to explore for deep-ocean SMS deposits in areas covered by exploration permits currently held by Bluewater Metals and Dorado Ocean Resources.

Odyssey recently entered into a long term charter agreement for a vessel which is scheduled to commence subsea mineral exploration in the South Pacific beginning in the second quarter of 2010.

North Carolina Project

Operations were conducted in August and September 2009 in the area covered by the exploration permit issued by the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources to Odyssey’s partner, Intersal, Inc. Odyssey worked under an agreement with Intersal, Inc. to pursue operations under this permit and to share in substantial research and data acquired by Intersal over the years relating to the target shipwreck and the work completed to date in the permit area.

The 2009 operations included a remote sensing in two search blocks with side-scan sonar and magnetometer which identified multiple targets requiring additional inspection. A preliminary report and final report have been submitted to the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources.

While the partnership between Odyssey and Intersal resulted in positive progress on the project, Odyssey and Intersal mutually agreed to terminate the contract between the two companies, and Odyssey has no current plans to conduct operations in the Intersal permit area. Odyssey will retain a small percentage of any gross revenues realized by Intersal from shipwreck finds in the permit area.

The area covered by the Intersal permit is located near but does not overlap Odyssey’s “Firefly” project, which was acquired by Odyssey from BDJ Discovery Group in 2007 and includes one arrested site that has already produced a small number of gold and silver artifacts. Odyssey does plan to continue operations on the “Firefly” project.

“Symphony” Project

Odyssey completed the first phase of survey in a new search area code named “Symphony.” The work was conducted under a government permit in an exclusive claim area and in conjunction with a project partner. Results of the survey have been analyzed and compiled into a report, which has been provided to the government for review before the next phase of work is commenced. Preliminary review of the data suggests that four shipwrecks may have been located in the phase-one search area, but at this point, none of the sites have been conclusively identified. Research suggests the search area potentially contains at least two commercial vessels with significant cargoes of gold coins. Sea conditions in this area limit the time operations can be conducted on this project.

The expedition was conducted by the Odyssey search team on a chartered vessel. To protect the security of the search area, specific location details are not being released at this time. Proceeds of any recoveries from this search area will be split with the government and project partner with an anticipated 88% of the net proceeds of the project retained by Odyssey.

HMS Sussex Project

The Sussex project is an expedition to locate and recover the artifacts and cargo of a large colonial-period British warship, HMS Sussex, which was lost in a severe storm in 1694. Based on documentary research conducted by contract researchers and our in-house research team in libraries and historical archives in Great Britain, France and other countries, we believe that there is a high probability the ship was carrying a cargo of coins with a substantial numismatic and collector value. Our analysis of the data was accumulated from a review of the ship’s logs, court martial records, state papers, treasury books and various other letters and reports. We conducted offshore search operations on this project in 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001. Based on the results of these search operations, we believe there is a high probability we may have located the HMS Sussex, but this will only be confirmed after additional excavation of the site.

On September 27, 2002, we entered into an agreement with the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, which we refer to as Her Majesty’s Government (HMG), which allows us to conduct an archaeologically sensitive exploration of the shipwreck believed to be HMS Sussex and to recover artifacts from the shipwreck site. The agreement provided for us to submit a Project Plan to HMG concerning the equipment, personnel and methodologies we intend to use in the exploration of the shipwreck, and the conservation and documentation of any artifacts and cargo that may be recovered. This Plan was submitted and was declared fit for purpose during 2004 with the exception of the staffing plan, which could not be completed until the actual start date was agreed upon and the availability of personnel could be determined. The staffing plan was approved during 2005 and we began exploration of the site during December 2005.

In late 2005 and early 2006, Odyssey completed to the satisfaction of HMG all work detailed in Phase 1A of the HMS Sussex archaeological project plan. The Company has also completed a portion of Phase 1B. The Company temporarily halted operations on the project at the request of the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs while issues relative to the archaeological plan for excavation of the site, territorial and cultural resource management issues were negotiated.

As a sovereign warship, HMS Sussex remains the property of HMG which, to our knowledge, has not been contested by the Spanish government or other entities. As part of the partnering agreement signed between Odyssey and HMG in 2002, the following sharing arrangements have been agreed upon with respect to the aggregate amount of the appraised values and/or selling prices of the artifacts, net of agreed selling expenses:

Range British Government Odyssey
$0-45 million 20% 80%
$45 million-$500 million 50% 50%
Above $500 million 60% 40%

In addition to the percentages specified above, we will also pay HMG 10% of any net income we derive from intellectual property rights associated with the project.

Under the agreement, HMG has the right to keep all artifacts together in one collection, and to then compensate Odyssey by paying us the commensurate percentage of the appraised retail value of the collection. Alternatively, HMG may decide to de-accession duplicate artifacts such as coins and to compensate us by giving us a percentage of those artifacts in an amount that correlates with the percentage of the value due us.

Also, we received the exclusive worldwide right to use the name “HMS Sussex” in connection with sales and marketing of merchandise (exclusive of artifacts) related to the shipwreck, and HMG will receive 3% of the gross sales of such merchandise.

Our agreement with HMG is for a period of 20 years, and can only be terminated if:

• the shipwreck is not HMS Sussex;
• we are in serious breach of our obligations under our agreement with HMG.

The shipwreck that is believed to be HMS Sussex is located in the search area for a project that we have previously referred to as our “Cambridge” project. We sold through private placements of Revenue Participation Certificates, or RPCs, the right to share in our future revenues derived from the “Cambridge” project. As of April 30, 1999, when the offering was closed, we had sold $825,000 of the RPCs. As a group, the holders are entitled to 100 % of the first $825,000 of gross revenue, 24.75 % of gross revenue from $4 million to $35 million, and 12.375 % of gross revenue above $35 million generated by the “Cambridge” project. Additionally, on May 26, 1998, we signed an agreement with a subcontractor that entitled it to receive 5 % of the post-finance cost proceeds from any shipwrecks in a certain search area of the Mediterranean Sea. The shipwreck we believe is HMS Sussex is located within the specified search area, and we will be responsible to share future revenues, if any, from this shipwreck with the subcontractor. The subcontractor’s rights were foreclosed upon during 2002 and the purchaser was a limited liability company which was partially owned by two of our officers and directors at the time. In order to remove any potential conflicts of interest, these two persons sold their interests in the limited liability company during 2005.

Because the government of Spain is pursuing claims against our recovery from the “Black Swan” project, the HMS Sussex project, which has involved work in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Gibraltar, has been delayed. See “Black Swan” Arrest under Admiralty Legal Proceedings in the next section.

Admiralty Legal Proceedings

An Admiralty arrest is a legal process in which Odyssey seeks recognition from the Court of Odyssey’s salvor-in-possession status for a specific shipwreck, site or cargo. It is the first legal step in establishing Odyssey’s rights to ownership or to a salvage award.

“Black Swan” Arrest

In April 2007, we filed an Admiralty arrest on a site in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 1,100 meters deep, beyond the territorial waters or contiguous zone of any sovereign nation, and we were appointed substitute custodian for all artifacts recovered from the site. Odyssey code named the site “Black Swan.” In May 2007, the Kingdom of Spain filed a notice in this case stating that the Spanish government did not intend to give up rights to any Spanish property which might be on the site.

On April 11, 2008, Odyssey filed its responses to the Court’s interrogatories and identified the Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes (the “Mercedes”), a vessel assigned to transport mail, private passengers, consignments of merchant goods and other cargoes, as one vessel potentially related to the “Black Swan” site, although there is evidence that may contradict this hypothesis. Odyssey reiterated that no vessel has been found at the site, and stated that other hypotheses were also being explored. Spain then filed its answers to the Court’s interrogatories indicating that it had concluded that the vessel related to the “Black Swan” site was the Mercedes.

Spain filed a Motion to Dismiss the case on September 22, 2008, based upon the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (“FSIA”), alleging that the U.S. District Court lacks jurisdiction. Odyssey filed a response on November 17, 2008, to which Spain filed a reply on January 26, 2009. Odyssey filed a response to that reply on February 13, 2009. Claims have also been filed in the case by the country of Peru as well as named individuals who assert an interest in property that was aboard the Mercedes. Those named individuals have specifically acknowledged Odyssey’s right to a salvage award in the case. On May 4, 2009, Peru filed its objection to Spain’s Motion to Dismiss that Spain filed on September 22, 2008.

On June 3, 2009, a Report and Recommendation (R&R) was filed by the Magistrate which recommended that Spain’s Motion to Dismiss the case be granted. Six separate Objections were filed, including an Objection from Odyssey, Peru, and many claiming to be descendants of merchants who owned the private cargo on the Mercedes. Odyssey’s objection included arguments that:

• The applied legal standard of review was incorrect (i.e., the motion must be denied because the factual questions regarding jurisdiction are intertwined with the merits of the case).
• There was no coherent vessel located at the “Black Swan” site.
• There is clear and convincing evidence of the commercial nature of the Mercedes’ mission at the time of her demise which Odyssey believes legally nullifies the claim to sovereign immunity of that vessel.
• A distinction between cargo and vessel is allowed and even required by settled admiralty law.
• The majority of the coins aboard the Mercedes were merchant-owned, commercial cargo being shipped as freight for a fee and were never owned by Spain.

Spain filed a response to the Objections on August 31, 2009. Odyssey filed a reply to that response on October 15, 2009, reiterating that the R&R had applied the wrong legal standard of review and had incorrectly interpreted factual and legal issues. On October 14, 2009, Odyssey filed a response to a statement of interest filed in the case by the United States Department of Justice which, while not addressing the specific jurisdictional issue before the court, supported Spain’s argument that the Nuestra Senora de las Mercedes, would have been considered a sovereign vessel. The court denied Odyssey’s motion to file a declaration signed by the primary drafter of relevant legislation. A motion to file an amicus brief by members of Congress purporting to counter the DOJ filing was also denied.

On December 23, 2009, Odyssey received notification from the U.S. District Judge that he adopted the Magistrate’s Report and Recommendation in the “Black Swan” case in favor of Spain. Although the Judge complimented Magistrate Pizzo’s Report and Recommendation, he also made it clear that he felt a separate opinion by him would “add only length and neither depth nor clarity (and certainly not finality) to this dispute.” The Judge also stayed the order vacating the arrest warrant and the return of the recovered coins to Spain until the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit rules in the case, which serves to keep the coins in Odyssey’s possession pending the outcome of the case.

We filed our notice of appeal with the Federal District Court for the Middle District of Florida and Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals on January 15, 2010.

“Atlas” Arrests

We currently have two pending Admiralty arrest cases on sites in the “Atlas” search area. Case number 8:06-cv-1685 was discovered and arrested in 2006. This site remains unidentified. Case number 8:08-cv-01044 was discovered and arrested in 2008 and is believed to be the privateer Marqise de Tornay.

Unidentified Shipwreck

The Kingdom of Spain initially appeared as a claimant in this case but has since admitted no interest. On February 1, 2010, the Court granted Odyssey’s Motion for Partial Summary Judgment giving us title to all artifacts recovered from the site and administratively closing the in rem portion of the case (Case number 8:06-cv-1685). The only issue remaining is the claim of Keith Bray.

On December 20, 2007, Bray filed an Intervening Complaint in this case involving the site arrested in September 2006. His claim includes counts for Fraud, Rescission and Mutual Mistake and seeks to have the Court rescind his contract with Odyssey which specifically provided that Bray was entitled only to the cash payment paid to him for historical research work. On January 9, 2008, Odyssey filed its Answer and Affirmative Defenses to the Intervening Complaint denying Bray’s allegations and attaching a copy of the Research Agreement which Odyssey had with Bray. The parties are in the process of evidence discovery and a trial of the case is scheduled for the August 2010 trial term.

Marquise de Tornay

In May 2008, Odyssey filed Admiralty arrests on a Colonial period shipwreck site in the “Atlas” search area. The site contained cannon and other artifacts. On June 20, 2008, U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida appointed Odyssey as substitute custodian of the site.

Based on a bell recovered from the shipwreck site, site exploration and artifacts, Odyssey believes the arrest (case number 8:08-cv-01044) to be the shipwreck of the privateer Marquise de Tornay. On January 23, 2009, the company published notice of the likely identity. No claimants have come forward to date. On July 30, 2009, the Clerk of the Court entered a notice of default on the shipwreck believed to be the Marquise de Tornay (case number 8:08-cv-01044) closing the time for claimants to come forward in the case. Odyssey is seeking a default judgment in the case.

HMS Victory

Along with the Marquise de Tornay, Odyssey arrested a site which it announced on February 2, 2009, is the shipwreck of the HMS Victory, the last Royal Navy warship to be lost at sea with a complete complement of bronze cannon. Odyssey also announced that it had recovered two unique cannon from the site and the company’s research indicated the HMS Victory sunk with a substantial amount of gold and silver specie aboard.

As part of a larger agreement with the United Kingdom, including a salvage award for the cannon recovered to date from the site, Odyssey filed a motion to dismiss, without prejudice, the admiralty action (case number 8:08-cv-01045). The Court granted the motion on September 19, 2009. Although the admiralty case in U.S. Court has been closed, Odyssey continues discussions with the UK Ministry of Defence regarding future efforts at the site.

North Atlantic Arrests – Laconia and Cairn Hill

In November 2008, Admiralty arrests were also filed on two shipwrecks located in the north Atlantic Ocean over 300 miles from the western approaches to the English Channel. (Case numbers 8:08-cv-02219 and 8:08-cv-02220). On November 13, 2008, the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida appointed Odyssey as substitute custodian of both sites and the artifacts recovered therefrom. On February 9, 2009, the United Kingdom filed Verified Statements of Right or Interest in each of the cases, asserting a potential interest in the vessels and/or cargo recovered from the sites.

After reaching an agreement with the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Transportation, Odyssey filed a request on July 17, 2009, to dismiss without prejudice, case number 8:08-cv-02219, the arrest of the shipwreck site believed to be the Laconia. The case was closed on July 20, 2009.

Odyssey filed an Amended Arrest complaint on July 16, 2009, on the shipwreck believed to be Cairn Hill (case number 8:08-cv-02220) to exclude from the arrest any property on the vessel that was the property of the United Kingdom. On August 11, 2009, Deep 6 Ltd., a British corporation, filed a claim in the case stating that Deep 6, Ltd. is the salvor in possession of the shipwreck. Odyssey has contested the claim and the parties are currently in the discovery stage. The claim is scheduled to be tried after February 1, 2011.

Mediterranean Arrest – Ancona

In April 2007, Odyssey filed an Admiralty arrest on a shipwreck in the Mediterranean Sea believed to be the Ancona, a 20th century passenger liner believed to be carrying valuable cargo, and Odyssey was appointed substitute custodian of the artifacts recovered.

On June 25, 2009, Odyssey filed a motion to stay the proceedings on the shipwreck site believed to be Ancona. The court had previously entered a default in the case, but rather than proceeding to judgment, Odyssey requested a stay of the proceedings to discuss with Italy any potential interests they may have in the wreck. Odyssey asked the court to stay the proceedings until the parties have concluded negotiations, and on January 6, 2010, the parties filed a Joint Motion to Preserve the Administratively Closed Status. Odyssey has agreed to confer with Italy before any recovery at the site.

We will continue to pursue prompt resolutions of all claims. If we are able to confirm that any entity has a potential legitimate legal claim to any of the materials recovered from these sites, we intend to provide legal notice to any and all potential claimants. Even if another entity is able to prove that it has an ownership interest in the shipwreck and/or cargo and they had not legally abandoned the shipwreck, Odyssey would seek a salvage award from the Admiralty Court. In cases such as this, salvors are typically awarded up to 90% of the recovery.

About Odyssey Marine Exploration

Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. (NasdaqCM: OMEX) is engaged in the exploration of deep-ocean shipwrecks and uses innovative methods and state-of-the-art technology to conduct extensive search and archaeological recovery operations around the world. Odyssey discovered the Civil War-era shipwreck of the SS Republic® in 2003 and recovered over 50,000 coins and 14,000 artifacts from the site nearly 1,700 feet deep. In May 2007, Odyssey announced the historic deep-ocean treasure recovery of over 500,000 silver and gold coins, weighing 17 tons, from a Colonial era site code-named “Black Swan.” In February 2009, Odyssey announced the discovery of Balchin’s HMS Victory. Odyssey also has other shipwreck projects in various stages of development around the world.

Odyssey offers various ways to share in the excitement of deep-ocean exploration by making shipwreck treasures and artifacts available to collectors, the general public and students through its webstore, exhibits, books, television, merchandise, and educational programs.

Odyssey’s operations are the subject of a Discovery Channel television series titled “Treasure Quest,” which is produced by JWM Productions. The 12-episode first season aired worldwide in 2009. Production on a second season is underway.

For details on the Odyssey’s activities and its commitment to the preservation of maritime heritage please visit www.shipwreck.net.

Related posts:

1. Odyssey Marine Exploration announces Q2 Results
2. Odyssey Marine Exploration Files Admiralty Arrests on Two Shipwreck Sites
3. Odyssey Marine Exploration Shipwreck Expeditions to Become World Premiere Series on Discovery Channel

The Armenian Heritage Collection was assembled to represent the various periods in the pre-modern age when Armenia produced its own coinage or made substantial contributions to the coinage of other powers, according to Princeton Curator of Numismatics Alan Stahl.

Stahl said the acquisition will provide scholars with access to significant materials to study early Armenian civilization, as well as provide new opportunities at Princeton to research ancient and medieval societies.

The earliest coins in the collection are those of the Artaxiad dynasty, which became the largest political power east of Rome in the first century B.C. The coins of most relevance to Princeton’s existing holdings are those minted in the reign of Tigranes the Great, who ruled from the Seleucid capital of Antioch-on-the-Orontes from 95 to 55 B.C.

“The coins of Tigranes from Antioch hold special interest for Princeton because University scholars led the excavations of the site in the 20th century and the University holds more than 30,000 coins found there in our collection,” Stahl said. “One of the great mysteries of the coins from these excavations is the lack of any in the name of Tigranes and the dearth of local municipal coins for the period of his reign.”

“The collection includes coins of three distinct periods, all of interest to the academic concerns of the University,” Stahl said.

Included in the collection are two large silver pieces of Tigranes the Great and 19 bronze coins in his name, as well as examples of rare coins featuring his successors. All of these coins follow the models of the Hellenistic world, with the portrait of the ruler on the front of the coin and a local deity on the back. The writing on the coins is in Greek.

“The acquisition of this interesting and uncommon collection will significantly broaden Princeton’s resources for the study of both the history and the imagery of the classical world,” said Michael Koortbojian, Princeton professor of art and archaeology. “Moreover, this new collection will not only allow students and faculty direct access to primary historical material, but, in the context of Princeton’s broader numismatic holdings, it will provide an important body of material for research into the interactions between the various cultures and societies that comprised the ancient and medieval world.”

The second group of coins in the Armenian Heritage Collection comprises gold solidi of the Byzantine Empire from the sixth through the 11th century.

“Armenians figured prominently in the government of Byzantium, including in the ranks of its important emperors. The addition of these magnificent gold solidi greatly strengthens our holdings of Byzantine coinage, which has constituted a major focus of acquisition in recent years,” Stahl said.

The third component of the collection comprises coins of the medieval kingdom of Cilician Armenia, on the south coast of what is now Turkey. The kingdom, ruled by Roupenid family, had strong ties to its surrounding powers, Byzantine, Islamic and Crusader. These connections are illustrated by a large silver coin in the collection, equivalent to the European groat or the Islamic dirhem. The coin bears on its front an image of the king on horseback in European style, surrounded by a legend in Armenian characters, while on the back it bears writing in Arabic.

“The coins of Cilician Armenia in the new collection complement the Latin Orient Collection of Crusader Coinage that we acquired two years ago, giving us a fuller picture of the interplay of coinages in the medieval eastern Mediterranean,” Stahl said.

The Armenian Heritage Collection was acquired by the Princeton University Numismatic Collection with funds from the Friends of Princeton University Library and matching funds provided by the University’s Program in Hellenic Studies with the support of the Stanley J. Seeger Hellenic Fund. The Numismatic Collection is part of the Department of Rare Books and Special Collections in Princeton University’s Firestone Library.

Related posts:

1. Princeton University Numismatic Collection Acquires 7th Century “Jesus” Coin
2. Princeton University Exhibit on “Numismatics in the Renaissance”
3. Princeton collection is well-rounded

Considered the “Holy Grail” of English Milled Coinage, this is the only Proof Set of its kind in private hands, and all are in Gem Proof condition. This set has never before been seen outside of England.

Apparently, only four sets, plus a few minors, were minted; the Royal Mint has two of the sets, and another was broken up over 40 years ago, with a few of the coins occasionally appearing at auction.

King Edward the VIII abdicated the throne in December of 1936, after reigning for only 10 months, to marry the American divorcee Mrs. Willis Simpson, a commoner.

It is this King Edward VIIII quote that many school children have been taught to memorize: “I have found it impossible to carry the heavy burden of responsibility and to discharge my duties as King as I would wish to do without the help and support of the woman I love.”

The proof set was minted at the Royal Mint and dated 1937 to be issued on his coronation in January 1937, an event which never took place.

This particular set belonged to Mrs. R. Henry Norweb, whose husband was the American Ambassador to England.

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2. New Book: “King of Eagles” The Most Remarkable Coin Ever Produced by the U.S. Mint
3. Former U.S. Senator Edward William Brooke III Receives Congressional Gold Medal

Among the auction listings are Chinese Empire minor Silver and Copper coins from a long-standing American collection. Also presented is a group of Copper Pattern coins from another American collection, including an extremely rare Yunnan Dollar pattern with raised edge, whose heritage may include the Schuler Company.

The auction will be held on February 24, 2010, at the Hyatt Regency Hong Kong. More information can be found on Champion’s multi-lingual Web site, www.cghka.com, and the auction can be seen at www.liveauctioneers.com/catalog/20498.

586 rare coins and banknotes will be offered and Among the highlights of coins are:

CHINA-Yuan Dynasty 5 Taels Gold Sycee, Weight 185.5g, VF?lot 48?
CHINA-SHANTUNG 1926 Dragon and Phoenix 10 Dollars Gold Pattern, KM Pn7, K1536, NGC MS65?lot 68?
CHINA-YUNNAN ND 10 Cash Copper Pattern, AU. Extremely rare possibly unique (lot 235)
CHINA-SINKIANG 1878 One Mace Silver, Lanchoufu Arsenal Mint, L&M808, K1000, NGC AU55(lot 214)
CHINA-Qing Dynasty Empress Dowager Presentation Birthday Charm, 63mm in diameter, 10mm thick, 241.8g, XF(lot 41)

Highlights of banknotes are:
CHINA 1911 Shensi Provincial Bank 3 Taels (Guo-829), VF-XF(lot 449)
CHINA 1854 Board of Revenue 10 Tales PA12b(lot 367)
CHINA 1907 Kiangse Government Bank $1 PMG VF20(lot 447)
CHINA 1914 Bank of China Chihli $5 PMG AU58EPQ(lot 389)

The auction can also be viewed and participated simultaneously by clicked www.liveauctioneers.com/catalog/20498.

Related posts:

1. CHAMPION GALLERIES JUNE HONG KONG AUCTION FULL OF CHINESE RARITIES
2. Highlights of the upcoming Champion Hong Kong Auction April 1, 2009
3. CHAMPION HONG KONG AUCTION SETS STRING OF RECORD PRICES

“When I had the pleasure of inspecting the collection,” said Cristiano Bierrenbach, Heritage Director of International Sales, “I was impressed by the accomplishment of our consignor, who in a short time was able to assemble a complete cabinet with very few missing pieces. Many of the coins not included in the collection are found only in museums!”

One of the highlights of the collection is the group of counterstruck coins, with more than 30 pieces, many of which are very difficult to find. The collection also includes a complete set of 960 Reis, including very rare varieties, as well as three pieces from Minas Gerais, the three patacoes of the second empire (1832, 1833, and 1834), various Minas counterstamps on rare Hispanic 8 Reales, and a complete collection of Cruzados (!), including the extremely rare 1200 Reis of 1839 and 100 Reis of 1844.

Our Brazilian offerings in this auction do not end with the silver rarities from the Paulistana Collection; we will be offering dozens of gold rarities as well, including two 3200 Reis coins, a 1000 Reis dated 1727-M, an extremely rare 2000 Reis dated 1703-R, and more than 30 pieces of 6400 Reis from Rio and Bahia.

To sum it up, if you are interested in the fascinating coinage of Brazil, this auction has something for you. Just a few of the highlights of this auction will include:

• 960 Reis Counterstamp on 1789 Carlos III 8 Reales of Mexico.
• 1844 100 Reis.
• 1843 400 Reis.
• 1848 500 Reis.
• 1818-M 640 Reis.
• 1843 800 Reis.
• 1810-M 960 Reis, Inverted Reverse.
• 1822-B 960 Reis.
• 1834-R 960 Reis.
• 1839 1200 Reis.
• 1763-R 1600 Reis.
• 1703-R 2000 Reis.
• 1749-R 3200 Reis.

Related posts:

1. CARL F. CHIRICO JR. COLLECTION OF WORLD PATTERN COINS” TOPS $2 MILLION AT BOWERS AND MERENA’S BALTIMORE AUCTION
2. Bowers and Merena To Auction Globus Collection of US and World Coins at Baltimore Sale in Nov.
3. Kiawah Collection of Gold Coins Highlights Summer FUN Offerings

The auction opens with lot 1, a Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) 1-Kuan banknote. The Baldwin’s – Ma Tak Wo auction group sold a similar piece in their last sale for a record breaking US$19,000 and, although this note isn’t in as good condition, they are hopeful that this piece will attract as much attention.

The banknote section continues to show promise with lot 39 a 1908 Hio Lung Kiang Government Bank, Branch Office $5 note in extremely fine condition and leads into an extensive selection of Indian banknotes, the most unique and desirable being lot 227 the 1000 Rupees, first issue note of Hyderabad.

Following the success of the Chinese medals and orders section of the last sale the Hong Kong sale this year offers a smaller but equally as interesting selection. The highlight of the orders is lot 560 – The Order of the Stripped Tiger, First Class Set.

Founded in 1912 by President Yuan Shih-Kai as an award of merit to Chinese Navel and Military Forces, the award cam in nine classes and is no longer awarded. The class is indicated by the number of stars appearing above the tiger’s head and also by the size of the badge itself. Three stars denotes a first class award, two a second class award and one for third class. Lot 560 holds three stars and is in extremely fine condition and estimated at US$12,000 – 15,000.

A nice selection of Portuguese-Indian coinage appears in the World Coins section of the auction and includes 22 coins of high grade and rarity. Lot 799 a 1653 João IV (1640-56): Gold 2-Tangas is the stand out piece. Lots 641 and 783, a 1941 George VI (1936-52): Proof 1-Cent and an 1858 Netherlands East Indies: Gold Proof striking of the copper 2½-Cents, are also worthy of note. The Thai coin section is strong with an extremely rare Rama V gold pattern set (lot 720) shining out above all others, some porcelain gaming counters sit aside the coins as interesting lots and the coin selection is complimented by an extensive group of Thai medals.

For more information about any of the other lots in the sale please contact Seth Freeman on +44 (0)20 79309808 or at seth@baldwin.co.uk

Sale Highlights

Lot 1 Ming Dynasty (1368-1644): 1-Kuan, issued by Emperor Hong Wu, made of mulberry paper, 220mm x 335mm (P AA10). Slightly ragged left margin and usual internal thinning, otherwise fine. Estimate: US$3,000-4,000

Lot 39 Hio Lung Kiang Government Bank, Branch Office: $5, Year 34 (1908) (Pick and S/M unlisted). Extremely fine and rare. Estimate: US$2,500-3,000 Hyder Nawaz Jung, printed by Waterlow & Sons Ltd, London (Jhun 12.1; P S267). Usual pinholes to left and in top left corner, paper strong, extremely fine, highly desirable and rare. Estimate: US$2,000-2,500

Lot 560 Order of the Striped Tiger , First Class Set of Insignia, comprising sash badge and breast star in silver-gilt and enamels, both stamped “7 X II” and ” ??? ” on the reverse, badge 78mm, star 97mm. Extremely fine and rare. Estimate: US$12,000-15,000

Lot 641 George VI (1936-52): Proof 1-Cent, 1941 (KM 24). One of the greatest rarities of the Hong Kong series, in PGCS holder graded PR64RB. Estimate: US$18,000-22,000

Lot 720 Rama V: Gold Pattern Set, RS127 (1908), 1-Satang, 5-Satangs and 10-Satangs, Obv legend, Rev chakra, weights 3.90g, 5.78g and 7.98g, diamter 17.4mm, 19.9mm and 22.5mm (S 183, 187, 190; KM Pn50, 51, 52). Brilliant uncirculated with light red tone, in NGC holders graded MS64, MS63 and MS64 respectively, extremely rare. (3pcs) Estimate: US$40,000-50,000

Lot 783 Netherlands East Indies: Gold Proof striking of the copper 2½-Cents, 1858, Obv arms and date, Rev inscription in Malay and Jawi (Scholten 773, stated to be unique, ex Stephanik sale, lot 6894). Brilliant mint state. Estimate: US$500-700

Lot 799 João IV (1640-56): Gold 2-Tangas, 1653, Chaul E Baçaim mint (Gom 19.01; KM 3). Good very fine or better for this crude issue, very rare. Estimate: US$1,000-1,500

*
The Hong Kong Coin Auction is held twice annually in conjunction with the Hong Kong International Coin
Convention and Antique Watch Fair and always over the three days after the auction. It is organised by Ma
Tak Wo Numismatic Co. Ltd and A.H. Baldwin & Sons Ltd and details of how to book an exhibition table or
get tickets for the show can be obtained from either of the partners.
*
A.H. Baldwin & Sons have been holding auctions in Singapore and Hong Kong with local partners since 1993
and this will be the 32 nd
auction they have held together.
*
Baldwin’s auction department hold between ten and twelve sales annually in London, New York and Hong
Kong and specialise in all areas of Numismatics.

Auction Partners
Ma Tak Wo Numismatic Co Ltd
Unit A2, 9 th
Floor, China Insurance Building, 48 Cameron Road
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Tel: (++852) 2316 2926
Fax: (++852) 2316 7526

A. H. Baldwin & Sons Ltd
11 Adelphi Terrace, London WC2N 6BJ, United Kingdom
Tel: (++44) (0) 20 7930 9808, Fax: (++44) (0) 20 7930 9450
Email: auctions@baldwin.co.uk
Website: www.baldwin.co.uk

Related posts:

1. Baldwin plans 47th Hong Kong Coin Auction
2. Highlights of the upcoming Champion Hong Kong Auction April 1, 2009
3. Upcoming Champion Hong Kong Auction Offers Chinese Numismatic Rarities

In marked contrast to last year’s event the bidders appeared to be out in force. Seth Freeman of Baldwin’s commented that there was a real buzz around this years event, both the convention and the auction and buyers ‘seemed to be focused on one thing, spending money to secure key items’.

The results from the sale this year reflected the more optimistic view of the financial markets for 2010. Across the board bidders seemed less cautious than last year and prices realised on particular items were substantially higher.

Highlights from the first day of the sale included the catalogue cover piece (pictured above), lot 128, a Roman Empire Drusus Sestertius which sold for $17,250 USD against a pre-sale estimate of $8,500 USD; and lot 251, a Constantinus II Solidus, Treveri, which achieved $34,500 USD.

As ever the Indian section was strong and attracted a lot of attention, the most interesting lot being 304, a very rare Gupta Dinar, Tiger-slayer type depicting the goddess Ganga standing on an elephant-headed fish, sold for $21,850 USD.

Bidding interest and excitement centered on the Medieval, Portuguese and Russian sections and this is demonstrated by the incredibly strong prices achieved. Highlights of the section incorporate lots 470 and 628, a Carolingian Denarius of Toulouse, and a Portuguese Sancho I Morabitino which sold for $13,800 USD and $25,000 USD respectively.

Lot 1027, a 1707 Shestak Half Tymf, was one of the most unique and interesting pieces in the sale. This coin was first recorded in 1897 where it was the only image available of this very rare coin and soon became the plate coin in all standard references. The groups research produced no other specimen of this particular coin offered at public auction and this was reflected in the realised price of $97,500 USD.

Lot 2002, a complete set of the Order of St. Alexander Nevsky also attracted a great deal of interest and more than doubled its estimate by achieving $184,000 USD and becoming the highest priced lot of the auction.

Held in the Norse Suite of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York, the auction spanned two evenings and the room was packed for both events. Many individuals were bidding on the phone and 91 people registered to bid online over the course of the two days, proving that you no longer have to attend an auction to participate in it. 77% of the 1402 lots offered were sold and a total hammer price of $ 4,815,136 USD (including premium) achieved.

Lots sold online to bidders globally totaled 8.57% of the successful bidders buying 90 lots between them.

Full sale results can be found online at www.baldwin.co.uk or at www.sixbid.com

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2. Ira and Larry Goldberg World and Ancient Coin Auction
3. “Brand New” Ancient Roman Gold Coins in Heritage January 2009 NYINC Auction

NGC recently certified an extremely rare gold 1689/72 Spanish 8 Escudos struck on the island of Majorca. It is the only known crown-size gold coin of the Cob era struck in Majorca, and graded NGC XF45, with a strong, full strike and abundant underlying luster.

The Calico “Onza” book describes the coin as unique. The 1879 edition of Numismatica Balear by Alvaro Campaner included this coin, illustrating it with a line drawing. A counterfeiter, relying only on the illustration as his model, produced a meticulous replica from which these coins are perhaps better known.

The unique genuine example resided in the Marquis of Palmer collection, as noted by Campaner, and recently sold as part of the Caballero de las Yndias collection, one of the largest private collections of gold coins from Spain and Latin America.

This sale is believed to be the only time the piece has ever been publicly offered for sale.

NGC was privileged to certify this rare specimen.

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“Bidding activity was very strong in our January 2010 N.Y.I.N.C. Auction,” observed Rick Ponterio, executive vice president of Bowers and Merena Auctions, “with many coins and notes selling for noteworthy prices. Particularly impressive results were achieved through our offering of the Chester Skotak Collection of Central American Coinage as well as in the section of the sale dedicated to Russian, Annamese and Argentine Sun Face coinage.”

Continued Ponterio: “We offered the Prize of Russian Numismatics–a 1902 37 1/2 Rubles–as lot 7389. This important coin, attributed as Fr-170, Y-B65, Bitkin-309 and Sev-578 and graded AU, realized $69,000, more than double our pre-sale estimate. Also of note is lot 7139, a very rare 1826 Great Britain 5 Pounds with a mintage of just 150 pieces. An original, unimpaired piece certified Proof-63 Deep Cameo by PCGS, the coin went to the winning bidder at $19,550.”

Additional highlights of the Ponterio & Associates January 2010 N.Y.I.N.C. Auction include:

o Lot 5041, Belize, 10 Dollars, 1.1.1974, P-36a, Superb Gem Uncirculated 67EPQ (PMG), realized $3,278
o Lot 5153, Taiwan, 50 Yen, 1921, P-1924, Very Fine, realized $2,818
o Lot 5448, India, 2 Rupees – 8 Annas, Undated (1917), P-2, Uncirculated, realized $7,705
o Lot 5457, India, 1 Rupee, Undated (circa 1928-1935), P-14b, About Uncirculated-Uncirculated, realized $8,625
o Lot 5832, Macedonia, Mende, AR Tetradrachm, circa 425 B.C., AU (NGC), realized $10,350
o Lot 5921, Rome, AE Aes Grave As, circa 280-269 B.C., Choice Extremely Fine, realized $17,250
o Lot 5942, Rome, Antonia, AV Aureus, posthumous struck circa 41-42 under Claudius, Very Fine, realized $10,350
o Lot 5959, Rome, Diocletian, AV Aureus, Nicomedia Mint, 294-295, Choice AU (NGC), realized $10,638
o Lot 7134, Great Britain, Broad of 20 Shillings, 1656, Fr-273, S-3225, KM-Pn25, AU-55 (NGC), realized $25,300
o Lot 7296, Mexico, Iturbide, Gold Medal, 1821, Grove-5 (unlisted in gold), AU-55 (NGC), realized $14,950
o Lot 7316, Peru, 8 Escudos, 1710-H, Fr-7, KM-38.2, Choice EF, realized $18,400
o Lot 7332, Romania, 20 Lei, 1868, Fr-1, KM-5, AU Details–Reverse Scratched (NGC), realized $37,375
o Lot 7356, Russia, Platinum 6 Rubles, 1830, Fr-159, C-178, Bitkin-56, Sev-599, MS-64 (NGC), realized $26,450
o Lot 7561, China, Pattern Dollar, Tientsin Mint, Undated (1907), L&M-20, K-212, MS-63 (NGC), realized $10,350

For a complete list of prices realized for the January 2010 N.Y.I.N.C. Auction, visit the Bowers and Merena/Ponterio & Associates website at www.bowersandmerena.com or call the firm toll free of 800.458.4646.

Ponterio & Associates, Inc., was founded in 1982 by Richard Ponterio, renowned specialist in world and ancient numismatics. The company was acquired by Bowers and Merena Auctions in 2008, creating an auction powerhouse that covers the collecting interests of U.S. and international coin and currency enthusiasts. Ponterio & Associates auctions have included such notable coin collections as the John S. Davenport Collection, the Witte Museum Collection, the Amat Collection, the Joe Lasser Collection, and the James Hunnicut Collection. Distinguished paper money collections include the East Bay Collection of International Bank Notes, and the Eduard Kann Chinese Bank Note Collection. Ponterio & Associates has also presented treasure collections from the shipwrecks “Nicobar,” “Rooswijk,” and “Capitana.”

Bowers and Merena Auctions was founded in 1983 and has grown to become the world’s preeminent numismatic auctioneer with more than half a billion dollars in rare coin and currency sales. They continue to serve as Official Auctioneer of the Baltimore Coin and Currency Conventions three times every year. Bowers and Merena has handled four of the five most valuable United States coin collections ever sold, including the Louis E. Eliasberg Sr. Collection, the Harry W. Bass Jr. Collection, the Garrett Collection for The Johns Hopkins University, and the Norweb Collection. Bowers and Merena Rare Coin Galleries offers direct buying and selling of exceptional quality gold and silver rare coins.

For more information about Bowers and Merena and Ponterio & Associates, or to consign to an upcoming auction, call 800.458.4646 in the U.S. or +1.949.253.0916 international. For media inquiries, ask for executive vice president Rick Ponterio. Complete prices realized for all past auctions are available at www.bowersandmerena.com

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2. PONTERIO & ASSOCIATES, INC. REALIZES MORE THAN $1.5 MILLION
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