The Numismatic Crime Information Center (NCIC) has reported the theft of three coins – a gold Half Eagle and two ancient coins – in an apparent mail theft earlier this month. The incident involved a United States Postal Service package on or around October 5, 2020. The package, which is still listed as being “in transit” was being shipped from Baynton Beach, FL to Sacramento, CA. When the package arrived, the package had been tampered with and the three coins were missing.
Here are the coins that are missing along with their certification information from PCGS and NGC:
- 1807 $5 Gold Half Eagle – PCGS XF Details – Repaired; PCGS Cert: 40218976
- Ancient Alexander the Great Tetradrachm – NGC VF; NGC Cert: 5873916-013
- Ancient Roman Hadrian AE As Coin – NGC XF; NGC Cert: 5873916-008
While it is not fully confirmed that the coins were stolen from the package, it is very likely given the package had evidence of being tampered with and not simply damaged. Both the NCIC and USPS are investigating the matter.
If there is a good aspect to this apparent theft, it is that all three of the coins involved are certified. That will make it harder to simply dump off the coins. Collectors and dealers are strongly encouraged to keep an eye out of these coins, particularly if you run across them in a deal “too good to be true”. Even with the Gold Half Eagle being graded as repaired by PCGS, it will still bring a high premium.
If you have any information on these coins, you can contact Doug Davis at 817-723-7231 or Doug@numismaticcrimes.org with details.
The Numismatic Crime Information Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation whose mission is to serve as a national and international resource for collectors, dealers and law enforcement in the education, prevention and investigation of crimes involving coins, paper money, tokens, medals and related numismatic items.