Katz Auction Celebrates 150th Sale

SPONSORED CONTENT

---

On April 16-17, 2025, one of Europe’s leading numismatic houses will hold a landmark auction. Especially for this event, some of the rarest coins have been assembled and are ready to shine in all their glory: German talers, Imperial Russian silver coins, rare gold coins of Europe and America, and other collectible treasures.

The History of Katz Auction

Katz Auction was founded in 2007 by numismatic enthusiasts who combined their passion with a professional approach to auction organizing. Right from the start, Katz set itself the mission not only to sell valuable coins but also to preserve cultural and historical heritage for future generations.

Katz’s experts pay special attention to authentication and certification, collaborating with renowned numismatic and grading companies. Buyers can be sure of the quality of the items they acquire. Regularly held auctions go beyond mere commercial events: Katz Auction House participates in specialized numismatic exhibitions, strengthening ties with the community worldwide.

Recognized as an authority among numismatists, medal collectors, and investors, Katz Auction House now presents its 150th anniversary auction, set to be a highlight in the numismatic world. The professional community is eagerly anticipating the premiere event, which will feature an extensive collection of exclusive coins.

German Taler Coins

Collecting German talers has become a noble hobby and a strategic investment for serious numismatic connoisseurs. International interest in German coins continues to grow, especially for rare issues like those presented at this auction.

The centerpiece of the auction will be the Saxon Schautaler of 1611, known as the “Double Monkey taler.” This commemorative coin struck in Dresden upon the accession of Johann Georg I, Elector of Saxony, is a striking example of court numismatics. It features meticulous craftsmanship, detailed imagery, and deep symbolic meaning. Its excellent preservation significantly enhances its value.

Katz will present this piece at its 150th auction alongside other unique German talers, including the Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel taler of 1634—an extremely rare auction guest, preserved in outstanding Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) Mint State (MS)-61 condition.

Pristine Pattern Coins

Also in the upcoming auction is a unique collection of German pattern coins, including such rarities as the Saxe-Meiningen experimental specimen of 1900, the Bavarian silver pattern of 1904, the 50-reichspfennig coin from the Weimar Republic, a Württemberg commemorative coin of 1916 honoring the 25th anniversary of Wilhelm II’s reign, and more.

The Saxe-Meiningen experimental specimen of 1900 is a 5-mark silver pattern with a portrait of Duke George II. The spirit of a transitional era seems concentrated in this coin: industrialization, technological progress, political change. Its Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) Specimen (SP)-62 grade confirms its status as a historical pattern issue.

The Bavarian silver pattern of 1904, also of 5-mark denomination, features the portrait of King Otto—the last monarch to rule Bavaria. Its PCGS SP-64 certification attests to its excellent state of preservation—almost untouched by time, and considered a top rarity.

Another witness to dramatic transformations is the Württemberg commemorative coin of 1916—a coin symbolizing yet another empire, the German Empire, that faded into history. Minted in honor of the 25th anniversary of Wilhelm II’s reign, it is the last coin of a bygone era. Graded PCGS SP-67, it is practically a museum piece.

Finally, an exceptionally rare experimental coin—the 50 reichspfennig of 1924—survived the upheavals of one of the most tumultuous periods in German history and remains in near-perfect condition, graded PCGS SP-66.

Pattern coins are especially sought after since they are rare artifacts that reflect technological evolution, carrying significant investment potential. Collectors around the world hunt for such coins, and Katz Auction offers exquisite pieces of history to suit every taste.

Imperial Russian Coins

Another highlight of the anniversary auction is the collection of rare silver coins from Imperial Russia. Collectors’ attention will undoubtedly be drawn to a coin with a 1-ruble denomination from 1741, minted during the reign of Empress Anna Ioannovna and exemplifying the numismatic art of the 18th century.

No less intriguing is the rare 1886 ruble, rightly considered a numismatic treasure of the Imperial era. Cataloged as NGC MS-65 Top Pop, it’s in exceptional condition—only a handful of such pristine examples exist worldwide. In 1886 Russia was under the rule of Tsar Alexander III, who ascended the throne in 1881 after the assassination of his father, Tsar Alexander II.

Also of special interest is the 1883 ruble issued to commemorate the coronation of Emperor Alexander III. This historically significant coin marks a period of economic growth and industrial development in Russia. Its NGC Proof (PF)-63* Top Pop designation confirms its outstanding condition, making it one of the few high-grade pieces of its kind.

Rounding out the collection are coins from the reign of Empress Elizabeth Petrovna. The 1757 ruble in Almost Uncirculated condition is a true collector’s dream. It features a portrait of the Empress by renowned Swiss medalist J. Dassier. That year, 1757, was noteworthy in Russian history, as Elizabeth Petrovna decided to enter the Seven Years’ War.

Among the gems of the Russian coin collection is the 1906 ruble, a relic of the twilight of the Russian Empire. Bearing the mint mark of the St. Petersburg Mint, it features the portrait of Nicholas II, the empire’s last monarch. Graded NGC PF-66, it boasts excellent numismatic preservation. For collectors, it’s more than just a 20-gram silver coin—it is a piece of history. This valuable artifact offers a tangible link to the pivotal moments in Russian statehood.

Today, interest in Romanov-era coins runs high. Rare examples in pristine condition often spark intense bidding at professional auctions. Undoubtedly, the 150th auction promises to be one of these events.

Rare Gold Coins

A separate category in Katz’s 150th-anniversary auction is a selection of gold coins, traditionally prized by both collectors and investors. Above all, these are truly scarce, and their appearance on the auction market is an exceptional event. Among the lots are several rarities, each worthy of special attention—and likely to inspire intense bidding. Here are just a few examples of gold coins expected to spark lively interest.

Minted during the Napoleonic Wars, the Hanoverian 5 gold taler of 1814, a 6.65g gold coin by Thomas Wyon is NGC-certified as MS-63. It is the only known example at that grade, truly a numismatic rarity.

Struck during the era of Johann Georg I, the Saxon 4 ducats of 1617 depicts a biblical scene in gold. Weighing 13.25g, it is a masterpiece of court numismatics, illustrating King Solomon and his mother Bathsheba. The inscription VT SALOMON SIC EGO MATREM (“I am to my Mother as Solomon was”) carries profound symbolic meaning. It is one of only two known specimens dedicated to Sophia of Brandenburg.

Another collector’s masterpiece from the California Gold Rush, a 1854 $3 gold piece truly captures the spirit of American expansion. Known as the Indian Princess Head, it’s .900-fine gold, weighs 5.01g, and dates to the period of internal strife leading up to the Civil War. It marks territorial expansion and social transformation.

A modern numismatic gem from the Perth Mint, an Australian $50 struck in 2014 as part of the Lunar Series II dedicated to the Year of the Horse will also be available. With a limited mintage of 17,839 coins, most went directly into private collections. Weighing 15.55g, it features a portrait of Elizabeth II and Chinese zodiac symbolism—an exciting blend of Western and Eastern cultural traditions.

For professional investors, gold coins are a multi-layered asset: in addition to their intrinsic precious metal value, each piece also carries numismatic worth that can exceed its face value by many multiples. Rarity, historical significance, and immaculate preservation make such coins ideal tools for diversifying an investment portfolio. In times of economic instability, gold coins are collectible items and strategic financial assets. The pieces showcased at the 150th auction are not just witnesses to historical eras; they are promising investments for those who know how to look not only at the past but also into the future.

How to Participate in the 150th Katz Auction

The 150th anniversary Katz Auction will take place April 16-17, 2025. You must register on the official website and verify your personal information to participate.

The process is convenient: by ensuring all steps are completed through the online system, you’ll save time and make it easy for collectors worldwide to join the bidding.

Katz Auction House guarantees the authenticity of all lots. Expert consultations are available prior to the auction.

Members of the American Numismatic Association will find the Katz Auction an exceptional opportunity to enhance their collections with unique coins. Given the wide range of series offered—be they antique German talers, exclusive pattern specimens, or rare Russian rubles—most collectors are sure to find that special coin which fills a gap in their collections or serves as a winning investment asset for the future.