Notable News (April 28-May 5, 2025)

This week’s headlines include Washington coin and bullion sales tax, PNG’s Abe Kosoff Founders Award, Belgian King Philippe’s 65th birthday coin, and an 1851 Augustus Humbert $50 slug.

The Washington state legislature has voted to repeal its longstanding sales-and-use-tax exemption on the purchase of precious-metal bullion and coins. Effective January 1, 2026, sales of coins and bullion in Washington will be subject to taxes. 

Photo: Getty Images/Jitalia17

The Professional Numismatists Guild has given its highest honor, the Abe Kosoff Founders Award, to James Halperin, cofounder of Heritage Auctions. The award was presented during the PNG’s annual membership dinner on April 23.

Photo: Professional Numismatists Guild

Belgium has released new gold proof coins in honor of King Philippe’s 65th birthday. Portraits of the monarch facing right appear on the obverse and reverse of the Royal Dutch Mint’s 12¹⁄₂ euro coin.

Photo: The Royal Dutch Mint

Stack’s Bowers Galleries May 2025 Showcase Auction will feature a rare Mint State 1851 Augustus Humbert $50 slug.  The iconic California Gold Rush-era octagonal piece was struck by the United States Assay Office of Gold.

Photo: Stack’s Bowers Galleries