114A Preface

We are pleased to present Sale 114, another wide ranging auction of 5,127 lots in nineteen sessions spanning four days and three nights. The sale includes perhaps the finest collection of New Zealand tradesmen’s tokens and the most complete collection of New Zealand check pieces, many illustrated for the first time in a catalogue. These tokens and checks are from the collection of Brian Bolton and are complemented by a choice collection of New Zealand currency coins formed by Stephen N. Agnew and a Waitangi proof set and proof crown, 1935.

There are some choice and proof tokens from Hillel Kaslove’s collection. These are appearing on the auction market for the first time. Hillel was a former curator for the Bank of Canada and grew up in New York prior to this appointment. Now in his 84th year, he remains a leading collector of British Commonwealth coins.

The fifth or evening session includes some outstanding Australian gold, silver and copper with three 1930 pennies. The early proofs include a certified proof Melbourne Centenary florin and two dark toned but brilliant 1939 kangaroo halfpennies. 

Once again we offer an exciting collection of Captain James Cook memorabilia, perhaps the best since Sale 18 in April 1986. This collection was formed by the late Wal Shannon, who passed away four years ago aged 89. Wal collected coins and medals, but was also a keen collector of antique firearms and other antique historical artifacts.

The afternoon sessions commence with orders, decorations and medals, highlights being the GC, DSC group to Australian Lieutenant Bagot and the RNVR in 1918; World War I MC and bar group of seven to Captain Harburn; OBE, Lloyds Bravery Medal group to Chief Officer J.H.A.Mackie and a Ghuznee Medal 1839 to Captain Constantine Cowley, born at Sydney Cove in 1793.

From about 3.00pm the Edward Lewis Montgomery Cummings Collection is offered for the remainder of that day in a separate catalogue (114B).

The following morning sees Australian historical medals led by a choice silver Resolution & Adventure medal, ex John J.Ford Jr. and Wal Shannon collections, a good very fine Separation of Victoria medal 1850 and an intriguing engraved love token for Otaheiti (Tahiti) to W. Hinde 1793 for Captain William Bligh’s breadfruit expedition. Many of these medals are from the collection of our longstanding client and early Australian silver connoisseur John Houstone.

The remainder of the third day is devoted to stamps, documents, New Zealand, World and Australian banknotes.

The fourth day is devoted to ancient and world coins over four sessions.

On behalf of the company we wish you every success at the auction and extend our gratitude to prospective bidders and consignors for their support.