1787 Brasher Doubloon

Forbes Collector
February, 2005

BUZZ: Touted as 'the single most important coin in American numismatics,' the Brasher Doubloon -- hand-struck in 1787-- is believed to be the first gold coin made in the United States.  Of the ten examples that survive, this one is unique for having the designer's initials, EB (for Ephraim Brasher) punched across the eagle's breast instead of on its wing.  Steven Contursi of Rare Coin Wholesalers of Dana Point, Calif., beat out 11 other bidders.  It had previously been bought at auction in 1981 for $625,000.