Ohio Estate Sale Uncovers Rare Large Cent Collection

A routine estate sale in rural Ohio yielded an unexpected treasure last weekend when a collection of early American large cents was discovered in a long-forgotten safety deposit box.

The collection, assembled by a collector who passed away in 1978, includes several coins that experts estimate could fetch significant premiums at auction. Among the highlights is an 1793 Wreath cent in VF condition, a coin that typically sells for $15,000-20,000 depending on specific characteristics.

The heir, who requested anonymity, had no idea the collection existed until bank records were discovered during estate settlement. The family had assumed numismatic materials were liquidated decades ago.

Local dealer Marcus Webb, who first examined the collection, described the experience as “once in a career.” The coins remained in their original paper envelopes, with handwritten notes describing purchase details and prices paid—often less than $50 for coins now worth thousands.

The discovery highlights an important message for families: investigate thoroughly before assuming nothing valuable remains. Safety deposit boxes, home safes, and storage areas frequently contain forgotten collections worth documenting.

Professional appraisal before any sale ensures fair value recognition. The Ohio collection will be auctioned this spring after proper authentication and grading.