On the couch: Rare Coins & an Invisible Coin

In this episode of Lunch with Pippa Hudson, host Pippa Hudson explores the bizarre yet real phenomenon of an 'invisible coin' selling for over 66,000 rand at a South African auction, sparking both amusement and intrigue. The coin, a conceptual piece created by SANGS and auctioned by Bassani Auction House as a humorous April Fool’s stunt, was never meant to be taken seriously—yet it attracted serious bidders, ultimately fetching a surprising sum. The episode delves into the psychology behind collectible value, the role of rarity and condition in numismatics, and the historical significance of South African coins. Landon Kaleski of Bassani Auction House shares insights into the auction’s success, the real value of rare coins like the 1931 Tiki and 1892 Pond, and the thrill of uncovering lost or missing historical pieces. Listeners’ questions reveal the public’s fascination with forgotten coins, from sequence-numbered two-rand notes to rare one-cent coins, with expert guidance on how to assess value and where to find hidden treasures in old collections. The conversation underscores how coin collecting transcends mere monetary value, serving as a living archive of South Africa’s complex history—from colonial rulers to national icons. Kaleski emphasizes that while some coins are worth mere cents, others—like the 1931 Tiki—are worth hundreds of thousands due to extreme scarcity. The episode closes with a sense of wonder about the countless rare coins still hidden in drawers and cupboards across the country, with only a fraction ever accounted for. It’s a celebration of history, mystery, and the enduring human desire to own a piece of the past.