2013 Casascius 0.5 Bitcoin (BTC). Brass. Loaded (Unredeemed). Firstbits 124z8Liq. Series 2. 25.4 mm. MS64 (PCGS). A particularly desirable 2013 Casascius 0.5 BTC with impressive surface quality and virtually no significant abrasions. Vivid brassy-gold in color with scattered hints of patina noted on the obverse. One of only about 3,100 examples issued, this piece remains loaded with a face value of 0.5 BTC, equivalent to approximately US$19,000 at the time of cataloging (February 2022). Significantly, it is the only example graded by PCGS, which makes it an important opportunity for sophisticated collectors and investors. <p>This is a well-traveled example that was purchased directly from Mike Caldwell (Casascius) by our consignor in May 2013 as part of an original roll of 25 coins. Carried as a pocket piece for several months, it was soon sold to a friend circa July 2013 for 80 GBP while on a trip to England. It was only recently re-acquired by our consignor in trade for BTC and we are thrilled to be able to offer it publicly in our April sale. It is accompanied in this sale by a 2013 Casascius 1BTC offered in the following lots that was acquired as part of the same order from Caldwell. We suggest the possibility that a collector may purchase both lots to keep them together and continue to build upon this shared legacy. </p><p>According to researcher Elias Ahonen, the Series 2 0.5 BTC were released on February 17th 2013 in response to the significant increase in the price of bitcoin, from around US$14 to around US$30, in just a few weeks. Issued on a 25.4mm brass planchet, the obverse features the Bitcoin currency symbol at center surrounded by a legend listing the date, denomination, and the Latin phrase "VIRES IN NUMERIS" that translates as "Strength in Numbers." This phrase is also featured on the popular Lealana coin series but is listed there in Hawaiian as "IKAIKA I HELU NUI". The reverse features a holographic sticker with the firstbits address printed at the center. Beneath the holographic sticker is the private address that allows the owner to redeem the value of the bitcoin once the sticker is peeled away.</p><p>Stack’s Bowers Galleries is also excited to offer our clients the ability to pay for their purchases with Bitcoin. We have arranged with BitPay to facilitate all Bitcoin payments and a 1% fee will be added to all invoices for this service. Additional terms and conditions apply, and bidders are required to contact Stack’s Bowers Galleries before the sale with any questions relating to payment via BitPay. Clients who would like to settle an invoice via BitPay must contact our accounting department to arrange for a payment request.</p> Acquired directly from Mike Caldwell, the creator of the Casascius series, in May 2013 as part of an original roll of bitcoins.
