2013 Lealana 0.1 Bitcoin (BTC). Silver. Loaded (Unredeemed). Firstbits 1BTCL7i9. Serial No. 546. Black Address, Serialized. 25 mm. Proof-70 Deep Cameo (PCGS). A virtually perfect specimen of this desirable 2013 silver Lealana 0.1 BTC. The flawless surfaces display a lovey platinum-white coloration and rich satiny luster. It is one of just 490 issued for the variety, many of which have since been peeled (redeemed). This piece remains loaded and unpeeled, boasting a face value of 0.1 Bitcoin, equivalent to roughly USD$3,800 at the time of cataloging (February 2022). Similar to the Buyer-Funded example that sold for $33,600 in our November 2021 sale, though this piece sports a lower and more desirable serial number. <p>Issued on a 25mm planchet of ¼ ounce of .999 fine silver and minted by Northwest Territorial Mint. On the obverse is the Bitcoin currency symbol at center surrounded by a legend listing the denomination, composition, and the Hawaiian phrase "IKAIKA I HELU NUI" that translates as "Strength in Numbers." This phrase is also featured on the Casascius coin series but is listed there in Latin as "Vires In Numeris." The reverse features a holographic sticker with the serial number at left and the firstbits address visible through a rectangular window. 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. Also included with this physical Lealana Bitcoin is a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) </p><p>First introduced as Lealana Litecoin, the Lealana series was released to collectors and investors in June 2013 as a counterpart to the Casascius physical bitcoins introduced in 2011. It was invented and issued by Noah Luis of Honolulu, Hawaii, who is perhaps better recognized within the crypto community by his internet handle "smoothie." These physical Lealana Bitcoins were produced in both brass and silver compositions and issued in a range of denominations from 0.1 BTC to 1 BTC, corresponding to those of the Casascius series.</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>
