A rare physical bitcoin token, graded MS-66 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), is set to be auctioned off by Stack’s Bowers Galleries. Only 15 coins exist at this grade, with just 11 examples graded higher at MS-67. What makes this token particularly intriguing is that it remains “funded,” meaning the 0.5 Bitcoin it held at the time of minting is still intact and redeemable.
The token in question is part of the Casascius series, first introduced in 2011 by Utah-based software engineer Mike Caldwell. Each physical coin in this series includes a private key that is concealed beneath a tamper-evident hologram. At the time of minting, real bitcoin was loaded onto the blockchain, increasing the coin’s intrinsic value.
However, the production of these coins was halted in 2013 after regulators flagged the operation as a potential unlicensed money transmission business. This limited production time created a finite supply of these collectibles, and attrition has further reduced that supply. Many owners have “peeled” their coins to access the bitcoin, effectively destroying the collectible and diminishing its numismatic value. As a result, funded examples in high grades have become exceptionally rare.
The auction scheduled for June 18 is not solely dedicated to this one lot. In total, Stack’s Bowers has curated more than 120 crypto collectibles, with a combined intrinsic value exceeding $500,000. The auction features coins from various series, including Casascius, BTCC, and Lealana, as well as modern limited mintage issues from producers such as Mybits, Satori, Denarium, Ballet, and Freedom Bitcoin.
Additionally, this auction will introduce crypto trading cards from Topps’ Allen and Ginter series, appealing to both crypto and sports card collectors. Early editions of Bitcoin Magazine, including a copy of Issue No. 1 and a consecutive run of Issues 9 through 15, will also be up for grabs.
Stack’s Bowers Galleries boasts over 90 years of experience and is a subsidiary of A-Mark Precious Metals Inc. The firm is recognized as a PCGS Authorized Dealer and a member of the Professional Numismatists Guild, serving as the official auctioneer for major numismatic events, including the ANA World’s Fair of Money conventions.
Bidders interested in the auction should be aware that buyer’s premiums typically exceed 20% at premium auction houses. The collectible value of the token and its bitcoin spot value are distinct, and both aspects will influence the final selling price. The auction is accessible through the Stack’s Bowers platform, and the firm is also accepting consignments for its Summer 2026 Global Showcase Auction, which will feature in-person previews at the upcoming ANA World’s Fair of Money in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
With the upcoming 250th anniversary of America and active bitcoin trading, the auction represents a unique intersection in the collectible market. The value of this 13-year-old physical token will ultimately be determined by the market when bids are placed on Thursday.
