Above: Brother Jonathan 1865 Gold Coin
A gift of money takes on new meaning when it’s in the form of a rare coin, a collectible historic note or a bar of gold bullion. “Coins and currency are highly portable stores of wealth and discreet gifts of lasting value,” says Chris Moran, owner of The Happy Coin. His Greenwich location is home to currency that’s steeped in history. For instance, the Brother Jonathan gold coin refers to an emblem of the elite of New England in the 1700s and also to a steamer ship that sailed from the West Coast and sank off Crescent City in the 1800s. The coins that were recovered in the mid-90s have significant value and would make an intriguing gift for sailor and history buff alike. Happy Coin also deals in unusual notes and collectible bullion, silver and gold bars that have significant value. Prices range from $20 to six figures and beyond for the most rare and collectible pieces. thehappycoin.com
