Noble Numismatics

About Noble Numismatics

Noble Numismatics is a Sydney-based specialist in rare coins, banknotes and medals. The company trades in coins, medals, stamps, banknotes and related material, and it also provides valuations. Each year it holds three major international numismatic auctions.

Its Sydney headquarters houses one of the world's major numismatic libraries, with more than 20,000 volumes. The firm keeps a searchable online archive of past sales and has acted as valuer for institutions including the Australian Museum and the Museum of Victoria.

History

The business was established in Sydney in 1976 as Spink and Son (Australia). Its founder, W. James Noble, remains managing director. A Melbourne office was opened by Ray Jewell in 1982, and in 1993 the company was incorporated in its present form as a wholly Australian-owned and operated business.

Over more than 40 years Noble Numismatics has conducted over one hundred major public auctions. Together these have realised more than $220 million and set numerous Australian and world auction records.

What Noble Numismatics sells

Sales cover Australian and international numismatics, from ancient coinage to modern issues.

• Ancient and world coins
• Australian pre-decimal and decimal coins
• Australian and world banknotes
• Military and historical medals
• Stamps and related material

Sales are numbered in sequence. Sale 142 was held in July 2026 and realised about $2.4 million, according to the firm. Sale 143 is scheduled for 23 to 28 November 2026 and runs over several days.

Selling at Noble Numismatics

Collectors and estates can consign material to one of the three major sales held each year. The published conditions of sale do not list a vendor commission, so terms are agreed with the firm for each consignment. The company's valuation service can help owners judge what a collection is worth before they decide to sell.

Buying and bidding

A buyer's premium of 20% is added to the successful bid, and GST of 10% is charged on the premium. This makes 22% of the hammer price in total. There are several ways to bid.

• Floor bidding at the auction venue.
• Online bidding: the website directs bidders to Auction Mobility. The conditions of sale state that live bids through Invaluable carry an extra 5% commission.
• Online absentee bids for pre-approved bidders, placed as maximum bids.
• Postal, email, fax or telephone bids, which must arrive 24 hours before the session starts.

Room buyers must pay the balance within five days of the auction, and the auctioneer may ask for a deposit during the sale. Online and postal bidders must settle within 14 days of receiving the invoice. International bank transfers must be made in Australian dollars, and a $30 fee applies to them.

Accepted payment methods are cash, bank cheque and bank transfer, plus American Express, Visa and Mastercard. Credit card payments incur an extra service charge. As an example of total cost, a coin knocked down at $1,000 costs $1,220 once the 20% premium and the GST on that premium are added.

Location and viewing

Noble Numismatics is based in Sydney and can be reached on (02) 9223 4578. Its November 2026 sale is being held at Wyoming, 175 Macquarie Street, Sydney. The dates and venue for each auction are published with the catalogue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the buyer's premium at Noble Numismatics?

The buyer's premium is 20% of the successful bid, plus GST of 10% on that premium. In total this comes to 22% of the hammer price.

How many auctions does Noble Numismatics hold each year?

The company holds three major international numismatic auctions each year. Its sales are numbered, with Sale 143 scheduled for November 2026.

When was Noble Numismatics founded?

It was established in Sydney in 1976 as Spink and Son (Australia). It was incorporated in its present, wholly Australian-owned form in 1993.