Staff at the David Traylor Zoo of Emporia are preparing for the second of two auctions to sell a coin collection donated late last year to the zoo.
Office manager Lori Andrews had said earlier that a man had brought in a large Rubbermaid container full of coins and dollars. He set down the container and left without revealing his name.
Staff and members of the Emporia Friends of the Zoo decided to divide the coins into two approximately equal amounts and sell them at auction. The value of the collection was conservatively estimated between $12,000 and $15,000.
The 365 pieces that comprised the first half sold in about three hours and brought in $16,149 during the April auction.
“We had no idea,” Andrews said, regarding the lively bidding that shot auction proceeds considerably beyond estimated value. “We were very surprised.
Auctioning of the second half of the collection will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday (June 9) at the education center at the zoo.
This auction will feature a three-legged buffalo nickel and some rare Morgan dollars, among other items.
Andrews said that the zoo has received inquiries about the upcoming event.
“Most of the people that were at the first auction received flyers for the second auction and expressed interest in coming,” Andrews said. “I’m guessing we’ll have the same people, and maybe some more.”
Staff and volunteers involved with the zoo wish they could personally thank the donor for his generosity; however, Andrews said, they do understand and respect his wish for privacy.
“We are especially grateful and would like to express our heartfelt thanks for this unique donation,” she said.
The auction will be conducted by Swift-N-Sure Auctions, which has donated its services. Commerce Bank has held the collection for safekeeping.