Sincona AG: Switzerland’s Premier Coin Auction House

A Young Firm with a Strong Foundation
While Sincona AG is relatively young compared to centuries-old European auctioneers, its roots are firmly anchored in Swiss banking and numismatics. The company emerged in 2011 following the closure of UBS’s numismatic department, inheriting both its expert team and many long-standing client relationships.
From the beginning, Sincona aimed to maintain the same high standards of professionalism, cataloging accuracy, and client service that defined its predecessor. In just over a decade, it has positioned itself as one of the premier venues for high-quality coin and banknote auctions in Europe.

Auction Scope and Specializations
Sincona’s sales are held twice yearly in Zurich, typically in spring and autumn, and they attract a mix of European, North American, and Asian bidders. Their catalogs regularly feature:

• Swiss coinage and banknotes, including rare Cantonal issues and Confederation-era pieces.
• World gold coins, from medieval ducats to modern commemoratives.
• Ancient coins, especially Greek and Roman gold and silver.
• Orders and decorations, reflecting Switzerland’s long-standing role as a neutral trade hub.
• Notable collections — recent years have seen landmark dispersals of specialized cabinets.

The catalogs are meticulously prepared, with detailed historical notes and high-resolution photographs, making them valuable reference works long after the auctions close.

Reputation and Collector Feedback
Among collectors and dealers, Sincona enjoys a reputation for accuracy, trustworthiness, and market strength. Buyers praise the quality of descriptions, the realism of grading, and the precision in handling financial transactions — hallmarks of Swiss business culture.
Notably, Sincona’s Sincona Gold Auction has gained attention for its consistent offering of gold coins from around the world, often in exceptional condition. Forum discussions often highlight the transparency of their processes and the professionalism of their staff.
Some bidders note that competition can be intense for top-tier lots, particularly in Swiss and gold coin categories, leading to strong hammer prices. While this underscores the firm’s market influence, it can be challenging for budget-conscious buyers.

Auction Highlights
In recent years, Sincona has handled:

• A superb Zurich Shooting Thaler achieving a record-setting price due to its rarity and condition.
• A historically significant Vreneli 100 Francs gold coin in near-pristine state, surpassing expectations.
• Collections of Swiss Cantonal coinage that drew international interest and exceeded estimates.
• Prestigious world gold coins, from British sovereign rarities to Russian imperial issues, often in mint-state grades.

These results have reinforced Sincona’s status as a trusted market-maker for high-grade and rare coins.

Strengths That Set Sincona Apart

• Swiss Expertise: Meticulous cataloging, precise grading, and reliable financial settlement.
• Specialization in Swiss and Gold Coins: A go-to destination for these categories, attracting a dedicated bidder base.
• High-Quality Catalogs: Detailed, scholarly descriptions paired with professional photography.
• Global Clientele: Consignments and bidders from multiple continents, ensuring healthy competition.

Areas for Improvement

• Digital Engagement: While the online bidding platform is functional, enhancing user interface design and adding mobile app support could increase accessibility.
• Market Range: The focus on Swiss and gold coins is a strength, but expanding coverage of certain world series might broaden appeal.

Who Should Consider Sincona

• Swiss Coin Specialists: The best venue for rare Confederation and Cantonal issues.
• Gold Coin Collectors: From medieval to modern, Sincona’s gold offerings are consistently strong.
• Serious Investors: High-grade material with solid provenance makes their sales attractive for investment purposes.
• Collectors Seeking Trust and Transparency: The firm’s Swiss roots inspire confidence in both grading and financial handling.

Final Thoughts
Sincona AG has quickly ascended to the top tier of European coin auction houses by combining Swiss precision with international reach. Its focus on quality over quantity, strong specialization in gold and Swiss numismatics, and reputation for accuracy have earned it the loyalty of serious collectors worldwide.
For those seeking to buy or sell coins in a venue that values scholarship, integrity, and presentation, Sincona is a name worth knowing — and watching closely when its auction season comes around.