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Description

Golden Beauty

Gold Nugget - "Golden Beauty" - 4,520.5 Grams (145.34 Troy Ounces)
Near Kalgoorlie-Boulder Shire
Western Australia
Australia

There are certain pieces that stand out in any instance and can accurately be deemed world-class. This IS one such example that represents a finite material to begin with - Gold Nuggets. This Australian treasure has quite a background story, as well, as it was discovered by the wife of a couple with a metal detector in 1979 in the Kalgoorlie Goldfields. Moreover, the exceptional find was deemed to have been the largest Gold Nugget from the famous area in nearly 50 years, since the "Golden Eagle" Nugget was found in 1931. Their find, not surprisingly named the "Golden Beauty" for clearly obvious reasons, is truly beyond compare, based on most any criteria. The massive size is so evident as the specimen weighs 4,520.5 grams, or 145.34 troy ounces, as is the glorious golden coloration with orangy reddish patina consistent with the Iron-rich clay deposits of Western Australia where it originated. As if the sheer rarity of an example like this measuring 7.5 inches (19 cm) and of such a substantial weight were not enough, this representation of the precious metal in an inherently rare form is magnificent featuring exotic shape, incredible structure, and varied textures, evidencing some molten edges. This piece allows for any number of potential orientations and is exceptionally impactful positioned both horizontally and vertically. This superb nugget that is amazing on both sides is thick, sturdy, and very dimensional with the smoother, less textural face having a small, round, and shallow drill hole that appears to be a core sample drill for testing or some kind of attempt at mounting by putting the Gold on a rod. There is simply no way to do this justice in words, and the mass is 'magical' when held and viewed. This Gold Nugget is in a class of its own, and believe it or not, actually does weigh a full 10 pounds. A framed copy of a newspaper article heralding the find which appeared in The Western Australian on Saturday, December 28, 1979 accompanies the Lot which shows a grainy photo of the finders, John and Frances Aggiss, with their "Golden Beauty" nugget as the biggest find in nearly 50 years.
Measurements: 7.48 x 4.76 x 2.26 inches (19.00 x 12.10 x 5.75 cm), weighs 4,520.5 grams (145.34 oz t)

Provenance: Private Swiss Collection, Ex. John and Frances Aggiss




Condition Report*: Condition report available upon request.
*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.

Auction Info

Auction Dates
April, 2025
23rd Wednesday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 8
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 8,815

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% on the first $1,000,000 (minimum $49), plus 20% of any amount between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000, plus 15% of any amount over $5,000,000 per lot.

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Sold on Apr 23, 2025 for: $612,500.00
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