#USA #Glendale #Gold Nugget #Boot of Cortez #EJ's Auction

The Historic Boot of Cortez Gold Nugget Auction

The legendary Boot of Cortez, a gold nugget that has captured the hearts of collectors and historians alike, is set to go under the hammer at EJ's Auction & Appraisal in Glendale, Arizona, on June 12, 2026. This auction is significant not only for collectors but also for anyone intrigued by the tales of discovery in the Western Hemisphere. With a staggering weight of 26.2 pounds (11.9 kilograms), it holds the title of the largest surviving natural gold nugget found in this region.

A Nugget Like No Other

The Boot of Cortez is not just an ordinary gold nugget; its unique shape, resembling a conquistador's boot, sets it apart. During testing, it was found to be comprised of approximately 98% pure gold. This remarkable purity is a testament to the nugget's age and its journey through time.

Measuring 10 ¾ inches (27.3 cm) in height and 7 ¼ inches (18.4 cm) in width, this pristine piece has retained its original form since its discovery in 1989 near Caborca, Mexico. The nugget was unearthed by a prospector using a metal detector from Radio Shack, underscoring the serendipitous nature of treasure hunting.

Historical Significance and Provenance

Since its discovery, the Boot of Cortez has become one of the most celebrated mineral finds in modern history. This piece has toured major exhibits, including renowned institutions like the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the American Museum of Natural History in New York.

In 2008, it smashed auction records by fetching over $1.3 million, a price that was four times its gold spot value at the time. Erik Hoyer, the CEO and owner of EJ's Auction & Appraisal, confirms that the nugget has remained in a distinguished private collection since that memorable auction.

Auction Details

Bidders interested in owning this historical artifact can register online until June 9, 2026, via the auction house's website bootofcortez.com. The auction will take place both live and online at 1 p.m. local Arizona time. Given the nugget's history and rarity, it promises to be a highly competitive bidding environment.

For those unable to attend in person, EJ's Auction offers an online bidding platform, allowing potential buyers worldwide to participate. Erik Hoyer emphasizes that this auction is a rare opportunity for collectors and treasure enthusiasts alike to acquire a piece of history.

If you're captivated by stories of adventure, exploration, and the allure of gold, the Boot of Cortez isn’t just an auction item—it’s a legendary piece of the past waiting for a new home. For more details, you can visit EJ's Auction website or contact them directly via phone or email. Don't miss your chance to be part of this historic event!