NNP

1870 10C Ten Cents, Judd-831, Pollock-921, High R.6, PR67 NGC. CAC. Design. A left-facing seated Liberty holds a shield at her right side and an olive branch in her left hand. A scroll inscribed with LIBERTY flows across the shield, and a crudely fashioned cap and pole are suspended in the background. UNITED STATES/OF AMERICA occupies the periphery with the date, 1870, in exergue. The reverse is that of the regular dime issue for the year. Struck in silver with a reeded edge. Commentary. This variety marks the beginning of the Judd-831 to Judd-836 run of 1870 dime patterns. William Barber's obverse die was mated with a regular reverse die to create the six patterns, struck in silver, copper, and aluminum, both reeded edge and plain edge versions. These patterns were not produced to test a new concept. They were intended for sale to collectors whose numbers were increasing due to the broadened circulation of numismatic periodicals. It is believed that about a dozen pieces are known of this metal and edge combination. Physical Description. Both sides are covered with mauve, bright blue, and rich rose colored toning, with slightly lighter hues on the reverse. The deep mirrored fields flash intensely through the toning, and there are no obvious contact marks on either side. Well-struck, but just short of full with slight softness on the head of Liberty and the uppermost leaves on the wreath. Unsurprisingly, this Superb Gem is the finest certified at both of the services (2/13). Provenance. "Colonel" E.H.R. Green; Green Estate; Partnership of Eric P. Newman / B.G. Johnson d.b.a. St. Louis Stamp & Coin Co.; Eric P. Newman @ $15; Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society. From The Eric P. Newman Collection.

From Newman I (Heritage Auctions, 4/2013), lot 3982, realized $5581.25. Image and description courtesy of Heritage Auctions, https://ha.com.