| Description |
1859 50C PR66+ S Cameo NGC. Ex: "Col." E.H.R. Green. It was 1858 before Mint officials (partially) changed their business model, publicly offering proof coins to collectors for fairly nominal charges over face value. (The qualifier comes in because the practice of manufacturing and selling choice baubles -- out the back door to the well-to-do -- continued for decades into the future.) For the proof mintages (all denominations) of 1859 coinage, the Guide Book estimates 800 pieces each for the quarter through silver dollar issues. Such numbers seem high today, with attrition and the regular year-end meltings going unreported. This well-struck silver-white Premium Gem Cameo proof shows light iridescent rim toning, the overall contrast falling well within the designation and offering much pleasing contrast and eye appeal; the NGC Star designation is also richly deserved. The strike is sharp on the lower stars, but a couple of the topmost stars lack central detail. Census: 3 in 66 (1 in 66+ S) Cameo, 1 finer (10/13). Ex: "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 @ $15.00; Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society.
Realized $18,212.50 . Description courtesy of Heritage Auctions, ha.com. |
