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Sale 13
The Benson Collection of U.S. Coins, Part 2
| Lot |
Photo |
Description |
Realized |
Lot 701 |
 |
1838 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. EF-45. Popular "no drapery" type. We note numerous light marks about the rims on both sides; nevertheless, the lovely antique toning is suggestive of an even higher grade.
Estimated Value $200 - 250.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$391 |
Lot 702 |
|
1840-O. With Drapery. AU-58. Dark golden and gunmetal blue toning. The surfaces were almost certainly cleaned in the past. Sharply struck by the dies, with minor die cracks through the reverse lettering.
Estimated Value $400 - 500.
From Bowers and Merena's Norweb Collection Part II Sale, March 1988, lot 1569.
View details
| Realized
$460 |
Lot 703 |
 |
1852-O Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. AU-55. Steel and smoky gray in color with a golden patch through Liberty. Although 96,000 were reported coined, many of these were melted as they were worth more than face value at the time they were issued. In particular, we note that a few stars are sharp, but most are flat at the centers, but Liberty is well struck from head to toe. The eagle's claws are bold, as are the wing feathers. Minor hairlines and surface marks in the fields. A date that is very difficult to locate in high grades, and this one is certain to attract the attention of date collectors.
Estimated Value $2,200 - 2,700.
From Stack's R.L. Miles Collection Sale, April 1969, with flip included if you ask for it at lot pick up.
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| Unsold |
Lot 704 |
 |
1853 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. Arrows and rays. NGC graded Proof 64 "Pittman". This is a one year type coin and one of the rarest dates in of all quarters in proof condition. Less than 10 exist and perhaps as few as 5 were coined. This particular example is toned with lovely sunset gold to gray hues over the mirror fields, and the color is even and balanced on both sides. Reflective mirror fields confirm the status as a rare proof of this date, which nicely offset the devices. We note an interesting discussion between David Akers and David Bowers when they were both cataloging the Pittman and Eliasberg coins, both of which were offered raw (not yet certified). Mr. Akers noted that the Pittman coin (the coin offered here) did not have a mirror finish between the shield lines, but otherwise had all the reflectivity of a proof issue, especially given that virtually all other 1853 arrows and rays quarters are so well frosted. Prospective bidders will want to read the description under lot 1454 in the Eliasberg sale as well as the notations under lot 1325 in the Pittman Part II collection.
NGC has graded 4 of this date in Proof, 2 as PF-64, 1 as PF-65, and 1 as PF-66. PCGS has graded 3 coins, 1 as PR-63, and 2 as PR-64, with none higher. Hence, this is one of about 10 known at most, and tied near the middle with several others in this grade, although there may be duplication in the Population Reports.
Estimated Value $50,000 - 60,000.
From David Aker's John Jay Pittman Part 2 Collection; May 1998:1325.
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| Unsold |
Lot 705 |
 |
1853 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. Arrows and rays. PCGS graded MS-65. One of the finest known of this condition rarity. PCGS has graded only 11 this high, with 5 graded higher (4 as MS-66, and 1 as MS-67) of this important one year type coin. Fully struck throughout, including Liberty's head, the stars, the eagle's claws and feathers, with no hint of weakness to be found. Toned with bluish gray shades around the periphery of the obverse, with deeper gold hues through the reverse rays. Close examination will note planchet roller lines running at a 45 degree angle up from left to right on the obverse, and these are mint caused and faint. No signs of contact jump out, the coin was obviously well preserved from the time of issue, and has been tucked away in Dr. Benson's collection since 1944. Abundant luster remains, as this coin avoided the last 50 plus years of dippings and cleanings, which so diminished the luster of most of its brethren. Hence, this one was awarded the coveted gem classification from PCGS, on the first run through no less! If you demand a gem for your type set or collection, and can appreciate the beauty of this lightly toned coin, then bid high as we anticipate many will desire this condition rarity.
Estimated Value $12,000 - 15,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from James G. Macallister on April 3, 1944 for $1.50 as "Unc."
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$19,550 |
Lot 706 |
 |
1854 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. Arrows. NGC graded MS-64. An important type coin that includes the arrows at the date, and this one is a fully struck untoned example. Blazing luster and snowy white in color, and scarce and a lot more expensive a point higher. Struck from clashed and lightly cracked dies, as are most, and we see slight recutting on the 1 in the date.
Estimated Value $1,500 - 1,700.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$1,840 |
Lot 707 |
 |
1854 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. Arrows. NGC graded MS-64. Steel gray in color with hints of yellow gold in the fields. Sharply struck from clashed and cracked dies, as are most of this issue. Apparently, the arrows caused the dies to crack more rapidly, and most specimens show a variety of cracks. An important one year type coin, and worth a good bid as this one is nearly a gem.
Estimated Value $1,500 - 1,700.
View details and enlarged photos
| Unsold |
Lot 708 |
 |
1855 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. NGC graded Proof 66. Toned with playful splashes of gold toning in the fields, with deeper blues near the periphery. Struck on a planchet which shows minor striation lines running approximately horizontal, slightly down from left to right, and these can be seen on many of the devices using a strong glass. Boldly struck, with all but the last star crisp to the center, and especially sharp on Liberty's head, and the reverse is also bold. Apparently, the date 1855 is much rarer in proof than 1854, and this is reflected in the Population Reports of NGC and PCGS. Further, this is a two year type coin, and struck just prior to the start of regular issue proofs around 1858, and the date 1858 is often used by collectors to commence their proof date runs. An exceptional rarity in this grade, and the finest graded by either NGC or PCGS, and alone in the Proof-66 category, and with a pedigree to match. If you demand the finest for your collection, then here it is! Don't miss it this time around, it may be gone for a very long time again.
Estimated Value $25,000 - 35,000.
From Bowers and Merena's Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr., Sale, 4/1997:1459; previously Harlan P. Smith Collection, S. H. and H. Chapman, 5/1906 to the John Clapp Collection and next to Eliasberg in 1942.
View details and enlarged photos
| Unsold |
Lot 709 |
 |
1858 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 65. Wow, everyone will love this coin for its superb toning. Deep blue to gold around the rims, with brighter centers on the obverse, the reverse highlighted by a ring of coppery gold through the lettering. Nearly identical to the PR-64 in this sale, the same two line like defects reside in the field between the second star and Liberty's arm, and a small "7" shaped lint mark is noted extending off Liberty's arm into the left field towards the fourth star. There is also a small left of center belly button on Liberty, seen on both 1858 proofs in this sale. These coins were obviously struck at the same time, probably within a few pieces of each other as the lint marks are so similar. On this particular coin, there is a minor scrape up from the E of LIBERTY on the shield, and this will serve to identify it. As to the PCGS Population Report, we note 3 graded this high, none higher, making this one of the very finest known of a limited mintage of approximately 100 pieces. If you are assembling a gem set, then here is a great addition to pursue. Capturing a prize of this quality and importance will be a crowning glory for an advanced collector.
Estimated Value $4,000 - 5,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$10,350 |
Lot 710 |
 |
1858 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 64. One of perhaps 100 struck in proof, and this is one of the finest although it will be overshadowed by the PR-65 also from this collection. PCGS has graded 8 this high, with just 3 graded higher. In particular, this coin has deep gray toning with darker bluish shades on the left side through the stars. One tiny lint mark up from the lower left ball of the second 8 will serve to identify this specimen, and a pair of line like defects in the field between the second star and Liberty's arm. Sharply struck throughout, and highly desirable in every way.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,400.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on March 30, 1946 for $9.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$2,300 |
Lot 711 |
 |
1859 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 65. Another gorgeous gem proof that has deep blue gray toning around the periphery of the obverse, fading to gold, then bright at the center. On the reverse, there is gold around the periphery, and mostly untoned. Although 800 were minted, many were melted as unsold at the end of the year. PCGS has graded 8 this high, with 6 graded higher.
Estimated Value $4,000 - 4,500.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$6,900 |
Lot 712 |
 |
1860 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 65. Breen notes that 1000 proofs were struck, and 458 were melted as unsold, for a net mintage of 542. PCGS has graded 12 as PR-65, with just 4 graded higher! This particular one has tawny gold toning at the top and bottom of the obverse, with hints of bright blue included, the reverse with a ring of gold and steel gray elsewhere. Identifiable by a minor spot on the T of UNITED. Highly appealing for its superb surfaces, crisp strike and alluring color.
Estimated Value $3,500 - 4,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$4,485 |
Lot 713 |
 |
1861 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 64. A razor sharp strike beneath the royal blue and gold tones of the obverse, the reverse with the ring of gold at the periphery. Abundant mint frost on the devices, and pristine surfaces throughout. PCGS has graded 18 this high, with just 8 graded higher. An opportunity for the specialist.
Estimated Value $1,600 - 1,800.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$3,220 |
Lot 714 |
 |
1862 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 65. Bright at the center, with dark gold and blue around the rims of the obverse, and a ring of gold on the reverse periphery. Perfectly struck and preserved, with few signs of handling even under the scrutiny of a strong glass and light. PCGS agrees, and this is one of 11 graded this high, with just 6 graded higher.
Estimated Value $3,000 - 3,500.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$4,485 |
Lot 715 |
 |
1863 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 66. One of the finest graded of this date, PCGS has given only 7 coins this grade, and none have been graded higher. Superb color and surfaces on the obverse, with deep blue and gold on the right side, fading to bright white at the center towards Liberty's shield. The reverse brighter, with light toning at the edge. One of the more colorful of these early proofs offered in the Benson collection. Perfectly struck and free of contact aside from a few stray hairlines.
Estimated Value $6,000 - 6,500.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$9,775 |
Lot 716 |
 |
1863 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 64. A gorgeous proof specimen, exquisitely toned. The centers radiate with pale violet blending outwards to electric blue iridescence at the borders. Some scattered light hairlines visible only under strong magnification and none are worthy of note. Only 460 proofs were made.
Estimated Value $1,500 - 1,650.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$2,530 |
Lot 717 |
 |
1863 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. NGC graded Proof 64. Deep smoky gray in color with a few streaks on the reverse, boldly struck too.
Estimated Value $1,100 - 1,300.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$1,150 |
Lot 718 |
 |
1864 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 65. Rose and blue toning on both sides and a no nonsense gem. A glass will locate minor hairlines but they are not detracting. Philadelphia coined 470 proof quarters in 1864, and this is one of the best to survive. PCGS has graded 13 this high, with just 3 graded higher. Seductive toning from the Wayte Raymond albums where these were stored for some 56 years.
Estimated Value $3,000 - 3,500.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$6,613 |
Lot 719 |
 |
1864 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. NGC graded Proof 64. A glittering and very choice proof specimen. Although not designated on the holder, this coin has excellent cameo contrast and is platinum grey in appearance. A total of only 470 proofs were made.
Estimated Value $1,100 - 1,300.
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| Unsold |
Lot 720 |
 |
1865 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 65. Dark field toning with a silvery center on Liberty. We note a tiny dark spot near Liberty's heart, and the reverse toning is slightly cloudy. As to the quality, this gem boasts wonderful surfaces and is free of handling marks or similar problems. PCGS has graded only 6 as PR-65, with 13 graded higher from the original mintage of 500 coins.
Estimated Value $3,000 - 3,500.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$9,200 |
Lot 721 |
 |
1866 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. With motto. PCGS graded Proof 64. Gorgeous toning throughout with ocean cove blue at the periphery, and rich gold fading to white towards the center. Clean surfaces, but we do note light hairlines which apparently account for the moderate grade from PCGS. You won't want to upgrade this one as the colors can not be duplicated, or surpassed.
Estimated Value $550 - 650.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$1,208 |
Lot 722 |
 |
1867 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 66. Vibrant blue and gold toning around the periphery of each side, with snowy white centers of deep frost on the devices. Minor hairlines are the only signs of any contact. Identifiable by one small speck at the outside upper point of the first star near the rim. A wonder coin, as you will always wonder why you didn't bid more to buy it when you had the chance. PCGS has graded 4 this high, with a single coin graded higher of the original 625 minted.
Estimated Value $3,500 - 4,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$7,763 |
Lot 723 |
 |
1868 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 65. Here again is a magnificently toned rare date proof seated quarter. PCGS has only graded 8 this high, with none graded higher! It simply staggers the imagination to comprehend the majesty of this collection. Not only are most of the coins in gem condition, but many are tied for, or close to, the finest seen of the various dates represented. Further, the coins were carefully stored in Wayte Raymond cardboard albums, so all the silver pieces toned with a dazzling array of blues and golds. And, last but not least, Dr. Benson didn't clean his coins, nor did he take them in and out of the holders (such action can cause "slide marks" on the high points of the devices, particularly Liberty's cheek on Barber coins). When Dr. Benson brought his collection in to our offices, Larry Goldberg spent many hours carefully removing the coins from the Wayte Raymond holders to make sure no slide marks occurred. The coins were then sent to PCGS for encapsulation and grading. Needless to say, once these coins are sold, a similar set will probably not be offered anytime soon.
Estimated Value $1,100 - 1,300.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$5,060 |
Lot 724 |
 |
1868 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. NGC graded MS-65. Rare in this state of preservation, especially with such clean surfaces, enough so to keep this in the gem class. Fully struck too, with crisp stars surrounding Liberty, and all the fine details on the eagle as well. Bright white and frosty, with no signs of toning aside from some haze on the reverse. One reeding tick left of the eagle's neck should serve as an identity marker. NGC in their Population Report note 4 graded this high, with none higher, and PCGS has but 2 as MS-65, with a single coin graded a notch higher. That easily places this coin in the top dozen known of the date.
Estimated Value $4,000 - 5,000.
View details and enlarged photos
| Unsold |
Lot 725 |
 |
1869 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 64. Rich midnight blue toning with a russet area on Liberty, the reverse much lighter with a tawny gold ring through the lettering, white inside that area. Only 600 were struck, and PCGS has graded 32 as PR-64, with just 12 graded higher. This one has no distracting marks or hairlines, but may have been downgraded because of the depth of the toning.
Estimated Value $550 - 650.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$1,553 |
Lot 726 |
 |
1870 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 64. Snow white at the center of the obverse, with yellow gold and rose, followed by midnight blue at the rim. On the reverse, gold around the periphery, bright at the center. A few wispy hairlines from a higher grade, as no other contact marks can be found. PCGS has graded 30 as such, with just 10 higher. A magnificent coin that will bring a premium for the colors.
Estimated Value $550 - 650.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$1,553 |
Lot 727 |
 |
1871 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 64. Another stunner with vibrant blue and gold on the obverse, lighter gold on the reverse, blast white at the centers. Minor hairlines from an even higher grade. PCGS notes 27 this high, with 12 graded higher.
Estimated Value $550 - 650.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$2,530 |
Lot 728 |
 |
1872 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 64. Well toned with darker hues around the obverse, bright at the centers, the reverse with an even gold hue throughout and darker gold at the rims. Some hairlines in the fields from a higher technical grade.
Estimated Value $550 - 650.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$1,898 |
Lot 729 |
 |
1872-S Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. Sharpness of Fine-15 but cleaned and starting to retone. The surfaces have been cleaned to a dull gray shade, with mottled gold starting to form in certain areas. Typical circulation marks on both sides. A rare date that is seldom offered in any grade. Most of the original mintage was apparently melted near the time of issue. A rare coin with a good pedigree.
Estimated Value $500 - 600.
From Bowers & Merena's Norweb Collection Sale, part II, March 1988, lot 1645.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$1,150 |
Lot 730 |
 |
1873 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. No arrows. Closed 3. PCGS graded Proof 66. Booming white frost at the centers and dark gold and blue toning at the obverse rims. The reverse similar, dark at the edges with gold hues spanning the center too. Identifiable by a lint mark in the field below the S of TRUST. Mint records reflect just 600 coined in Proof, some of which may have been melted later. PCGS notes only 2 graded this high, with a single coin graded higher. If you want one of the best from this collection, here is a fine opportunity.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,400.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$2,875 |
Lot 731 |
 |
1873 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. Arrows. NGC graded Proof 67 Eliasberg. Here is one of the very finest graded of this scarce type issue and one with a grand pedigree too. The surfaces are virtually perfect, and show deep mirroring in the fields and well frosted devices. On the rim we note a lovely arc of blue toning and additional gold surrounding through the stars and date. NGC has graded just 3 this high, and PCGS 1 more, and neither service has graded any higher! An important opportunity for the specialist, and worthy of the greatest type collection ever formed.
Estimated Value $10,000 - 14,000.
From Bowers and Merena's sale of the Eliasberg Collection, April 1997.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$12,075 |
Lot 732 |
 |
1873 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. Arrows. PCGS graded Proof 64. Resplendent blue and gold toning on the obverse, with a headlight at the center, and the reverse brighter with a ring of gold at the periphery. A scarce type coin that was made for just two short years, and seldom found this nice, and rarely better. PCGS reports 24 graded this high, with 14 graded higher. Don't skip over this and wait for a better gem to show up.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,500.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$3,910 |
Lot 733 |
 |
1874 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. Arrows. PCGS graded Proof 67. One of the finest coins from this extensive collection, this rare with arrows quarter is one of just 2 graded this high by PCGS, and none are graded higher! Vibrant blue, gold and green tones span the obverse, with a bright well centered frosty white area on Liberty's chest and head. The reverse similar, with deep blue peripheral toning, and undiminished white frost on the devices and crackling fresh mirror fields surrounding. As perfect as one could imagine.
Estimated Value $15,000 - 20,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$27,600 |
Lot 734 |
 |
1875 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 66. A knockout coin that boasts seductive blue and gold obverse toning with a central bright area on Liberty. The usual "Benson" reverse toning, bright save for a ring of dark blue and gold through most of the lettering. Near perfect surfaces, with no signs of handling or abuse of any kind. PCGS agrees, and this is one of just 3 graded this high, and none are graded higher! One of the very finest of 700 struck, and worthy of the finest collection in the land.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,400.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$6,038 |
Lot 735 |
 |
1876 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 67. This is the Finest graded of this date by PCGS, it is alone in the PR-67 category. Deep blue gray tones on the obverse, with brighter untoned areas at the center of the obverse. On the reverse, the coin ranges through golden gray at the rims to gun metal gray at the centers. Pristine fields and surfaces throughout, and no signs of handling, or other problems of any sort. One for the condition King, who demands the finest of any date. This is the important centennial year issue, when America celebrated its first one hundred years as a nation.
Estimated Value $3,500 - 4,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$10,350 |
Lot 736 |
 |
1876-S Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded MS-64. Well struck with undisturbed frosty mint luster overlayed with a natural blending of pale blue and delicate golden hues.
Estimated Value $500 - 600.
View details and enlarged photos
| Unsold |
Lot 737 |
 |
1877 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 64. A scarce date with just 510 struck, this near gem boasts exceptional color in the form of two bands of gold and blue at the top and bottom of the obverse, while the center remains bright and untoned. The reverse ringed in gold and bright otherwise. Examination will note some scattered handling marks and an ancient fingerprint on the lower reverse. PCGS notes 35 graded this high, with 19 graded higher.
Estimated Value $550 - 650.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$863 |
Lot 738 |
 |
1878 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 66. Toned with steel gray at the centers which darkens to blue and sea green at the rims. We note some faint lines in the fields, most of which are probably die file marks as opposed to hairlines. Superb quality, PCGS has graded only 6 this high with a single coin graded higher from the original mintage of a scant 800 coins.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,400.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$6,613 |
Lot 739 |
 |
1879 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 67. One of the Finest Known with just 3 graded this high by PCGS! Superb colors of blue and gold on the obverse, ringed with gold on the reverse, and acres of pristine fields on either side. As Larry Goldberg noted, the Benson quarters were truly the highlight of the collection, with many superb pieces, including this one near the top of the list. Of the 1,100 struck, only 3 have been graded this high, so don't expect to locate a better one. How do you spell fresh? Take a look at our definition here.
Estimated Value $3,500 - 4,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$8,625 |
Lot 740 |
 |
1879 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 65. Deep gray russet and blue colors on both sides, with clean fields and surfaces too. Boldly struck as expected for a proof. PCGS notes 25 graded this high with just 16 graded higher.
Estimated Value $1,100 - 1,300.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$1,438 |
Lot 741 |
 |
1880 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 67. Superb toning of blues and gold on the obverse, with the usual ring of gold around the reverse periphery. Blast white at the left center of the obverse and even more vibrant white on the reverse. PCGS has graded 15 this high (downright common!) with a single coin graded higher. Few could be as beautiful as the coin offered here, and everyone who sees this coin will want to own it.
Estimated Value $3,500 - 4,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$7,475 |
Lot 742 |
 |
1881 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 66. Gorgeous deep blue and gold toning on both sides, with untoned centers. PCGS has seen 20 this high, with just 8 higher (all PR-67). The fields and devices are virtually perfect, and we invite you to study them closely to see how magnificent these quarters are.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,400.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$2,875 |
Lot 743 |
 |
1881 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 65. This one is much more beautiful than the "average" gem coin, the fields are deeply mirrored and the devices are emboldened with frost. Lightly toned with gold around the periphery, and totally trouble free surfaces. PCGS has graded 35 as such, with 28 higher.
Estimated Value $1,100 - 1,300.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$1,668 |
Lot 744 |
 |
1881 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. NGC graded MS-65. Deeply toned and well preserved with pristine surfaces and fields. Deep gold and blue throughout. Just 12,000 struck for circulation, and few could look this nice, or be this well preserved.
Estimated Value $1,100 - 1,300.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$1,610 |
Lot 745 |
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1882 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 67. Tied for the finest graded by PCGS with 8 coins in their recent Population Report. Glassy mirror fields are graced by dancing colors or russet, blue and gold on each side. Blazing white at the centers. One tiny lint mark above the second star and another near Liberty's left elbow. Stunning quality, even for this collection. The Benson Seated quarter collection contains many superb coins, some of which are the finest or tied for the finest graded of the date. Historically the opportunity to purchase such pristine, fresh material always yields strong prices, which is understandable given that most collectors have passed on many cleaned up coins without any eye appeal offered at only a small discount to the going market price. It has been proven over and over that eye appealing coins bring stronger prices than "average" quality for any series.
Estimated Value $3,500 - 4,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
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| Realized
$8,338 |
Lot 746 |
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1882 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 67. Resplendent blue and gold toning on both sides of this stunning gem coin. The centers are brighter, while the edges toned down, probably from long storage in an album. Well frosted on the devices, and very clean surfaces, of course. Exceptional eye appeal, and worthy of the finest collection. PCGS has only graded 8 this high, with none graded higher.
Estimated Value $3,500 - 4,000.
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| Realized
$6,440 |
Lot 747 |
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1883 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 66. Speckled toning on the obverse, with a splash of lighter blue near Liberty's face and the usual darker hues around the periphery of both sides. PCGS has graded 18 this high with just 6 higher. A scarce date, only 1,039 struck in proof, and a small mintage of 14,400 for circulation as the Philadelphia Mint, and all branch mints, focused on churning out millions of Morgan silver dollars in order to comply with the various silver coinage acts of 1878.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,400.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
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| Realized
$3,680 |
Lot 748 |
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1884 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. NGC graded Proof 66 Cameo. A dazzling gem proof specimen, superb in every way. Excellent cameo contrast with the raised satiny mint devices rising from a bright mirror background. A touch of light violet toning around the periphery adds to its great eye appeal. Among the finest of the 875 proofs coined.
Estimated Value $1,900 - 2,100.
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| Realized
$2,013 |
Lot 749 |
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1884 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 63. Here is a moderate grade for a change, this one has a few minor hairlines in the fields, but seems to have been graded a bit harsh considering the coin is still quite nice. Let the market decide the value.
Estimated Value $350 - 450.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on August 17, 1944 as part of a set of Proof quarters from 1858 to 1915 for $235.00.
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| Realized
$776 |
Lot 750 |
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1885 Liberty Seated Quarter Dollar. PCGS graded Proof 66. Deep blue and russet toning around the periphery of both sides, with well frosted devices too. Tough this nice, PCGS has graded 21 this high, with just 4 higher.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,400.
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| Realized
$7,188 |
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