|
Sale 77
The Missouri Cabinet
| Missouri Cabinet - Liberty Cap Half Cents |
| |
| |
| Lot |
Photo |
Description |
Realized |
Lot 7 |
 |
1794 C-1a Large Edge Letters R3. PCGS graded MS-64+ Brown. Choice glossy bluish steel brown with generous traces of faded mint red in protected areas on both sides. No spots, stains, or contact marks. The only defects are the microscopic planchet chips found on these early half cents, and on this example they are mostly in the field before the portrait. In addition there is a shallow planchet flake that affects the right side of E in LIBERTY, and this is the best identifying mark for the obverse. The reverse shows a short arc of impressed dentils near the leaves over HALF, also as struck, suggesting a possible undertype strike. MDS, Manley state 2.0, with minor die clashmarks on both sides. The repunching on the 179 is obvious. Our grade is MS63. Tied for finest known honors, and this is the first example listed in the Breen/Hanson condition census for the variety. Plated on page 45 (to illustrate the uncirculated grade) and on page 90 (for the unclashed die state I, even though this piece clearly fits his state II) in the Breen encyclopedia. Weight 100.9 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35018) .
Estimated Value $50,000-UP.
Ex (probably earlier from B. G. Johnson consigned to Celina Coin in 1944 as "Unc with much original red and sharp wire edge") Hans Moritz Friedrich Schulman 1958 (privately)-Philip M. Showers, Stack's 1969 (privately)-Willis H. duPont-Fred S. "Freddy" Werner 2/1976-Superior Stamp and Coin Company, Inc., 2/1976-Joe Flynn and Son Rare Coins, Inc. (Joseph S. Flynn, Jr.) 4/20/1976 (privately)-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.1a.2).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$63,250 |
Lot 8 |
 |
1794 C-1b Small Edge Letters R5+. PCGS graded EF-40 Brown. Glossy light medium brown with bluish steel overtones in protected areas. There is a thin vertical nick in the field below the Y, a horizontal nick high on the neck, a pinprick in the field off the chin, and a dull, barely visible rim nick at the A in STATES. None of these defects is distracting but they can help identify this important piece. LDS, Manley state 2.0, with a strong bulge at the top of the wreath, an extremely rare die state of a very rare variety. Our grade is VF25+. Second or third finest known of the Small Edge Letters variety. Plated in the Manley book on page 14 to illustrate his die state 2.0. Weight 104.3 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded of the variety (PCGS # 35021) .
Estimated Value $15,000-UP.
Ex Chevy Chase Coin Company (Harold "Hal" Webber)-Julian M. Leidman 2/19/1992-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.1b.2).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$28,750 |
Lot 9 |
 |
1794 C-2a Small Edge Letters R2+. PCGS graded MS-62 Brown. Glossy medium brown and light chocolate with frosty luster in protected areas of the reverse and hints of reddish brown toning in protected areas of the obverse. Just a hint of friction on the highest points from true mint state. The only marks are a thin diagonal chip or nick above the A in HALF, a small spot of crud on right top of that H, and a microscopic planchet fissure through the right end of the wreath stem. This piece offers excellent eye appeal. EDS, Manley state 1.0, before any die clashmarks. Plated on page 96 in the Breen encyclopedia to illustrate the early die state, Breen I. Our grade is AU55. Weight 110.0 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the only MS of the variety at PCGS (PCGS # 35024) .
Estimated Value $20,000-UP.
Ex Howard Rounds Newcomb (valued by Newcomb at $50.00) 1935-B. Max Mehl 1935 (privately)-Col. Edward Howland Robinson "Ned" Green 6/8/1936-Green Estate (appraised by the Estate at $3.50 on 8/9/1937) sold by the estate in April 1943 for $5.00-the Newman/Johnson partnership-Burdette G. Johnson 2/24/1947-Burdette G. Johnson Estate 12/15/1948-later to Dr. Angus C. Black, New Netherlands Coin Co. 61st Public Auction 6/30/1970:112 ($575)-Robert R. Shaw-Lloyd Whiteneck 8/1973-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.2a.1).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$48,300 |
Lot 10 |
 |
1794 C-2a Small Edge Letters R2+. PCGS graded AU-55 Brown. CAC Approved. Frosty light olive and steel brown. Nicely struck with excellent eye appeal. The only notable marks are a couple short, light scratches on the throat and a minor rim bruise at the Y in LIBERTY. Otherwise smooth and attractive for the grade. LDS, Manley state 4.0, with bold die clashmarks, especially on the obverse. Plated on page 96 in the Breen encyclopedia to illustrate his latest state V and on page 9 in the second edition of the Cohen book. Our grade is EF40. Weight 106.1 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; second finest at PCGS for the variety behind the preceding lot. (PCGS # 35024) .
Estimated Value $10,000-UP.
Ex the Honorable George McClellan Parsons 9/17/1895-Parsons Estate, Henry Chapman 6/24/1914:1938 (Plate X) ($4.00)-Hillyer Cooper Ryder 2/11/1928-Ryder Estate 5/5/1945-Wayte W. Raymond, Raymond MBS #11, 11/20/1945:4 ($51)-Dr. Christian A. Allenburger, B. Max Mehl 3/23/1948:331-Joseph S. Brobston, Stack's Fixed Price List #69, 1/1963 (listed for $225)-Philip M. Showers, Stack's 1969 (privately)-Willis H. duPont-Fred S. "Freddy" Werner 2/1976-Superior Stamp and Coin Company, Inc., 2/1976-Joe Flynn and Son Rare Coins, Inc. (Joseph S. Flynn, Jr.) 4/20/1976 (privately)-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.2a.2).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$18,975 |
Lot 11 |
 |
1794 C-2b Large Edge Letters R6-. PCGS graded AU-55+ Brown. CAC Approved. Glossy chocolate and steel brown with a hint of reddish chocolate toning on the obverse. The surfaces are smooth and very attractive. The only notable defects are some tiny, light nicks near the dentils over ERT, a small pinprick over the 1 in the date, and a collection of microscopic pre-striking planchet chips at NIT in UNITED. A thin, curving struck-through line under LF in HALF is a good identifying mark for this important piece. Sharply struck EDS, Manley state 1.0, before any die clashmarks. Plated on page 94 in the Breen encyclopedia to illustrate the variety (the large photos) and on page 19 in the Manley book to illustrate the variety and his die state 1.0. Our grade is EF45. Finest known of the Large Edge Letters version by a wide margin. Weight 108.5 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35027) .
Estimated Value $30,000-UP.
Ex Dr. Kenneth J. Sartoris 5/1972-Delmar N. (Del) Bland 5/1972 ($600)-William K. Raymond 1/1978-William R. (Bill) Weber 2/19/1992 (part of a multi-coin trade)-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.2b.2).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$57,500 |
Lot 12 |
 |
1794 C-3a Small Edge Letters R5. PCGS graded MS-65 Brown. CAC Approved. Choice frosty bluish steel brown with hints of underlying faded mint red on the reverse. The only defect is a small pitmark at the left top of the R in AMERICA. Otherwise this piece is outstanding, sharply struck with superb eye appeal. LDS, Manley state 2.0, with a bulge under the bust right of the 4 in the date. The obverse is especially attractive with nearly flawless, prooflike fields. Finest known of the die variety. Plated on pages 49 and 108 (including the large photos and smaller state II photos) in the Breen encyclopedia and on page 10 in the second edition of the Cohen book. Listed as finest known in the Breen/Hanson condition census on page 108 in the Breen reference. Our grade is MS62+. Weight 96.5 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the only example of the variety graded MS at PCGS (PCGS # 35030) .
Estimated Value $125,000-UP.
Ex George F. Seavey-Lorin G. Parmelee, William H. Strobridge 9/22/1873:215- Lorin G. Parmelee, New York Coin & Stamp Co. (Harlan P. Smith and David U. Proskey) 6/25/1890:696 (Plate 6) ($13.00)-Henry Chapman-John G. Mills, Samuel Hudson Chapman and Henry Chapman 4/27/1904:1401 (Plate XIV) ($19.50)-Henry Chapman (integrated into the Matthew A. Stickney catalog) 6/25/1907:1671 ($28.50)-Virgil M. Brand-Armin W. Brand-Carl M Wurtzbach, Barney Bluestone 4/29/1943:1576 ($17.00)-unknown-Rodney T. Grove, Superior Stamp and Coin Company, Inc., 6/1/1981:2 (via Julian M. Leidman)-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.3a.3).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$207,000 |
Lot 13 |
 |
1794 C-3b Large Edge Letters R7+ PCGS "Genuine" XF Details, Environmental Damage. Blundered Edge Letters. Sharpness at least VF20 where the designs were properly struck up, but there is microscopic porosity covering the fields and the strike is uneven, particularly on the obverse. No verdigris and only a few marks, including one at the top of the cap and a couple more along the rim to the left, plus a planchet chip in the dentils over the N in UNITED. Steel brown and chocolate brown with lighter steel brown highpoints. The obverse is a bit off center to K-7.5 while the reverse is nearly centered on the planchet. As a result of the die misalignment the upper half of the obverse is strongly struck while the lower portion is poorly impressed leaving the date relatively weak but still readable. In addition the edge lettering is blundered reading TWO HUNDRED OR A DOLLAR. In spite of the imperfections, this example is the finest of only 6 known of the Large Edge Letters variety, and it is listed first in the census on page 106 in Breen's encyclopedia. It is the discovery coin (Richard Gross, 1975) and is the Manley plate coin (page 23). Our grade is VF20+ net F12. Weight 103.0 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 0; none graded. (PCGS # 35033) .
Estimated Value $40,000-UP.
Ex Dennis Steinmetz (Steinmetz Coins & Currency)-Richard H. Gross (correctly attributed 1/9/1975) March 1982-Roger S. Cohen, Jr. ($9,000) 10/21/1988-William R. (Bill) Weber 2/19/1992 (part of a multi-coin trade)-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.3b.1).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$60,375 |
Lot 14 |
 |
1794 C-4a Small Edge Letters R3. PCGS graded MS-66 Brown. Choice lustrous medium brown with faded mint red on the reverse. A beautiful half cent, essentially flawless. The only imperfections, and they are trivial, are a few microscopic planchet chips near the dentils at RTY (as struck). E-MDS, Manley state 2.0, with moderate die clashmarks on the obverse but no swelling in the field at the curls. Plated in the Breen encyclopedia on pages 51 and 86 (to illustrate the "Normal Head" type), on page 112 (the large photos that illustrate the die variety), and again on page 112 with smaller photos to illustrate his die state III. Also listed in the Breen/Hanson condition census on page 113. Outstanding eye appeal, certainly near the top of the condition census for the variety. Our grade is MS63+, close to MS64. Weight 100.9 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35036) .
Estimated Value $100,000-UP.
Ex Howard Rounds Newcomb (valued by Newcomb at $50.00) 1935-B. Max Mehl 1935 (privately)-Col. E. H. R. Green 6/8/1936-Green Estate (appraised by the Estate at $35.00 on 8/9/1937) sold in April 1943 for $40.02-the Newman/Johnson partnership-Eric P. Newman-EPNNES (November/December 1980)-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.4a.5).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$299,000 |
Lot 15 |
 |
1794 C-4b Large Edge Letters R6+. PCGS graded VF-30 Brown. Glossy steel brown and chocolate, possibly lightly cleaned long ago and nicely retoned. The surfaces are smooth and attractive for the grade. The notable marks are a couple of tiny planchet chips in the field off the nose, a faint horizontal scuff on the bust tip, and a nick on the right top of the first T in STATES. In addition there is a faint trace of very fine carbon near the dentils before the nose. Our grade is F15. Finest known of the extremely rare Large Edge Letters variety. EDS, Manley state 1.0. This is the plate coin for the variety in the Breen encyclopedia (page 110) and for the variety and die state 1.0 in the Manley reference (page 29). Weight 106.0 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the only example graded at PCGS (PCGS # 35039) .
Estimated Value $40,000-UP.
Ex Leonard Bernstein-Chevy Chase Coin Co. (Harold "Hal" Webber)-Kenneth Goldman, Inc., 10/1973-William K. Raymond 10/1973-William R. (Bill) Weber (part of a multi-coin trade) 2/19/1992-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.4b.1).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$43,700 |
Lot 16 |
 |
1794 C-5a Small Edge Letters R4+. PCGS graded MS-64+ Brown. Choice lustrous bluish steel with traces of faded mint red on both sides. Sharply struck and nearly flawless except for a shallow, mint-made planchet void (either a pre-striking depression in the planchet or a struck-through mark caused by a small piece of debris on the die) slanting through the L in HALF. EDS, Manley state 1.0, before any die clashmarks on the obverse. The obverse is very slightly off center to K-9 while the reverse is off center a similar amount to K-7. This piece offers great eye appeal in spite of the minor mint flaw on the reverse. Listed as finest known on page 100 in the Breen encyclopedia. Our grade is MS63. Weight 104.7 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the only MS graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35042) .
Estimated Value $75,000-UP.
Ex a European Collection-Lester Merkin Coins, Inc. (integrated into the Louis Helfenstein sale) 3/6/1968:96 (Plate 1) ($3,200)-Richard J. Picker-Dr. James Merida McCleery-Anthony J. Terranova 5/1990-Roy E. "Ted" Naftzger, Jr., 8/12/1991-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.5a.4).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$195,500 |
Lot 17 |
 |
1794 C-5b Large Edge Letters R8 PCGS "Genuine" AU Details, Cleaning. Sharpness EF40 but cleaned, now retoned a rather frosty golden light brown and tan. The surfaces are covered with extremely fine granularity with some shallow planchet chips or pitmarks at the dentils over the tip of the pole and a thin, shallow planchet lamination at the right ribbon end under the wreath. EDS, Manley state 1.0, without any die clashmarks. The reverse is rotated 75 degrees CW from the normal head-to-foot orientation. Our grade is EF40 net VF25. This is the finer of only 2 known and is plated in the Breen (page 98) and Manley (page 33) references to illustrate the variety. Weight 105.9 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 0, none graded. (PCGS # 35045) .
Estimated Value $50,000-UP.
Ex Charles Jay-Jay Estate, Stack's 10/27/1967:81 (plated)-unknown-Bowers and Ruddy Galleries, Inc., Rare Coin Review #24 Fall 1975 (as "superb About Uncirculated") 8/22/1975-William K. Raymond, Fixed Price List 8/1977 (sold 1978)-William R. (Bill) Weber 10/21/1988-Roger S. Cohen, Jr., 5/26/1990-Cohen Estate, Superior Stamp and Coin Company, Inc., 2/2/1992:28-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.5b.1).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$103,500 |
Lot 18 |
 |
1794 C-6a Small Edge Letters R5+. PCGS graded EF-40 Brown. CAC Approved. Glossy steel brown and chocolate with excellent eye appeal for the grade. Some of the details are consistent with a higher grade, but the strike is a bit uneven with the upper edge of the obverse and lower part of the reverse softly impressed relative to the rest of the coin. The planchet appears too be normal (not beveled) so the dies must have been out of axial alignment (the die faces not perfectly parallel). The notable defects are a faint vertical hairline in the field before the portrait, a small rim nick at AM, and a thin planchet void in the dentils over ED (as struck). Our grade is VF20. Near the top of the condition census for this rare variety. Listed in the census on page 104 of the Breen encyclopedia. Weight 104.9 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finer of 2 graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35048) .
Estimated Value $15,000-UP.
Ex C. W. Stetson, Thomas L. Elder 12/1924:2168 (as "EF" for $24.00)-Hillyer Cooper Ryder 2/11/1928-Ryder Estate 5/5/1945-Wayte W. Raymond, Mail Bid Sale #11, 11/20/1945:5 ($17.50)-Joseph S. Brobston, Stack's Fixed Price List No. 69, 1/1963 (listed for $400)-R. Henry Norweb Family collection (The Honorable Raymond Henry Norweb [10/1/1983] and Emery May Holden Norweb)-Emery May Holden Norweb (3/27/1984)-Raymond Henry Norweb, Jr., Auctions by Bowers and Merena, Inc., 10/12/1987:8-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.6a.3).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$74,750 |
Lot 19 |
 |
1794 C-6b Large Edge Letters R8+ (Unique) PCGS Genuine Fine Details, Cleaning. Sharpness VF20 but covered with myriad very fine hairline scratches, strongest on the obverse. Appears as if it was lightly abraded with a stiff brush, but the eye appeal is still nice for the grade. Slightly glossy light steel brown. There are very few signs of contact (other than the brush lines). A small pinprick just off the tip of the left wreath stem and a small nick under the left ribbon end are the notable marks. The strike was strong and well balanced but very slightly off center to K-7.5. Strong die clashmarks show around the portrait. Weight 103.6 grains. Plated in the Breen (page 102) and Manley (page 36) references to illustrate the variety. The Large Edge Letters variety was announced in the March 1977 edition of Penny-Wise, the official journal of the Early American Coppers Club, but a second example has yet to surface. Obviously this piece is the ultimate key to a complete collection of half cents. Our grade is VF20 sharpness net VG10. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 0; none graded. (PCGS # 35051) .
Estimated Value $85,000-UP.
Ex Willard C. Blaisdell-Delmar N. Bland 5/1972-William K. Raymond (who first recognized the edge variant)-Raymond Fixed Price List 8/1977, sold in 8/1978 to William R. (Bill) Weber 1988-Roger S. Cohen, Jr., Superior Galleries 2/2/1992:30 (via Stuart A. Levine)-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.6b.1).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$161,000 |
Lot 20 |
 |
1794 C-7 R5. PCGS graded MS-67 Red & Brown. CAC Approved. Lustrous mint red mellowing to light steel brown, at least a third of the original color remaining. The fields are reflective and the eye appeal is amazing. This is a true "WOW!" coin. The hair wave left of the ear is especially high on this die, which was used to strike the C-7, 8, and 9 die varieties, and it is often referred to as the "High Relief Head" type. And because the designs are raised well above the rims they wore down rapidly. But on this sharply-struck piece the highest wave left of the ear retains its intended character, coming to a prominent peak well above the rest of the hair as the engraver intended. (Stacking these would have presented quite a challenge.) No defects and virtually unimprovable in every respect. A tiny planchet chip hidden in the dentils right of the Y in LIBERTY is the best identifying mark, but it is inconsequential. We believe this is the finest obtainable 1794 half cent of any variety (a comparable 1794 C-7 is impounded in the British Museum, but a recent photograph indicates it retains little if any mint color and the luster is subdued by a thin layer of oxidation creating a chestnut brown tone). Current PCGS records show one other early half cent graded as MS67RB (a 1796 C-1 No Pole), which makes this piece tied for the finest graded early half cent (1793-1797). An undisputed highlight of this premier collection of half cents. This is the 1794 shown in Breen's color plate at the back of his encyclopedia and on pages 87 (to illustrate the "High Relief Head" and "Cent Type Reverse"), 88 (to show the Large Edge Letters), 114 (to illustrate the variety), and on that same page for his die state I. This piece is also plated on page 14 in Cohen's second edition. MDS, Manley die state 2.0 early. Our grade is MS67. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the only RB graded. (PCGS # 35058) .
"I started going to Europe in 1973, with Harry Gordon, who was the owner of Numismatics, Ltd., in Beverly Hills (I was almost 23 years old when I started there). We would go to Europe every 5-6 weeks - London, Paris, Brussels, Zurich (and lots of other cities in Switzerland too) - buying US Gold coins in large quantities.
In early 1977, on one of our trips to Zurich, our contact and good friend there, Heiner Stuker (a major Swiss coin dealer), told us about a small local coin show being held in a small town, about 1.5-2 hours outside of Zurich. It was a Friday, I believe, and all three of us went to the show - a very very small town, in the middle of nowhere (but beautiful). The show was held in a Round building (yes, round! I had never seen a round building like this before), and when we walked in, there were small, simple tables with local dealers/vest pocket dealers showing their material in trays - I don't think there were more than one or two dealers that had show cases there - the coins were in different. types of velvet trays for viewing.
At that point, all I had learned to say in Swiss Deutch (Swiss German) was the phrase: "Habben ze Americanisha Gold Munzen?" (Do you have any American Gold coins?) I walked around asking that question, finding a few coins here and there, but nothing like we usually bought at the Banks in the Cities we frequented. As I'm making my rounds (literally!!) I get to a table with an older gentleman and his wife; they didn't look like coin dealers, but more like farmers who had a small amount of European copper and silver coins on their trays - absolutely nothing special or rare, as far as I could tell. I gave them my usual "Habben Ze Americanisha Gold Munzen?" question, and the man looked at me, and started to talk fast in Swiss German - which I really didn't understand much of…….I repeated "American Gold Munzen", and he hesitated for a second, turned around, and went into his folio (some type of briefcase behind the table), and pulled out two coins - a 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter in VF, and a 1794 Half Cent.
I remember this like it was yesterday - the round room was kinda dark, and there were no table lamps at his table - so, my very first look/glance at the coin, and I said to myself: "That looks too good to be real - must be a restrike - wait, they didn't make any restrikes of 1794 half cents!" - all in 2 seconds, in my mind! At 3 seconds, I knew it was real, and I asked "Vass iss da price?" (What is the price?) He quoted me in Swiss Francs, which I calculated quickly as being about U.S. $1,200 or so. I quickly paid him for both coins, found Harry and Heiner, and showed them the two pieces I bought. I told Heiner how wonderful the Half Cent was, and he went over to the table, and asked the man about the coins,and if he had more. He replied something to the effect that 'the copper coin has been in this village for along time, passed down from family'. The impression I got at the time was that someone from this village went to the United States in 1794/95, and brought back this lowest-denomination US coin as a souvenir of their visit - and it had been in this small town/village since that time! At the show there, I didn't know it was a High Relief Head - I just thought that as a real nice 1794 Half Cent, it had to be worth $5k or more. I was so exited about this coin, that I didn't put it in our Brinks shipment of Gold, going back to Beverly Hills - I carried in my briefcase home, as I didn't want it to get caught up in US customs at LAX, and be delayed for some reason.
Back at Numismatics, Ltd., I started researching the coin, and soon found out it was a "High Relief Head", and probably (at the time) the finest known of that variety. As the months went by, the value of the coin, in my head, went to $10K, $15k, etc. - till about 6 months later, when we printed up a very nice small brochure on the coin, and priced it at $35,000…….didn't sell it at the next 2-3 shows, and so about 2 months later, we entered into discussions with Julian Leidman, who had 'The' customer for it - and, if I remember correctly, we sold it to Julian for $30,000 (I might be off by a grand or two).
I have very fond memories of this coin - it was my first major rarity that I was responsible for figuring out what I had - the Die Variety, history, pricing, etc……and I toughly enjoyed all the time spent researching it……"
Fred Weinberg.
Estimated Value $500,000-UP.
Discovered in Basel, Switzerland, in early 1975-Fred Weinberg (Numismatics, Ltd., advertised in Coin World 8/17/1977 and 5/24/1978)-via Julian Leidman-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.7.4).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$1,150,000 |
Lot 21 |
 |
1794 C-8 R5. PCGS graded EF-45 Brown. CAC Approved. Glossy medium brown and light chocolate. Lightly worn with smooth surfaces that offer great eye appeal. The notable marks are a nick-like rim chip below the right ribbon end and a minor planchet lamination at ES-O, both as struck, plus a tiny pinprick or planchet chip on the jawline. EDS, Manley state 1.0, before the die crack from the dentils down through the second T in STATES. The reverse is misaligned slightly to K-3 but the obverse is almost perfectly centered on the planchet. Plated in the Breen encyclopedia (page 116) to illustrate his state III, and the reverse is plated on page 14 in the second edition of the Cohen book to show the unbroken die state. Our grade is VF30+, close to VF35. Near the top of the condition census for this very scarce die variety. Weight 109.1 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 2; tied for finest graded of the variety. (PCGS # 35060) .
Estimated Value $10,000-UP.
Ex Philip M. Showers, Stack's 1969 (privately)-Willis Harrington duPont- Fred S. "Freddy" Werner 2/1976-Superior Stamp and Coin Company, Inc., 2/1976-Joe Flynn and Son Rare Coins, Inc. (Joseph S. Flynn, Jr.) 4/20/1976-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.8.3).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$32,200 |
Lot 22 |
 |
1794 C-9 R2. PCGS graded MS-65 Red & Brown. CAC Approved. Choice lustrous light steel brown with 20% of the original mint red remaining on the obverse. A truly beautiful example of the "High Relief Head" type. The only defects, and they are barely visible, are a tiny tick on the middle of the neck, another on the throat, and a tiny nick under the C in AMERICA. LDS, Manley state 3.0, with a rim cud break covering 4-5 dentils left of the fraction. The die crack from the rim to the center of the cap is clear. Sharply struck except for some weakness at the top of the E in CENT, which is opposite the highest peak of the hair. A beautiful half cent. Our grade is MS63+, close to MS64 and certainly near the top of the condition census for the variety. This is the second and third example listed in the Breen/Hanson condition census (page 119, both listings being for the same coin). The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35064) .
Estimated Value $75,000-UP.
Ex Alto collection, Stack's 12/11/1970:514 (as "The Finest Known") ($2,300)-to Walter Breen for Dr. James M. McCleery- Martin Haber (South Miami Rare Coins)-Auction '90 (Superior Galleries) lot 1003-to David W. Akers for Martin Haber (South Miami Rare Coins)-Jerry Treglia 8/14/1991-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 94.9.6).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$402,500 |
Lot 23 |
 |
1795 C-1 Lettered Edge R2. PCGS graded MS-63 Brown. A sharp, attractive half cent but there are a few very faint hairlines on the portrait and what appears to be a very thin layer of lacquer or some similar substance covering the reverse. The obverse is lustrous bluish steel with traces of faded red in protected areas. The reverse is glossy light olive brown. The only notable mark is a tiny V-shaped struck-through line at the dentils under the 5 in the date (caused by a tiny piece of debris stuck on the die). MDS, Manley state 2.0 early, with a gentle bulge at AME. The obverse fields are slightly reflective giving that side great eye appeal in spite of the faint hairlines. Listed in the Breen/Hanson census on page 129 in his encyclopedia. Our grade is AU58+, very close to Mint State. Weight 105.6 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 2; tied for finest graded (with the following lot). (PCGS # 35067) .
Estimated Value $35,000-UP.
Ex Henry Clay Miller, Thomas L. Elder 4/13/1917:1026 ($70)-Lewis C. Gehring, Thomas L. Elder 8/1921:993 (as "Proof") ($60)-Henry Chapman-Colonel E. H. R. Green 6/8/1936-Green Estate 4/1943-the Newman/Johnson partnership-Burdette G. Johnson 3/6/1944 ($100)-Thomas L. Elder-Philip M. Showers, Stack's 1969 (privately)-Willis Harrington duPont-Fred S. "Freddy" Werner 2/1976-Superior Stamp and Coin Company, Inc., 2/1976-Joe Flynn and Son Rare Coins, Inc. (Joseph S. Flynn, Jr.) 4/20/1976 (privately)-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.1.2).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$28,750 |
Lot 24 |
 |
1795 C-1 Lettered Edge R2. PCGS graded MS-63 Brown. Frosty light steel brown with at least 5% of the original mint red remaining. Excellent eye appeal. The only marks are a small spot of darker bluish steel toning (not carbon) below CA in AMERICA, a faint hairline scratch on the cheek from the left corner of the eye down to just below the earlobe, and a thin nick in the field near the dentils off the chin. LDS, Manley state 2.0. The obverse fields are now frosty rather than reflective and the bulge at AME is clear. Weight 108.3 grains. Our grade is MS60. Listed in the Breen/Hanson census on page 130 in the encyclopedia. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 2; tied with the preceding example for finest graded. (PCGS # 35067) .
Estimated Value $35,000-UP.
Ex Howard Rounds Newcomb (valued by Newcomb at $20.00) 1935 (privately)-B. Max Mehl 1935 (privately)-Col. E. H. R. Green 6/8/1936-Green Estate (appraised by the Estate at $35.00 on 8/9/1937) sold in 4/1943 for $40.02-the Newman/Johnson partnership-Eric P. Newman-EPNNES Nov/Dec 1980-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.1.3).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$92,000 |
Lot 25 |
 |
1795 C-2a Large Edge Letters R3. PCGS graded MS-64+ Brown. Very attractive frosty light brown. The only marks are a couple very faint hairlines in the field off the neck and chin and subtle puffs of darker bluish steel toning at the H in HALF and at the left ribbon box. LDS, Manley state 3.0, with the usual die clashmarks on the reverse. Our grade is MS60+, close to MS62 with excellent luster and eye appeal. Near the top of the condition census. Weight 106.9 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded for the variety (PCGS # 35070) .
Estimated Value $30,000-UP.
Ex Richard B. Winsor, S. H. & H. Chapman 12/1895:1009-F. R. Alvord, S. H. Chapman 6/1924:44 ($62)-John M. Clapp-John H. Clapp-Clapp Estate via Stack's (privately) 2/6/1942-Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr., 2/20/1976-Louis E. Eliasberg, Jr., Bowers & Merena 5/21/1996:402-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.2a.6).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$115,000 |
Lot 26 |
 |
1795 C-2b Thin Planchet with Plain Edge R5+. PCGS graded VF-30 Brown. CAC Approved. Glossy medium brown and chocolate with reddish chocolate toning in protected areas. Possibly lightly cleaned and retoned long ago. The obverse is smooth and relatively attractive but the reverse displays minor roughness in several areas, strongest at NT in CENT. No verdigris. A light diagonal hairline scratch left of the lowest curl and a small spot of darker olive brown toning over the T in CENT are the notable marks. A straight-edge planchet clip, as struck, extends to the dentil roots at K4 to K-5 on the obverse and into the opposing dentils over OF on the reverse. In addition the reverse is rotated 15 degrees CW from the normal head-to-foot orientation. Weight 82.5 grains. Our grade is net F15. Listed in the Breen census on page 143. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the only example of the variety graded at PCGS. (PCGS # 35073) .
Estimated Value $20,000-UP.
Ex Commodore William Colgate Eaton (via Guttag Brothers 1928)-Henry Chapman (privately)-Col. E. H. R. Green 6/8/1936-Green Estate (appraised by the Estate at $1.00 on 8/9/1937) sold in April 1943 for $2.00-the Newman/Johnson partnership-Burdette G. Johnson 2/24/1947-Burdette G. Johnson Estate 12/15/1948-later-Charles J. DuPont-Anderson Dupont (duPont) Sale, Stack's 11/11/1954:1045 ($170)-Doris E. Nelson-Toby and Doris E. (Nelson) Szymanski (the "TAD" collection), Stack's 3/15/1975:821 ($1,100)-Roger S. Cohen, Jr., 5/26/1990-Cohen Estate, Superior Stamp and Coin Company, Inc., 2/2/1992:46-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.2b.3).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$18,400 |
Lot 27 |
 |
1795 C-3 R5+. PCGS graded AU-50 Brown. Mostly glossy medium brown with darker steel brown toning on the highpoints. Several splashes of dark olive brown toning show in the left obverse field near the dentils, and those stains contain traces of microscopic verdigris or crud. The only contact mark of any consequence inside the dentils is a horizontal pin scratch in the field off the chin, but there are also small rim bruises at the R and Y in LIBERTY and several smaller rim bruises around the reverse. Tiny planchet chips cover much of the portrait, as struck, but the obverse fields are slightly prooflike. Similar planchet chips cover much of the area inside the wreath. E-MDS, Manley state 1.0 late. HALF CENT is relatively well struck for the variety but there is some weakness at AL and EN. Plated on page 20 in the second edition of the Cohen book to illustrate the die variety. Listed in the condition census on page 145 in the Breen encyclopedia. Our grade is EF45 sharpness net VF30. Second finest known. Weight 82.3 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35077) .
Estimated Value $25,000-UP.
Ex Captain John W. Haseltine 6/24/1880:846 ($3.00)-unknown-Joseph S. Brobston, Stack's Fixed Price List No. 69, 1/1963 (listed for $1,150)-Philip M. Showers, Stack's 1969 (privately)-Willis Harrington duPont-Fred S. "Freddy" Werner 2/1976-Superior Stamp and Coin Company, Inc., 2/1976-Joe Flynn and Son Rare Coins, Inc. (Joseph S. Flynn, Jr.) 4/20/1976-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.3.4).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$24,150 |
Lot 28 |
 |
1795 C-4 Thin Planchet R3. PCGS graded MS-63 Brown. CAC Approved. Highly lustrous steel brown with hints of light bluish steel overtone. Outstanding eye appeal for the grade. The only defects are a faint hairline from the left side of the forehead down to the neck just below the earlobe and a very thin but relatively recent one from the dentils above the I in LIBERTY through ERT. The obverse fields are hard and slightly reflective. MDS, Manley state 2.0, with the usual weakness and resulting tiny planchet chips in the center of the reverse. Our grade is MS60+. Plated on page 146 of the Breen encyclopedia, there used to illustrate the variety (the large photos) and his die state III, and listed in his census on page 147. Weight 75.1 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the only MS graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35080) .
Estimated Value $30,000-UP.
Ex Philip M. Showers, Stack's 1969 (privately)-Willis Harrington duPont-Fred S. "Freddy" Werner 2/1976-Superior Stamp and Coin Company, Inc., 2/1976-Joe Flynn and Son Rare Coins, Inc. (Joseph S. Flynn, Jr.) 4/20/1976-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.4.2).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$120,750 |
Lot 29 |
 |
1795 C-4 on a Thick Planchet R8+. PCGS graded Fine-12 Brown. Glossy chocolate and steel brown with some very fine reddish carbon around the 1 in the date. There is a light rim bruise over LI in LIBERTY and the edge at the bottom of the reverse is slightly beveled, as struck. MDS, Manley state 2.0 early. HALF CENT is slightly weak but easily readable. Struck on a thick planchet, possibly from a cut-down spoiled cent, weighing 113.50 grains (which is noted on the PCGS label). The beveled edge at the bottom of the reverse is consistent with a planchet that was cut from a spoiled large cent, but there is no evidence of underlying cent design that could confirm this assessment. This is the only example of the die variety known to us struck on a thick planchet, and it is the only thick-planchet example PCGS has noted as well (although PCGS did not assign it a different coin number like they do for the thick planchet versions of the 1795 C-5 and C-6 varieties). Our grade is VG10. The attribution, weight, and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label (PCGS # 35080) .
Estimated Value $10,000-UP.
Ex Richard Shimkus 4/16/1999-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.4b.1).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$12,075 |
Lot 30 |
 |
1795 C-5a No Pole with Thin Planchet R3. PCGS graded MS-64+ Brown. Attractive lustrous steel brown with faded mint red in protected areas on both sides. The fields are slightly reflective, especially on the right side of the obverse, and the eye appeal is outstanding. The only defects, and they are trivial, are a trace of carbon dust at the dentils over F and a faint vertical hairline scratch in the field under the cap, plus a collection of microscopic pre-striking planchet chips in the field left of the curls. Finest known. Plated in the Breen reference on pages 140 (illustrating rolled copper stock) and 148 (large photos to illustrate the die variety), and listed in his census on page 149. Our grade is MS62. Weight 81.9 grains (the thin planchet standard was 84.0 grains). The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the only MS graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35083) .
Estimated Value $20,000-UP.
Ex Samuel Herbert McVitty, B. Max Mehl 3/22/1938:5 ($27.00)-Charles M. Williams, Numismatic Gallery (Abraham "Abe" Kosoff and Abner Kreisberg) 11/14/1950:686 ($137.50)-Harold S. Bareford 4/10/1978-William J. Bareford (son) 6/8/1984 (via Julius "Jules" Reiver)-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.5a.6).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$69,000 |
Lot 31 |
 |
1795 C-5b No Pole with Thick Planchet R4 PCGS "Genuine" Unc Details, Planchet Flaw. Frosty light steel brown and tan with lustrous bluish steel toning in protected areas of the reverse. The obverse fields are slightly reflective but both sides are covered with microscopic planchet chips, as struck. The only notable defects are an obvious planchet crack from K-7 to the 17 and another at the opposing area from the rim through the E in STATES down to the upper leaf on the right side of the wreath, also as minted. Our grade is MS60. We understand the reluctance of any grading service to grade a piece with an obvious planchet flaw, but if it left the mint that way, then the term "Mint State" seems to apply. Unfortunately planchet cracks are a common occurrence on the thick planchet versions of the 1795 C-5 and C-6 varieties. The thick planchets appear to have been harder and more brittle than normal, and problem-free examples are especially rare. As Breen states on page 150 in his encyclopedia, "These are crude, often defective with cracks, splits, and chips, and are thicker than normal. Weight range from 105.7 grains to 123 grains." The weight of this example is 105.8 grains. Listed in the condition census on page 151 of the Breen encyclopedia. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are noted on the PCGS label. And it comes from an impressive line of distinguished numismatists (PCGS # 35086) .
Estimated Value $25,000-UP.
Ex Charles Ira Bushnell-Lorin G. Parmelee, Samuel H. and Henry Chapman 6/20/1882:2765 ($1.50)-Henry Ahlborn, Thomas L. Elder 11/1921:702-Thomas L. Elder 4/1922:348-Thomas L. Elder 10/1922:1138-Thomas L. Elder 5/1923:710-unknown-J. C. Morgenthau & Co., Inc. (Wayte M. Raymond and James G. Macallister) 10/5/1939-Joseph Steele, Numismatic Gallery (Abraham "Abe" Kosoff & Abner Kreisberg) 1953 A.N.A. Sale 8/22/1953:1451 ($20.00)-New Netherlands Coin Co., included in their 44th Sale (Hillyer C. Ryder) 6/23/1954:273 ($100.00)-R. Henry Norweb Family collection (The Honorable Raymond Henry Norweb [10/1/1983] and Emery May Holden Norweb)-Emery May Holden Norweb (3/27/1984)-Raymond Henry Norweb, Jr., Auctions by Bowers and Merena, Inc., 10/12/1987:19-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.5b.5).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$12,075 |
Lot 32 |
 |
1795 C-5b No Pole with Thick Planchet R4. PCGS graded EF-45 Brown. CAC Approved. Glossy light olive and chocolate with a hint of bluish steel overtone. The surfaces are mostly smooth and attractive but there are traces of microscopic roughness on both sides. No verdigris, and the only marks visible without the aid of a glass are three impressions on the neck that appear to be from the dentils of an off-center large cent. The 5 in the date is softly impressed, as usual on the thick planchet variety. HALF CENT is also weak, as usual due to the die failure on that side, but it remains readable. Plated on page 150 of the Breen encyclopedia to illustrate his die state II and listed in his census on page 151. Our grade is VF35+ net VF30+. Weight 118.3 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are show on the PCGS label. PCGS population 2; 1 in AU50, 1 in AU55 (the following lot). (PCGS # 35086) .
Estimated Value $7,500-UP.
Ex Abner Kreisberg (Quality Sales Corporation) 11/17/1972:13-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.5b.2).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$16,100 |
Lot 33 |
 |
1795 C-5b No Pole with Thick Planchet R4. PCGS graded AU-55 Brown. Double Planchet Clip. Glossy light steel brown with subtle overtones of bluish steel on both sides. Faint hints of very faded mint color can be found in some of the protected areas. The only defects are some of the usual tiny planchet chips covering the fields on both sides, as struck. Struck on a thick planchet, most likely made from a spoiled large cent (or possibly scrap left behind after cutting large cent planchets). There are mint-made curved planchet clips extending to the dentil roots at K-1 to K-2 and K-4 to K-5. The curve of the clips suggests they were made with a large cent cutter rather than from a half cent cutter, but that is uncertain since the arcs are relatively small. Our grade is EF45. Weight 108.6 grains (obviously heavy when compared to the 84.0-grain standard in spite of the weight lost to the two clips). The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35086) .
Estimated Value $10,000-UP.
Ex Dr. Conway A. Bolt 11/25/1973-Bolt Estate, Pine Tree Auction Company, Inc. (Early American Coppers Convention) 2/26/1975:551-Rare Coin Company of America (RARCOA) 9/1975-James R. McGuigan 4/1982 (part of a multi-coin trade)-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.5b.3).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$10,925 |
Lot 34 |
 |
1795 C-6a No Pole with Thin Planchet R2. PCGS graded MS-65 Brown. Struck on cut-down Talbot Allum & Lee Cent. Highly lustrous steel brown with faded mint red covering the protected areas on the obverse and 20% of the reverse. A solid gem half cent except for a few minor contact marks on the obverse. There are three diagonal hairline scratches on the cap extending into the field to the left, a couple of tiny pinpricks hidden in the dentils left of the cap, and a microscopic hairline on the cheek. LDS, Manley state 2.0. The fields are slightly reflective and the eye appeal is exceptional. The reverse is a flawless gem. Struck over a TAL cent with clear undertype visible below the 179 in the date. Illustrated on the color plate at the end of the Breen encyclopedia and on page 23 of the second edition of the Cohen reference to show his die state II, and listed in Breen's census on page 156. A superior example in spite of the minor marks. Our grade is MS63. Weight 83.0 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35089) .
Estimated Value $40,000-UP.
Ex Col. E. H. R. Green 6/8/1936-Green Estate (appraised by the Estate at $15.00 on 8/9/1937) sold in April 1943 for $10.02-the Newman/Johnson partnership-Eric P. Newman-EPNNES Nov/Dec 1980-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.6a.11).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$132,250 |
Lot 35 |
 |
1795 C-6b No Pole with Thick Planchet R5+. PCGS graded AU-50 Brown. CAC Approved. Glossy medium brown and chocolate, but the planchet is not perfectly smooth. There is a spot of greenish verdigris over the F in OF, a shallow carbon spot over the Y in LIBERTY, a few fine hairline scratches on the lower half of the obverse, a reddish spot in the field before the eye, and traces of light verdigris around the fraction. EDS, Manley state 1.0. A sharp, attractive example in spite of the imperfect surfaces (which are typical on this variety). The date and legends are complete and clear, and the strike is rather well centered on the planchet. Our grade is EF40 net VF30. Third finest known of this rare variety in the Spurlock condition census. Weight 106.6 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; finest graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35092) .
Estimated Value $25,000-UP.
Ex James R. McGuigan 10/30/1987-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 95.6b.4).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$29,900 |
Lot 36 |
 |
1796 C-1 No Pole R6-. PCGS graded MS-65 Brown. CAC Approved. Choice lustrous bluish steel brown and chocolate with frosty golden light brown toning in protected areas. A wisp of slightly darker olive brown toning shows in the field behind the portrait. The fields are prooflike and the eye appeal of this piece is outstanding. The only defect is a microscopic planchet flake or pinprick in the field before the face close over the bisecting crack. The bisecting die crack is bold with the portion above the crack on a slightly higher plain than the lower half. This die was severely broken. The reverse is a flawless gem. A breath-taking example of this classic rarity and the key to a top-grade "Redbook" collection of half cents. Listed in the Breen condition census on page 160 in his encyclopedia. Our grade is MS63. Weight 82.0 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded in BN (one finer in RB). (PCGS # 35095) .
Estimated Value $750,000-UP.
Ex John Gormley Murdoch 1902-Murdoch Estate-Sotheby, Wilkinson & Hodge Auctioneers (London) 7/21/1903:963 ($73.22)-S. H. and H. Chapman-unknown (Breen's listing incorrectly credits Newcomb as owning a "No Pole")-C. David Pierce-Philip M. Showers-Stack's 1969 (privately)-Willis Harrington duPont-Fred S. "Freddy" Werner 2/1976-Superior Stamp and Coin Company, Inc., 2/1976-Joe Flynn and Son Rare Coins, Inc. (Joseph S. Flynn, Jr.) 4/20/1976 (privately)-Dr. Herbert Ketterman via Joe Flynn and Son Rare Coins, Inc. (Joseph S. Flynn, Jr.) 4/28/1982-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 96.1.2).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$891,250 |
Lot 37 |
 |
1796 C-2 With Pole R4. PCGS graded MS-65+ Red & Brown. CAC Approved. Choice lustrous steel brown and chocolate with faded mint red covering about 15% of the planchet. There is a small splash of darker olive toning at CE in CENT and another in the leaves under the O in OF. The obverse is flawless except for some microscopic pre-striking planchet chips at the dentils left of the date, as struck. The designs are sharply struck on both sides, the only weakness appearing in some of the dentils. The fields are slightly prooflike and the eye appeal is outstanding. Considered superior to the Showers example in a side-by-side comparison, which was part of the Missouri Cabinet before being traded away following acquisition of this coin. A perfect mate for the prooflike 1796 No Pole in this collection. Plated on page 26 in the second edition of the Cohen book to illustrate the die variety. Also plated on page 165 in Breen's encyclopedia to illustrate the With Pole variety struck on a planchet cut from a spoiled large cent, which Breen admits this example is not, and listed in the Breen census on page 163. Our grade is MS63+, close to MS64. Weight 83.1 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded. (PCGS # 35099) .
Estimated Value $650,000-UP.
Ex Howard Rounds Newcomb (valued by Newcomb at $710.00) 1935 (privately)-B. Max Mehl 1935 (privately)-Col. E. H. R. Green 6/8/1936-Green Estate (appraised by F. C. C. Boyd for the Estate at $300.00 on 8/9/1937) sold in April 1943 for $70.01-the Newman/Johnson partnership-Burdette G. Johnson 2/2/1947-B. G. Johnson Estate 12/15/1948-later-Charles J. duPont, Anderson Dupont (duPont) Sale, Part II, Stack's 11/11/1954:1053 ($2,300)-Doris E. Nelson-Toby and Doris E. (Nelson) Szymanski (the "TAD" collection) Stack's 3/15/1975:822-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 96.2.2).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$718,750 |
Lot 38 |
 |
1796 C-2 With Pole on Thick Planchet PCGS "Genuine" VF Details, Damage or Tooling. Sharpness VF25 but there is a dull, relatively strong scratch from the forehead to the bottom of the neck. The planchet is covered with microscopic granularity but there is no verdigris. The planchet has two small cracks (narrow splits in the planchet at the edge) under the 179, as struck. Slightly glossy chocolate and olive brown. The date is strong and the legends are complete. Struck a bit off center to K-1. The edge is beveled from K-6 to K-8 on the obverse and at the corresponding part of the reverse over TES-OF. Struck on a heavy planchet weighing 105.09 grains versus the standard weight of 84.0 grains (the thick planchet and heavy weight are noted on the PCGS label). Either this planchet was cut out of thick strip rolled for large cents or the planchet was made from a spoiled large cent. The tiny splits on the edge under the date suggest a spoiled large cent cut down for a half cent. That is because "strike hardening" tends to make a planchet brittle and susceptible to splitting when struck again. Tiny splits at the edge are found quite often on the 1795 C-5b and C-6b thick planchet variants, and this 1796 appears to be on a similar planchet. Regardless of the exact source of the planchet, this is the only 1796 half cent known to us that was struck on a thick planchet, and it is the only example certified as such by PCGS (although PCGS noted the heavy weight on their label, they did not assign it a different coin number for registry purposes). Our grade is VF25 sharpness net F12. The attribution, weight, and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label (PCGS # 35098) .
Estimated Value $15,000-UP.
Ex Robert McAusland 8/20/1955-Robert H. Schonwalter 9/5/1998-Schonwalter Estate, Stack's 1/21/2003:1108 ($13,750)-Chris McCawley 8/18/2004-John C. Koebert-The Butternut Company (Colonel Steven K. Ellsworth) 3/10/2012 (via Chris McCawley)-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 96.2.7).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$39,100 |
Lot 39 |
 |
1796 Edwards Copy Kenny-1 Rarity 7-. PCGS graded MS-67 Red & Brown. Choice highly lustrous bluish steel brown with faded red covering the protected areas, about 20% of the original color remaining. The only defects, and they are trivial, are a small spot of reddish brown toning in the field over the tip of the pole and a tiny, dull struck-through line at the dentils left of the lower curls, as struck. Our grade is MS66. An outstanding example, probably the finest known. Weight 92.4 grains. NOTE: The Edwards copies of the 1796 half cent were struck using hand-made dies on rolled copper planchets that are a bit thinner than the genuine version. The workmanship is of good quality and the resulting design is a fairly accurate representation of the genuine article. These were struck sometime prior to 1865 by Dr. Frank Smith Edwards of New York, and the first auction appearance came in 1866. After the death of Dr. Edwards in 1865, Edward Cogan wrote that he had destroyed the dies and all but 12 of the remaining specimens. Dr. Edwards' collection was sold in an auction conducted by Bangs, Merwin & Company in October 1865, and none of these copies was included in that sale. The first appearance of one of his copies in an auction occurred in 1866. These copies are highly sought and seldom appear for sale, so the reported "mintage" of 12 specimens appears to accurately represent the number of examples that escaped destruction, although we do not know how many were actually struck. Presently we can trace 11 examples, and that total has not changed in quite a few years. They are mentioned briefly in a note following the 1796 half cents on page 92 in the "Redbook." The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded. (PCGS # 397326) .
Estimated Value $20,000-UP.
Ex F. C. C. Boyd (privately)-New Netherlands Coin Co.-Miami Rare Coin Company 9/6/1952:6-Willard C. Blaisdell-Delmar N. (Del) Bland-Rare Coin Gallery of Seattle-Delmar N. (Del) Bland-James R. McGuigan-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 96.3.3).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$37,950 |
Lot 40 |
 |
1796 Edwards Copy Kenny-1 Rarity 7- (Rarity 8 in Brass). PCGS graded MS-62 Brown. Frosty light greenish olive brown with small, subtle splashes of reddish chocolate toning in the field off the chin and traces of lighter brown and tan in protected areas of the reverse. Although these normally come on copper planchets, this example looks more like brass. A tiny spot of darker olive toning over the 9 in the date is the best identifying mark. The 7 and 9 in the date are clearly repunched and the entire piece is sharply struck. Our grade is MS60. The Edwards copies or "counterfeits" were made by Dr. Frank Smith Edwards of New York sometime prior to his death in 1865. The dies were handmade and the workmanship is of good quality. The resulting design is a fairly accurate representation of the genuine article, but it is far from perfect. The planchets used for these copies were cut from rolled copper and are a bit thinner than the genuine version. (See the preceding lot for a discussion of the "mintage" and resulting rarity of these pieces.) This cataloger has seen 8 of the known examples, and several of the planchets are slightly out-of-round, including the example offered here. But this is the only one that appears to be struck in brass (or at least on a brassy-looking planchet). A nice example of this extremely rare and famous copy. Weight 89.5 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest in BN at PCGS. (PCGS # 397325) .
Estimated Value $7,500-UP.
Ex H. O. Granberg 11/7/1907 ($100)-Chicago Coin Company (via Theophile E. "Ted" Leon)-unknown-Bowers & Merena 3/1998:78-unknown-Heritage Numismatic Auctions 1/13/2005:6959-James R. McGuigan-Ray Rouse, McCawley & Grellman Auctions/Ira & Larry Goldberg Coins & Collectibles, Inc., 9/14/2008:33-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 96.3.7).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$13,225 |
Lot 41 |
 |
1797 C-1 1 above 1 R2. PCGS graded MS-66 Brown. CAC Approved. Struck over a Talbot Allum & Lee (TAL) Cent. Highly lustrous steel brown with bluish steel overtones. The surfaces are satiny and very attractive, essentially as they left the mint. The only defects are some of the usual microscopic pre-striking planchet chips in the fields, especially on the obverse, and a spot of darker steel toning over the right stem. Struck over a TAL cent with obvious undertype visible on the obverse at the dentils from K-6 to K-9 and stronger undertype on the reverse, especially right of the fraction and above STATES. EDS, Manley state 1.0, without any cracks or swelling. A choice example with outstanding eye appeal. Our grade is MS63+. Possibly the finest known of this variety. Weight 94.6 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the only MS graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35101) .
Estimated Value $70,000-UP.
Ex Emil Cauffman, Edward D. Cogan 5/4/1871:878 (plated) ($9.00)-unknown-Virgil M. Brand (his inventory #46562) 6/20/1925-Brand Estate-Armin William Brand (consigned to Burdette G. Johnson 8/27/1935), sold to St. Louis Stamp and Coin Company (Burdette G. Johnson) for stock on 10/30/1935 for $50.00-sold by St. Louis Stamp and Coin Company 4/17/1944 for $80.00-Celina Coin Co. (T. C. Brandts)-unknown-Rodney T. Grove, Superior Galleries 6/1/1981:4 ($12,500)-Ronald J. Guth October 1982 (privately)-Garry F. Fitzgerald-Mid American Rare Coin Auctions, Inc., 1/8/1987:57 (via Julian M. Leidman)-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 97.1.9).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$299,000 |
Lot 42 |
 |
1797 C-1 1 above 1 R2. PCGS graded MS-62 Brown. A frosty mint state half cent that has light smoothing on the rim at K-2 to K-3 and K-7 to K-9 on the obverse plus stronger smoothing on the rim above STATE on the reverse. The reason for the smoothing is unknown, but there is a possibility there was a planchet flaw that someone decided needed "improving." The only other mark is a scuff in the dentils at CA in AMERICA. Very attractive frosty steel brown and light chocolate with traces of very faded mint red remaining in protected areas on both sides. LDS, Manley state 5.0, with numerous die cracks and swelling in the fields. ICA in AMERICA is obliterated by the heavy swelling. The fields at ICA and the opposing area at TY are covered with tiny pre-striking planchet chips, as usual for the late die state. The high grade allows you to see the myriad of fine die cracks that cover the obverse. It's a wonder that the die was able to hold together at this point. Our grade is MS sharpness net EF45. Weight 76.4 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; 1 finer in 66BN (the preceding lot). (PCGS # 35101) .
Estimated Value $7,500-UP.
Ex Lloyd Whiteneck 5/10/1973-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 97.1.3).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$18,975 |
Lot 43 |
 |
1797 C-2 R3. PCGS graded MS-66 Brown. CAC Approved. Highly lustrous bluish steel brown with faint hints of underlying faded mint red. The only defects are a small carbon spot in the field left of the L in LIBERTY and another between the E & N in CENT. Otherwise this piece is an absolute gem. Outstanding eye appeal, possibly the finest known of the variety and one of the most beautiful early half cents we have ever seen. Listed first in the Breen/Hanson condition census in Breen's half cent encyclopedia, page 180. Struck on a flawless planchet that must have been cut from rolled planchet stock rather than from a TAL cent or spoiled large cent. The reverse is rotated 10 degrees CCW. Our grade is MS63. Weight 95.8 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded for the variety. (PCGS # 35104) .
Estimated Value $50,000-UP.
Ex (probably) Dr. Lewis Roper (M. Thomas & Sons 2/20/1851)-Joseph J. Mickley (sold privately as a part of his entire collection) 4/30/1867-William Elliot Woodward, Woodward sale of the Joseph J. Mickley Collection 10/28/1867:2084 ($2.75)-James B. Clemens (privately)-Thomas Cleneay 10/21/1887-Cleneay Estate, S. H. & H. Chapman 12/9/1890:1944 (Plate X) ($40)-John G. Mills, S. H. & H. Chapman 4/29/1904:1410 (Plate XIV) ($66)-Joseph F. Negreen-unknown-George E. Chatillon, B. Max Mehl 11/15/1938:1640 ($55.00)-Samuel Rapoport 1950-Rapoport Estate-B. Max Mehl (privately) 11/1/1950-Harold S. Bareford 4/10/1978-William J. Bareford (son) 6/8/1984 (via Julius "Jules" Reiver)-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 97.2.11).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$402,500 |
Lot 44 |
 |
1797 C-3a Low Head with Plain Edge R3. PCGS graded MS-63 Brown. CAC Approved. Very choice glossy medium brown and light chocolate. Virtually flawless with outstanding eye appeal. The only marks are microscopic and include a small nick near the dentils left of the bottom of the cap and a very faint hairline scratch down from the left stem end. M-LDS, Manley state 2.0 late. The die crack from the chin reaches the rim at right and, because this piece is so sharp, we can also see that the crack arcs up across the cheek into the hair well above the ear. The reverse is not rotated. Our grade is AU50. Finest known of the Low Head type with Plain Edge. Plated in the Breen book to illustrate the variety (the large photos on page 192), and listed in his census on page 193. Weight 94.7 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; the finest graded. (PCGS # 35110) .
Estimated Value $30,000-UP.
Ex Philip M. Showers, Stack's 1969 (privately)-Willis Harrington duPont-Fred S. "Freddy" Werner 2/1976-Superior Stamp and Coin Company, Inc., 2/1976-Joe Flynn and Son Rare Coins, Inc. (Joseph S. Flynn, Jr.) 4/20/1976-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 97.3a.3).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$172,500 |
Lot 45 |
 |
1797 C-3a Low Head with Plain Edge R3. PCGS graded AU-53 Brown. Struck over a Spoiled 1798 S-164 Large Cent. Very attractive glossy bluish steel brown. The surfaces are choice, the only defects being a tiny chip under the E in LIBERTY and a thin nick right of the cap. Struck over an off-center 1798 S-164 large cent. The large cent date is bold and covers the lower portion of the half cent portrait. The lower part of the cent reverse covers much of the right side of the half cent reverse. The cent undertype is very strong and was not affected much by the half cent strike. Breen speculates this was because the cut-down planchet was not annealed prior to striking the half cent. The areas showing the cent impression were stress-hardened and therefore less receptive to the half cent strike. In any event, the end result is a fantastic mint error. EDS, Manley state 1.0. Our grade is EF40. High condition census for both the half cent and the undertype S-164 large cent (although the partial large cent doesn't really count for condition census purposes). Plated on page 482 in the error section of the Breen encyclopedia, described and listed in his census on page 193 of that same reference, and the obverse is plated on page 29 in the second edition of the Cohen book. Weight 97.2 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; 1 finer at PCGS (the preceding lot). (PCGS # 35110) .
Estimated Value $25,000-UP.
Ex Frank D. Taylor-Henry Chapman 6/1908:218 ($2.80)- Virgil M. Brand 6/20/1925-Brand Estate-Armin William Brand (consigned to Burdette G. Johnson 8/27/1935, not sold) 4/21/1946-Horace Brand Estate-Jane Brand Allen-integrated into Stack's Anderson Dupont (duPont) Sale, Part II, 11/11/1954:1055 ($140)-Philip M. Showers, Stack's 1969 (privately)-Willis Harrington duPont-Fred S. "Freddy" Werner 2/1976-Superior Stamp and Coin Company, Inc., 2/1976-Joe Flynn and Son Rare Coins, Inc. (Joseph S. Flynn, Jr.) 4/20/1976-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 97.3a.2).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$89,125 |
Lot 46 |
 |
1797 C-3b Low Head with Lettered Edge R4. PCGS graded EF-45 Brown. CAC Approved. Struck over a Spoiled Large Cent. Slightly sharper with a barely detectable rim bruise at RI in AMERICA and a tiny chip on the bust over the second 7. Lightly cleaned, now retoned glossy bluish steel and chocolate with very faded reddish steel brown and tan in protected areas. Struck over a spoiled large cent with CA from AMERICA and portions of the cent wreath visible in the field before the mouth and face. Additional traces of undertype from the cent reverse can be found elsewhere on the obverse of the half cent, but not enough to determine the date or die variety of the cent. EDS, Manley state 1.0, showing no sign of a die crack from the chin, although you can detect a subtle wave in the field where the crack soon forms. Both sides are slightly off center to K-10.5. Our grade is VF35. One of the finest known of the Lettered Edge variety. Listed in the Breen census on page 189 of his encyclopedia. Weight 85.7 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; finest of 2 graded (PCGS # 35113) .
Estimated Value $60,000-UP.
Ex Thomas L. Elder 11/23/1935:786 ($35.00)-Willard C. Blaisdell-Mulford B. Simons, Jr. (DBA Penn Valley Coin Shoppe), offered in Coin World 10/10/1973 at $3,500-R. Tettenhorst-EPNNES-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 97.3b.3).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$80,500 |
Lot 47 |
 |
1797 C-3c Low Head with Gripped Edge R7 PCGS "Genuine" Fine Details, Damage or Tooling. Struck over a Spoiled Large Cent. Sharpness near Fine-12 but there are some small digs at IB in LIBERTY and around T in CENT, plus a shallow rim nick at D-S. Somewhat glossy dark olive brown and steel with uniform microscopic roughness under the natural toning. Struck over a spoiled large cent with an arc of dentils down from the L in LIBERTY into the hair below the cap. Several leaves are visible in the field at the top of the cap, and portions of the cent wreath show on the bust and lower portion of the neck. Our grade is VG10 sharpness net VG8. Arguably the finest known of the extremely rare Gripped Edge version by a very small margin (or at least tied for that honor). Listed first in the Breen/Hanson condition census in Breen's encyclopedia. And the grip marks on the edge are stronger and more clearly defined on this example, which is a big plus. The finest example graded by PCGS is VG8 and the next best graded by PCGS is G6. The G6 coin was also part of the Missouri Cabinet. Although it had better color and surfaces than the piece offered here, it also had less detail and weaker grip marks, so it was "deaccessioned" in favor of this sharper example. The PCGS graded G6 was sold in our Davy II sale, 9/4/2011:183, where it realized $195,500 in very spirited bidding. Although there are two examples of the Gripped Edge 1797 half cent in this sale, it is still the key to completing a "Redbook" set of half cents. MDS, Manley state 2.0. The die crack from the chin is clear. Struck slightly off center to K-5.5. Plated on page 190 in the Breen encyclopedia to illustrate the variety (large photos) and again to show his die state III. Weight 85.4 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label (PCGS # 35116) .
Estimated Value $80,000-UP.
Ex Jon G. Hanson, who discovered it unattributed at a White Plains, New York, coin show in early 1967-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 97.3c.2).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$103,500 |
Lot 48 |
 |
1797 C-3c R7- Low Head with Gripped Edge. PCGS graded About Good-3. The obverse is G5 while the reverse is only Fair-2 at best. Lightly cleaned, now recolored a glossy light bluish steel brown. The only notable mark is a light scratch from the I in UNITED to the T in CENT. The date is strong. The grip marks are not strong and many of them are missing, but enough are visible to make the attribution possible and the ones that remain line up with clearer ones on higher grade examples. The attribution was confirmed by Roger Cohen, and this example is listed by Breen in his 1983 encyclopedia (page 191) as one of only seven confirmed by him (with three additional pieces claimed but unverified at that time). A couple more have been found since then, but all are in very low grade. MDS, Manley state 2.0. Our grade is AG3. Weight 82.2 grains. The attribution and Missouri Cabinet provenance are shown on the PCGS label. PCGS population 1; 2 finer, including a VG8 and a G6 (which was a selection from the Missouri Cabinet sold in our Davy II sale, 9/4/2011:183 where it realized $195,500.00) (PCGS # 35116) .
Estimated Value $20,000-UP.
Ex Purchased unattributed by Richard S. Shimkus-Don Valenziano, Jr.-Early American Coppers Sale 5/11/1986:62-Jack H. Robinson, Superior Galleries 1/29/1989:1891-R. Tettenhorst-Missouri Cabinet (Mocab 97.3c.4).
View details and enlarged photos
Check results on similar lots
| Realized
$55,200 |
|
|