Goldberg Coins and Collectibles

Sale 84

January 25-28, 2015 Pre Long Beach

Seated Liberty Dollars

Lot	Photo	Description	Realized
Lot 1531		1840. PCGS graded Proof 65. According to the Bowers' Silver Dollar Encyclopedia, it was originally thought that perhaps the odd mintage figure of 61,005 represents 61,000 business strikes plus five proof or presentation coins. This has now been disproved as more than five proofs were eventually struck. The actual number was not recorded (nor were proof mintages for most other dates of the next two decades), but it is thought that 20 to 30 proofs were struck based upon Census figures and existing auction records. Slightly more 1840s were struck than in 1841s or 1842s, both of which are rarer today. This fully defined Gem proof shows light contrast with frosty and fully lustrous devices on both sides. Variegated shades including green, gold, violet, and blue are seen overall and the underlying fields are deeply mirrored. Close examination with a magnifier reveals bold doubling of the impression, with considerable evidence that the coin was actually struck three times. Razor-sharp details show throughout including Liberty and her shield, as well as a high sharp wire edge. This coin was chosen by PCGS to illustrate the 1840 proof Seated dollar and this is the single finest example thus far graded by that service. Pop 1; none finer at PCGS. Tied for the finest graded at both services. (PCGS # 6981) . Estimated Value $90,000 - 100,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1532		1840. PCGS graded Proof 63. Lovely sunset-golden toning overlays each side in a slightly irregular fashion. A rarity from the premier year of the series, though a few more examples may have been struck in the proof format owing to the date's status as first-ever of the design type, especially when compared to other dates of the era. Collectors and Mint officials may have placed a great deal of significance on this initial issue. Information at the PCGS Population Report website estimates that 15 to 20 examples are known in Proof, but curiously, the combined total for NGC and PCGS-certified proof examples in Proof 60 or finer is 43 pieces. We suspect numerous examples have been resubmitted to these two grading services for possible upgrades, for in our experience, the date is far more rare than the combined total suggests. A pleasing example overall, one that should be seen to be appreciated. Pop 9; 3 finer, 2 in 64, 1 in 65 (PCGS # 6981) . Estimated Value $20,000 - 22,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1533		1842. NGC graded AU-53. Blended shades of dove-gray and lilac toning blanket the lightly abraded surfaces of this AU specimen. The well-detailed design elements show a light amount of wear on each side. Estimated Value $750 - 800. View details and enlarged photos	Unsold
Lot 1534		1845. NGC graded EF-45. Mostly untoned. Estimated Value $750 - 800. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $999
Lot 1535		1846-O. PCGS graded AU-53. An untoned appearance overall greets the viewer of this lightly circulated example. Most design features are bold, with a touch of softness noted at Liberty's head and several of the obverse stars. Notable as the first silver dollar issue struck at the New Orleans Mint. Only 59,000 pieces were struck. Pop 20; 62 finer. (PCGS # 6933) . Estimated Value $1,200 - 1,300. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $1,175
Lot 1536		1853. PCGS graded MS-64 PQ. CAC Approved. A Choice example with satiny surfaces and thick luster. A light amount of antique-golden patina is noted over each side. Liberty and the eagle have managed to survive in a near-unmarked condition with just a few microscopic abrasions on her figure. A single lateral milling mark is in the field between stars 3 and 4, the only characteristic keeping this beauty from Gem status. Popular as a type coin due to the ability to locate Mint State examples but we note there are not enough fresh and appealing specimens, such as this piece, out there to satisfy demand. Only 46,110 examples were minted. Pop 16; 4 finer (PCGS # 6941) . Estimated Value $18,000 - 20,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1537		1855. PCGS graded Proof 64. A highly elusive issue in the early proof Seated dollar series, the 1855 was produced before the Mint began to record yearly mintage figures for specimen coinage. It is believed that about 60 pieces were coined when U.S. proof coins (of all denominations) were struck in very limited numbers for distribution to a handful of collectors with close ties to Mint personnel. Of these, most are believed to survive (40 to 60 examples, per the PCGS website), but the issue is still among the most elusive proof issues in the Seated dollar series. Due to the rarity of high-grade business strikes of this date (heavily exported for trade purposes and presumably later melted), surviving proof examples, such as this piece, are in high demand among date collectors. Both sides of this example are decorated in remarkable turquoise-blue iridescence with violet and champagne accents as the coin turns under a light. Underlying mint brilliance is easy seen as the surfaces are rotated, and all angles readily reveal pinpoint striking detail to the devices. Free of individually conspicuous contact marks, as well, with an overall smooth appearance that readily upholds the near-Gem grade! Pop 8; 3 finer, 2 in 65, 1 in 66. (PCGS # 6998) . Estimated Value $20,000 - 22,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1538		1859-O. PCGS graded MS-61. Bright and essentially untoned with just a hint of patina at the outermost areas. This one exhibits a better than average strike and just a few minor nicks and grazes on each side (PCGS # 6947) . Estimated Value $1,800 - 1,900. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1539		1860. PCGS graded Proof 66. Well struck with outstanding eye-appeal thoughout. A marvelous pre-civil war proof dollar that should stir considerable bidder attention. Natural blue and golden toning on both sides. Only 1,330 struck. Pop 9; none finer at PCGS. (PCGS # 7003) . Estimated Value $20,000 - 25,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1540		1860-O. PCGS graded MS-62 PQ. CAC Approved. Nicely reflective surfaces are covered with attractive blue-green toning in a somewhat mottled fashion. The center of the reverse is nearly brilliant. Fairly well defined with a number of typical abrasions overall (PCGS # 6950) . Estimated Value $2,500 - 2,600. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $2,291
Lot 1541		1863. PCGS graded Proof 65. A lovely example with original toning that is generally seen only on coins that were stored as complete sets for many decades, if not a century, past their original sale. Mottled cobalt-blue and peach-gold toning lightly blankets the obverse, while the reverse exhibits brilliant turquoise-blue and gray color in a somewhat irregular fashion that is deeper on the right side. Satiny devices and nicely reflective fields shine on both sides. There were 460 proof examples struck for collectors this year and survivors are not unusual in lower grades. Gems, however, are very scarce and rarely seen with beautiful original toning as found here. Pop 6; 9 finer, 8 in 66, 1 in 66+. (PCGS # 7006) . Estimated Value $12,000 - 13,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1542		1864 PCGS graded PR Genuine Unc Details. This proof striking is somewhat subdued from an obvious cleaning. The fields are non-reflective, but all details remain fully defined, and the wire edge is still intact. A scant 470 proofs were issued (PCGS # 7007) . Estimated Value $500 - 600. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $1,410
Lot 1543		1865. PCGS graded Proof 65 PQ. CAC Approved. Despite a low mintage of just 500 proofs, nice examples of the date are occasionally available and this one ranks high above others in the Gem category. Beautiful, wide rims and a strong strike complete the powerful impression made on this coin. Rich and colorful toning decorates the highly-reflective, mirror fields of this Gem proof No Motto silver dollar. Target-like hues of crimson, reddish-gold, sea-blue, and green circle the obverse border with gunmetal-blue at the center. One spot in the color is mentioned at 9 o'clock between stars 2 and 3. The reverse displays turquoise-blue at the rim with somewhat streaky lilac-gray at the center. A fully original Gem worthy of a strong bid. Pop 28; 6 finer, 5 in 66, 1 in 67 (PCGS # 7008) . Estimated Value $10,000 - 11,000. Ex: The Agora Collection. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $12,925
Lot 1544		1865. NGC graded Proof 64 Cameo. A mostly white and stunning example of this scarce proof issue of which only 500 pieces were minted. 1865 marks the final year of the No Motto type, and a Civil War Era piece in addition. The fields are fully reflective and have a "black-ice" look against the satiny obverse portrait. Every detail is razor sharp and immaculate. Just a hint of natural patina is beginning to accumulate at the border regions. This is an exemplary specimen for the advanced collector. Pop 20; 8 finer (PCGS # 87008) . Estimated Value $5,000 - 5,500. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $5,405
Lot 1545		1866. With Motto. NGC graded Proof 65 Cameo. CAC Approved. The newly issued 1866 Seated dollar was apparently saved in larger numbers because of the novelty of the added motto to the reverse. It was fortunate that those additional coins were saved for collectors as many collect first-year dates for their type collections. This is a brilliant, sparkling proof that has deeply mirrored fields and barely frosted devices, but not quite enough contrast for a Cameo rating. Aside from a few stray hairlines, the surfaces are exceptional. One of only 725 pieces struck. Pop 9; 10 finer (PCGS # 87014) . Estimated Value $13,000 - 14,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1546		1866. With Motto. PCGS graded Proof 64 Cameo. Always of interest to collectors of 19th century proof type, only 725 proof Seated dollars were struck in 1866. Presently, this is nowhere near enough for the many collectors who wish to own one. This piece is deeply reflective in the fields, a trait that is apparent even through the lovely brick-red and deep blue peripheral toning. The devices are frosted and nicely contrasted against the highly reflective fields indicating an early strike from newly prepared dies. A beautiful, near-Gem proof example. Pop 16; 17 finer (PCGS # 87014) . Estimated Value $7,000 - 7,500. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $8,813
Lot 1547		1866. With Motto. PCGS graded AU-53. This attractive AU example retains some of its original mint luster and only a light amount of wear shows on the well-detailed design elements. A few scattered minor abrasions in the fields do little to detract from the overall presentation. Pop 15; 92 finer at PCGS. (PCGS # 6959) . Estimated Value $900 - 950. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $1,028
Lot 1548		1868. PCGS graded Proof 66 Cameo. This is one of only 600 proof 1868 Liberty Seated dollars struck for collectors of the time. This With Motto Seated dollar exhibits a brilliant, snow-white finish, with only the slightest hint of natural patina when examined under a light source. The strike is absolutely full, down to the each knuckle on the eagle's talons and every strand of hair on Liberty's head. No contact marks or hairlines are evident even with the brilliant, highly reflective surfaces. A nicely frosted appearance is reported on the obverse and reverse devices resulting in the coveted Cameo designation by PCGS. Pop 2; none finer at PCGS. (PCGS # 87016) . Estimated Value $30,000 - 35,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1549		1868. PCGS graded Proof 64 Cameo. In 1868, only 600 proofs were produced for collectors in this third year of With Motto Seated dollar production. The fields are deeply mirrored, and there is light mint frost on the devices -- just enough contrast to justify a Cameo designation. Some mottled, pale lilac-gray patina has gathered over the years. One tiny mark at 9 o'clock on the obverse rim is mentioned for accuracy. Pop 22; 9 finer, 7 in 65, 2 in 66. (PCGS # 87016) . Estimated Value $5,000 - 5,500. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1550		1869. NGC graded MS-64. Despite the large mintage of 423,700 pieces, the 1869 Seated Liberty dollar is seldom encountered in Mint State grades. Apparently most of the was exported to the Orient. This example exhibits attractive reddish-golden and russet toning over each side with accents of deep blue at the margins. A certain reflective character is also seen in the fields. The strike is sharp throughout, with no obvious or overly distracting marks on either side. Pop 10; 3 finer in 65. Estimated Value $8,500 - 9,000. View details and enlarged photos	Unsold
Lot 1551		1869. NGC graded Proof 64. The Proof 1869 Seated Dollar was struck to the extent of 600 specimens, a mintage figure similar to that of the other proof With Motto Seated dollars from the 1860s. Although also popular with type collectors, this issue enjoys its greatest demand from Seated dollar date collectors who understand the rarity and the conditionally challenging nature of the 1869 business strike. Splashes of golden-tan and sky-blue toning grace the proof surfaces in a somewhat streaky, attractive fashion. A sharply executed strike highlights the design elements, which yield mild contrast with the mirrored fields, but not enough for a Cameo designation. A few wispy hairlines keep this specimen from full Gem status. Pop 51; 33 finer (PCGS # 7017) . Estimated Value $5,000 - 5,500. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1552		1870. PCGS graded MS-63. Both sides are bight and snow-white overall. The devices are reasonably sharp and well preserved, with minimal handling evidence. A fresh appearing, crisp specimen. Pop 24; 21 finer (PCGS # 6963) . Estimated Value $4,000 - 4,400. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1553		1870-CC. PCGS graded AU-58. An original and barely toned example of the first year of issue of Seated dollars from the Carson City Mint. The Carson City Mint produced Seated dollars from 1870 to 1873 and only 12,642 pieces were struck in 1870. In all, 19,288 Seated dollars were produced at Carson City during this time, and the 1870-CC represents 65% of that mintage figure. Not surprisingly, the 1870-CC is the most available issue, a fact that some do not appreciate due to the publicity and romanticism associated with 1870-CC coins from other denominations (half eagle, eagle and double eagle). While the 1870-CC might be the most common issue, all Carson City Seated dollars are quite scarce to very rare. Demand is always strong due to the short production period and the fact that almost all coins produced went straight into circulation, many being subsequently lost, cleaned, or damaged in some way. The present example has fantastic eye appeal with fields that impart a certain reflective quality. Liberty is frosty and void of any major marks. Satiny luster still exists within the stars and extends into the fields. Very minor strike weakness is noted on several of the stars, however, this is typical of the issue. The reverse is similar in appearance, but a small group of marks is noticed between the eagle's beak and the ribbon above. Overall, a very pleasing coin and one that makes a perfect type example for a Carson City Seated dollar. Pop 16; 15 finer (PCGS # 6964) . Estimated Value $15,000 - 16,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 1554		1871. PCGS graded MS-60. Mostly brilliant with a splash of gold near the top of the obverse. Well defined throughout, a few small marks are noted that might affect a finer grade rating. Housed in an Old Green Holder (PCGS # 6966) . Estimated Value $1,600 - 1,700. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $1,880
Lot 1555		1873-CC. PCGS graded EF-45. The 1873-CC Seated dollar is the rarest issue from the Carson City Mint and some authorities have speculated that aside from the 1870-S, this issue is the rarest Liberty Seated dollar. This issue was struck just prior to issuance of the Trade dollar and it is unclear whether the entire mintage of 2,300 was distributed or if some were melted. The cataloger of the Eliasberg Sale stated that "In view of the rarity of the 1873-CC today, it seems reasonable to suggest a net distribution of only 1,000 for these coins". Whatever the case may be, the 1873-CC is a serious rarity to be reckoned with and any collector will need a lot of patience, dedication and a little luck in finding a pleasing example. If you are looking, your hunt will end here. Light, natural patina enhances the unabraded surfaces of this classic Carson City Seated dollar rarity. While some light wear can be observed on the breasts, arm, legs and head, the quality of this fantastic rarity seems to be somewhat above Choice XF in our minds. For an issue with a low mintage of only 2,300 pieces, and immediate circulation of that entire mintage, we note that this piece is surprisingly free of hard abrasions and scratches. Faint luster is still present, mostly on the reverse when the coin is tilted under a light. The eagle was spared any hits and still retains some frost in recessed areas. A significant opportunity for an advanced collector to acquire both the rarest and most famous Carson City-minted Seated dollar. Pop 10; 20 finer (PCGS # 6972) . Estimated Value $30,000 - 35,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold