Lot 1749
1887. NGC graded Mint Error Proof 64 Ultra Cameo PQ. CAC Approved. Triple struck. Rotated reverse 180 degrees. A subtle hint of gold toning. Only 160 minted. A marvelous piece that would be an impressive addition to any serious collection.
This superb coin, marvelous to contemplate, is from the Bass Collection, May 2000, Lot 287, there described as:
"Arguably the most interesting coin in the present catalogue! Choice cameo Proof with greenish gold fields and frosty yellow gold devices. A few minor abrasions are noted.
"Completely triple struck with the reverse die inverted between impressions. The obverse doubling is offset about one millimeter while the reverse is perfectly inverted. A third strike is also visible. Three varieties of 1887 Proof $3 exist, based on die alignment. A few Proofs are known with medallic alignment, many more with normal coin alignment, and two or three (including the coin offered here) struck once with medallic alignment and then with coin alignment, the reverse die (or the obverse die as the results would be the same) being rotated 160° between strikings (should be 180°, and sometimes noted as such in the literature, but the die alignment is the same as the preceding lot and is slightly off register from 180°). The first catalogue appearance of this variety of which we are aware was in Lester Merkin's November 1965 sale."
It is with great pleasure that we offer this piece for competition now, several years later. Perhaps it will disappear for a generation to come, but who knows? The opportunity is what counts, and the coin is available for your consideration (PCGS # 8051) .
Estimated Value $12,000 - 14,000.
From Stack's sale of the Ullmer Collection, May 1974, Lot 431; Bowers's sale of the Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection, May 2000, Lot 287.
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| Realized $30,550 |
