Lot 1868
1921 Morgan Dollar. Zerbe. NGC graded Proof 66. A gleaming white coin. The paucity of high grade Proof Zerbe strikes has always put significant pressure on the tiny population of Gems such as this lovely Proof 66. Without question among the top pieces known for this date. Fully Gem coins are very rare (see the appended NGC census). Most are hairlined, come cleaned, others suffer contact marks or other minor problems. The present specimen is an exception. And exceptional in all ways. Because of the extreme rarity of the Zerbe 1921 Dollars many Silver Dollar collections come away lacking this issue and are therefore incomplete. Consequently, the 1921 Zerbe Proof has always commanded a premium over most other Proof Morgans."
The coin is virtually perfect from a technical point of view. Both sides exhibit brilliant, nicely reflective, with delicate satin-frosty devices. The element of contrast is noticeable, though not as strong on this as, say, the deep cameos of the 1890s. While NGC has graded eight examples in PR66, it is difficult to believe any specimen can match the present coin's extraordinary quality. By far, the most impressive 1921 Zerbe Proof Morgan Dollar that this firm has ever handled. Pop 8; 1 finer in 67 (PCGS # 7341) .
Who was Farran Zerbe? Think of him as the Q. David Bowers of his day. For instance, on June 16, 1908, Dr. George F. Heath, founder of the American Numismatic Association suddenly died. Farran Zerbe, then president, assumed the task of editing and publishing The Numismatist, and soon purchased the publication from Heath's heirs. In 1911, through the generosity of W.C.C. Wilson of Montreal, Canada, THE NUMISMATIST was purchased from Zerbe and presented to the ANA and since that period, the magazine has been owned and published monthly by the ANA.
In 1915, Zerbe oversaw the Panama-Pacific Exposition's official Coin and Medal department and was instrumental in the production of and distribution of the $50 gold pieces struck for the event. Zerbe also supervised the creation of a series of commemorative medals, an award medal, a souvenir medal, and diplomas. Six years later he became the lead promoter of the Peace Silver Dollar, introduced to the public in 1921.
Estimated Value $10,000 - 11,000.
The Estate of Winthrop A. Haviland, Jr.
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| Realized $14,375 |
