Lot 3306
1839 Pattern Dollar. Silver, reeded edge. PCGS graded Proof 61 Rarity-3. Nice fully brilliant example with a touch of gold toning on the obverse. Both sides display the typical "look" for this rare 1836 delivery: smoothly mirrorlike Proof surfaces, rolling sparkle effects from light striking it at different angles when the viewer revolves it on its horizontal and vertical axes -- and best of all, boldly struck devices. In fact, the strike is strong, with clear definition to the high points such as the hair waves and shoulder clasp, the shield lines and drapery folds, and, on the reverse, the starry field along with the eagle's pleasurable display of feathery plumage. The toning hits us right as well, thereby increasing the beauty immensely. The one should fetch a very high bid for its perfect combination of nice quality and aesthetic appeal. Pop 5; 31 finer; 5 in 62; 17 in 63; 8 in 64; 1 in 65. (PCGS # 11446) .
A colorful character: in 1839, the year this Gobrecht dollar was minted, the first woman horse thief in America published her confessions. Josephine Amelia Perkins, born and raised in England, stole her first horse from her own father for her elopement. Eventually she came to America completely broke, and continued her career of horse-stealing. She herself admitted to being "4 times detected, twice pardoned on account of my sex, once for reasons of supposed insanity, and the 4th and last time, convicted and sentenced to 2 years imprisonment in Madison County jail, Kentucky." (The report doesn't state whether or not she ever ran for Congress.).
Estimated Value $22,000 - 25,000.
|
| |
| Realized $26,450 |
