Lot 241
1796 Draped Bust Dime. PCGS graded MS-66. A remarkable example of the date and certainly one of the finest known of the variety. Glittering Prooflike surfaces, with a reverse that would have been called Proof under the relaxed standards of years ago. Strong, even strike, nearly complete in every detail. Identical quality to the NGC MS-66 we sold in our Fairchild Family Trust collection (Lot 488) in May 2001. As a die variety, this is more desirable than the usually seen JR-1 or JR-6 coins, as far fewer are found of this die pairing. Special care was taken in 1796 to produce really exceptional coins, as this was the first year of issue of this denomination. The design was supposedly inspired by the famed portraitist Gilbert Stuart, who employed an uncredited model (past references to Ann Willing, said at the time to be the most beautiful women in Philadelphia, have been discredited). On the reverse, the rendition of the "small eagle" design was also well received, with the proud outstretched wings and delicate wreath surrounding. A superb example of an important type coin. The recent PCGS Population Report shows 5 graded this high, with just 1 graded higher.
In June 2003, Michael S. Fey reported the discovery of examples of 1796 JR-3 and JR-4 with widely repunched 6's in the date. Because of it's high grade, this example shows this feature clearly. Actually, the entire date was repunched (as were most of the stars on the left), but the 6 was punched into the die three times: first, too low, then higher, then again slightly to the left! (PCGS # 4461) .
Estimated Value $45,000 - 55,000.
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| Realized $120,750 |
