Lot 1691
1852-O. NGC graded AU-53. Untoned. Very scarce in full Mint State. A desirable O-mint Double Eagle, a coin with original (if lightly worn) surfaces and a strike that is close to complete. Inspection reveals that the present specimen spent a few years of its life in circulation where the fields became abraded. There is a diagonal mark in line with Liberty's chin to throat; the rims are choice, with both sides avoiding bruises and nicks that are found on many from the Type 1 period (1850-66).
Today, in 2011, a lot of discussion is given to women's issues in public discussion. But 160 years ago, something similar happened which sounds almost quaint by comparison. On December 29, 1852, one Emma Snodgrass, referred to by East Coast newspapers as "the girl who has recently been visiting parts of New England in pants" was "again" arrested in Boston on a charge of vagrancy. Since Emma was regularly employed as a clerk, and paid her bills, the vagrancy charge didn't hold. She was released after the judge had given her some "wholesome advice about her eccentricities," to which she "responded with becoming grace and promised reformation." The next day, however, Emma was back on the street in her "male attire." (Imagine how that prim and proper judge would puff out his cheeks and bluster at some of the interesting people coming before his bench today!) (PCGS # 8907) .
Estimated Value $6,000 - 7,000.
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| Realized $6,440 |
