Lot 2002
1876. PCGS graded Proof 53. This popular Key Date exhibits lovely golden-orange toning on both sides. Only 45 coins struck for this proof-only year. The 1876 shares the stage with and carries a close relationship to the Proof-only 1875, more so than with any other date in the series. Both are made only in Proof and were sold to collectors. In the instance of the 1876, the Mint Report suggests a production of 45 pieces, to which can be added some unrecorded further specimens, giving an estimated population of 65 to 75 made. From this number, perhaps 45 to 60 are believed to exist today. After the 1875, the 1876 is the second rarest Philadelphia date in the $3 series, with no close competitors. Year in and year out the appearance of an example at auction has drawn attention.
The presently offered piece, graded Proof-53, will likely be more affordable than most, attracting a wider audience of people who have been waiting for such a chance. The obverse is well struck except for the highest hair details which show mainly signs of wear from circulation. The surfaces are a rich golden orange with light marks and circulation hairlines. The Proof surface still has evidence of contact where the friction doesn’t reach as in the letters and as the grade indicates. The reverse is very sharp, delineating even the most subtle details, and is of a similar hue with deeper orange-gold competing with the natural color of the planchet. No doubt if it were graded separately it might be designated two points higher. Pop 1; 33 finer (PCGS # 8040) .
Estimated Value $15,000 - 16,000.
|
| |
| Realized $21,275 |
