Lot 1810
1881 Hawaiian Pattern Five Cents. PCGS graded MS-66 CAC Approved. In a new secure plus holder. Pop 2; none finer at PCGS. Lovely light even toning. Tied for the finest known. A very scarce issue of which only 200 pieces were struck. This is the desirable original specimen struck by a New Caledonia nickel miner in 1881. It is tied for Finest Certified and is not one of the later strikes from different dies made, some believe, in the early years of the 20th century. The coin offered exhibits a cross on top of the crown on the reverse, which is diagnostic. Smooth rolling-fresh finish, fresh as when first issued barring, of course, some natural light patina from one hundred thirty-one years storage! Difficult to find in any grade now, but especially elusive in Gem condition. So much for the luster which is a key determinant of grade. It appears to us that all minute detail is fully evident on this bold specimen, another item that has long played a major role in a coin’s desirability. This MS66 is for the specialist in the series; it’s rarity and high quality preclude all but the most well-heeled numismatist from bidding, sadly. Had you been collecting coins in the 1940s or 1950s, Hawaiian Five Cent pieces, while not cheap, would have been more affordable when there were far fewer collectors and astute rare coin investors around (PCGS # 10975) .
Estimated Value $30,000 - 35,000.
The Forsythe Collection.
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| Realized $39,100 |
