Lot 1146
1795 Draped Bust Dollar. Off-center bust. PCGS graded AU-58. One of the highlights of the Benson collection, this early dollar embodies the gorgeous toning and general high quality seen on so many of Dr. Benson's coins. The strike is average for variety, with some weakness on the breast of the eagle and mid curls on Liberty. Both sides show deep steel gray at the rims with lighter gray in the fields all with fiery hints of gold and russet luster combine to give this museum quality piece a regal air. The surfaces show minor handling marks from over two centuries of age. We note trivial adjustment marks on the eagle's breast, and this coin can be identified by an "S" shaped lint mark left of the first A in AMERICA.
Over the years we've noticed that a coin which grades About Uncirculated can mean many things. Most show minimal wear, and were obviously circulated for some time. Others, as seen here, probably never circulated, and the surfaces show just trace handling marks. For this reason, the price realized often does not reflect the reported "AU" price, and choice coins sell for far in excess of their technical grade. This particular example certainly has a lot of potential to be a runaway, as the surfaces, color and luster will dazzle all who take the time to examine it.
Estimated Value $5,000 - 7,500.
From the Benson collection and purchased from James G. Macallister in 1944 for $45.00 as "Uncirculated".
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| Realized $20,700 |
