Lot 1468
1827 Capped Bust Half Dollar. NGC graded Proof 68. Needle sharp with mirrored surfaces all overlaid with gorgeous natural pinkish and pale violet multi-color tone. Pop 1. It seems that a number of proof singles as well as sets were struck in 1827. The most famous of these, of course, are the quarters with their association with Joseph Mickley, an early coin collector. Even though it has been avowed that as many as seven proof 1827 halves may exist, it appears that there are actually only four distinct coins known today, all of which are from the O-121 dies. They are:
1. The Norweb '88 coin (PCGS PR66).
2. The Eliasberg II coin, this piece (NGC PR68).
3. The Auction '90 coin (PCGS PR66).
4. The piece that appeared in Heritage's 2001 Santa Clara Signature Sale (NGC PR64).
This handsome Eliasberg specimen is a nearly flawless proof striking. The fields are deeply reflective, and shine brightly through the multiple layers of toning. The only variation in the fields is an unfinished area in the obverse die just above Liberty's cap. The surfaces are beautifully toned, each side being well balanced in color and brightness. Magnification shows tiny specks of rose, lilac, blue, and golden iridescence. The striking details are absolutely complete in all areas, which is an attribute that is not always a given on proofs from this era. There are no hairlines or distracting contact marks on either side of this magnificent coin. In fact, as far as pedigree identifiers, the most obvious link to the photo in the Eliasberg catalog is a small speck of darker color in the left obverse field.
This is a numismatic classic that has been in some of the great collections of the 20th century.
Estimated Value $120,000 - 130,000.
George H. Earle Collection (Henry Chapman, 6/12), lot 2927, where it brought $5.50 and was tersely described as, "Proof. Sharp, even impression. Superb example.;" John H. Clapp; Clapp Estate, 1942, to Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr.; Eliasberg II (Bowers and Merena, 4/97), lot 1831, where it realized $110,000.
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| Realized $178,250 |
