Lot 834
1879 Pattern Dollar. Silver, reeded edge. PCGS graded Proof 65. Lovely multicolor rainbow toning on both sides. The exquisite Schoolgirl Pattern, struck in silver with a reeded edge. A bust of Liberty faces left, and her hair is combed back and is tied with a ribbon. In the hair, a hair band inscribed LIBERTY, which is placed much higher than on most other Liberty head designs. A string of pearls is around her neck. E PLURIBUS UNUM and the date are separated by thirteen stars, similar to the Morgan Dollar obverse border although E PLURIBUS is higher on this pattern. The reverse features a defiant eagle standing with raised wings on a wide scroll inscribed IN GOD WE TRUST. The conventional heraldic olive branch and arrows are on opposite sides of the scroll. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and ONE DOLLAR are arranged along the border much like on the regular issue Morgan Dollar.
The Schoolgirl design is widely acknowledged to be one of the most impressive Pattern designs. Credited to George T. Morgan, who was a relatively new arrival at the U.S. Mint. Competition between Morgan and Charles Barber led to several interesting designs in 1879, with the Schoolgirl, Washlady, and Stella patterns among the most notable of these. The present example is razor-sharp and boasts magnificently preserved mirror surfaces. Gorgeous honey-gold colors outline the borders and devices with their dappled effect, while the fields and portrait mainly display medium pearl-gray to bright silvery patina. The eye appeal of this lovely Gem Proof 65 is truly exceptional, and its rarity is unquestioned.
Pop 2; 1 in 66. PCGS has graded only 6 pieces in total (PCGS # 61986) .
Estimated Value $100,000 - 125,000.
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| Realized $109,250 |
