Lot 2840
1879 $4 Gold. PCGS graded Proof 65 Deep Cameo. In a new secure plus holder. An exciting Gem Proof ablaze with mirror surfaces against delicately frosted devices thus the "DCAM" designation by PCGS. Approximately 425 or so struck. Talk about a tidy, fully qualified Gem Cameo Proof! The present piece stands head and shoulders above most examples in its grade that have sold in recent years. Among the finest Proof 65s graded by PCGS, as the observations described below will tell. There are many factors propelling it to the head of the line. This includes the exemplary eye appeal, well above average in the present instance, the detail in the main devices, and the natural vibrancy from long years in an hygenic environment free from contaminants. The piece displays a bright yellow-gold intensity. It really electrifies the numismatist "genre" in any Type of this denomination. The $4 Flowing Hair Stella is ideal for a U.S. gold Type set, or simply as a single, stand-alone Great Rarity to include in a portfolio of gold and related coins. Again, without mincing words, this is one of the most attractive Proof 65s we have been privileged to auction, considering the fairly large number of gold rarities that have passed through our sales.
The $4 Stella was promoted by John A. Kasson, United States minister to Austria in 1879. Kasson chaired the Committee of Coinage, Weights, and Measures earlier in his career and was an advocate of a metric coinage that could be used universally throughout Europe and the Americas. Kasson's proposal was forwarded to the U.S. Mint bureau with the $4 Stellas the result. The Philadelphia Mint's two engravers, Charles E. Barber and George T. Morgan, were responsible for designs of the $4 gold piece. Barber made this prototype of Liberty with loosely flowing hair, known quite naturally today as the Flowing Hair type. Morgan's Liberty has her hair in a coil and coiffed, the Coiled Hair type. Patterns in gold (and other metals) were struck in 1879 and again in 1880, but none were ever made for circulation.
Ever since the time of issue, these beautiful and fascinating $4 Stellas have created hours of lively discussion in numismatic circles for the better part of a century and a quarter! Pop 11; 3 finer (PCGS # 98057) .
Estimated Value $180,000 - 190,000.
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