Lot 1351
1917-D. Type 1. PCGS graded MS-66 Full Head. Housed in an Old Green Holder. Nice original toning. Superb mint frostiness throughout. Type 1 and Type 2 Standing Liberty Quarters carry a funny, yet thought-provoking story. In the early years of this century a band of vice crusaders stalked the land. America, like most countries, had its history of swings from relatively "loose" morals to more prudish ones. After the infamous reformer, Anthony Comstock, passed on to a higher calling in 1915, his devoted followers continued the crusade. The day Hermon MacNeil brought out his aesthetically pleasing Standing Liberty motif in 1916 was the day a great hue and cry arose from these Comstockers. For what did they espy in his design but a bare-bosomed Ms. Liberty. Forget the fact that countless nations had their own splendid, if unclothed, artwork that had drawn rave reviews from art historians and critics; no, this new topless Quarter had to go! One can imagine Mr. MacNeil's chagrin at being told to modify the offending bosom. Thus arose the so-called Type 2 design. Not only did the artist comply with the Mint official's request, but he went overboard by draping poor Liberty in a highly encumbering chain-mail blouse! Be that as it may, here is a splendid representative Type 1 (bare-breasted) for your appreciation. Pop 115; 21 finer, 3 in 66+, 17 in 67, 1 in 67+ (PCGS # 5709) .
Estimated Value $1,500 - 1,600.
The Dandelion Collection.
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| Realized $2,185 |
