Lot 1466
1873 Two Cents. Open 3. Restrike. PCGS graded Proof 65 Red and Brown. Actually, it is not certain if this is or is not a restrike. What is known is that the date punches were changed early in the year 1873 for most United States coins, as the closed 3 design closely resembled an 8. As proofs were struck early in the year, usually January, the new date punches arrived after the closed 3 proofs had been produced. Once the open 3 punches arrived, apparently a few more were produced, perhaps even after 1873. Breen noted in his wonderful encyclopedia that the open 3 was "possibly 10 times as rare" as the closed 3. Today we have additional information from the PCGS Population Report, which shows a total of closer to 3 to 1, with the open 3 coins much rarer. This is one of just 14 so graded by PCGS, with 4 graded higher in RB, and 2 graded higher in full red. Brassy in color, with original toning and excellent surfaces. We note that the strike is full on the pales and gules, but the horizontal azure lines show some weakness at the extreme center, making this coin better struck than usual for this issue.
Estimated Value $1,650 - 2,000.
Part of The Benson Collection purchased in the 1940's.
|
| |
| Realized $2,645 |
