Lot 789
Eagle. 1857. NGC graded Proof 66. This monumental offering is possibly unique in Proof condition. Not only is this coin an ultra rarity, but the grade is ultra high at Proof-66. There is no other Proof 1857 Eagle in the Smithsonian, the ANS, even in the Harry Bass specialized gold collection.
This 1857 Eagle has only appeared for sale only twice within the past century, both times at public auction. The first appearance was in 1922 as lot #287 in the still famous and world-renowned sale of the James Ten Eyck collection. Although there were many rarities in this sale, this coin must have been considered one of the highlights. John H. Clapp purchased the coin for $40 but later sold it via Private Treaty as a part of his collection to Louis Eliasberg in 1942. Louis Eliasberg began an unparalleled quest to acquire an example of every United States gold coin ever minted and nearly completed the task before his death. Ultimately, his collection was sold at public auction in October 1982. In this sale, the 1857 Liberty Eagle was offered as lot #702 and realized $77,000.
Other rarities may come and go, but here is one that stands alone, not only unique as the sole surviving Proof issue from 1857 Eagle mintage, but in superb gem proof condition. Nearly perfect surfaces, with excellent contrast between the devices and the deep mirror fields. A coin which has it all, rarity, condition and a long proven track record of price increases.
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