Lot 1609
1855 Liberty Seated Half Dime. PCGS graded Proof 66. Old green holder. Lovely blue toning. While Breen states that the 1855 With Arrows Proof Half Dime is not as rare as the 1854, such a judgment has little meaning to the collector since few have seen an example of either date in Proof. There is no official mintage known for the 1855 Proof, but it is widely accepted from auction evidence that possibly as few as 20 were struck. Of that figure, perhaps 15 can be traced today in all grades. However, the population data from PCGS and NGC fail to support this estimate, since any casual glance at the number certified shows the number certified is inflated by resubmissions (for example, 6 in PR66 at NGC).
This piece meets all the diagnostics for a Proof with the fields beautifully mirrored on each side and no evidence of mint frost affecting the reflectivity. The finish on the devices is satiny, and shows nicely through the scattered turquoise and gray toning that is seen on both obverse and reverse, and close examination fails to reveal any marks. A coin of great weight and value to collectors of 19th century coinage (PCGS # 4433) .
Estimated Value $17,000 - 18,000.
|
| |
| Realized $20,700 |
