Lot 1058
1879 $4 Gold. PCGS graded Proof 65 Deep Cameo PQ. Lovely gold toning and well struck. A bright gold specimen with no toning or reddish copper spot. The deeper highlights on the design devices show wonderful frosty motifs while the mirror fields account for a pleasing cameo appearance. This is noted on the holder as "deep cameo." A nicely struck coin for the issue, with only a hint of weakness in Liberty's hair locks above her ear. Faint mint-caused striations are seen at the centers, as is always the case on Stellas; we are not aware of very many exceptions to the rule. A wonderful look of originality gives an added aura to the coin since there are no blemishes of note. All in all, we are presented here with a true gem Proof 65 example of a rare and popular issue, a coin by a long way deserving its assigned grade. The coins one from a mintage of 700+ pieces (the Guide Book lists the mintage as 425), made for distribution to congressmen and sale to collectors (not to forget private profit by Mint officials or other "insiders.") While the mintage of the 1879 Flowing Hair Stella seems outsized in contrast to the other three issues of the design type (1879 Coiled Hair, 1880 Flowing Hair, and 1880 Coiled Hair), the demand for Stellas of any date or style is always greater than the marketable supply, for it is an issue that, once purchased, tends to remain in a collection or estate for years. As far as the present specimen goes, it is among the finest examples of the date reported. We could go on and on with its other admirable virtues, but let's cut to the quick by stating categorically that the present piece is a ready-made pick for a collection of "registry" quality coins. An exceptional specimen of one of America's most esteemed rarities! Pop 9; 2 in 66 DCAM, 1 in 67 DCAM, Probably many repeats in these numbers. (PCGS # 98057) .
Estimated Value $175,000 - 200,000.
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| Realized $241,500 |
