Lot 1805
Barber's 1878 Eagle in Exquisite Copper! PCGS graded Proof 66 RD. William Barber's engraving, evidently inspired in part by Gobrecht's 1830s sketches. Reeded Edge. P-1773. The eagle is spread-winged and highly reminiscent of the gorgeous pattern half dollars of 1877. Barber's Liberty head has flowing hair partially covered by a "very French" style of Liberty cap: look at engravings of women marching in the streets of Paris during The Terror of the French Revolution, and you will see the inspiration for this immediately. Across the cap is a very broad band with thin, high letters proclaiming LIBERTY. So, the designs are patriotic and utterly classic of 19th-century America. They "sell themselves" to the enthusiast. Only question remaining is one of quality. And in this specimen, nothing more could be asked. It is a glowing full red! It is fully struck. A tiny (1 mm) stain or toning spot may be found on the lower eyelid of Miss Liberty. It should serve to identify this particular piece forever. All in all, then, this fabulous coin screams out for a new owner to adore it!
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