Lot 1607
1878 $20 Liberty. NGC graded Proof 64 Cameo. Housed in NGC holder 3210246-003. Well struck and untoned. This is an impressive Cameo Proof with extraordinary eye appeal. Only 20 Proofs minted.
Here we meet with a conundrum -- a word prized by a slow-talking central banker who retired two years ago -- with 20 minted in Proof, the numismatic community expects 1878 would get the same sort of respect and reverence that is awarded to, say, the 1875 Proofs, but this isn't the case. While 1878 is like the younger sibling to 1875 in the eyes of generations of Big Name collectors, it matters little to bidders who understand this year's great rarity. Therefore, when bidding begins to move forward, take notice and place your bid. Both sides of the coin display an exceptionally beautiful strong frosty contrast with dazzling mirror brilliance from the fields. The color, being predominately yellow-gold to brownish amber, has maybe a touch of reddish color from the copper alloy in the metal. The rolling fields, smooth as perfectly made mirrors, reflect broadly their deep shine. Sharp-edged devices and lettering throughout, this being a lock-solid Proof 64.
A new hub was brought in for 1878 with stars farther from border than before. There is a low date having the left base of 1 almost over the right edge of a dentil. As stated above, one of only 20 Proofs made. All were delivered as of February 9, with all being sold in the year of issue (none held over into 1879). Apparently under 10 to as many as 12 survive. Pop 1; 2 finer in 65 (PCGS # 89094) .
Estimated Value $135,000 - 150,000.
|
| |
| Unsold |
