Lot 1350
The Extremely Rare 1875 Half Eagle. PCGS graded EF-40. One of the rarest coins in the entire sweep of United States Numismatics. Only 200 were struck for circulation, of which Breen estimated that "fewer than 5 are known". The recent PCGS Population Report shows only 6 graded by that service, while NGC has graded only a single coin, the highest grade yet given is AU 53 by either service. This particular coin does not appear to be the Wolfson coin (Stack's, October 12-13, 1962, lot 511) but it is hard to tell with the old half-tone photographs (this same coin was resold in the 1974 ANA sale, lot 884). Perhaps it is the Boyd coin which was offered in the World's Greatest Collection Sale, 1945, lot 429.
This is a date which is offered perhaps two or three times a decade, and is more common in proof than other grades. The Dr. Kardatzke coin is a superb example for the grade, with very little wear even on the highest devices. The fields, rims and devices show light bagmarks, fewer than usually seen on common date coins of this era in this grade. Fully struck and a delight to behold. One for the record books, as it may be years before another is offered.
Few identifying marks from which to trace pedigrees, this one has a tiny bagmark above and right of the upper olive leaf, and there is a very small mark on Liberty's lower neck above the 8. In PCGS holder #407023.
|
| |
| Unsold |
