Lot 1502
1883 Hawaiian Half Dollar. NGC graded Proof 67 Red & Brown M-2CPC - 3 Copper KM-6A. A wonderful red and brown example. 18 struck. Magnificent fiery red to golden toning dominates both sides of this spectacular Gem. When carefully viewed at all angles, the full-mirror fields are seen to glisten with a watery effect while an array of subtle amber, rose, and lilac-red hues are revealed. Owing to a razor-sharp strike, the powerfully imparted details are vivid even under the strongest, most revealing magnifying glass. The undisputed rarity of this issue explains why examples seldom come on the market, even in low Proof grades. In fact, this specimen represents the Finest appearance of a copper pattern Proof hapawalu -- evidence that it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and the finest example to be auctioned by our firm since its inception! Pop 1; the only red & brown example graded at NGC.
The obverse of all the Hawaiian coins of 1883 is the same and features a head of King Kalakaua facing right. The half dollar has on its reverse the arms without the mantle seen on the one dollar. The legend is the same, but instead of 1 is the fraction one-half, and below, HAPALUA, signifying half-dollar. The eight stripes in quarters 1 and 4 of the shield refer to the eight inhabited islands at the time of issue. (Kahoolawe has since been put off-limits by the U.S. government due to its former use as a bombing range by the military during WWII and lately as a protected nature reserve -- irony of ironies! -- with unexploded ordnance still scattered around the site. The privately owned island of Niihau restricts visitors.).
Estimated Value $20,000 - 30,000.
Ex: John Daggett (Superintendent, San Francisco Mint 1893-97) as part of a complete 4-piece copper Pattern set; Hallie Daggett (John Daggett's daughter); Earl Parker; sold to Gordon Medcalf, 1961; Sold to Al Ostheimer; Superior Auction Feb 1975 Lot 1540;Ronald Russell; Present Owner (9/09 Collection).
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| Realized $50,600 |
