Lot 1192
1848 Liberty Seated Dollar. NGC graded Proof 64. A well struck Proof example and quite choice. Lovely mottled blue and lilac iridescent hues adds to its appeal. Both sides of this beautiful original example display a foundation patina. Mottled olive-russet overtones are seen toward the obverse border, and there are blushes of similar color in the field over the reverse eagle, as well as along the lower border on the latter side. Direct light angles allow the viewer to appreciate the reflective qualities in the fields, but even the most casual perusal will reveal needle-sharp design elements. A few wispy hairlines act to prevent an even finer grade, but stress should be laid on the fact that none of these aspects are of concern. Magnification reveals a small strike-through (as made) in the reverse field below the ES in STATES that helped us trace the pedigree of this important Liberty Seated dollar.
All Proof Seated Dollars minted in the 1840s are rarities when viewed in the wider context of U.S. numismatics. The 1848, while it is not the rarest Proof seated dollar from this decade, still ranks with others in the same general class as the 1842-1845 issues, as well as the 1847.
The obverse die that the Mint used to strike all known Proof 1848 seated dollars is identifiable by two areas of small die chips: one below Liberty's breast; and the other over the Liberty cap. The reverse die of this issue is Breen's "Reverse of 1842-1852" (Bowers' "Reverse of 1840-1850") Pop 6; 1 in PF-66, 1 in PF-67.
Estimated Value $30,000 - 33,000.
Ex. Bowers 7/2005 sale, earlier from Bowers May 1995 sale of the Kenneth C. Long Estate Collection, lot 1218.
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| Realized $29,900 |
