Lot 1354
1876. NGC graded Proof 65. Well struck and untoned. A lovely Gem. Only 1,260 pieces struck. Glistening, spot-free fields rise and fall with original mint reflection. Against this are set serious, frosty design elements. For the year 1876, America's centennial, we can't think of a more attractive Gem Proof in its class. Now that the luster has been mentioned, in winding up this description, it is worthwhile to point to the devices where it is seen as being a strongly struck coin, with full detail to all the important high points. Pop 22; 10 finer, 5 in 66, 2 in 67, 3 in 68.
Although the Western miners were selling millions of ounces of silver to the mints at a stable price in the early 1870s, due to the acquiescence of the Mint Director, Linderman, it never seemed enough. Nevada Senator Jones tried to improve the situation by hosting legislation for a twenty-cent piece, with the absurd claim that storekeepers in the West were shortchanging their customers on the grounds that no five-cent pieces were on hand. There were plenty of half dimes still in circulation in that area, but no one bothered to mention that fact.
Congress did authorize the new coins, but they became the "original" Susan B. Anthony white elephants and about as popular as the later model. Authority to coin them was revoked in 1878. They were quickly forgotten, except by learned numismatists.
Estimated Value $6,000 - 6,500.
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| Realized $7,188 |
