Lot 924
1882. NGC graded Proof 65. Lovely blue and gold toning. Only 1,097 pieces struck. By the later-1870s, it became clear to everyone except congressmen that America's Trade Dollar experiment was a failure. Many of these nonmonetized coins remained at home instead of circulating in the Orient, as had been the primary intent, and caused untold grief to workers and small businessmen. Eventually, the wheels of congress began turning: after 1878, only Proofs were struck, exclusively for collectors. And finally, in 1887, our "Coconuts on the Hill" (as H. L. Mencken called these erstwhile DC. gentlemen) put an end to the experiment.
The beautifully toned Gem Proof designated by NGC at this level is another splendid coin boasting frosty devices set against mirror surfaces.
1882 represents the middle of an interesting string of Proof-only dates. Coins of this year come on the market with some regularity, but few match this combination of high grade, quality, and superb toning, the last feature being more important in our opinion. When a coin has everything, including a Proof 65 grade number, perhaps an ideal situation is reached. Pop 64; 37 finer .
Estimated Value $6,000 - 6,500.
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| Realized $6,900 |
