Lot 2809
1872 Original Proof Set. The original 1872 10-piece proof set. NGC graded as follows: 1¢ PF-65 RB, Pop 44; 9 finer. 2¢ PF-65 RB CAC Approved, Pop 27; 39 finer. 3¢ Silver PF-66, Pop 17; 12 finer. 3¢ Nickel PF-66, Pop 22; none finer. 5¢ PF-65 CAC Approved, Pop 107; 52 finer. Half Dime PF-65, Pop 27; 14 finer. 10¢ PF-64, Pop 31; 31 finer. 25¢ PF-66, Pop 8; 2 finer. 50¢ PF-64, Pop 8; 2 finer. $1.00 PF-64, Pop 45; 22 finer The U.S. monetary system was still undergoing stress after gold convertibility of paper money was suspended at the outbreak of the Civil War. In fact, in 1872, some Americans had never seen or handled small silver change, being accustomed to the fractional paper currency and lesser token coinage. It is worth remembering that business strike mintages increased dramatically in nearly every denomination in the 1870s, yet the individual coins remain rare, especially in higher grades. Often, the Proof coins ordered by collectors may be the only examples they ever encountered.
Many proof coins of 1872 lack vibrancy even when their overall quality is numerically above-average, some having poor strikes while others may have unattractive Proof surfaces. That said, this set is especially choice for the nickel alloy coins as well as those in copper and silver. A worthwhile 10-piece set for the advanced numismatist. And a well matched set with attractive light to medium toning. Only 950 sets were minted.
Estimated Value $20,000 - 22,000.
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