Lot 1243
1795. Off-Center Bust B-14, BB-51 Rarity 2. ICG graded Fine-12. Nice even wear. Mislabeled on the ICG holder as "B-4, BB-14 2 Leaves"
According to Bowers: "Conventional numismatic wisdom has it that the new Draped Bust obverse was the pride and joy of Henry William DeSaussure, Mint director since June 1795, who upon taking office stated that he wanted to do two things: circulate gold coins and improve the design of all denominations, particularly silver. Portrait artist Gilbert Stuart (best known today for his depiction of George Washington, unfinished at the bottom familiarly displayed in schoolrooms) was hired, and is said to have prepared a drawing of Mrs. William Bingham, the former Ann Willing. John Eckstein, a Providence, Rhode Island artist of uncertain ability (per Breen), translated the sketches into plaster (probably) models, which may have been Liberty head and eagle device punches, for Mint Engraver Robert Scot. The record shows that on September 9, 1795, Eckstein was paid $30 for ‘two models for dollars.’" (PCGS # 39996) .
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,100.
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