Lot 385
1878. PCGS graded Proof 65 PQ. Only 600 minted. Lovely toning on both sides. Unfathomable depth of reflectivity is seen in the fields under the color with fine, but noticeable frost over the devices. The centers on each side are really quite well impressed from the Proof dies, with the devices being struck carefully and with determined force by the dies so that all design elements show boldly. Although the Western silver producers were selling large amounts of silver to the mints at a decent price in the early 1870s, due to the acquiescence of the Mint Director, Linderman, it never seemed quite enough. Nevada Senator Jones attempted to improve the situation by introducing legislation for a twenty-cent piece, producing the absurd claim that storekeepers in the West were shortchanging customers on the grounds that no five-cent pieces were on hand. There were plenty of half dimes yet in circulation in that area, but no one bothered to mention that fact. At any rate, Congress did authorize the new coins, but they failed as a superfluous denomination when two dimes would suffice. Pop 27; 12 finer, 11 in 66, 1 in 67 (PCGS # 5306) .
Estimated Value $7,500 - 8,000.
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| Realized $8,225 |
