Greetings . from Pave
The other day Forbes magazine had an articleon “cultproducts,” thesebeingthings like Krispy Kreme donuts (we’ve never tried one person¬ ally), Harley- Davidson motor¬ cycles, Macintosh computers, and Miata sports cars. Such products at¬ tract a super de¬ gree of customer loyalty from many buyers who would notdream of mak-
Iinga purchase anywhere else. While here at Bowers and Merena we encourage people to “shop around” elsewhere to compare quality (as comparison of price alone is completely meaningless in rare coins), we are happy that more than just a few of our [ clients are seemingly with us forever! Thanks.
Gail Watson, Gordon Wrubel, and Mark Borckardt have been traveling to buy, and some of their new purchases are reflected in the listings in this issue. Look through every page carefully, and pick out the items of greatest interest to you— secure in the satisfaction that you must be j pleased, or a refund is yours for the ask¬ ing. When buying we hand-select pieces of quality that we ourselves would like to own or have our family members own.
IThis handy little guideline never fails!
The first quarter of the year, January through March, registered the greatest sales volume we have ever had in the years I have been in the rare coin busi¬ ness. I am referring to sales by our Rare Coin Gallery Department (as we now < call our erstwhile Direct Sales Depart¬ ment). Thanks to Gail Watson and Debbie McDonald, who have been doing most of the selling, and to Van Simrnons I and John Rothans out in California as I well— but, especially, thanks to you if you’ve made a purchase. Perhaps as a counter to lacklustre stock market and I interest-on-money trends, the hobby of I collecting rare coins is as strong as we’ve ever seen it!
See something interesting? Just call Debbie McDonald or Gail Watson of our Rare Coin Gallery on our toll-free line, and before you know it a package from Bowers and Merena Galleries will arrive in your mailbox! How exciting! Thank you for whatever business you send our * way— and, don’t forget to order a book or two.
Sincerely,
t Q. David Bowers
[ President
April 30, 2001 ^ CC Issue #109 Bowers and Merena Galleries Wolfeboro, NH 800-222-5993
A Collectors Universe™ Company (nasdaq: ckt)
2001 Bowers and Merena Galleries
- Do You
Reviewing the New Double Eagle
As popular as the Liberty Head design for the double eagle may be with numisma¬ tists today, such was not always the case. The Daily Alta California, San Francisco, May 24, 1850, included this exchange item from eastern papers (citation furnished to the editor by Karl Moulton):
The Twenty-Dollar Gold Piece
We have seen a few specimens of this new coin but cannot say that we admire it. On one side is the Head of Liberty with 13 stars around and on the other an eagle, imperfectly formed, and marred by some adjacent flummery in¬ tended for radiance we suppose, by which the whole thing is rendered confused. It has been suggested this coin be called Washington in¬ stead of the old Goddess Liberty. It should bear the head of Washington with 1 3 stars around it representing the 13 original states, while on the other there should be a handsome eagle stand¬ ing out as if it were not ashamed of itself and surrounded by as many stars as the number of States at the date of its coinage. We like the sug¬ gestion and hope it will be complied with. —
N.Y. Journal of Commerce.
We second the su^estion of our New York contemporary and hope that the proper au¬ thorities will see the propriety of stopping the issue of this very shabby coin. The manager of the mint would seem to be utterly destitute of taste to allow such a specimen to go forth. — Boston Transcript.
“Washingtons”
Over the years many nicknames have been used for coins, such as trimes for silver three- cent pieces, being a term employed by the Treasury Department, but not popular with the public; the famous Stellas or $4 gold pieces; the nickels for five-cent pieces, and so on.
In the 1850s, when the denomination was first released, it was suggested that the term Washington be used for the $20 gold coins, as the above news item notes. Apparently, at least a few bankers picked up on this idea, as evi-
ISSN 1073-9580 $3
Collect Washingtons? -
denced by this account byJ.S. Gibbons in The Banks of New-York, Their Dealers, the Clearing House, and the Panic of 1 857, pubhshed in 1 857.
Much other informa-
by hand, and the pieces slip on each other. It is then taken up in iron scoops and poured into bags. These are handled roughly in carriage from place to place, and thrown heavily from the counter to the floor. As often as the bags are opened for counting, the contents are turned out in bulk, and the uneven surfaces grind against each other. It is frequently poured into metallic scales to be tested by weight, or spread out on a table for inspection to detect false pieces. It undergoes no trifling fnction in the pocket against other coin. Although this does not for a long time sensibly affect the value of the pieces separately, it is very perceptible when a thousand of them are taken together, especially of the smaller de¬ nominations. It is rarely that a bag of $5,000 by count, of what is in current use, of the $2.50 and of the $1 pieces, holds out full value in weight. The deficiency on that sum is very commonly from $7 to $10.
The $10 and $20 pieces of our oldest coinage are not yet sensibly reduced from this cause. The fi:audulent process of “sweating” consists in put¬ ting the coin into revolving cylinders with sand, after the manner of polishing steel pens, by
which it is reduced by filing, and by having small holes drilled through it, which are concealed by hammering. The one-doUar pieces are some¬ times cut in two with a saw, and the parts are then ingeniously joined together. This last de¬ vice may be detected by an irregularity in the ‘milhng,’ or little cross furrows on the edge.
The Porter
The porter is watchful against these various processes, and rejects every piece that is im¬ paired by them. [At any given bank at the era the porter was a tmsted employee whose duty it was to keep track of bags of coins, to ascertain they were of full weight and count, and to be responsible for their transport in and out of the bank vault or to a destination. The position was very important, and banking journals of the time give some notice of the procedures in¬ volved and the necessity for absolute trust in the person hired.]
It seldom happens that they are brought to the bank for deposit in any quantity, but they shp in singly. When but shghtly injured, they are received and paid, over the counter, but are kept out of the bags put up for the Clearing House. If they collect in considerable amount, they are sold by weight to the jewelers, or sent to the mint for recoinage.
The porter acquires a very delicate skill in detection of false or light coin. Peculiarities of color attract his eye as it wanders over the table where the pieces are spread out, or as they shde in bulk from the bags. He weighs even the lighter coin with almost unfailing accuracy, on the end of his finger. Both by touch and smell he can distinguish the genuine from the base, of silver or gold-and also by the sense of hearing, as he twirls the piece in the air, or throws it upon the counter to catch its “ring.”
Foreign Gold Coins
Foreign coin is not current in the bank settlements. What is offered on deposit, is re- (continued on page 10)
Bowers and Merena
Box 1224
Wolfeboro, NH 03894
PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT #65 BRUNSWICK, ME 04011
2
COLONIAL AND EARLY AMERICAN COINS
1787 Connecticut copper. Miller-43. 1-Y, Rarity-2.
Draped Bust left. EF-45 . 759
1788 Connecticut copper. M-2D. Mailed Bust Right
VF-30. Chocolate brown surfaces . 479
1788 Connecticut copper. M-1 1-G, Rarity-2. Mailed Bust left. VF-25. Pleasing medium brown surfaces, smooth — as 1 1-G is usually seen. A nice coin from the last year of Connecticut coinage . 425
(c.1786-1789) “1776” Machin’s Mills copper. Imi¬ tation British halfpence. Vlack-6 / 76a. Rarity- 4. VF-2S. Medium brown with lighter high points. A popular rarity owing to the date of the piece, 1 776, the most important year in American history. We can’t remember the last time we offered one of these elusive 1776-dated Machin’s Mills coppers for your collecting pleasure. A pleasing example of a contemporary counterfeit British halfpenny that circulated in America, although somewhat later — 1 0 or more years in fact — than the date suggests. Al¬ ways desirable; what other 1776-dated coins can you add to your collection that were produced in America for use in America (other than a Continen¬ tal Currency issue)? . 1,159
1787 New Jersey copper. M-6D, Rarity-1. Outlined Shield. VF-20. Die crack at base of shield, as usu¬ ally seen . 419
Choice 1787 New Jersey Copper
1787 New Jersey copper. M-46e. Small Planchet,
Plain Shield. AU-58 (PCGS). Glossy chocolate brown surfaces. Middle die state, obverse shows heavy die clash but, bulge yet to obscure date. A very nice coin . 2,695
Undated (c.l694) Elephant token. London. Thick planchet. VF-35 (PCGS). Highly attractive with pleasing deep brown surfaces and few very minor imperfections, mostly from the original planchet prior to striking . 1,050
Desirable 1766 Pitt Hal^enny
1766 Pitt half penny. EF45 (PCGS). Pleasing light ol¬ ive with smooth surfaces. Not perfectly centered with some obverse lettering partly off the planchet. 2,295
1788 Vermont copper. Bust right. Ryder-20. Rar¬
ity-3. VF-20 (PCGS). Attractive medium brown surfaces. Die state with beginning cud at VE (VERMON) on obverse and cud past E (INDE) on the reverse . 895
1789 Mott token. Thick planchet. Breen- 1 020. VF-30.
Some have called this America’s earliest-dated storecard . 479
Undated (c.l792) Kentucky cent. Breen-llSS. Plain edge. AU-53 (PCGS). Medium brown and pale steel blue with very nice appeal for the grade. Typically well struck at central obverse and a very nice specimen . 497
Undated (c.l792) Kentucky cent. B-1157. Lancaster edge. MS-63 BN. 153.9 grains. PAY¬ ABLE IN LANCASTER LONDON OR BRISTOL on edge. Several times scarcer than the plain edge variety . 1 ,095
The name of this token is derived from the position of the initial K at the top of the pyramid design on the reverse. For a long time in American numismatics such pieces were called “triangle cents.”
Undated (c.l792) Kentucky cent B-1156-1158 for type. MS-60 RB (PCGS). Areas of bright red in¬ termingle with mahogany and chestnut . 875
1794 Franklin Press token. Breen-1165. AU-55 (PCGS). Superb medium brown with glossy sur¬ faces and outstanding visual appeal for the issue.
The Coin Collector ^ April 30, 2001
Typical die break on press. This American-associ¬ ated token was struck in 1 794 for the printing firm of Cox and Bayliss, printers who used the same press young Ben Franklin worked on during his 1 726 stay in London, a press which currently resides in the Smithsonian Institution. A specimen of this popular issue to please the type collector or ad¬ vanced colonial specialist . 575
1795 Talbot, Allum & Lee cent. Breen-1035. AU- 58 (PCGS). Rich tan surfaces with some deeper highlights. A pleasing example, especially for the assigned grade . 695
While we think this nice specimen is a bargain, the U.S. Mint’s price paid for T.A. & L. cents was even better: 18 cents per pound!
1795 Talbot, Allum & Lee cent. Breen-1035. AU-
53 (PCGS). Glossy medium chocolate brown with an excellent “look” for the grade . 532
1793 Washington token. Georgius Triumpho. Breen-1183, Baker-7. VF-30 (PCGS). Medium brown with lighter high points. Strong definition of detail is present for the grade. From the usual state of the reverse die, with a bold vertical crack across the center. An ever-popular issue with generations of collectors . 625
1795 Washington Grate token. Large Buttons, Let¬ tered edge. AU-55 (PCGS). Rich deep chocolate brown faded from original color. Prices for Washingtoniana, collected in America as long as there has been collecting in America, are in many cases lower in real terms today than they were in the 1870s. The present specimen has no doubt been preserved in numismatic cabmets for most of its life . 1 ,075
1787 Fugio Cent Kessler Newman-12M. Rarity-4. F-12 (PCGS). Delightful medium tan with slightly lighter high points. A pleasing example of the first coinage to be authorized by the United States of America. Struck from clashed dies, with Ben Franklin’s admonition “Mind Your Business” seen in incuse relief on the reverse. A beauty for the grade, and a scarce variety as well! . 499
1787 Fugio Cent. KN-12M. Rarity-4. VG-8. (PCGS). Another example of this scarce variety. Pleasing for the grade, with medium tan surfaces and a hint of deeper toning in places. Nice quality for the grade, and a great place to start a type set of “colonial” issues . 229
Bolen copy. 1694 Carolina Elephant token. Kenney-5, Bolen-33. MS-62 BN. Rich glossy chocolate brown with flawless eye appeal. One of the most popular of the copies of colonial and pre- federal coins accomplished by John A. Bolen and also one of the most faithful to the original, this Carolina Elephant token copy is one of only 40 struck in copper in 1869. Due to the extraordinary rarity of the genuine piece, may we recommend this very historic and accurate reproduction as a suitable “filler” in an advanced collection of colonial coins? A choice specimen of this infrequently seen Bolen striking . 1,250
John Adams Bolen (1826-1907) was perhaps the most widely known and most prohfic engraver of struck copies of his day. His pieces are avidly collected by speciaUsts in the token field as well as collectors of colonial coins, and the demand for quality specimens never lessens. In Struck Copies of American Coins (1952), author Richard D. Kenney noted the following sentiments from Bolen regarding his struck copies: “I have been informed that they have been worn or rubbed and made to look old, then sold as genuine. I spent a great deal of time onthem;ononeI worked from a genuine coin, on the others from very fine electrotypes. They are all quite scarce now. They were not a financial success to me.”
The mintage figures have been pubhshed in various places, including by Bolen himself, but in general they are not accurate — as Bolen apparendy lost track of how many he made, and in some instances additional pieces were made by others. In general, all Bolen pieces are scarce, and some are very rare. However, many are not quite as rare as the published mintage figures.
Bolen copy. 1785 Confederatio copper, Inimica Tyrannis, Large Circle of Stars. K-2, Bolen-7. AU-55. A truly lovely example of John A. Bolen’s famous copy of this classic American rarity. Rich tan surfaces show amazing detail and plenty of eye appeal. One of just 40 examples produced in cop¬
per by Bolen circa 1 863, these 19th-century copies are regarded as highly collectible today. We only see specimens of this rare issue occasionally, and we always have multiple requests for the occasional
pieces we offer . 729
Bolen copy. 1785 Confederatio copper, Inimica Tyrannis, Small Circle of Stars. K-3, B-8. AU-55. Deep tan with lustre and dynamic eye appeal. A definite pleaser where overall appearance is con¬ cerned. Another popular rarity from the hand of John A. Bolen, one of 40 copper examples of the variety produced circa 1863. Rare and a pleasing
adjunct to the above variety . 729
Bolen copy. 1737 Higley copper. Three Hammers. K-4, B-10. MS-63 RB. Copper. A pleasing speci¬ men of this rarity . 695
Edwards copy from Bolen dies. 1737 Higiey cop¬ per. Three Hammers. K-4, B-10 for type. MS-65. Brass. A copy in brass, struck by Dr. F.S. Edwards from the dies sold to him by Bolen. An unusual is¬ sue, a copy of a copy! Rare . 545
Bolen copy. 1787 Excelsior copper, George
Clinton. K-8, B-37. MS-60 BN. Copper. A sharp and delightful medium brown specimen of another popular Bolen rarity. One of 40 copper examples struck by Bolen circa 1 869. A pleasing rarity, per¬ haps a bit conservatively graded, but certainly priced to yield a good value at . 1,150
HALF CENTS
Attractive 1793 Half Cent 1793 Breen-2, Cohen-2. VG-8 (PCGS). Pleasing medium brown with a few light scratches from nearly two centuries ago. Satisfaction guaranteed as always. The reverse is rotated about 45°. ... 2,850
Superb 1800 Half Cent 1800 B-lh, C-1. MS-64 BN (NGC). First year of the Draped Bust design. Simply put, an outstanding coin in all respects. Nicely struck for the date, well centered, and attractive. The glossy chocolate brown surfaces display wisps of red iridescence in the protected areas. This lovely near-gem coin is easily deserving of the assigned grade, and then some. Quality, this is it! . 5,250
Most Mint State 1800 half cents survive due to two hoards. The first was recovered early in this century while the second was found in Boston in the late 1930s. Prior to the discovery of these hoards, Uncirculated half cents of this coinage date were considered rare as noted by Frossard in his 1879 monograph on the denomination.
Choice 1800 Half Cent 1800 B-lb, C-1. MS-61 BN (NGC). Rich dark choco¬ late brown with smooth glossy surfaces. This is a beautiful example of this avidly-sought date and is very choice for its assigned grade . 2,150
Impressive 1804 Half Cent Crosslet 4, No Stems 1804 B-11, C-12. Crosslet 4, No Stems. MS-63 BN
(NGC). A wonderful example of this scarce type issue with exceptional olive brown surfaces and splashes of darker brown toning. Fully lustrous. The reverse is primarily deep olive and steel. This is a major variety as listed in the Guide Book, with just
this single die marriage identified . 2,950
1828 B-1, C-3. 13 Stars. MS-64 BN (PCGS). Lovely
medium brown surfaces . 695
1828 B-1, C-l. 13 Stars. MS-63 BN (NGC). Very attractive medium brown surfaces . 439
Choice 1828 12 Stars Half Cent 1828 B-3, C-2. 12 Stars. MS-64 BN (NGC). Fully lustrous with lighter tan and medium brown. Tinges of lilac are visible around the devices, faded from
Week Long Course in U.S. Tokens Offered by A.N.A.
The following is from the Token and Medal Society Journal, February 2001:
A comprehensive week-long course in United States tokens is being offered by the American Numismatic Association at its Summer Conference, July 7-1 3,2001 on the campus of Colorado College, Colorado Springs, Colorado. This is the sixth time the course has been presented.
Taught by TAMS journal editor David Schenkman, the course opens the door to a fascinating and multifaceted field of numismat¬ ics. Participants will discover why token col¬ lecting has reached new heights of popularity in recent years, as a wide range of subjects are addressed in depth. Some of the specific topics include Civil War tokens, the “Hard Times” series, merchant counterstamps, embossed “shell” cards, token errors, counterfeits and fantasies, transpiortation tokens, coal and other “system” scrip, advertising and trade tokens, token manufacturers, and nineteentivcentury merchant tokens.
Emphasis will be placed on why tokens were used, how they are collected, and what factors determine their value. Students will be encouraged to participate and bring to¬ kens for discussion.
Participants in the conference will also be able to take advantage of the following:
Evening “bull sessions” with a variety of stimulating topics
Good conversation with fellow collectors Numismatic and scenic tours A.N.A. Museum and Library Annual A.N.A. Library book sale For additional information and costs con¬ tact the ANA Educational Department, 818 North Cascade Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80903. Telephone: 800-367-9723; fax; 719-634-4085; email: anaedu@money.org. Or, visit the ANA’s web site: www.money.org.
Dave Schenkman’s course on tokens is bound to be interesting— as it always is.
In addition to the preceding, there are a
dozen or more other courses offered— on topics ranging from Asian coins to grading American silver dollars (and other coins). To the present reader not interested in tokens, we mention that tokens are but a tiny part ofwhat will be going on. There will be plenty of opportunity in other courses to discuss the coin market, Sacagawea dollars, and how to buy and sell coins.
In ouropinion this non-commercial, non- controversial, and very useful Summer Con¬ ference is one of the very best services offered by the ANA. The cost for a week of food, lodging, and camaraderie is about $500, plus travel to and from Colorado Springs. A great value, we say.
During that week it is planned that the newly expanded ANA Museum will be opened in a special ceremony involving the new display featuring many rarities from the Harry W. Bass, Jr. Research Foundation.
Your editor plans to be on hand, and if you are there, be sure to say “Hi.”
orange mint lustre. This is one of the finest 1 2 Stars half cents we have handled in several years. An early die state . 2,495
1 832 B-3, C-3. MS-63 BN (PCGS). Lovely mahogany
and tan surfaces with splashes of darker brown. A pleasing, fully lustrous example, for the type col¬ lector . 439
1833 B-1, C-L MS-64 BN (PCGS). Lustrous medium
brown surfaces . 595
1834 B-1, C-l. MS-64 BN (PCGS). A pleasing mix of deep chocolate brown and medium tan on glossy, lus¬ trous surfaces. This is the one for your type set! 595
1834 B-1, C-l. MS-62 BN (NGC). Medium brown
with splashes of darker brown and olive. Struck from clashed dies, lending interest (we endeavor to mention such features as we see them, although the certification services do not) . 265
1835 B-2, C-2. MS-64 BN (PCGS). Sharply struck with lustrous dark brown obverse. The reverse is lighter tan with iridescent highlights. Exquisite de¬ tail and excellent lustre. Tiny obverse die crack links stars 2-7. All 1835 half cents — circulation strikes as well as Proofs — were made from one die pair, caus¬ ing all sorts of complexities when a prooflike piece
(of which this is not one) is found! . 575
1835 B-2, C-2. AU-58 (PCGS). Lustrous medium brown surfaces . 195
Lovely Proof 1852 Half Cent First Restrike Proof-Only Date
1852 B-2. First Restrike. Proof-65 BN (NGC). All 1852 half cents are known only from the relatively small number of Proofs surviving today, approxi¬ mately 65 coins in all. A quick review of the note be¬ low will reveal the importance of this opportunity as the only readily available 1852 half cent. Reflective dark olive-brown with bright blue toning outlining the devices. This is a most attractive example . 5,750
Four difierent die varieties are known, including the Original issue which remains unique, this First Restrike variety with about 50 coins known, Second Restrikes with a population of seven or eight coins, and Large Berries Restrikes of which just five have been identified.
1854 B-1, C-l. MS-64 BN (PCGS). Lustrous medium
brown surfaces . 545
1855 B-1, C-l. MS-64 BN (NGC). Medium brown
and olive iridescent highlights . 595
1857 B-1, C-l. MS-63 RB (PCGS). Mottled brown and natural red color with nice lustre for the grade. 679
Glittering Proof 1857 Half Cent
1857 B-2. Proof-65 RB (NGC). This is an absolutely delightful example with reflective dark brown sur¬ faces and considerable orange lustre around the devices and border. This variety was struck from a die pair used only on Proof examples of this year with approximately 75 examples known. The re¬ verse die is the same die used for early Proof half cents identified as Second Restrikes. An important opportunity for the specialist, as well as the ad¬ vanced date or type collector . 7,750
LARGE CENTS
1802 Sheldon-229. EF-45 (PCGS). Pleasing well-
centered devices. Dark olive-brown. A very diffi¬ cult die variety in this condition. A rare early die state. The reverse die, which was combined with four different obverse dies, is instantly identified by the broken, or incomplete ribbon bows directly be¬ low CENT . 1,195
Impressive 1803 Large Cent Sheldon-243, No Stems Reverse
1803 S-243. No Stems. Rarity-2+. AU-55 (NGC). Glossy chestnut surfaces are essentially devoid of marks of any substance, and the eye appeal is ex¬ quisite. Once you see this coin, you’ll probably wish all your early date large cents could look so fine! An impressive example of the popular variety without stems on the reverse wreath, and with a broadly repunched final S in STATES. Call quickly! 2,350
1804 Restrike. MS-63 BN (NGC). Lustrous medium
brown with somewhat reflective fields. A beauti¬ ful of this “patchwork” die restrike of a rare date cent . 995
1805 S-267. Net EF-40, sharpness and quality of AU-
50 or slightly finer, but with a hint of microscopic porosity in places. Still, a beautiful example of the only variety of the date. Superb medium tan with some deeper highlights. This is an “eye-catcher” of a large cent, and definitely a strong value for the grade . 1,395
ORDER IT TODAY, ENJOY IT TOMORROW! Request our overnight service; free on coin orders of $500 or more, just $10 for orders below that amount. In this way that special coin can be in your hands just hours from now!
Gem 1820 N-13 Cent Exceptional!
1820 N-13. Large Date. MS-65 RB (PCGS). Mostly red with a generous quotient of lustre. In fact, this 90% to 95% original Mint red coin has more “red” than some coins we’ve seen graded MS-65 RD. Wonderful eye appeal. A splendid 1820 N-13 cent of the quality which makes us regret that we only have one such coin in our inventory . 1 ,950
1820 N-13 Large Date. MS-65 BN. (PCGS). Sharply struck with highly lustrous tan surfaces accented by
3
The Coin Collector ^ April 30, 2001
This & That
MARKET LEADER: Did you know that tokens and medals depicting George Washing¬ ton were the hottest items in the rare coin market from 1859 through the 1 860s? It is true. Now, in 2001 , there are not enough “classic” Washington tokens and medals to go around, but they still play to an enthusiastic, if limited, audience,
• • •
NUMISMATIC CONNECTION: Ambrose Bierce, he of Devil’s Dictionary and myste¬ rious disappearance fame, gave this definition circa 1909: “Hippogriff: An animal (now extinct) which was half horse and half griffin. The griffin was itself a compound creature, half lion and half eagle. The hippogriff was actually, therefore, only one-quarter eagle, which is two dollars and fifty cents in gold. The study of zoology is full of surprises.”
• • •
AMAZING COINCIDENCE: One of these little things that make you wonder about the order of the universe: Several years later, for the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition, the imaginary hippogriff was used as the design for a commemorative quarter eagle!!!
• • •
GOOD COMPANY: For perhaps twenty-five years we have been ordering vitamins by mail from Bronson Laboratories (1-800-235-3200). We have seen their offerings change over this period of time, keeping up with modem trends. Today’s catalogue has many things that one would not dream of finding from them years ago— including vitamins for pets, and for humans some strange things which we have never tried: Bronson Memory Formula, Cat’s Claw, and even Astragalus, the later described as “one of the most important tonic herbs in the world. The health benefits of Astragalus Mambranaceous can be traced back at least 2,000 years in China...”
• • •
LARRY LEE, who wears the title “Curator” on his hat at the Durham Western Heritage Museum in Omaha (epicenter of the Byron Reed Collection), recently wrote: “There is a brainteaser like those supplied by your son in the latest issue of your magazine. ‘What is the only English word with three sets of double letters in a row (like “balloon” has two sets)? Hint: you have one on your staff.’” We guessed correctly, then asked Larry if he had a copy of one of our all-time favorite books. Language on Vacation, which mentions, among other things, a moonnookkeeper.
• • •
BEST WISHES to Edgar Zell Steever IV, distinguished sculptor and engraver at the Philadelphia Mint, who retired in February after a 36-year stint which included designing the obverse of the 1986 Statue of Liberty half dollar and the reverse of the 1989 Congress Bicentennial coin of the same denomination. When we wrote our book on commemora¬ tive coins a few years back, he was of great help,
• • •
NICE GESTURE: Dealer Anthony Terranova donated over $15,000 worth of coins from the S.S. Central America to the permanent collection of the American Numismatic Society. Nice move, Tony! The coins are to be part of an exhibit. (ANS Newsletter)
pale blue toning. Among Randall Hoard varieties from 1816 to 1820, this die variety is the most sharply detailed, a wonderful candidate for the type
collector . 1,195
1823/2 N-1. F-15. Medium brown. A rarity, an elu¬ sive date (along with its “normal” date counterpart) that is always in demand. A few stray marks are present, but the overall appeal is that of a slightly
finer grade . 495
1823 Restrike MS-62 BN (NGC). Glossy brown sur¬ faces. A delightful example of this popular non- Mint product, concocted well after 1823 from discarded dies, including a reverse die from 1813. Later die state, heavy rim cud on the obverse, crack extends nearly across portrait of Liberty, with an¬ other crack descending from the rim above her head. A grand opportunity . 1,150
As early as the mid- 1 800s, collectors recognized the rarity of the 1 823 Matron Head cent, along with such other large cent rarities as the 1799 and 1804 issues. Restrikes of the 1 804 and 1 823 issues were made to fill the holes in collec¬ tions for 19th-century collectors, and are avidly collected today as a link with numismatics from that era.
Lovely Petite Head Cent 1843 N-4. Large Letters. MS-66 RB (NGC).Very lustrous and mostly mint red obverse and lustrous brown reverse. An exceptional example of a highly desirable head puncheon type . 7,500
Another High-Grade Petite Head Cent 1843 N-9, Small Letters. MS-65 BN (NGC). Lus¬ trous surfaces with some mint red evident on both
sides . 2.750
1845 N-8. MS-64 RB (NGC). About fifty percent mint red on both sides and rare so . 925
A Tough Rarity-3 Variety
1845 N-10. Rarity-3. MS-65 RB (NGC). Much mint
red is evident on both sides, and fully worthy of the Red-brown designation . 2,950
Small Date 1846 Cent
1846 N-7.SmaU Date. Rarity-24-. MS-65 BN (NGC).
Lustrous medium brown surfaces with great eye appeal . 2,250
High-Grade Example of this Recut Date
1847 N-1. Recut date. Rarity-2. MS-66 RB (NGC).
Lovely mint red and brown surfaces, virtually de¬ void of defects, all digits of the date show recutting to the left . 2,450
1848 N-23. MS-65 BN (NGC). Lovely medium
brown surfaces. A coin with a great deal of old-fash¬ ioned eye appeal. Would that all MS-65 BN cents were this nice! . 995
1850 N-4. MS-65 BN (NGC). Choice glossy brown
surfaces with lots of mint color in protected areas. Excellent eye appeal, outstanding for the date or type . 875
1851 N-2. MS-65 BN (NGC). Lustrous olive-brown surfaces with considerable orange mint lustre. 875
Impressive Gem Mint State 1851 Cent 1851 N-12. MS-65 RD (PCGS), A highly lustrous gem of impeccable physical quality and outstand¬ ing aesthetic appeal. Satiny red surfaces show a whisper of pale violet iridescence. Some lightness of strike is seen at a few obverse stars, otherwise the design details are sharp and crisp. This is what gem quality is all about! . 3,750
1853 N-10. MS-65 RB (NGC). Great lustre with brick
red surfaces. About 80% red! . 850
Rarity-6 1854 Large Cent
1854 N-12. Rarity-6. Proof-63 BN (NGC). Pedigreed
to the Howard Newcomb sale. Chocolate brown with splashes of tan . 6,950
Upright 55 Cent
1855 N-5. Upright 55. MS-66 BN (N(jC). Lustrous
light tan obverse with much mint red evident on the reverse . 5.750
Slanting 55 Proof Cent
1855 N-10. Slanting 55. Proof-63 BN (NGC). Dark chocolate brown with very reflective fields. 4,750
Proof-Only 1956 Cent
1856 N-5. Slanting 5. Proof-66 BN (NGC). Medium to
chocolate brown surfaces. Extremely shaiply struck on all details with deeply mirrored surfaces . 7,995
Incredible Proof 1857 Small Date Cent
1857 N-3. Braided Hair. Proof-66 RD
(NGC).Fabulous example of this prcwf only date. Full Mint Red on both sides. Needle sharp strike and fully reflective fields.This extraordinary piece can be identified by a misincule flan void between the second star and the chin. This is the finest example graded by any of the grading services . 27,500
Another Stunning Proof Cent 1857 N-3. Small Date. Proof-64 BN (NGC). Com¬ pletely fully struck and well centered with wide rims. Pleasing dark chocolate brown surfaces . 6,250
Flying Eagle Cents
1858 Large Letters MS-64 (PCGS). Satiny and highly lustrous honey-gold surfaces. A thoroughly
pleasing example of one of America’s most popu¬ lar type coins — everyone loves beautiful quality Flying Eagle cents! . 1,295
The obverse die used to strike the presen t coin was heavily polished in places. Strong raised die lines are present in the field at the eagle’s beak and tailfeathers, and are especially
heavy at the word OF.
1858 Large Letters. EF-40 . 149
Indian Head Cents
I860 MS-64. Lustrous . 329
COMING YOUR WAY! Some really interesting issues of the Rare Coin Review and The Coin Collector are in the works, plus lots of information on our Internet site (surveyed by Lycos some time back and found to be one of the most interesting in existence!). Be sure your subscription is up to date, so as not to miss a single one! And, some really notable auction catalogues will be arriving in your mailbox, too.
1862 MS-65 (PCGS). A glittering gem Mint State example of an ever popular i,ssue. Pale rose irides¬ cence graces honey-gold surfaces. A lovely ex¬ ample of what the old timers in the hobby refer to as “white” cents . 975
1864 Bronze. MS-66 RB (NGC). Flashy lustre, about 90% mint red (!) with little brown evident on the surfaces. Hurry and buy it before someone else does! . 595
1864 Bronze. MS-64 RB (PCGS). Lustrous red and
brown surfaces about 75% red . 195
1865 Fancy 5. MS-65 BN (PCGS). Attractive with
plenty of subdued red . 395
1866 MS-63 BN (ANACS). Lustrous medium brown
surfaces . 295
1868 MS-64 BN (PCGS). Beautiful chocolate brown
faded from mint color mixed with mottled red. Ex¬ cellent eye appeal and lustre for this low-mintage Indian and unlikely to remain long at . 495
1869 MS-64 RB (PCGS). Lustrous red and brown. 925
1870 MS-64 RB (NGC). Mostly red . 775
1871 MS-65 BN (PCGS). Deep chocolate brown and
violet with blushes of red. Fully struck and bril¬ liantly lustrous, this cent is choice for its assigned grade. The 1871 and 1872 are second in rarity af¬ ter the famous 1 877 among cents of this decade. Over a period of years we believe we have had fewer pieces dated 1871 than 1872 . 1,295
1872 F-15. Medium brown surfaces . 329
1874 MS-64 BN (PCGS). Lustrous satiny surfaces with attractive mint red at the rims. A superb coin! 350
1875 MS-65 RB (NGC). Great eye appeal with a nice
blend of red and brown . 825
1875 MS-64 RB (PCGS). Lustrous red and brown.
Sharply struck with lilac highlights . 395
1876 MS-65 RB (NGC). Bright mint red with light
brown fields. With excellent strike, lustre, and vi¬ sual appeal, this coin would impress even the fussi¬ est collector and is likely to thrill the savvy enthusiast of the series . 1 ,325
1876 MS-65 RB (PCGS). 70% red with light coppery
green faded from color. A beautiful and lustrous specimen of this much sought after Indian cent date rarity . 1,325
Desirable AU 1877 Cent
1877 AU-50 (PCGS). Pleasing medium brown with
subtle highlights. Lightly circulated but attractive specimens of the 1877 cent are in high demand — and have been as long as collectors have been drawn to the Indian cent series! We expect this one to find a happy home with a collector with a discriminat¬ ing eye . 1,975
1877 EF-40 (NGC). Rich, attractive brown surfaces. A lovely coin! . 1,395
1877 F-15 (ANACS). Nice attractive medium brown surfaces . 995
1877 VG-10 (NGC) . 745
1877 F-2 (PCGS) . 319
1878 MS-65 RB (PCGS). Lustrous red and brown
surfaces with lots of red on both sides . 995
1879 MS-65 RB (NGC). Well struck with 90% red
surfaces. Wonderful! . 295
1883 MS-65 RB (NGC). A very nice example of this issue. The surfaces are mostly red . 299
1885 MS-65 BN (NGC). Lustrous medium brown with generous amounts of mint red in the protected areas of legends and devices. A very pleasing gem specimen of the most elusive single date of the de¬
cade. A find for the advanced collector . '595
1885 MS-64 RD (NGC). Lustrous red . 775
1 886 Type 1. EF-40 (ANACS) . 129
1886 Type 11. MS-64 RB (PCGS). Lustrous red and brown with a highlights of iridescent colors. 1,295
The Type II variety has the last feather of the headdress pointing between the C and A of AMERICA as opposed to the Type I where the last feather points between the 1 and C. The Type I was minted from 1859 to 1886 and Type II was minted from 1886 to 1909.
1895 MS-65 RD (PCGS). Brilliant and lustrous.639 1899 MS-64 RB (PCGS). Lustrous red and brown. 109
1908 Proof-65 RD (PCGS). Lovely mint red with faint fuschia highlights at the extreme peripheries. Immaculate reflective surfaces with only a light planchet void visible below A in STATES under magnification. Outstanding eye appeal and a coin that would prove difficult to improve upon. 1,275