The June 2-5, 2002, Pre-Long Beach Sale, Sale 14
Lot 2291
1892. PCGS graded
Proof 62 Premium Quality. Here is a gorgeously toned proof, that has a
moderate grade because of faint slide lines on the face and neck of Liberty.
Toned with deep blue and purple hues with lilac at the centers of both sides.
Clearly worth a premium for the colorful toning, and in an old green insert
PCGS holder.
Estimated Value $500-UP.
Lot 2292
1894. PCGS graded
Proof 65. Medium to dark silvery gray in color, and toned on both sides
with darker blue shades at the periphery. Finding these with such nice color is
unusual, and the premium for toned coins has started to reflect their
desirability.
Estimated Value $1,500-1,750.
Lot 2293
1897. NGC graded
Proof 67 Cameo. If you are a type collector, then here is perfect coin for
you. Perhaps one in ten Proof Barber half dollars qualify as Cameo, with strong
contrast between the frosted devices and mirror fields, and these tend to be
the most beautiful examples when found in high grades, as seen here. NGC has
graded only 5 this high as Cameos, with a single coin graded higher, there are
also some Ultra Cameos, which are first strikes, and there are six graded as
PR-67 or higher in UC by NGC. This particular coin has a light ring of gold
around the periphery, and is generally untoned with glowing white frost on the
devices and well mirrored fields surrounding. As pretty as one could hope for,
and highly eye appealing.
Estimated Value $4,000-4,500.
Lot 2294
1903. PCGS graded
Proof 66. Struck in the all mirror finish as seen on 1902-03, with less
contrast on between the fields and devices. This particular one is untoned,
with exceptional surfaces throughout. Nary a hairline to be found, even under
the scrutiny of a strong glass. PCGS notes in their Population Report that
there are 15 graded this high, with 10 higher.
Estimated Value
$2,500-3,000.
Lot 2295
1903-O. NGC graded
MS-66. One of the very finest graded of this date, this particular coin
possesses a sharp strike notably on Liberty's fine curls and even down to the
eagle's claws. The surfaces are mostly satiny white, with copious luster in the
fields, accented by a touch of gold around the peripheries. We do note the
faintest signs of handling on Liberty's face, but the fields and devices are
otherwise devoid of bagmarks. As to the population reports, NGC notes just 3
this high, with a single coin higher as MS-67, similar at PCGS which notes 2 as
MS-66 and 1 single coin higher as MS-67. A foremost rarity in this grade and
worth a strong bid from the specialist.
Estimated Value $8,000-10,000.
Lot 2296
1906. MS-63 or
better. Speckled and irregular gold toning on both sides over luster. Clean
surfaces and well struck.
Estimated Value $500-600.
Lot 2297
1911. EF-45.
Cleaned and retoned to a smoky gray color, but decent surfaces underneath.
Estimated Value $80-100.