Bass Sale 1 Session 2

The Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection - Part I

Patterns - Lots 1214-1243

Pattern Half Dollars of 1877

The Most Extensive Offering

in Numismatic History

A Reflection and Appreciation

Significance of the Offering

Of all pattern coins that have been admired and collected over the years, no single specialized series has acquired more fame than the illustrious half dollars of 1877. In this particular year, some 44 different die and metal combinations were produced, some perhaps to the extent of just a single coin, others to the extent of a handful, but none in quantity. Thus, today any and all pattern varieties of this year are Rarity-7 (4 to 12 known), Rarity-8 (2 or 3), or unique (just 1). Saul Teichman, who has delved into historic auction appearances of this series, estimates that fewer than 200 specimens are known totally, dispersed among the 44 known varieties, or an average of fewer than five coins per variety!

Our offering of the Harry Bass, Jr. Collection brings to the auction block 28 such patterns, a presentation the scope of which eclipses anything else that has ever gone before.

The writer's (QDB) first serious romance with 1877 pattern halves occurred in 1958, when in our sale of November 26 five different varieties were illustrated and described, most probably from the Kosoff-Kaplan holdings, although the writer does not remember. Significantly, the offering included this comment:

This lot and the several lots following are the only 1877 Morgan half dollars to be offered at auction within recent years. Such fine offerings of patterns as the Michael F. Higgy Collection, the Fred E. Olsen Collection, the 1952 A.N.A. Sale, and the 1958 A.N.A. Sale lacked even one of these coins.

Pattern half dollars of 1877 were things that could be contemplated via illustrations in the 1913 book by Edgar H. Adams and William H. Woodin, but very few people had ever seen an actual coin.

The 1950s were heady times for any collector of patterns, including the writer. The good news was that there were a lot of patterns for sale, what with a lot of the Woodin estate coins coming on the market, the dispersal of the Farouk coins which had been brought back by the hundreds from Cairo in 1954 by James P. Randall and, in particular, Abe Kosoff and Sol Kaplan, and other offerings. However, as I recall, there was not a single 1877 pattern half dollar in any of these inventories, or at least not when they were offered to me.

One of the best-known specialists in the pattern field, Armand Champa, whose collection we catalogued for auction in 1972, had as his lodestone the pattern half dollars of this year. Many pleasant hours were spent combing through auction catalogues of the 19th and early 20th centuries to track down appearances, and in his years of collecting, whenever a pattern 1877 half dollar came up for auction or direct purposes, he bought it. When all was said and done he acquired a total of 21 pieces, an incredible accomplishment. I imagine that all of this seeking of information played a direct part in Armand's shift from coins to the formation of an incredible library of numismatic books after his coins were sold.

From November 11 to 13, 1976, we offered the River Oaks Collection at auction. The name was assigned to the cabinet of a well-to-do Houston numismatist who wished to remain anonymous, and who later became the financial backer of a short-lived rare coin company. In the meantime he became absolutely fascinated with patterns, and in the early 1970s his check was written in a wink if a choice pattern was offered. As might be expected, the pattern half dollars were objects of great desire. By the time we sold his collection he had gathered the impressive number of six different 1877 pattern halves. This was a truly remarkable display.

In 1979 The Johns Hopkins University selected our firm to offer at auction the Garrett Collection of United States and related coins. This was accomplished in a series of four memorable sales, the first one of which was conducted in November of that year. Featured beginning with lot 380 were eight pattern half dollars of 1877, most of which were purchased by T. Harrison Garrett from George W. Cogan on March 17, 1883. It is believed that Cogan acquired them from Col. Oliver C. Bosbyshell, who in 1877 was the chief coiner at the Mint. Garrett, whose family controlled the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, was in the position to buy whatever he wanted. His window of opportunity to acquire 1877 half dollars would have been from the time of mintage, 1877, until the time of his unfortunate death in 1888 (in a boating accident in Chesapeake Bay), but with unlimited funds and unlimited numismatic enthusiasm, he was able to buy only eight pieces, and most of these were in a single transaction, the aforementioned purchase from Cogan in 1883. The series of four Garrett sales, 1979-1981, went on to realize a grand total of $25,000,000, a figure which stood for many years as the most valuable collection ever auctioned, until we broke the record with our presentation in three auctions of the Eliasberg Collection, which added up to nearly $45,000,000. One of the great pleasures in the preparing of the catalogue for Sale I was the examination and description of eight specimens of the aforementioned 1877 half dollar patterns. Significantly, several of Harry Bass' 1877 half dollars came from this sale. It is a pleasure to see them once again.

William R. ("Rudy") Sieck, a pattern enthusiast with few peers, and who collected over a long span of time, spared no effort or expense to acquire 1877 half dollars when they appeared. He was not in a hurry, and year after year he attended auctions, corresponded and talked with dealers, and made his interests known in other ways. A familiar figure at our sales, he acquired some of the 1877 half dollars we offered in the sales just mention. We showcased his collection of 22 1877 halves-a remarkably triumph--in a special catalogue in 1981.

In 1995 we presented at auction the wonderful collection of pattern coins assembled over a long period of time by Rogers M. Fred, Jr., a gentleman who bought aggressively, but carefully, and, after he acquired a given specimen, enjoyed studying its features and contemplating its history. In a way, his patterns were members of his family.

Most recently, we presented the Morris Evans Collection of pattern coins for sale, in August 1998. This holding, which had been assembled over a long period of time including acquisitions from the aforementioned cabinets, contained 22 pieces. This brings to mind the 1896 will of Edmond de Goncourt, which could just as easily be adapted to coins:

My wish is that my drawings, my prints, my curiosities, my books-in a word, those things of art which have been the joy of my life-shall not be consigned to the cold tomb of a museum, and subjected to the stupid glance of the careless passer-by; but I require that they shall all be dispersed under the hammer of the auctioneer, so that the pleasure which the acquiring of each one of them has given me shall be given again, in each case, to some inheritor of my own tastes.

Indeed, the formation of the Morris, Fred, Bass, and other collections was made possible only by the fact that the holdings of Messrs. Garrett, Sieck, Champa, and others were brought to market. Thus, the combined listing of all appearances of 1877 half dollars from all of these sales nets to a much smaller number of distinctively different specimens.

Outside of the Bowers and Merena venue, other significant auctions that included 1877 half dollars are the R.E. Cox, Jr. Collection (Stack's, 1972, 17 coins) and the Gaston DiBello Collection (Stack's, 1970, 15). And, no doubt, a few other offerings could be added here and there, but none remotely challenging the current Bass offering.

Perhaps it would be significant to mention the collections that did not have notable "showings" of 1877 pattern half dollars to compare to the preceding. For starters, consider the complete repertoire of Chapman brothers catalogues from the 1870s to the 1920s, a half century of B. Max Mehl catalogues, the W. Elliott Woodward catalogues, the Frossard catalogues, the Coin Gallery catalogues of the 1940s and 1950s-and thousands more. Some of the finest professional numismatists and auction cataloguers in our hobby, from the 1850s to the present day, have never owned or offered at auction even a single coin!

Genesis of the 1877 Pattern Halves

As is related in the biographies of engravers given in the introduction to the Bass Collection patterns, young George T. Morgan came to Philadelphia in 1876 at the request of Mint Director Henry R. Linderman. The director was no admirer of the work of the incumbent chief engraver, William Barber, who had been in the position since January 1869, nor did he appreciate the talents-such as they were-of Barber's assistant, his son Charles. Thus, he sought a talented engraver from the other side of the Atlantic.

Upon arrival in Philadelphia, Morgan was greeted with less than enthusiasm by Chief Engraver Barber, who protested that there was not enough room in the Engraving Department for Morgan to work. Thus, he was forced to secure an atelier in another building. Soon after coming to America, the immigrant was befriended by well-known Philadelphia artist Thomas Eakins, who introduced him to Anna Willess Williams, a young kindergarten schoolteacher, who posed for him in the same year. She sat several times for Morgan, who made sketches of her likeness.

In the next year, 1877, Miss Williams' portrait was translated into plaster models, and then into dies. The half dollar denomination was selected as the medium, for reasons that are understandable when viewed in context.

1877: Spotlight on the Half Dollar

The Liberty Seated silver dollar had been discontinued in 1873, and by 1877 there were no plans whatsoever to make the denomination again. Indeed, the Liberty Seated silver dollar had been following a different coinage track for many years before 1873. The Coinage Act of February 21, 1853, which reduced the weight of the silver half dime, quarter dollar, and half dollar, to prevent hoarding, did not apply to the silver dollar. At the time (in the early 1850s), massive quantities of gold bullion were arriving from California, and silver became rare in comparison to its historical market ratio with gold. Accordingly, silver rose in price, eventually to the point where silver coins were worth more in melt-down value than in face value. Thus, by early 1853, silver coins could not effectively circulate. The moment a coin reached the channels of commerce, it would be snatched up by a speculator, bullion investor, or hoarder.

The Act of February 21, 1853, reduced the weights, permitting the half dime, dime, quarter, and half dollar denominations to circulate once again. After that time, the Liberty Seated silver dollar, which was not reduced in weight, did not circulate. Instead, from then until the end of the series in 1873, earlier-minted Liberty Seated dollars, as well as later-minted ones, were always worth more than face value. This seems a bit illogical, but it was the case. Silver dollars were not made from Treasury silver stocks by the government, but, instead, were specifically coined when depositors of silver bullion requested such pieces. There would have been no point for the government to make coins of $1 face value that contained $1.03 worth of silver. Probably, most of the later Liberty Seated dollars were shipped to China as part of the export trade, in an era before the trade dollar (first minted in 1873) became a reality. Some pleas had been made by the Mint director for the resumption of the silver dollar, but his desire was ignored.

Thus, by 1877, the silver dollar having been discontinued by the Coinage Act of 1873, and with no new silver dollars in the offing, the half dollar was the largest currently made silver coin of the realm (trade dollars were still being made, but for export only). It was logical that this denomination served as the vehicle for new artistry.

Meanwhile, Mint Director Henry R. Linderman was very much interested in numismatics, as he had been for a number of years. As a reflection of this, on March 20, 1877, he was elected to membership into the American Numismatic and Archaeological Society. Although the scenario does not seem to have been recorded, it does not strain credulity to suggest that Linderman, the sponsor of Morgan, encouraged the engraver to make several patterns to showcase his talent, while, as a courtesy, Chief Engraver William Barber was asked to do the same, and, perhaps, Anthony C. Paquet, the Mint's most important commission artist in the private sector at the time, was asked to do the same. The half dollar was chosen as the palette, for reasons stated-it was the largest circulating silver coin of the United States of America.

George T. Morgan's portrait of Anna Williams was front row center, and became the most widely used motif on the 1877 pattern halves. Her portrait was shown, facing left, with a crown inscribed LIBERTY, a sheaf of grain in her hair, and wearing a Phrygian cap at the back of her head. This design is no doubt very familiar to you as you read these words, even though 1877 pattern half dollars are extreme rarities. Following the passage of the Bland-Allison Act on February 28, 1878, silver dollars were again scheduled to be coined, and in very large quantities, as the government started a silver subsidy program to help western mining interests. This time around, Uncle Sam was to make silver dollars for himself, and by the untold millions.

A new design was needed, and quickly! Morgan's half dollar pattern motifs were considered, and Miss Williams was selected for use on the Morgan dollar, which, as it turned out, was struck by the hundreds of millions through 1904, and again in 1921. Along the way, in early 1878, several varieties of pattern dollars were made by Morgan and Barber (and are discussed later in the present Bass Collection presentation).

Returning to 1877, the Morgan portrait was used on patterns in several forms, including the stars to the left and right of the head, the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM above, and the date 1877 below. Another variation has the motto split into two parts, E PLURIBUS to the left, UNUM behind the head, and stars used to help with the spacing, with 1877 below. One of the most visually captivating motifs consists of Morgan's portrait framed in a beaded circle, thus giving it a cameo effect. The motto, stars, and date are between the beaded circle and the rim.

Although Morgan's head of Miss Williams accounted for the majority of pattern varieties, William Barber had his own entries. The first was not particularly original, but an adaptation of his so-called Sailor Head used earlier in the decade on pattern 20-cent pieces. This was employed as the obverse of what is known today as Pollock-1654 (silver) and P-1655 (copper). While Morgan was creating new motifs, Barber kept his hat in the ring by mostly recycling old ones.

Another William Barber entry was his head of Miss Liberty as later used on his Goloid Metric coins. Miss Liberty's hair appears somewhat tousled, the band inscribed LIBERTY on her hair is overly large, and the entire ensemble is not as balanced (in the opinion of the writer), as the 1877 work of George T. Morgan. Such metric-related obverses appear on half dollar patterns known today as P-1690 through P-1693.

Still another entry that is not signed, but which is attributed by Andrew Pollock to Chief Engraver William Barber is quite notable, and depicts Miss Liberty in a Romanesque helmet, complete with a fringe at the back. The metal helmet is engraved, and includes in relief the portrait of an eagle. Examined under magnification, the whole affair is quite intricate and fascinating. In fact, a few years ago Rogers M. Fred, Jr., commented to the writer that this was one of his favorite designs-and the more he studied it, the more intricacies he saw. At first blush it might seem that, at last, Barber created an original, memorable, and quite artistic design for the 1877 half dollar competition. However, that was not the case. As Andrew Pollock pointed out, Barber (or whomever) borrowed the eagle on helmet from a sketch done decades earlier by Christian Gobrecht (illustrated in The A.N.A. Anthology, Elvira Eliza Clain-Stefanelli, From the Drawing Board of a Coin Engraver, p. 90). Still another 1877 pattern design is represented by Barber's head of Miss Liberty on P-1700 through 1704, sort of frumpy, but certainly distinctive.

Yet another obverse is the enigmatic portrait of Miss Liberty found on P-1705 through P-1708. Unsigned, the facial features of this die seem to have some resemblance to Miss Anna Williams, except the jaw is more prominent. Was the motif by George T. Morgan? Perhaps we will never know.

The final portrait shown in the Pollock book is perhaps the simplest of all, the most austere, and at the same time one of the more intriguing. Known as P-1711 (silver) and P-1712 (copper) the design may have been by Anthony C. Paquet. This particular engraver did much work for the Mint, both on contract and as an employee (1857-1864). His name skips in and out of Mint history from the 1850s onward, and yet he is little known to collectors of regular coinage. For circulating coinage it is said that he designed an obverse used but briefly on the 1859 Philadelphia half dime (but not the New Orleans version), with stars hollow at the center and Miss Liberty with her arms slimmer. At his doorstep is laid the artistry for the reverse of the famous 1861 Paquet $20 gold, an extreme rarity if made at the Philadelphia Mint (just two are known), and quite rare (population probably fewer than 200) if made at San Francisco. The Paquet reverse on the $20 is distinguished by tall, narrow lettering in comparison to the regular version (which was designed by James B. Longacre years earlier in 1849).

Today, Paquet is better known to collectors of pattern coins and of medals than of circulating denominations, and in the first two categories he had many accomplishments, a number of which are offered elsewhere in the present sale (such as the Paquet quarter dollars of 1859, 1864, and 1865 and the 1859 Paquet Reverse double eagle, among many others). Although records do not seem to exist, it is possible that in 1877 Paquet was commissioned to create his version of a new half dollar motif, the result being the aforementioned P-1711 and P-1712. If he did this work outside of the Mint, this would explain the very curious numeral punches used for the 1877 date, not at all like the ornate figures used on Barber's and Morgan's motifs which are from four-digit logotypes on hand in the Engraving Department. (By way of related interest, an examination of the photograph of the unofficial pattern by Charles Bouvet, illustrated as Figure 705, p. 438, by Pollock, is instructive.)

Unanswered is this question: Did Charles Barber, son of and assistant to Chief Engraver William Barber, produce one or more of the 1877 pattern half dollars mentioned above, but assigned to his father? It would seem likely that daddy Barber would have wanted son Charlie to have been represented.

Reverse Designs

To go with the pattern obverses for the 1877 half dollars, new reverses were made, some of them highly artistic. Curiously, none of the patterns used the regular perched eagle reverse employed on the circulating half dollar for decades earlier. Perhaps Director Linderman overlooked the possibility of combining Gobrecht's Liberty Seated obverse and his perched eagle reverse with the many new 1877 obverse and reverse dies. This is just as well, for as presently constituted the gallery of 1877 half dollars is free from illogical mulings. As it is, there are enough rarities and different dies to challenge even the most enthusiastic and well-moneyed numismatist.

Instead of relying upon old dies, new and innovative styles were created. None of the reverse dies are signed, except that the Morgan dollar style eagle later used on the 1878 dollar is that engraver's work, so their attribution is for the most part a matter of conjecture. Each depicted an eagle, with Chief Engraver William Barber's plain heraldic eagle mated with his Sailor Head obverse, and, later in the series (following the Pollock numeric sequence), various other styles of eagles mated with his Metric Head, "Frumpy" Liberty Head (it really deserves a better name than this), and "Helmeted Head" obverses.

George T. Morgan created his own eagles, including several varieties with a perched eagle against a shield background, and other styles showing an eagle with a plain surrounding field, circled by beads. Upon close examination, each of these reveals the artistic wizardry of its creator. There are many nice little touches, little numismatic grace notes, which will reward the collector who studies these pieces with even a low-power magnifying glass.

The writer's favorite of all the Morgan designs is that variety employed on P-1676 and P-1677, featuring an eagle perched on a cartouche inscribed IN GOD WE TRUST, facing left, with olive branch and arrows, beads surrounding, giving it a cameo-like effect, with the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA/HALF DOLLAR around the border. Mated with Morgan's obverse of Miss Williams, also within a beaded border, the result is a pattern of rare beauty. This reverse was adapted two years later for Morgan's memorable Schoolgirl dollar (see Lot 1289).

Perhaps of greatest interest to present day numismatists is the Morgan design depicting a perched eagle with a wreath below and to the sides, IN GOD WE TRUST in Old English letters above, and the surrounding inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA/HALF DOLLAR, P-1688 and P-1689. This identical motif was used a year later in 1878 for the Morgan dollar.

The different varieties of 1877 pattern half dollars were made only in small numbers. Perhaps the 1877 pattern half dollars were made for their intended purpose-as true patterns to be shown within the Mint to various people, and in a larger circle to Treasury officials, as to what the Mint could do when it brought several different artists (Barber, Morgan, and possibly Paquet) together to create new designs. Certainly, no issues were made in large enough quantities to have been passed out to the Coinage Committee in Congress, or to newspaper editors, or to dignitaries. Or, perhaps they were delicacies to be enjoyed only by Director Henry R. Linderman and those to whom he imparted numismatic favors. Or, perhaps Chief Engraver William Barber wanted to suppress, or at least keep in a restricted circle, the obvious results of assistant George T. Morgan's talent. In any event, some of the greatest artistry ever accomplished by the United States Mint was viewed by only a few people.

The original distribution of the 1877 pattern halves was not recorded, but certainly they were not made available to the collecting fraternity, as contemporary cataloguers knew little about them. They were not documented in the literature until years later, when William H. Woodin (in particular) and Edgar H. Adams studied and published the varieties in their book in 1913, although Adams had been writing newspaper articles (for the New York Sun) about scattered issues of patterns since at least 1906. Possibly, they went to insiders at the Mint such as Linderman, Snowden, Bosbyshell, and the engravers. Or, perhaps there is another explanation. The coins keep their secrets well.

With the preceding as an overview, we proceed with the Harry Bass, Jr. Collection of 1877 half dollars.

1877 P-1658 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

Morgan's "Dollar" Obverse

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1214 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1658, J-1504. Rarity-7. Morgan's Liberty Head as later used on the silver dollar. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: The popular Morgan Liberty Head design, a miniature version of the silver dollar design that is familiar to all of us. Liberty faces left with a coronet in her hair, inscribed LIBERTY. She is wearing a large cap ornamented with ears of wheat, cotton leaves, and cotton bolls. The motto, E PLURIBUS UNUM, is above, with the date, 1877, below. Thirteen stars are arranged with seven left and six right.

Reverse Design: An eagle with wings spread is displayed on a spade-shaped shield. The eagle holds an olive sprig and three arrows. A circular band around and behind the shield carries the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. This is surrounded by a laurel wreath, outside of which is the legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, above and the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below. The I in UNITED is doubled.

Surfaces: Slightly weak design details at the center of both the obverse and reverse. Lightly toned about the periphery with very pleasing surfaces, free of blemishes. The leading edge of the profile is minutely doubled from chin to forehead.

Narrative: This is the first of a most incredible offering of pattern half dollars dated 1877, and what a nice beginning it is! The present piece represents two attractive and highly important dies by Morgan, a combination that is pleasing to the eye.

Saul Teichman lists just three examples of this variety in his pedigree records. If so, then this should be designated as Rarity-8 (two to three known) rather than Rarity-7 as given above. However, it could be that one or two others exist.

Here, indeed, is a coin that will be the centerpiece of any advanced collection.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 193.5 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: On the reverse the I of UNITED is doubled.

From Lester Merkin's sale of June 26, 1970, Lot 644. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 439. Although not confirmed, this may have been Dr. J. Hewitt Judd's personal specimen.

1877 P-1663 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

Miniature "Morgan Dollar"

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1215 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1663, J-1509. Rarity-7. Morgan's Liberty Head. Proof-62 RD (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: Morgan's Liberty Head as preceding, modeled by Anna Willess Williams, a Philadelphia kindergarten teacher, during sittings with Morgan in 1876.

Reverse Design: A miniature version of the adopted design for the Morgan silver dollar, with very minor differences. The olive branch has only three leaves and the wings are treated differently. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, passes around with the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below. A semi-circular laurel wreath passes below the eagle. The eagle's wings are outstretched and in its claws are three arrows and an olive branch. Above, in Gothic letters, is the motto, IN GOD WE TRUST.

Surfaces: Cleaned some time ago, now with mottled surfaces.

Narrative: This die combination, in effect yielding a miniature Morgan silver dollar, illustrates the obverse and reverse motifs adopted at the Philadelphia Mint early in 1877 for the coinage of what became known as the Morgan dollar. As such, P-1663 has always been highly prized. But a handful of pieces are known, the present probably being from the King Farouk Collection, as Farouk cleaned and lacquered most of his copper coins, and this piece has been so treated.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 183.0 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

Purchased from Douglas Weaver, January 21, 1974. Possibly from King Farouk "Palace Collection," 1954. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 217.

1877 P-1667 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

Artistry by Morgan

Two Known

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1216 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1667, J-1505. Rarity-8. Morgan's Liberty Head. Proof-61 RD (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: Morgan's famous Liberty Head as preceding.

Reverse Design: An eagle with wings spread is displayed on a spade-shaped shield. The eagle holds an olive sprig and three arrows. A circular band around, and behind, the shield carries the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. This is surrounded by a laurel wreath, outside of which is the legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, above and the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below. This die, popularly attributed to Morgan, was also used to coin P-1658 earlier offered. As noted in the general introduction to the 1877 half dollars, the reverses are unsigned, and there is no way of attributing most of them. In general, it seems reasonable to assume that obverses created by George T. Morgan were mated with reverses created by George T. Morgan; ditto respectively for Barber and Paquet. However, a seeming exception is provided by the portrait of Miss Liberty used on P-1705 through P-1710, which is mated with Barber-attributed reverses (except for 1710 which is a Morgan attributed reverse). Again, 1877 pattern coins hold their secrets well.

Surfaces: Cleaned at some time in the past, now with unnatural bright orange surfaces. Numerous hairlines are present.

Narrative: Only two pieces are believed to be known, the present example, pedigreed to King Farouk of Egypt, and a specimen in the cabinet of Saul Teichman. It may be a long time until another purchase opportunity occurs for P-1667. Thus, the present offering is exceedingly important.

The popular Morgan design, modeled by Miss Anna Willess Williams, a young schoolteacher, made its debut on the pattern coinage of this year. It is not surprising that the half dollar was chosen for so many designs, as the half dollar was the largest silver denomination currently being produced, and the trade dollar was being struck only for export purposes.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 185.1 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: On the reverse the I of UNITED is doubled.

Purchased from Douglas Weaver, January 21, 1974. Previously from Sotheby's King Farouk "Palace Collection," 1954, Lot 1952. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 443. Possibly the same piece offered by Abner Kreisberg in June 1956. If so, this would be explained by the purchase of the piece by Abe Kosoff in Cairo in 1954, and its being given to Kreisberg in the division of the Kosoff-Kreisberg partnership, Numismatic Gallery, in the same year.

1877 P-1668 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

"Silver Dollar" Obverse

Just Two Known

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1217 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1668, J-1506. Rarity-8. Morgan's Liberty Head as later adopted for the silver dollar. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: Morgan's famous Liberty Head as adopted in 1878 for use on the silver dollar.

Reverse Design: An eagle is displayed on a seven-sided shield, which, in turn, overlies a band with the inscription IN GOD WE TRUST. The eagle is clutching an olive sprig and three arrows. A laurel wreath surrounds the band with the legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, around, and the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below. Probably from the hand of George T. Morgan; very well done as are the other dies in the "shield" variations of this year.

Surfaces: Brilliant cameo Proof with bright silvery white surfaces. A lovely example which will be cherished by its next owner, a coin that will be a centerpiece to just about any collection. Recall from our introduction that some of the greatest of all American cabinets have not had even a single example of an 1877 half dollar.

Narrative: This offering is extraordinarily important. Andrew Pollock listed just two pieces, the example offered here, from our Champa Collection, and the Edward Maris coin, later sold by Stack's and sold by us as part of the Evans Collection last year. If any others exist, we are not aware of them. Thus, we designate this issue as Rarity-8.

The beauty of this design, its rarity, and the visual appeal of the present specimen come together to create yet another incredible opportunity for the connoisseur and specialist.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 181.9 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

From our sale of the Armand Champa Collection, May 20, 1972, Lot 1060. Earlier from Ira S. Reed in 1941. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 444.

1877 P-1674 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

"Morgan Dollar" Variant

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1218 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1674, J-1510. Rarity-7. Morgan's Liberty Head motif as later used on the dollar, but with variant border elements. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: Morgan's Liberty Head, facing left, with the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM around, in large letters, and the date, 1877, below. Thirteen stars are distributed through the motto, as illustrated. The central motif is the Morgan trademark of this year as later used on the dollar.

Reverse Design: The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, passes around with the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below. A semi-circular laurel wreath passes below the eagle. The eagle's wings are outstretched and in its claws are three arrows and an olive branch. Above, in Gothic letters, is the motto, IN GOD WE TRUST. This is, in effect, a miniature version of the reverse later used on the silver dollar.

Surfaces: A superb example with very heavily frosted devices and deeply mirrored fields. Attractively toned russet, gold, and blue. An incredible coin which combines rarity and aesthetic appeal.

Narrative: A particularly lovely example of this variety. The number known is not certain. Andrew Pollock listed six different appearances, but these might have included duplicate offerings of identical coins. Saul Teichman is aware of just four confirmed different examples and suggests that a fifth may exist. Five known? Six known? It doesn't make much difference. No matter how you look at it, this is a prime numismatic rarity in superb preservation, possibly even the finest known.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 193.3 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

Purchased from Brinton T. Schorer, May 3, 1973.

1877 P-1676 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

Artistic Triumph by Morgan

Superb Gem Proof

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1219 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1676, J-1512. Rarity-7. Morgan's Liberty Head. Proof-65 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: Morgan's Liberty Head is framed by a beaded circle, outside is the motto, E PLURIBUS UNUM, the date, 1877, and 13 stars arranged six left and seven right.

Reverse Design: A defiant eagle faces left and stands on a scroll inscribed IN GOD WE TRUST. Behind the scroll are an olive branch and three arrows. This design is framed by a beaded circle with the legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, and the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, outside the circle.

Surfaces: A gem cameo Proof with light rose toning, slightly intensified at the borders. An important offering that combines quality and rarity.

Narrative: Pollock mentioned that the defiant eagle reverse motif may have been inspired by a drawing created in the 1830s by artist Titian Peale. The sketch is reproduced in Don Taxay's U.S. Mint and Coinage on page 173.

Artistically, this is one of the most attractive of all 1877 pattern half dollars. The obverse and reverse, each having beaded interior circles, seem to have been designed for use together; the interior circles have been used elsewhere on coinage for excellent effect-for example several varieties of commemorative half dollars minted in the 1930s. Perhaps the Mint should dust off this idea and think about using the concept again. In contrast, most other pattern half dollars of 1877 seem to have had the obverse and reverse created independently, and then mated almost at whim.

Although Andrew Pollock listed this particular variety as Rarity-6+, suggesting that as many as 18 examples survive, Saul Teichman lists just six confirmed examples. We suggest that this pattern, although "common" in terms of 1877 pattern half dollars, is still solidly within the Rarity-7 classification.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 193.1 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

From Stack's sale of February 2, 1978, Lot 759. Previously from Hollinbeck Coin Company (Art Kagin and Paul Kagin), Monroe Collection, to Armand Champa, appearing in our sale of the Champa Collection in May 1972.

1877 P-1677 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

Copper Version of Preceding

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1220 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1677, J-1513. Rarity-7. Morgan's Liberty Head. Proof-61 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: Cleaned in the past, now with unnatural bright orange surfaces and minor hairlines.

Narrative: Copper version of the preceding die combination, an artistic triumph on the part of Morgan. Interestingly, P-1677 is clearly the most available 1877 pattern half dollar, with nine examples listed by Teichman. Of course, any coin with just nine known examples can hardly be considered "common." In fact, more 1804 silver dollars are known (15) than of this coin!

Regarding the pattern half dollars of 1877, Andrew Pollock listed 54 different varieties in his United States Patterns and Related Issues, published in 1994. Since that time, Saul Teichman has conducted extensive personal research in this sub-specialty. Saul has determined that only 44 varieties are actually known, the other 10 being varieties that might exist, however, with no specimens ever seen by modern scholars. When we offered the collection of Morris Evans in our August 1998 Rarities Sale, 22 of these patterns crossed the auction block, with 21 different varieties. In the current offering of the Bass Collection patterns, 28 pattern half dollars are being sold, with 26 different varieties. Between the two collections, 33 of 44 known varieties will have crossed the auction block in less than one year! In a future Rare Coin Review, Mark Borckardt plans to offer a summary of these two collections and other offerings, providing a record of prices realized for the 1877 pattern half dollar series.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 169.5 grains. Diameter: 30.5 inches. Die alignment: 180°.

Purchased by Harry Bass from Douglas Weaver, January 21, 1974. Previously from King Farouk "Palace Collection," 1954, purchased in Cairo by Gaston DiBello, Stack's Gaston DiBello Collection, May 14, 1970.

1877 P-1678 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

Sculpted Eagle Reverse

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1221 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1678, J-1514. Rarity-7. Morgan's Liberty Head. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: A beaded circle surrounds an eagle with wings spread, its head turned to look over its left wing, to the viewer's right. The eagle is standing on a scroll inscribed IN GOD WE TRUST. Behind the scroll are three arrows and an olive branch. Around, outside the beaded circle, is the legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, above and the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below. The eagle's wingtips pierce the beaded circle, a nice artistic touch which seems to tie the design together.

Surfaces: A lovely, lightly toned Proof with deep mirrored fields and bright cameo devices. A gem that would grace any cabinet.

Narrative: Seven different examples are listed by Saul Teichman with four of the seven described as gem Proof. Although Andrew Pollock listed this as "Rarity 6 to 7" we agree with Saul's assessment that this is a solid Rarity-7 variety.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 193.1 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

From Stack's sale of the Gaston DiBello Collection, May 14, 1970, Lot 386.

1877 P-1683 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

First Spade Shield Reverse

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1222 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1683, J-1519. Rarity-7. Morgan's Liberty Head. Proof-64 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: An eagle, with wings spread, is displayed on a shield, which, in turn is framed by a laurel wreath. The eagle has an olive branch and three arrows in its claws. Above, on a pleated scroll, is the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. Around, the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, and below, the denomination HALF DOLLAR.

Surfaces: Bright mint orange with moderate cameo contrast. A lovely example of this very rare pattern issue.

Narrative: Just four examples are confirmed with one of these silver plated. This example appears to be second finest of the four. As all of these pattern half dollars, and most other patterns in this offering, are extremely rare, it is amazing that they sell for relatively modest sums. Coins from the various regular-issue series, of similar rarity, would sell for many multiples of these prices-one can envision values well over $100,000. Consider, for example, the 1873-CC No Arrows quarter dollar, a coin with five known examples, that would sell in the six-figure range (the Eliasberg example realized $187,000). For less than the price of one such coin, the collector could own all known examples of this pattern variety, assuming he or she lives long enough to have the opportunity. This reiterates one of the appeals that pattern collecting has for numismatists: great rarities can be acquired for sums that are truly very modest in comparison to federal coinage. Generally, if anything is listed in the Guide Book of U.S. Coins it achieves very high value and is entered on the "want lists" of many collectors-we simply point to the 1879 Flowing Hair pattern $4 stella, of which a couple hundred or more are known, as an example-pieces sell for $50,000 to $100,000 each.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 171.4 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

From our sale of the River Oaks Collection, November 11, 1976, Lot 982. Previously from the Maj. Lenox R. Lohr Collection sold by us in 1961, then to the Davidson Collection.

1877 P-1685 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

Second Spade Shield Reverse

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1223 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1685, J-1521. Rarity-7. Morgan's Liberty Head. Proof-66 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: The obverse is double struck. A lovely gem with faded red and bright blue-green toning. Moderate cameo contrast.

Narrative: This die was seen earlier, on P-1658, the doubled I in UNITED diagnostic. Saul Teichman lists four known examples, but one of these may be a duplicate listing. If so, the number known may net to just three, in which instance this variety would be Rarity-8. No matter, from any viewpoint, the coin is a landmark. The beautiful gem quality further enhances its appeal.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 172.3 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 360°. Die notes: The I in UNITED is doubled.

Purchased by Harry Bass from our sale of the Armand Champa Collection, May 20, 1972, Lot 1067. Previously from Dr. J. Hewitt Judd's personal collection marketed by Abe Kosoff, later sold by Numismatic Enterprises in February 1966 (this consisting of a partnership of Abe's son, Steve Kosoff, and Mike Kliman), to the Coronet Coin Company (Nat Deutsch, Plandome, NY).

1877 P-1686 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

Just Two Known

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1224 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1686, J-1522. Rarity-8. Morgan's Liberty Head. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: Ivory Proof surfaces with moderate bluish green and rose toning. Light cameo contrast. Minor hairlines are faintly visible.

Narrative: Just two examples are currently known, the other being the Byron Reed coin, now in the collection of the Western Heritage Museum. It is interesting to note that both known examples trace their pedigrees back to the 19th century. The Byron Reed coin was acquired from the F.W. Doughty Collection in 1891. This present coin is pedigreed to the T. Harrison Garrett Collection, and was acquired by that Baltimore collector from George Cogan in 1883. George attempted to continue the business of his father, Edward Cogan, but did not make a successful go of it.

Combining as it does extreme rarity, a beautiful design, and high quality, this piece will no doubt attract wide attention when it crosses the auction block. It may represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the prospective bidder.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 184.0 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

From our sale of the William Sieck Collection, July 28, 1981, Lot 237. Previously from George Cogan, March 17, 1883; T. Harrison Garrett; from our sale of the Garrett Collection, Part I, November 1979, Lot 387. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 453.

1877 P-1687 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

A Rarity by Morgan

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1225 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1687, J-1523. Rarity-7. Morgan's Liberty Head. Proof-67 BN (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: A delightful gem with iridescent bluish green, blended with mint red around certain devices, and the border. Attractive maroon highlights the devices. High wire rim on the obverse at 12:00.

Narrative: Just three or four examples of this variety exist. Saul Teichman reports four such coins including the present Bass Collection coin, the example in our Morris Evans Collection, an example we sold in March 1996, and the Farouk Collection coin whose current whereabouts are unknown. Presumably the Farouk coin would not match the other three in quality.

Again, the combination of beautiful design, high grade, and great rarity come together in a single coin.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 184.1 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

From our sale of the Armand Champa Collection, May 20, 1972, Lot 1068. Previously from Lester Merkin's sale of September 1967, Lot 541, later going to Coronet Coin Company.

1877 P-1690 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

Barber's "Metric Head" Portrait

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1226 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1690, J-1524. Rarity-7. William Barber's Liberty Head. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: William Barber's design. Bust of Miss Liberty faces left, with 13 stars around and the date, 1877, below. Liberty is wearing a cap, which has a wide band inscribed LIBERTY. Her hair is tied back with a ribbon and the cap is ornamented with wheat ears, cotton leaves, and cotton bolls. Barber's initial B is under the neck truncation. This general motif was used in later years in connection with dollar patterns (see subsequent listings).

Reverse Design: An eagle is displayed on a shield with an olive branch and three arrows in its talons. The shield overlaps a round band inscribed, in Gothic letters, IN GOD WE TRUST, above, and E PLURIBUS UNUM, below. Around, the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, above, and the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below. The arrangement was probably by Barber, and it does not seem to have the artistic appeal of what Morgan might have done; this observation is, of course, highly subjective.

Surfaces: A sharply struck cameo Proof with faint gold toning and a few minor hairlines.

Narrative: Despite the "Rarity-6 to 7" rating assigned by Andrew Pollock, our opinion is that this pattern should receive a full Rarity-7 rating. Saul Teichman reports seven examples of this variety.

This variety is quite elusive, and representing as it does a scarce die and design, the present coin is of exceptional importance.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.7 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

Although much work has been done, considerable information is still needed regarding these 1877 half dollars. The basic designs were described and catalogued by Andrew Pollock, with further notes by Saul Teichman. Specific, detailed study of the obverse and reverse dies may further clarify what exists and what doesn't. Once a specific catalogue of obverse and reverse dies is developed, an emission sequence needs to be developed. Perhaps this information will add to the overall study of this fascinating pattern series. And once all of this is accomplished, on to the Standard Silver series.

From Stack's sale of the DiBello Collection, May 14, 1970, Lot 389.

1877 P-1691 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

"Metric Head"

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1227 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1691, J-1525. Rarity-6+. Barber's "Metric Head" motif. Proof-65 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: A lovely Proof with light coppery orange surfaces, slightly faded from full mint red. Sharply struck with moderate cameo contrast.

Narrative: As is the case with a number of other 1877 pattern half dollars, the true rarity is not known. Saul Teichman lists eight different examples of which he is aware, but notes that there are certain other listings which may present further possibilities. Thus, the present variety could be Rarity-7 (four to 12 known), or perhaps high Rarity-6. The splendid surfaces of the present piece rank it high on any listing of examples.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 172.6 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

From our sale of the Armand Champa Collection, May 20, 1972, Lot 1072. Previously from Stack's Gaston DiBello Sale, May 1970.

1877 P-1692 Pattern Half Dollar Rarity

"Metric Head"

Believed to Be Unique

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1228 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1692, J-1524. Unique. Barber's "Metric Head" motif. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: William Barber's so-called "Metric Head," similar in style to the preceding, but from a different die, this with the second digit 7 closer to the dentils.

Reverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: Light silver gray with bluish green toning. A very attractive and desirable example, despite a few minor surface impairments. Light cameo contrast.

Narrative: This is the only known specimen! We could easily stop the description here, for anything we might say about the surface, grade, or anything else, might be redundant. However, no narrative would be complete without stating that this die was first identified by Harry Bass, Jr., during the course of his research, and since that time no other silver example has been located. A piece was erroneously listed by us as P-1692 in our Morris Evans sale, but in actuality it should have been listed as P-1690. Thus, the present example remains unique, to our knowledge.

By bidding on this lot and the next lot, the collector has an opportunity to acquire the only two known examples from the die pair.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 186.7 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

Harry W. Bass, Jr. notes: Obverse: Unlisted, different design and date location. Date low.

From our sale of the Garrett Collection, Part I, November 28, 1979, Lot 388. Previously from the Dr. Edward Maris Collection. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 455a.

1877 Pattern Half Dollar

"Metric Head" in Copper

P-1693, Believed Unique

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1229 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1693, J-1525. Unique. "Metric Head" motif in copper. Proof-67 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: Sharply struck with considerable mint red highlighted by lilac and blue toning. Superb quality-a piece that even if it were not a rarity would be a highlight in any cabinet. However, it is a rarity-more in the next paragraph.

Narrative: This coin, believed to be unique, is struck from the same dies as the preceding lot and, like it, was first identified by Harry W. Bass, Jr. Thus, this is the unique copper counterpart to the unique silver piece offered earlier. The opportunity may be just as unique in your lifetime as the coin is!

Technical Aspects: Weight: 172.1 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

Purchased from RARCOA, February 26, 1972.

1877 Barber Pattern Half Dollar

Helmet Head of Liberty

A Showpiece in the Series

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1230 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1694, J-1526. Rarity-7. Liberty Head with helmet. Proof-65 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: Miss Liberty faces left with 13 stars arranged seven left and six right, and the date, 1877, below. She is wearing a crested helmet that is embossed with an eagle motif. The motto IN GOD WE TRUST is in small letters above. Liberty is incused on a wide band, or visor, at the base of the helmet.

Reverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: Brilliant ivory with heavy cameo contrast. A gem Proof example with pristine surfaces and a whisper of faint gold toning.

Narrative: This is a most unusual half dollar, and one that merits more than a passing discussion. The obverse motif is attributed to William Barber by Andrew Pollock, although the die is not signed. It could be Barber's work, and perhaps the style of the diadem reflects this. On the other hand, the intricacies of the helmet and the generally uncluttered appearance of the die are more like Morgan's work. Per contra, the date 1877 seems to be ever so slightly to the right, not quite centered, and this would be more indicative of Barber. The jury seems to be out on this one. The entire concept may have been borrowed from a sketch by Christian Gobrecht, mentioned in the introduction to the pattern section. Regardless of its authorship, the die has always been a showpiece among 1877 half dollars-a "must have" item.

The reverse is fairly cluttered with letters, spacers, etc., and is probably the work of Barber. Indeed, it appears elsewhere in combination with dies known to have been by Barber. The motto IN GOD WE TRUST appears above the shield, quite redundant as exactly the same motto is seen on the obverse. Thus, by any account this piece was a muling of two dies never intended to be mated.

Regarding the rarity of the issue, Saul Teichman reports only four examples, the other three being the Judd Collection coin, the DiBello Collection coin that we sold as part of the Morris Evans Collection, and the Cox-Boosel coin, which we sold as part of the Rogers M. Fred, Jr. Collection. In a period of less than four years, we have sold three of the four known examples of this variety. Please don't assume we will sell another one next year! Since 1970, there have only been eight auction appearances of this variety, including the present sale. Until the recent flurry of activity, this variety appeared for sale an average of once every five years. We are reminded of the concept of the 1787 Brasher gold doubloon. In 1979, two of them appeared at auction-one sold by RARCOA and the other sold by us, the latter a part of the Garrett Collection. Previous to that time, the entire generation had elapsed between offerings! Then, in the ensuing decade or so several pieces came on the market. So it may be with examples of the 1877 pattern half dollar offered here.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 193.1 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: On the obverse a short die line extends from the left base of the digit 1.

From New Netherlands Coin Co.'s 61st Sale, June 30, 1970, Lot 63. Previously from William H. Woodin, Waldo C. Newcomer, Col. E.H.R. Green, via B.G. Johnson, December 16, 1944. Plated in the Adams-Woodin reference. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 456.

1877 P-1698 Pattern Half Dollar

Helmet Head Obverse

Barber's Reverse

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1231 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1698, J-1530. Rarity-7. Liberty Head with helmet. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: Miss Liberty is shown with a helmet on her head, and an eagle embossed on the helmet-as offered earlier. Ascribed by Andrew Pollock to William Barber.

Reverse Design: An eagle with wings displayed, stands on a tablet inscribed E PLURIBUS UNUM. An olive branch and three arrows are in its talons. Above, the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, and below, the denomination, HALF DOLLAR. The entire central motif seems to be a bit "bulky," and although it is not signed, we have no problem suggesting William Barber fecit.

Surfaces: This is a gem Proof with deep mirrored fields and heavily frosted cameo devices. Extremely sharp strike.

Narrative: Only four examples of this variety are known, with-remarkably!-two in the present sale. The other two examples are the Byron Reed Collection coin in the Western Heritage Museum and the Garrett Collection coin sold by Stack's in March 1976 and, more recently, sold by us last year as part of the Morris Evans Collection.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 181.2 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

From our sale of the Garrett Collection, Part I, November 28, 1979, Lot 389. Previously from the Dr. Edward Maris Collection.

Another 1877 P-1698 Pattern Half Dollar

An Amazing Duplicate of P-1698!

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1232 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1698, J-1530. Rarity-7. Liberty Head. Proof-60 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: Heavily hairlined obverse. The reverse is nicer, with mirrored fields and light gold toning.

Narrative: This is a duplicate example of Pollock-1698, affording the underbidder on the previous lot another opportunity to acquire this variety. As noted, only four different specimens have been traced. Of these, just three are in private hands (outside of a museum), and 66 2/3% of that population is offered in the present sale!

Technical Aspects: Weight: 182.3 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

Purchased from Abe Kosoff, August 3, 1971. Previously from the Waldo C. Newcomer Collection, consigned to B. Max Mehl, unsold, then consigned to a J.C. Morgenthau auction, June 1932; F.C.C. Boyd, May 1946, to the Numismatic Gallery; sold to King Farouk of Egypt; "Palace Collections" sale, Sotheby's, 1954; later handled by M.H. Bolender, March 1957; sold to Maj. Lenox R. Lohr; Abner Kreisberg; Empire Coin Company (Q. David Bowers and James F. Ruddy), 1961; R.E. Cox, Jr.; Stack's sale of the Cox Collection, 1962; and the 1966 ANA Convention. Here is a coin that has "been around" to a lot of nice places!

1877 P-1699 Pattern Half Dollar

Helmet Head Style

Copper

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1233 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1699, J-1531. Rarity-7. Liberty Head. Proof-66 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: A lovely example with considerable mint red blended with lilac and blue. Sharply struck with very pleasing surfaces.

Narrative: This is one of the very finest of six examples currently known. According to notes by Saul Teichman, this is the first auction appearance of this variety since 1981, although another example was recently offered through a coin dealer's fixed price list.

The overall rarity of this issue plus its outstanding grade and eye appeal combine to yield yet another impressive, important opportunity.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 175.2 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 360°.

From Abner Kreisberg's "Quality" Sales Corp, November 30, 1970, Lot 1304.

1877 P-1700 Pattern Half Dollar

Barber' s Coronet Head/Perched Eagle

Just Two Known

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1234 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1700, J-1533. Rarity-8. Barber's Liberty Head. Proof-60 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: William Barber's head of Miss Liberty, facing left, with 13 stars arranged seven left and six right. The motto IN GOD WE TRUST is above, in small letters and the date, 1877, is below. Liberty is wearing a decorated coronet inscribed LIBERTY, and ornamented with wheat ears cotton leaves, and cotton bolls.

Reverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: Bright orange surfaces with slight reflectivity. Improperly cleaned with obverse and reverse hairlines. Considerable bright green discoloration is visible on both surfaces.

Narrative: Of major numismatic importance, as only a few such errors are known on pattern coinage. The blundered date on this obverse die is of major numismatic importance. Very seldom are blundered dates or overdates noted on pattern coinage. Three reverse dies were mated to this blundered obverse, with five variations catalogued by Andrew Pollock, including impressions in both silver and copper for two of the three die combinations. Of the five varieties, a grand total of just 12 coins are confirmed to exist. The present sale includes four of these 12 coins!

Only two examples of this variety are known, the other was sold by us as part of the Morris Evans Collection. Prior to that offering, the last auction appearance of either known example was in June 1971! Another exceedingly important opportunity.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 202.2 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: The date is blundered with a clear digit 1 beneath the left side of the 8. See the close-up illustration at the next lot.

From Lester Merkin's sale of February 13, 1971, Lot 912. Previously from Thomas L. Elder's 17th sale; Virgil M. Brand; Waldo C. Newcomer; King Farouk "Palace Collection," 1954; Abe Kosoff; Dr. J. Hewitt Judd; Kosoff's sale of the Judd Collection, 1962, Lot 506; Abe Kosoff ANA sale 1966, Lot 1216; Coronet Coin Co. Illustrated in Judd. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 459.

1877 P-1702 Pattern Half Dollar

Barber's Coronet Head/"Amazonian" Reverse

Two Known

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1235 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1702, J-1534. Rarity-7. Liberty Head. Proof-66 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: An eagle with wings displayed, stands on a tablet inscribed E PLURIBUS UNUM. An olive branch and three arrows are in its right claw and a shield is supported by its left. Above, the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, and below, the denomination, HALF DOLLAR. The reverse is somewhat reminiscent of the "Amazonian" reverse used by Barber on certain coinage of 1872, but on the present die the styling is not as graceful.

Surfaces: A lovely cameo Proof with bright blue toning and splashes of mint red. Sharply struck with pristine surfaces. Cleaned long ago, in the state of the monarch of the Kingdom of the Nile, and now with obverse and reverse hairlines.

Narrative: Just two examples of this variety are known in copper. One other coin is known in silver, catalogued as Pollock-1701. Therefore, a total of only three coins are known for the obverse-reverse die combination. The rarity of all 1877 pattern half dollars is well documented. Certainly, contemporary Mint personnel knew the numismatic importance of the coins they were producing, being well versed in the field of coin collecting. The limited production of such an extensive series certainly helped deepen their pockets.

As noted several times earlier in the present offering, contemporary Mint personnel were well versed in numismatic matters, and no doubt these and related pieces were made for their own benefit. Interestingly, and perhaps selfishly, they did not think to even provide the Mint Cabinet-which at the time was on the premises-with examples of the different strikings (today the Mint Collection is known as the National Coin Collection and is at the Smithsonian Institution).

Technical Aspects: Weight: 172.4 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: Blundered first digit in date, as described under the preceding lot, but illustrated here.

From Stack's Garrett Collection Sale, March 12, 1976, Lot 643. Previously from the Dr. Edward Maris Collection.

1877 P-1703 Pattern Half Dollar

Barber's Coronet Head

Silver; Just Three Known

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1236 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1703, J-1535. Rarity-8. Liberty Head. Proof-60 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: A heraldic eagle with a shield on its breast, holding an olive branch in its right talon and a bundle of arrows in its left. The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is in the field above the eagle. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is above and the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, is below. The proportions of the eagle and its olive branch, etc., seem to be somewhat irregular, marking this as an excellent candidate for the hand of William Barber or, perhaps, his son Charles. As noted earlier, the lack of local talent prompted Mint Director Henry R. Linderman to bring George T. Morgan to Philadelphia from England in 1876.

Surfaces: Light silver obverse with bright rose toning. The reverse is pewter with splashes of blue. A sharp impression with light hairlines and other surface marks.

Narrative: Just three examples are known, the other two being the Byron Reed coin now in the Western Heritage Museum, and the coin from our November 1979 sale of the Garrett Collection. Reiterating the word opportunity may be a bit tiresome, but on the other hand typically a period of decades will elapse between offerings of this variety! This section of the Bass Collection catalogue indeed represents the rarest of the rare.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 192.8 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

From Superior's Auction '82, August 1982, Lot 1500. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 461. This earlier appeared in Superior's sale of June 1981.

1877 P-1704 Pattern Half Dollar

Barber Motif as Preceding, but Copper

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1237 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1704, J-1536. Rarity-7. Liberty Head. Proof-66 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: Bright mint orange fields accented by blue and lilac. The cameo devices have distinct olive-brown toning. The reverse is similar to the obverse, with more blue around the device.

Narrative: Of this variety, Saul Teichman lists just four known, including the present example. The others are the Byron Reed Collection coin, the example we sold as part of the Rogers M. Fred, Jr. Collection in November 1995, and the Lemus Collection coin. This coin, of great beauty and incredible rarity, will be a prize in the cabinet of its next owner. Where can another be obtained at any price?

Technical Aspects: Weight: 183.8 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

From our sale of the Armand Champa Collection, May 20, 1972, Lot 1076. Earlier from the Maj. Lenox R. Lohr Collection (Empire Coin Company, 1961); R.E. Cox, Jr.; Stack's sale of March 1962 (this attribution tentative); Coronet Coin Company.

1877 P-1706 Pattern Half Dollar

Phrygian Cap Portrait/Perched Eagle

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1238 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1706, J-1538. Rarity-7. Capped Liberty Head. Proof-60 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: Head of Miss Liberty with a Phrygian cap, the classic liberty cap, close to her head. In the field 13 stars are arranged seven left and six right. The motto IN GOD WE TRUST is above, in small letters and the date, 1877, is below. Miss Liberty is wearing a large cap with the band inscribed LIBERTY and, just below, a laurel wreath in her hair. The authorship of this die is not known with certainty. It bears some resemblance to the visage of Anna Willess Williams and, overall, to Morgan's portrait of Miss Liberty as later used on the 1878 dollar. However, in the venue of 1877 patterns, it is most often combined with reverses attributed to George T. Morgan.

Surfaces: Cleaned in the past, now bright orange and light green. Numerous hairlines are visible on both obverse and reverse. The fields still retain considerable Proof character.

Narrative: Just four examples are noted by Saul Teichman, although the pedigree trail is anything but clear. However, the other three include the Byron Reed coin, a piece we sold as part of the Rogers M. Fred, Jr. Collection, and an example we sold from the Morris Evans Collection. Prior to the 1995 offering of the Fred Collection, the most recent auction appearance was in 1981!

Technical Aspects: Weight: 180.0 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

Purchased from Armand Champa, August 10, 1971. Earlier from the King Farouk "Palace Collection," 1954; possibly to Dr. J. Hewitt Judd; to Coronet Coin Company; Lester Merkin's sale of February 1971. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 462.

1877 P-1707 Pattern Half Dollar

Phrygian Cap Portrait/"Amazonian" Reverse

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1239 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1707, J-1539a. Rarity-7+. Capped Liberty Head. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: An eagle with wings displayed, stands on a tablet inscribed E PLURIBUS UNUM. An olive branch and three arrows are in its right claw and a shield is supported by its left. Above, the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, and below, the denomination, HALF DOLLAR. This die, almost certainly the work of William Barber, has some similarity to the "Amazonian" reverse used on certain patterns of 1872.

Surfaces: Bright silvery white with splashes of brownish lilac toning. Deep mirrored fields around lightly frosty cameo devices.

Narrative: Just three known examples have been confirmed by Saul Teichman, with two of these from the Garrett Collection. The other Garrett coin has not been seen since it was sold by us in November 1979. The third example was part of the Morris Evans Collection which we sold last August.

The 1877 pattern half dollars toward the end of the Pollock listing-primarily pieces attributed to William Barber-are as a class even rarer than some of the earlier listed pieces by Morgan. Of course, in an absolute sense all are extreme rarities, it is just that some are even rarer than others.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 186.4 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

From Superior's sale of the Davenport Collection, February 21, 1977, Lot 843. A Garrett Collection duplicate, according to the Superior catalogue. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 463.

1877 P-1711 Pattern Half Dollar

Attributed to Paquet

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1240 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1711, J-1540. Rarity-7. Paquet's Liberty Head. Proof-65 (PCGS). Unlisted as a specific die, but generally attributed as P-1711, J-1540. Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: Miss Liberty faces left with 13 stars around and the date, 1877, below. She is wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY with a star at the point. Her hair is tied in a bun behind her neck. This variety has the tip of the bust point left of the digit 1. The date positions were first identified by Harry Bass. All examples of this sub-variety of P-1711 have the obverse die cracked through the date and stars 1 to 5. The other sub-variety, offered in the next lot, has the obverse die perfect. An example in copper, part of the Morris Evans Collection, Lot 2094, is from the first obverse die with the die crack visible. Copper impressions from the second obverse die have not been identified.

Reverse Design: A heraldic eagle with shield on its breast. The eagle holds three arrows in its left claw and an olive branch in its right claw. A ribbon held by the eagle's beak is inscribed: E PLURIBUS UNUM. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is around, and the denomination, HALF DOL., is below.

Surfaces: Bright ivory with vivid gold toning around the edges. Sharply struck with minimal abrasions.

Narrative: Only four examples have been identified. Thus, the present opportunity is extremely significant.

Perhaps most important is the fact that this and the following lot constitute an entirely different motif among pattern 1877 half dollars, one that does not seem to be tied by muling or die combination to any of the others. The obverse portrait of Miss Liberty is quite small and seems to bear no particular relationship to any other portraits of this year, although a very slight resemblance of the face can be drawn to the 1874 $10 pattern made by William Barber for Dana Bickford. However, there are only so many ways that the face of Miss Liberty could be limned, and the resemblance may not be significant. Similarly, the overall style is somewhat similar to Pollock-5075, probably made in Paris by Bouvet. If anything, the present P-1711 can form a focal point for any further research on patterns of this year. Not simplifying the matter is the use of different date numerals than found on any other 1877 obverse. Typically, 1877 dates from four-digit Mint logotypes have the digits arranged in a straight line, and with the 7s ornate or "sculpted" at the top. The present digits are arranged in a curve, and the 7s are plain at the top.

The reverse does not display the artistic balance of Morgan, as the wings seem to be too heavy for the rest of the bird. On the other hand, it does not have the clumsy aspects of a Barber die.

For any collection of 1877 pattern half dollars this (and/or the following) will represent a very important acquisition.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 193.8 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: A die crack encircles the obverse, from star 12 to star 13, the base of the date, and stars 1 through 5. The obverse has numerous raised die lines covering the fields.

From Lester Merkin's sale of June 26, 1970, Lot 649. Previously from Judd, Illustrated History, Lot 511. Illustrated in Judd. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 465.

1877 P-1711 Pattern Half Dollar

Attributed to Paquet

Second Die Variety

Discovered by Harry Bass, Jr.

Unique

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1241 1877 pattern half dollar. P-1711, J-1540. Rarity-8. Paquet's Liberty Head. Proof-62 (PCGS). Unlisted die, and, indeed, different from the preceding lot, but like it, also generally listed as P-1711, J-1540. Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: General style as preceding, but from a different die. The bust point is over the extreme left edge of the base of 1. On the other obverse, in the previous lot, this bust point is noticeably left of the digit 1. It is interesting to note that this die variety, discovered by Harry Bass, was mentioned by Andrew Pollock, however, not assigned a separate catalogue number.

Reverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: Sharply struck with bright silver surfaces and light cameo contrast. Numerous minor abrasions are visible in the fields, however, none stand out as distracting. The date and all obverse stars are doubled.

Narrative: This is the only example from this obverse die that has been identified. As such, it is incredibly important for the pattern specialist. Very few unique strikings of a given die exist in the entire pattern series from 1792 onward, as often a striking that might be unique in a particular metal might be available in another metal; that is, a piece that might be unique in gold and or in silver might be available in copper, or whatever. In the present instance, this coin is It -no other impressions from this die are known in any other combination or in any other metal.

The fact that this variety was discovered by Harry Bass lends additional importance in the context of the present sale. Further, it basks in the aura of the portrait mystery described earlier under Lot 1240.

All in all this is a landmark offering.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.5 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

Harry W. Bass, Jr. notes: New obverse die, unlisted: different date location, die not cracked!

From our sale of the Armand Champa Collection, May 20, 1972, Lot 1079. Earlier from Kosoff, Higgy Collection, 1943. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 466.

1879 Morgan Pattern 50¢

P-1796, Silver

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1242 1879 pattern half dollar. P-1796, J-1601. Rarity-6. Morgan's Liberty Head. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: The obverse of the Morgan dollar, reduced in size to fit the diameter of the half dollar.

Reverse Design: A tall, standing eagle with wings spread and head turned to the viewer's left. Around, the legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, and the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below. The motto, IN GOD WE TRUST, is placed in the field beside and below the eagle.

Surfaces: Weak central details, stronger about the periphery. Light die striae are noted. An attractive cameo Proof with attractive iridescent toning in rose, blue-green, and lilac.

Narrative: A simply gorgeous coin, a showpiece for the specialist in pattern half dollars, or, by association, the Morgan dollar enthusiast.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 192.5 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

Purchased from Brinton T. Schorer, May 3, 1973.

1879 Morgan Pattern 50¢

P-1797, Copper

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1243 1879 pattern half dollar. P-1797, J-1602. Rarity-7. Morgan's Liberty Head. Proof-64 RD (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.

Obverse Design: As preceding.

Reverse Design: As preceding.

Surfaces: An incredible gem with absolutely full, bright mint red. Delightful cameo contrast and pristine surfaces. A superb gem.

Narrative: Identical to the preceding lot, only struck in copper. The copper impressions seem to be slightly scarcer than those in silver. We cannot imagine any nicer example than the present coin.

Technical Aspects: Weight: 167.3 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.

Purchased from Lee Hewitt, April 17, 1972. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 505.