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

Gem Mint State 1850 Gold Dollar

Finest Certified

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36     1850 MS-66 (PCGS). Superb frosty yellow gold lustre. Slightly weak on the very highest points of Miss Liberty’s hair, otherwise quite sharply defined. This is a relatively common date, however, of much finer quality than normally seen. A delightful gem for the date or type collector.

PCGS Population: 1; none finer.

Faint die polish lines are noted on both obverse and reverse, this probably from relapping or resurfacing the dies. The aspect of die striae and polish lines have been very lightly treated in numismatic literature, and yet is interesting and is one of the keys to effective study of Mint procedures. Thus, here and there throughout the Bass Collection listings we make note of such features. The reverse has a very thin bisecting crack from the border at 4:00 through CA, right branch, ribbon bow, left branch, and I of UNITED, not quite reaching the border at 8:30. Some missing or attenuated design details suggest this reverse die has been lapped.

Purchased from John N. Rowe, III, August 19, 1966.

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37     1850 MS-63 (PCGS). Satiny greenish gold lustre with a few very minor surface marks. Very sharply struck with slightly reflective, almost prooflike surfaces. A very pleasing coin for the specialist, or for the date or type collector, with considerable aesthetic appeal.

Nearly vertical striae appear on both obverse and reverse, in this instance seeming to indicate a very early striking from the die pair. Perfect obverse and reverse dies (no cracks).

Purchased from Walter Matloff, February 29, 1972.

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38     1850 MS-63. Frosty light greenish gold lustre with very slight weakness only on the highest points, representing as they do the deepest recesses of the coinage dies. A few light surface marks are noted, however, none are serious or particularly different from what would be expected on an MS-63 coin. A nice coin for your type set.

Peripheral die cracks on the reverse connect most letters of UNITED STATES OF.

Purchased from Rowe and Brownlee, February 24, 1967.

Rare Mint State 1850-C Gold Dollar

Mintage: 6,966 Coins

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39     1850-C MS-61 (PCGS). Reflective light yellow gold lustre with extremely sharp design details and scattered surface marks, most notably a short diagonal scratch in the left obverse field. An extremely important opportunity for the specialist, this example is among the five or six finest known. Fifth finest known in Douglas Winter’s census grades just MS-60, the present piece is Condition Census per the literature. Winter further noted: "While slightly overrated in lower grades, this date is a legitimate rarity in full AU or Uncirculated." This is the second lowest mintage of any Charlotte Mint gold dollar issue with 6,966 coins struck and perhaps 1% surviving today. Walter Breen observed that this issue is extremely rare in Mint State. Indeed, over the years very few true Mint State examples have ever been seen, even by the most expert of experts.

PCGS Population: 6; 4 finer (MS-62).

Taken at face value these numbers would indicate that there are 10 MS-61 and MS-62 1850-C gold dollars in numismatic hands, not to mention any pieces that may have been certified by NGC, ICS, and other services. We suspect that reality in terms of different specimens is otherwise. No doubt the net number is a much smaller figure.

Two pairs of dies are known for this issue, both with the Closed Wreath, which by that time had become standard. Mintage decreased to just 6,966 coins, creating the lowest production figure of any gold dollar of the years 1849-1853.

Purchased from Rowe and Brownlee, February 24, 1967.

Important Mint State 1850-D Gold Dollar

High Condition Census

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40     1850-D MS-62 (PCGS). A lovely example with satiny bright yellow gold lustre and wonderfully sharp design definition. The surfaces are quite choice for the assigned grade with a few very minor hairlines. One of the very finest in existence, a truly important Dahlonega coin, a landmark for the specialist in the series. With regard to mintage and rarity, this issue is in the middle of the series of Dahlonega Mint gold dollars.

In 1850, this Georgia mint produced 8,382 gold dollars, the third highest mintage of any issue from 1849 to 1861. Perhaps it is this mintage that explains why this issue is so underrated. Only four issues are rarer in high grade according to Douglas Winter. His "High Grade Rarity" ranks the number known in AU-50 and higher grades, certainly appropriate information in relation to the present sale. Interestingly, this present issue is ranked between 1860-D and 1861-D issues for rarity in high grade.

PCGS Population: 2; 1 finer (MS-63).

Minor reverse clash marks.

Three pairs of dies, including three reverses dated 1850, were shipped from the Philadelphia mint to Dahlonega on December 11, 1849, for use in 1850; another pair of dies was sent by mistake to the Charlotte Mint, but on April 3, 1850, were forwarded from that point to the correct destination. Apparently, a larger mintage was anticipated than actually occurred. This was to be the story of many issues of this era, for it was easier for the Philadelphia Mint to make up a larger group of dies on speculation than to later receive orders from a distance and make up the die pairs individually. Considering the time needed to make the dies, the set up at the Philadelphia Mint, and the time lag in communications, the latter method would have caused more problems than the procedure used, even though at first glance the making of extra die pairs seems redundant.

The mintage of the 1850-D went into circulation, and all the pieces were used intensively. The typical grade tends to be quite low, in fact, per David Akers, "the third lowest average grade of any gold dollar in the entire series."

Purchased from Fred Sweeney, September 18, 1972.

Rare Mint State 1850-O Gold Dollar

Finest Certified

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41     1850-O MS-64 (PCGS). Very sharply struck in light yellow gold with frosty lustre. A delightful example of this rarity, indeed among the very finest known examples. Just 14,000 gold dollars were struck in New Orleans during the course of the year, by a wide margin the lowest mintage of any gold dollar issue from this mint. The finest noted by Douglas Winter is a different coin graded MS-64 with a small number of MS-63 examples in the census.

PCGS Population: 1; none finer.

Minor rust marks are visible on Miss Liberty’s neck and jaw.

Purchased from Walter Matloff, February 29, 1972.

42     1850-O AU-55. An altogether pleasing example of this scarce issue with considerable frosty lustre and attractive orange and lilac toning. Very sharply struck. A few minor surface impairments are noted, including short parallel scratches below the neck truncation.

Minor rust marks are visible on Miss Liberty’s neck and jaw.

From Stack’s sale of the Scanlon Collection, October 1973, Lot 1920.

Superb Gem 1851 Gold Dollar

A Rarity So Choice

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43     1851 MS-66 (PCGS). Rich frosty yellow gold lustre with sharp design details exhibiting only very slight weakness on the highest points. This is a wonderful coin especially suited for the type collector. The mintage of this issue is exceeded only by the 1853 issue, thus, this issue must be considered common. Still a rarity, as are all Type I gold dollars, when in gem Mint State condition.

Purchased from Stanley Kesselman, April 13, 1971.

Another Superb Gem 1851 Gold Dollar

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44     1851 MS-66 (PCGS). Frosty deep yellow gold lustre with very sharp design details. Another very pleasing example for the connoisseur.

Purchased from Julian Leidman, March 14, 1972.

Frosty Mint State 1851 Gold Dollar

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45     1851 MS-64 (PCGS). Frosty light yellow gold lustre with a hint of orange toning on the high points of the obverse. A wonderful example at this grade level—certainly in the top 1% of survivors of coins of this date.

Purchased from Stanley Kesselman, August 23, 1971.

Choice Mint State 1851 Gold Dollar

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46     1851 MS-64 (PCGS). Highly lustrous light yellow gold with a faint trace of amber toning. A few minor surface marks are noted, consistent with the grade assigned.

From the Goliad Corporation, December 16, 1971.

47     1851 MS-63. Another choice Mint State example of this popular issue with frosty light yellow gold lustre and very minor surface marks. Sharp design details although the lower obverse stars are weak.

Purchased from Walter Matloff, February 29, 1972.

48     1851 MS-62. A further attractive Mint State 1851 gold dollar. Sharply struck with pale orange-gold lustre and very minor abrasions. A splash of light orange toning is visible on the reverse.

Purchased from Stanley Kesselman, August 30, 1971.

Attractive Mint State 1851-C Gold Dollar

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49     1851-C MS-63 (PCGS). Sharply struck with frosty yellow gold lustre and light orange toning. A most attractive example with only a few minor surface impairments. With a mintage of 41,267 coins, this single issue accounts for 35% of the total gold dollar production at the Charlotte Mint. Therefore, this issue is the most common of any Charlotte gold dollar and the only one generally available in Mint State condition. Don’t be fooled, however, for Douglas Winter noted that only 10 to 15 Mint State examples survive. Common only by Charlotte Mint standards, this is a rarity in absolute terms.

Light die polish lines are visible. The reverse has a die crack connecting the tops of F AM.

Apparently three pairs of dies were sent from Philadelphia to Charlotte. Beginning around this time, leftover obverse dies from earlier dates could be used, as the obverses were dateless. Only detailed studies of minute die differences would pinpoint such a procedure, and to date that has not been done (we note here that Douglas Winter’s later book on Dahlonega gold coins contains much technical die information, but the Charlotte text is not as technical). No doubt if Doug Winter picks up quill pen and returns to his writing desk on the subject of Charlotte gold, the present catalogue will be quoted extensively (permission granted).

Purchased from Rowe and Brownlee, February 24, 1967.

50     1851-C AU-58. Light yellow gold with sharp design details and nearly complete lustre. Very lightly abraded surfaces, much nicer than generally seen among coins from this southern mint.

A die crack connects the border with the left side of final S in STATES.

From Stack’s sale of December 1972, Lot 472.

51     1851-C AU-55. Lustrous light greenish gold with very pleasing, in fact choice, surfaces. Another opportunity for the specialist, or the date or type collector, to acquire a pleasing example of this issue.

A die crack connects the border with the left side of final S in STATES.

Purchased from Rarcoa, July 24, 1972.

Condition Census 1851-D Gold Dollar

Tied for Fourth Finest

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52     1851-D MS-62 (PCGS). Brilliant, frosty light yellow gold with sharp design details. Very minor surface marks are noted, including a small abrasion on Liberty’s cheek. Considerable die polish is visible on the reverse. With a comparatively high mintage of 9,882 coins (only 1849-D has a higher mintage among Dahlonega Mint gold dollars) this issue is the second most available among all gold dollars from this mint. For the collector desiring a nice Mint State Dahlonega Mint gold dollar for his or her type set, this is an ideal candidate. As with all coinage, however, it is important to remember that mintage figures tell only part of the story. While we suggest that a mintage of under 10,000 coins is rather high for these issues, this mintage would suggest a major rarity if in the context of Philadelphia Mint gold dollars of this same design. Only a few finer examples exist, according to the Condition Census reported by Douglas Winter.

PCGS Population: 5; 2 finer (MS-64 finest).

Regarding the existence of coins and their availability, sometimes the twain do not meet. Of a given issue five or 10 coins might be in collections or museums, but it can also be the case that examples will appear on the market only at widely spaced intervals.

Five 1851-D reverse dies were shipped to Dahlonega, but so far as is known, just two were pressed (literally) into service, both eventually cracking. The mintage of 9,882 pieces was accomplished on two deliveries (from the coining department to the registration or shipping department) of 3,147 in February and 6,735 in June. The circumstances of distribution of the 1851-D are not known, but studies of extant pieces (including David Akers’ excellent study on) reveal that this variety is more often seen in higher grades such as AU, than are most other Dahlonega pieces. One of the mysteries of this or any other coin is that, except for cabinet pieces (non-existent in the Dahlonega series), coins hold their secrets well—one does not know where they have been over the years.

From Stanley Kesselman, August 30, 1971.

Important 1851-D Gold Dollar

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53     1851-D AU-55 (PCGS). This is the second most common Dahlonega Mint gold dollar, despite a mintage of just 9,882 coins. In comparison with all Type I gold dollars, however, the mintage is seventh lowest of 23 issues. Light yellow gold with nearly full lustre and very lightly abraded surfaces. Quite sharp although not fully struck. In the context of Dahlonega Mint gold dollars, this example is far above average in terms of design definition.

Heavy obverse and reverse clash marks.

From Stack’s sale of the Charles Jay Collection, October 1967, Lot 196.

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54     1851-D AU-50. Light greenish yellow gold with considerable remaining lustre and very pleasing surfaces. Slightly weak at the center of the obverse. Quite scarce at this grade level.

Purchased from Rowe and Brownlee, February 24, 1967.

55     1851-D Net EF-45, sharpness of AU-55, polished. Greenish yellow gold with extremely sharp design details.

The obverse has a small rim break, or cud, at 1:00. Clash marks are visible on the reverse.

Purchased from Joe Flynn, Sr. Coin Co., December 13, 1972.

56     1851-O MS-62 (PCGS). This desirable Mint State example has bright yellow gold lustre with sharp design details. A few very minor abrasions are noted, taking the form of minor surface marks and faint hairlines. Although 290,000 coins were minted, very few survive in grades better than MS-60. Heavy obverse stars as described by Breen and Winter.

The obverse has two die cracks, one from the border at 9:00 to Miss Liberty’s eyelid and into her hair; the other from 11:00 to the center of her coronet.

Purchased from Walter Matloff, February 29, 1972.

Lovely Gem 1852 Gold Dollar

Superb Quality

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57     1852 MS-66 (PCGS). An aesthetically desirable example with frosty yellow gold lustre. Sharply struck with virtually flawless surfaces. A planchet flake is noted at the base of the large digit 1 on the reverse.

PCGS Population: 4; 4 finer (MS-69 finest).

The obverse has several parallel die lines of varying length diagonally down to the left from Miss Liberty’s neck and jaw. Two curious raised dots appear in the reverse field, one below the upright of D and the other below the tail of R. These appear perfectly round and do not resemble random rust marks.

On the reverse, repunching is visible inside the loop of 5 just above the bottom curve.

Purchased from the Goliad Corporation, November 9, 1971.

Choice Mint State 1852 Gold Dollar

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58     1852 MS-64. Sharply struck with frosty light yellow gold lustre and very few minor surface marks. An attractive example for your type collection or date set.

The obverse die is shattered with a series of fine die cracks. The reverse is the same die described in the previous lot, including the curious raised dots.

Repunched date as described in the lot above.

Purchased from Walter Matloff, February 29, 1972.

59     1852 MS-63. Lustrous light yellow gold with a few very minor surface marks. A lovely coin for a type set. After all, in the wide world of numismatics, really nice MS-63 Type I gold dollars are not all that easy to find, particularly in relation to the demand for them.

The top of the digit 1 in the date is doubled, however, not enough for this to qualify as Breen-6020, the rare variety with recut 18.

Purchased from Stanley Kesselman, March 9, 1971.

60     1852 MS-62. Lustrous and sharply struck in light greenish gold. A few very minor surface marks are present, however, this is a lovely Mint State gold dollar.

From Abe Kosoff’s ANA Sale, August 1968, Lot 760.

Amazing 1852-C Gold Dollar

From the Norweb Collection

Among the Finest Known

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61     1852-C MS-64 (PCGS). Possibly the second finest known example, exceeded only by a gem that appeared in Auction ’81. Sharply struck in brilliant greenish yellow gold, the obverse fields around the border are frosty, changing to prooflike around the devices. This surface provides an attractive frame for Miss Liberty. The reverse has a small planchet imperfection, as struck, upward from the second L in DOLLAR. Douglas Winter noted this flaw is common to several known examples of this issue: "A number of examples show weakness from the bases of LA in DOLLAR up to the base of 1 (i.e., the denomination). This was caused by the adherence of some foreign matter to the dies at the time of striking. As this was mint-induced, and is frequently seen on surviving examples, this ‘imperfection’ should not adversely affect the value of the coin." This spectacular coin represents the finest certified by PCGS. The issue is scarce in all grades; the mintage of 9,434 coins is the second lowest Charlotte mintage of the design.

PCGS Population: 8; none finer.

We thank David T. Alexander for the two nice articles he has contributed to COINage magazine on the numismatic legacy of Emery May Holden Norweb and the Norweb family. These are written in an interesting manner and no doubt have served to introduce this super-collector lady to a wider audience than originally achieved through the book written by Michael Hodder and your editor, The Norweb Collection: An American Legacy.

In the early 1980s when we showcased the John W. Adams Collection of 1794-dated large cents in a special catalogue all its own, we noted that John, while he collected coins, also "collected collectors." To him, the pedigree of a coin added a great deal of interest and desirability to a specimen. In the intervening years we have seen many other numismatists subscribe to this theory. Today, in 1999, the correct attribution of a pedigree to a famous collection, or a notable hoard (our recent sale of the S.S. Brother Jonathan treasure coins comes to mind), or some other tangible link with a person or historical event, can immensely increase its appreciation to its owner. Fortunately for participants in the present sale, Harry Bass kept meticulous records, and all but a few of the individual lots are accompanied by pedigrees as to his source. To each of these listings must now be added the Bass Collection pedigree itself.

From our sale of the Norweb Collection, March 1988, Lot 1865. Formerly from Sotheby’s sale of the King Farouk Collection, February 1954, Lot 285.

Desirable 1852-D Gold Dollar

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62     1852-D AU-58 (PCGS). Bright yellow gold lustre with reflective surfaces obscured by only the slightest wear on the high points. Very light surface marks are noted, considerably less abraded than it may appear at first glance. A splendid, indeed memorable example of an issue which when seen is apt to be in much lower grade. Another find for the specialist.

Numerous die polish lines and clash marks, as struck, give the appearance of somewhat marred surfaces. Douglas Winter alluded to this in Gold Coins of the Dahlonega Mint when he noted "due to a number of distinct striking characteristics, the surfaces of most 1852-D gold dollars have a decidedly ‘busy’ appearance. There are usually multiple clash marks before the face of Liberty and the nose is always broken. This is the result of die lapping and is evidenced by a shiny area in front of the forehead. The obverse shows a number of raised die scratches which can be seen even on worn specimens." This example shows all of these various characteristics.

On the reverse, several radial die cracks extend from the reverse border inward.

In 1851 the Philadelphia Mint shipped two 1852-D reverse dies to the Dahlonega Mint, but it is believed that only one actually saw service. At the time there were still sufficient undated obverse dies on hand to take care of anticipated requirements. In due course, 6,360 pieces were struck, but what happened to them no one knows for sure. It is known, however, that today the 1852-D is significantly rarer than its low mintage suggests, and is a prime key in the series.

From Stack’s sale of the Alto Collection, December 1970, Lot 12.

63     1852-D AU-50. An attractive example with greenish gold surfaces and considerable frosty lustre. Considerably high aesthetic appeal with very pleasing surfaces for the grade. This example has the reverse rotated almost 180° from the normal position.

Very similar die state to the previous lot, perhaps just slightly earlier.

From Paramount’s session of the Auction ’86 sale, Lot 1846.

Desirable 1852-O Gold Dollar

Probably Condition Census

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64     1852-O MS-63. Sharply struck with satiny greenish gold lustre and very few marks of any kind. This issue is much scarcer in choice Mint State quality than the mintage of 140,000 coins would suggest. The presently offered example is probably among the top six known examples, though brushmarks are noted.

A heavy die crack from the border passes through the star at 12:00 and through the coronet to Miss Liberty’s hair. Another crack joins the star at 3:00 with the border.

Purchased from Julian Leidman, February 16, 1972.

65     1852-O AU-58 (PCGS). Frosty light yellow gold lustre with scattered surface marks as expected. Quite sharply struck although portions of the obverse and reverse borders are weak. A pleasing coin for the date collector or variety specialist.

The obverse has minor die chips near the star at 2:00.

Purchased from Lester Merkin, April 1970, Lot 618.

66     1852-O AU-55. Light yellow gold with considerable lustre. An attractive example of this scarce issue.

An obverse die crack from the border passes through the star at 1:00 to the top of Miss Liberty’s head.

Purchased from Rowe and Brownlee, February 24, 1967.

67     1853 MS-63 (PCGS). Deep yellow gold lustre, satiny in nature, with few minuscule abrasions. An attractive example of this plentiful date; an ideal choice for the collector of coins by design type. An interesting coin, as well, for the die state specialist.

Several very light die cracks extend through several stars on the obverse.

From Stack’s sale of February 1972, Lot 588.

68     1853 MS-63. Lustrous light yellow gold with extremely sharp design details and only a few very light scattered marks. An attractive type coin.

From New Netherlands Coin Company’s 61st Sale, June 1970, Lot 427.

69     1853 MS-63. Another delightful Mint State 1853 gold dollar with lustrous light yellow surfaces and only a few scattered surface marks. A desirable example of the issue.

Similar obverse die cracks as found on the first example of this issue offered above, however, not as advanced.

Purchased from Stanley Kesselman, August 30, 1971.

Quintette of 1853 Gold Dollars

70     Quintette of 1853 gold dollars, each graded MS-62. All are brilliant and lustrous. (Total: 5 pieces)

Amazing 1853-C Gold Dollar

Among the Finest Known

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71     1853-C MS-62 (PCGS). This amazing jewel has deep greenish gold lustre with faint orange toning. Softly struck on the high points of Ms. Liberty’s hair. Although the surfaces do show very minor abrasions, overall, this is one of the finest existing 1853-C gold dollars. Not specifically mentioned by Douglas Winter in his roster of finest examples, he notes only one MS-63 example, another graded MS-60 to 63, and the balance of Mint State examples all in the MS-60 range. Winter further notes that this is one of the rarest Charlotte Mint gold dollars in Mint State condition.

Perfect dies.

From Stack’s sale of March 1973, Lot 735.

Rare 1853-D Gold Dollar

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72     1853-D MS-61 (PCGS). Lustrous dark yellow gold with extremely choice surfaces. The quality of this example is exceeded by very few, if any other survivors from the mintage of just 6,583 coins. Sharply struck with very slight weakness on the highest points of the hair and among the wreath. The borders are bold and complete. Compare this with the Breen description quoted below. Douglas Winter reported only three finer examples in his Condition Census. Of course, unless various examples are seen at the same time side by side, there is no way of knowing as to whether "finer" examples are, indeed, truly finer.

PCGS Population: 2; 3 finer (MS-64 finest).

Several die file lines and polish lines are noted.

Three 1853-D reverse dies were supplied to the Dahlonega Mint, but it seems that just one of these was used to produce the recorded mintage of 6,583 pieces. Sufficient obverse dies still remained on hand. In his Encyclopedia Walter Breen comments: "usually poorly struck." The same remark could be repeated throughout the present or any other offering of Dahlonega Mint issues.

From Stack’s sale of March 1973, Lot 736.

73     1853-D EF-45. Light greenish gold with minor surface marks. Considerable lustre remains and the impression from the dies was quite sharp.

Light clash marks are visible on both obverse and reverse.

Purchased from Rowe and Brownlee, February 24, 1967.

74     1853-D EF-40. An attractive example with minor abrasions and other impairments. Typical grade for most 1853-D gold dollars in numismatic circulation. The reverse of this example is rotated 90°.

Minor die cracks and clash marks.

Purchased from Abner Kreisberg, April 14, 1972.

75     1853-O MS-62. Highly lustrous deep yellow gold with very choice surfaces. Perhaps finer than the grade assigned, this is a delightful Mint State example. Interestingly, the New Orleans Mint struck an identical number of gold dollars in 1851 and 1853, however, this 1853-O issue is more available, especially in Mint State quality.

Light die rust is noted on the obverse.

Purchased from Rowe and Brownlee, February 24, 1967.

76     1853-O MS-62. Satiny greenish gold lustre with very nice surfaces for the grade. Extremely sharply struck. A small dark stain is visible below the bust, serving as a pedigree marker.

Purchased from Walter Matloff, February 29, 1972.

Choice Mint State 1854 Gold Dollar

Type I

Liberty Head

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77     1854 Type I. MS-64. A wonderful example with extraordinary design details and lovely deep yellow gold lustre. The surfaces are virtually flawless. Although not a scarce date, the mintage of this final Type I issue was limited to under one million coins. A coin equally suited to the specialist, the date and mintmark collector, or someone seeking a piece simply for a type set.

The reverse has an interior cud, or die break, on the leaf below I of UNITED, attached to that letter.

From Stack’s sale of the DiBello Collection, May 1970, Lot 532.

78     1854 Type I. MS-63. A wonderful, sharply struck example with bright yellow gold lustre and minimal surface abrasions.

A small bulge is located in the upper left obverse field, in front of the forehead. Clash marks are noted inside the wreath.

Purchased from John N. Rowe, III, August 19, 1966.

79     1854 Type I. MS-63. A lovely Mint State example with bright, frosty yellow gold lustre. A few scattered surface marks are noted.

From the same dies as the previous lot with the obverse bulge and reverse clash marks both visible.

Purchased from Rarcoa, April 24, 1972.

80     1854 Type I. MS-62. Another lovely Mint State 1854 gold dollar with sharp design details and frosty light yellow gold lustre.

From the same dies as the previous two lots with the obverse bulge smaller and the reverse clash marks fainter.

Purchased from Rowe and Brownlee, February 24, 1967.

81     1854 Type I. MS-62. Highly lustrous bright yellow gold with sharp design details, another wonderful opportunity.

From the same dies as previous lots, the obverse bulge as on the last lot, the reverse clash marks very faint.

Purchased from Julian Leidman, February 16, 1972.

Rare 1854-D Gold Dollar

Just 2,935 Minted

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82     1854-D Type I. MS-61 (PCGS). This wonderful Dahlonega gold dollar has nearly full bright yellow gold lustre with a hint of orange, and with very pleasing surfaces, free of any serious impairments. Several heavy die scratches are present on both obverse and reverse, strictly as struck and not affecting the quality of this coin in any sense. Douglas Winter listed only four Mint State examples of this date in his reference on Dahlonega gold, with another small group of AU-58 coins. Of course, he was not aware of this example and it is not included in his roster. Only three examples in his Condition Census are reported at a finer grade than this. This issue has the lowest mintage of any Type I gold dollar. Respectable strike although the lower left portion of the wreath is weak.

As is so often the case in the Bass Collection, the opportunity to acquire a rarity is more important than the price paid. No matter what the successful bidder pays for this 1854-D, he or she will then own it, while hundreds if not thousands of gold dollar aficionados will still be seeking a similar specimen and dreaming of an ownership opportunity.

PCGS Population: 3; 2 finer (MS-62 finest).

Among Type I gold dollars of the 1849-1854 era, the 1854-D stands tall and proud among Dahlonega issues. First, it is the absolute rarest, both from a mintage viewpoint (2,935) and from the aspect of examples than can be traced today. It is believed that all were struck from one reverse die (the obverse has not been as closely studied), this die being one of three shipped to Dahlonega for use this year. Again, enough obverses were on hand that no additional obverse dies were required. Regarding the number surviving from the 2,935 mintage, a ratio of 3% to 4% would suggest about 100 pieces, which, indeed, is probably quite close to the mark. In any given year, very few pieces appear on the open market.

Purchased from Walter Matloff, February 29, 1972.

83     1854-S Type I. AU-58 (PCGS). Sharply struck with attractive orange-gold lustre. Frosty lustre gives way to reflective, nearly prooflike surfaces around the devices. A most attractive presentation. Just 14,632 gold dollars were minted in San Francisco in 1854. This is the first year of operation at the San Francisco Mint and the only Type I gold dollar from this mint.

Perfect dies (no cracks). Faint striae visible on the reverse, perhaps indicating that this is an early impression from that die.

From Stack’s sale of April 1978, Lot 762.

84     1854-S Type I. AU-55. Another lovely example of this issue, deep yellow gold with considerable lustre and traces of dark orange toning. Sharply struck with very choice surfaces, especially in the context of this grade.

From Stack’s sale of March 1973, Lot 740.

Choice Mint State 1854 Gold Dollar

Small Indian Head

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85     1854 Type II. MS-64 (PCGS). A lovely example with soft, satiny yellow gold lustre; traces of olive patina are visible on obverse and reverse. Very minor surface marks include a thin hairline scratch in the left obverse field. The new and very scarce small Indian Head, often called the Indian Princess design by James Barton Longacre, makes its debut. This design was only issued for three years from 1854 to 1856 with a total mintage well under two million coins. Examples are scarce in any grade and choice or gem Mint State coins are quite rare. The design was poorly laid out for coinage and most examples quickly wore down leaving few high grade survivors. Walter Breen suggested that under 16,000 coins survive for the type with many of these weak or in low grades, a large percentage also showing traces of solder or other indications of use in jewelry.

Extensive die rust is noted around the obverse border, through the legend.

Purchased from Abner Kreisberg, April 14, 1972.

Another Choice 1854 Gold Dollar

Type II

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86     1854 Type II. MS-64 (PCGS). A splendid example of this popular, short-lived design type, featuring frosty bright yellow gold lustre and very sharp design details. This must be considered one of the finest of all certified MS-64 Type II gold dollars. This rare prize is deserving of an enthusiastic bid.

Purchased from Rowe and Brownlee, February 24, 1967.

87     1854 Type II. AU-58. Sharply struck with considerable light yellow gold lustre, nearly complete. A very pleasing example of this initial Type II issue.

Purchased from Paramount, August 10, 1971.

88     1854 Type II. AU-55. Lustrous light yellow gold with pleasing surfaces. Slightly weak at the highest points of the Indian, typical of this design.

Purchased from George Gozan, February 28, 1967, via Aaron Feldman.

89     1854 Type II. AU-55. Sharply struck with light greenish gold lustre and very faint pinkish orange toning. An attractive example with choice surfaces.

Purchased from Abe Kosoff, July 23, 1973.

90     Pair of 1854 Type II gold dollars: Both graded AU-50 with nice lustre for the grade. (Total: 2 pieces)

Phenomenal Gem 1855 Gold Dollar

Extraordinary Aesthetic Appeal

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91     1855 MS-65 (PCGS). One of the Philadelphia Mint highlights among the Bass Collection of gold dollars. This incredible coin combines brilliant, frosty yellow gold lustre with light pinkish orange peripheral toning. A few very minor surface abrasions are noted, only with the aid of magnification. Although not the highest numerical grade example certified, it is hard to imagine any with a higher degree of aesthetic appeal. When catalogued for the 1975 ANA Sale, Superior Stamp & Coin Co. noted the quality of this coin: "An absolutely magnificent example of the popular Type II gold dollar. This is the finest example of an 1855 gold dollar we have seen. Fully struck up including the date with full rich mint lustre and a delicate blend of orange toning. The surfaces are immaculate and this coin is worthy of a record bid."

From Superior’s ANA Sale, August 1975, Lot 1312.

Choice Mint State 1855 Gold Dollar

Sharply Struck

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92     1855 MS-64 (PCGS). Another wonderful Mint State example of this important type issue. Sharply struck in bright yellow gold with full frosty mint lustre. A faint trace of light orange toning is visible. The present offering of Mint State 1855 gold dollars presents an important opportunity to examine and bid on a selection of grades and quality.

Light obverse and heavy reverse clash marks.

From New Netherlands Coin Company’s sale of June 1967, Lot 513.

Another Choice Mint State 1855 Gold Dollar

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93     1855 MS-63 (PCGS). This lovely Mint State example is sharply struck and features frosty light yellow gold lustre. A few light hairlines and other very minor surface marks are noted, although not unexpected for the grade. Had we not just offered two higher grade examples, we would certainly suggest that this is among the most important Type II gold dollars we have recently offered. Indeed, in a typical high-grade collection, this present piece would be a landmark.

Purchased from William Youngerman, January 25, 1973.

Lovely Mint State 1855 Gold Dollar

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94     1855 MS-63 (PCGS). A very attractive example with brilliant frosty light yellow lustre. A few very minor surface marks are noted with only a faint reverse hairline standing out. Sharply struck with strong hair details and sharp definition among the top plumes of the headdress. Scarce in nice Mint State quality.

From Lester Merkin’s sale of June 1970, Lot 423.

Lustrous 1855 Gold Dollar

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95     1855 MS-63 (PCGS). Sharply struck with frosty bright yellow gold lustre and minimal surface marks. A highly attractive example for the date or type collector. A final opportunity to compete for a truly beautiful 1855 gold dollar at the MS-63 level.

Light obverse and reverse clash marks.

From Pine Tree Rare Coin Auctions’ sale of March 1974, Lot 22.

A Final Mint State 1855 Gold Dollar

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96     1855 MS-62 (PCGS). Wonderful bright yellow gold lustre with very slight impairments. From the aesthetic viewpoint, this has the appearance of a much higher grade. When the obverse is viewed from the 1:00 position, this has the appearance of a small sauce pan. An interesting striking variant, strictly as made and not affecting the grade in any way.

Struck through a piece of lint or thread, with the associated depression in the coin confined to the central obverse device. Prominent clash marks are visible on both obverse and reverse.

From Superior’s ANA Sale, August 1975, Lot 1313.

97     Pair of 1855 gold dollars: Both are graded AU-50 with some original mint lustre remaining. (Total: 2 pieces)

Elusive 1855-C Gold Dollar

Probably Second Finest Known

From the Harold S. Bareford Collection

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98     1855-C AU-58 (PCGS). Nearly full bright greenish yellow gold lustre with light planchet roughness, strictly as minted. Slightly reflective surfaces. A few very minor abrasions and hairlines are noted. Unusually sharp strike including a full, complete digit 8 in the date. This is an exceptional example and is listed as second finest known by Douglas Winter in his reference on Charlotte gold coinage. Winter noted that only seven or eight examples from the original mintage of 9,803 coins grade better than EF. He stated that this issue "is very difficult to find choice. Any strictly EF or better example is a legitimate rarity. Only one strictly Mint State coin is known."

Further, Walter Breen commented in his Encyclopedia "Untraced Uncirculated; prohibitively rare AU; Extremely rare EF, usually comes VF or worse with weak 8 and LL." The offering of the present coin, therefore, is an extraordinary opportunity for the specialist. It is interesting to note that Harold Bareford was enamored by the strike exhibited, for on his original collection envelope that accompanies this lot is the notation "numerous die lines or suction marks. Full struck date. The only 1855-C I have ever seen so."

In their catalogue of the Harold S. Bareford Collection, Stack’s noted: "Brilliant Uncirculated. Frosty mint bloom with delicate coppery overtones. The reverse, as usual, is better struck than the obverse but it is, by far, better than normally encountered. The clash marks are lightly in evidence. The planchet is excellent and overall it is a very attractive coin. The date is fully struck up. Of the four Mint State specimens recorded by Akers, we’ve sold three of them. This is the best of all and it could probably be the ‘Finest Known.’ Ex David Bullowa, October 10, 1951."

PCGS Population: 3; 2 finer (MS-61 finest).

Light obverse and reverse clash marks.

The term "suction marks," used by Harold Bareford, reflected state of the art knowledge in the 1940s and 1950s. Indeed, in 1950 Milferd H. Bolender frequently the term in his book on early silver dollars 1794-1803. Over two decades earlier, M.L. Beistle, in his book on early half dollars, used the term akcidefect marks. Today, the term clash marks supercedes all of these. Simply stated, the expression refers to artifacts left on the die surfaces when obverse and reverse dies came together in the coining press without an intervening planchet. Certain details of the obverse die were transferred in mirror image to the reverse die, and vice versa.

Three pairs of dies were shipped from Philadelphia, including obverses, as the earlier styles were no longer usable. Apparently, two obverse dies were employed and but a single reverse, that having the mintmark in a very small letter.

From Stack’s sale of the Bareford Collection, December 1978, Lot 30. Formerly from David Bullowa, October 10, 1951.

Outstanding 1855-C Gold Dollar

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99     1855-C AU-55 (PCGS). Another important example of this very rare issue, far finer than normally encountered [see comments above]. Considerable reflective lustre, in fact nearly full. Considerable planchet roughness is noted, as struck. A light vertical scratch is noted on the Indian. Typical weakness (normally encountered on authentic pieces) includes flat hair details, weak 8, and missing LL.

PCGS Population: 4; 5 finer (MS-61 finest).

Light reverse clash marks.

From Abner Kreisberg’s sale of November 1972, Lot 1057.

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100     1855-C VF-35. A third example of this rare Charlotte Mint issue, this having deep orange-gold surfaces with typical surface roughness as normally encountered. The strike is actually slightly nicer than normally seen. A few very minor surface marks are noted. Overall, nicer than most survivors.

Light obverse and heavy reverse clash marks.

Purchased from Stanley Kesselman, September 24, 1970.

101     1855-C Net VF-25; sharpness of VF-35 with a slightly wavy planchet. A few minor surface imperfections are noted as well. Very sharply struck for this issue with full 8 and LL. An important opportunity. This is the fourth (and final) 1855-C gold dollar in the present sale. Now one might be tempted to believe that this is a plentiful issue, however, such is not the case. In the nine-year period from 1988 to 1997, only 78 auction appearances occurred, an average of less than eight per year. The present sale does give collectors a choice of quality and ample opportunity to acquire an example.

Light obverse and faint reverse clash marks.

Purchased from Rowe and Brownlee, February 24, 1967.

Lovely Mint State 1855-D Gold Dollar

Extremely Rare Such

Finest Certified

Possibly Finest Known

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102     1855-D MS-62 (PCGS). An amazing example of this very rare issue, one of just 1,811 coins struck, the only Dahlonega Mint gold dollar of the small Indian Head design. Very sharply struck with reflective medium yellow gold and faint traces of pinkish orange toning. Although slightly weak hair details above the eye are noted, the strike is much better than usually seen. Extremely important is the strong date with full, sharp digit 8.

Douglas Winter noted: "A high-grade example of this issue with above average eye appeal is almost unheard of." In Gold Coins of the Dahlonega Mint, Winter also noted that an MS-62 example, certified by PCGS, and residing in the North Georgia Collection was the only known Mint State example, that coin being plated in his book. The present example, another Mint State coin and also PCGS-certified MS-62, appears to have a nicer strike and probably qualifies as finest known.

The specialist is advised to discard all conventional wisdom concerning price levels and to "go for it!" Otherwise, a generation of collectors may come and go without a comparable opportunity.

PCGS Population: 3; none finer.

Microscopic horizontal and diagonal striae are noted on both obverse and reverse. Heavy obverse and reverse clash marks. Dahlonega and Charlotte gold dollars of this era have many interesting idiosyncrasies—these giving each issue a "personality" all its own.

Purchased from Manfra, Tordella, and Brookes, December 10, 1974.

Desirable 1855-D Gold Dollar

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103     1855-D AU-53 (PCGS). An attractive, sharply struck example of this very rare issue. Light greenish gold with choice surfaces and considerable lustre. Just 1,811 coins were struck, the sixth lowest mintage of any gold dollar issue. The other five include 1856-D, 1860-D, 1861-D, 1875, and 1880. Douglas Winter noted: "The 1855-D is the second rarest Dahlonega gold dollar and the rarest in high grades. It is very desirable as it combines genuine rarity in all grades with its status of being the only Type II gold dollar produced at this mint." Although, based on condition, this example is only in the middle of all survivors, based on surface quality and aesthetic appeal, this coin ranks near the top of the pack.

Light obverse and heavy reverse clash marks.

From Stack’s sale of March 1973, Lot 744.

Lustrous 1855-O Gold Dollar

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104     1855-O MS-60. A lovely example with slightly reflective greenish gold lustre and considerable eye appeal. Very sharply struck with full hair details and sharp wreath details. This wonderful coin is one of only two branch Mint Type II gold dollars that is reasonably attainable in Mint State, although someone having this on a want list may have to wait a year or two or three for a piece of this quality.

Purchased from Bowers and Ruddy Galleries, February 15, 1973.

Another Lovely 1855-O Gold Dollar

105     1855-O AU-58 (PCGS). Very pleasing light yellow gold lustre with a whisper of faint orange. Very sharply struck, in fact, one of the sharpest strikes we have seen on a Type II gold dollar. An ideal candidate for a type set.

Purchased from Stanley Kesselman, July 23, 1970.

Prooflike 1856-S Type II Gold Dollar

Finest Certified

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106     1856-S Type II. MS-63 (PCGS). Repunched 6 in date. This variety was not recorded by Breen and we can’t recall seeing this described in past literature. Fully prooflike bright yellow gold surfaces with few very minor abrasions or imperfections. Extremely sharp strike with all obverse and reverse details boldly defined. The Normal S and Doubled S varieties are approximately equal in rarity, both varieties being scarce, but neither is a major rarity.

PCGS Population: 3; none finer.

Purchased from R.E. Wallace, April 25, 1978.

Desirable Mint State 1856-S Gold Dollar

Small Indian Head

Type II

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107     1856-S Type II. MS-61 (PCGS). Normal 6 in date. Bright yellow gold with above average design details. The obverse has frosty lustre and the reverse is prooflike. Highly attractive and quite desirable. The opportunity to bid on a single Mint State example of this issue seldom occurs. Offerings of more than one Mint State coin must be regarded as quite unusual.

PCGS Population: 4; 5 finer (MS-63 finest).

Purchased from Julian Leidman, February 24, 1971.

Lustrous 1856-S Gold Dollar

Only Type II Issue of the Year

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108     1856-S Type II. Breen-6045. Double S. AU-58 (PCGS). A wonderful example of this popular issue, the only Type II gold dollar issue minted in 1856 and the only coin of this design produced in San Francisco. Adding to the overall interest is the prominent doubled mintmark. Slightly reflective bright yellow gold with nearly full mint lustre and extremely sharp design definition.

The obverse has two sharp die cracks.

From Lester Merkin’s sale of February 1972, Lot 330.

109     1856-S Type II. Breen-6045. Double S. EF-40. Sharply struck and attractive with minor surface marks. A pleasing candidate for the date, type, or variety collector.

The obverse has two sharp die cracks.

110     1856-S Type II. EF-40. Normal 6 in date. A delightful example with very pleasing light greenish gold surfaces.

From Lester Merkin’s sale of February 1972, Lot 329.

Selection of Gold Dollars

111     Selection of gold dollars from 1856 intermittently to 1874: I 1856 Upright 5 (2). MS-60 and EF-40 I 1856 Slanting 5. (2). EF-45 and EF-40 I 1857 (4). EF-45 (3) and another EF-40 I 1874 AU-55. LIBERTY on Headband (2) I 1874 MS-60. Only L on Headband. Bent. Each pieces displays some original mint lustre. (Total: 11 pieces)

Gem 1856 Gold Dollar

Slanted 5 in Date

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112     1856 Type III. Slanted 5. Breen-6047. MS-65 (PCGS). A gem example with frosty bright yellow gold lustre. Although not fully struck, most details are quite sharp. A coin with wonderful aesthetic appeal. Debut of the large Indian head, the design that would finish the series in 1889. This is a rather plentiful issue, however, still scarce in gem condition and in demand by first year type collectors.

Diagonal striae are noted on the obverse, seemingly indicating a very early strike from this die. As a die was used, the striae or die finish lines tended to wear away.

Purchased from George Stroup, February 29, 1972.

113     1856 Type III. Slanted 5. Breen-6047. MS-63. Sharply struck with frosty deep yellow gold lustre. The surfaces are very nearly flawless, a lovely example.

Purchased from Rowe and Brownlee, May 7, 1969.

Extremely Rare 1856-D Gold Dollar

Low Mintage of 1,460 Pieces

A Dahlonega Mint Classic

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114     1856-D AU-55 (PCGS). Light greenish gold with considerable remaining lustre. Quite sharply struck with minimal surface abrasions. Some areas along the edge have flattened or missing edge reeding. Just 1,460 coins were struck, among the lowest mintages of any gold dollar issue. The obverse has the letter U almost missing, a characteristic of all genuine 1856-D gold dollars.

At the time of mintage, no pieces were saved by numismatists. The coins slipped into circulation, and over a period of years most became lost. Today only a few dozen are believed to exist.

The Philadelphia Mint shipped three pairs of 1856-D dies to Dahlonega on March 11, these being received on April 15, a transit time of three weeks. As had been the case in 1855, obverse dies were no longer usable from earlier times, as the design had changed. The reverse die known to have been employed has an upright 5 in the date; presumably the other two dies did as well, but this is not known.

Only 1,460 1856-D gold dollars were minted, and most have long since disappeared. The number known can only be estimated, but may well be fewer than 20 to 30. By any standard, here is a major American rarity, and yet the 1856-D has received very little publicity. This may be its own fault, simply from the lack of available specimens in any grade coming onto the market. And, when they do, the typical piece, showing extensive wear, is not apt to cause a great deal of excitement to anyone except a specialist or a knowledgeable collector. Be that as it may, the 1856-D today is truly rare, but is usually available at a price less than the more often seen 1860-D and 1861-D. (Of course, the 1861-D has its own story to tell and cannot really be a part of this comparison).

Purchased from Rowe and Brownlee, February 24, 1967.