The
A.J. Vanderbilt Collection, featured in our Official Auction of the 2018
Whitman Coin & Collectibles Spring Expo, represents a lifetime of
numismatic pursuit that began at Stack’s in 1936. This cabinet showcases a vast
array of rarities including the R.L. Miles 1874-CC Liberty Seated dime (tied
for finest known) and a Mint State 1795 Heraldic Eagle half eagle.
Dozens
of other rarities from the Vanderbilt Collection will be brought to light for
the first time in many decades, including an exceptional Mint State 1795 BB-21 Flowing
Hair silver dollar. This gorgeous example displays rich, frosty luster on both
sides. The lovely silver surfaces offer
considerable prooflike reflectivity and only the slightest traces of golden toning
atop the high points and at the border. Sharp definition to Liberty’s profile,
hair and the eagle’s wings contributes to the eye appeal and showcases the
truly superior preservation throughout.
This
silver dollar last appeared at auction a full generation ago when it was
acquired by the current consignor from Hollinbeck-Kagin’s 283rd Mail Sale of
May 1969. It was offered as a possible “Presentation Specimen” in lot 399, with
the cataloger remarking, “it is difficult to imagine a lovelier specimen
existing.” Nearly 50 years later, close examination of this piece leads us to a
similar conclusion.
Certified
MS-62 by NGC, this piece is an exceptional survivor of the date and type and is
among the finest known examples of the BB-21 die marriage. It was not on the roster
of “Notable Specimens” for the BB-21 variety listed in Q. David Bowers’ 2013
reference, and would fall roughly in the middle of his 11-coin census that
ranges from a trio of MS-65s down to a pair of AU-53s with Silver Plugs.
The
title of “finest known” from the BB-21 dies goes to the Stack-Pogue MS-65
(PCGS) that realized $282,000 in our September 2015 sale. Behind that ranks the
Lee-Morelan MS-64+ (PCGS) and just a handful of Choice examples including the Eliasberg
specimen certified MS-63 (PCGS). The present MS-62 (NGC) piece from the
Vanderbilt Collection is a significant representative from this desirable
issue. Silver dollar specialists and enthusiasts of early U.S. type coins are
sure to delight at this fresh and remarkably well-preserved offering.
With
much exciting material already consigned, our March 2018 Baltimore Auction will
deliver a dynamic selection of rarities. Call us today at 1-800-458-4646 or
email [email protected] to consign your
collection alongside rarities from the A.J. Vanderbilt Collection, the Dobbins
Collection, the Rosie Collection, and many other significant cabinets. Also,
download our mobile app to view and participate in our exciting auctions via
your Android or Apple device.
