1873 $5 Closed 3 SP64 NGC....

Description

1873 Closed 3 Half Eagle, SP64
Sole Certified Specimen Example

1873 $5 Closed 3 SP64 NGC. The Philadelphia Mint struck just 25 proof half eagles in 1873, all of which were delivered on February 18, but the coin offered here is something more special -- the sole certified Specimen strike from either service. It is a hybrid of sorts, with the deeply reflective fields and pinpoint-sharp, richly frosted devices of a highly contrasted proof, as well as the Closed 3 design type of all proofs of the year. However, it was struck from circulation strike dies. Unlike regular proofs, there is no polish seen between the shield stripes, and the second vertical line of stripe 2 does not extend into the horizontals above, diagnostic of the 1866A proof reverse used until 1880. Yet, it was clearly made with special care, and die polish lines suggest special preparation.

Proof 1873 five dollar gold pieces are rarely seen and are of great importance to gold specialists -- John Dannreuther estimates only 14-16 examples are extant in all grades today. This Specimen coin may have been a one-off special strike requested by Mint Director Linderman, or a trial strike prior to implementation of the Open 3 dies. No proofs or Specimen strikes are known of the Open 3 type. This coin possesses an irresistible combination of high technical quality, absolute rarity, and terrific eye appeal. We expect intense competition from series specialists and Registry Set enthusiasts when this lot is called. Census: 1 in 64 (1 in 64? ), 0 finer (9/25).
Ex: Dallas Signature (Heritage, 8/2020), lot 4011; Summer FUN Signature (Heritage, 7/2021), lot 3122.(Registry values: P3)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 25WK, PCGS# 8329, Greysheet# 8920)

Weight: 8.36 grams

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper

Note for clients in the European Union: This lot is considered by the European Union to be “investment gold”. We believe that it meets the criteria established in Article 344(1), point (2) of Council Directive 2006/112/EC and thus should be exempt from import VAT regardless of the selling price. Any questions or concerns about VAT should be addressed to your accountant or local tax authority.

View Certification Details from NGC