South Africa: Orange Free State. Republic silver Proof Essay Kroon 1887 PR64 NGC,...

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Exceedingly Rare Essay

Orange Free State. Republic silver Proof Essay Kroon 1887 PR64 NGC, KMX-Pn3, Hern-O4. Fine reeding to edge. By Wolfgang Lauer. An excessively rare 'salesman sample' pattern predating South Africa's official Pond coinage. Almost never seen at auction, Hern lists a presumed mintage for this type at just three pieces; however, only two have been traced and indeed this would seem to be the finer of these with its near-gem grade (clearing the next-best by 2 points). Even then, it would appear to be conservatively graded, as aside from some minor surface marks it is essentially as-struck with lightly reflective fields, toned to a gold-and-purple with charcoal highlights to the boldly rendered devices. The last example of this type to be sold at auction realized nearly $230,000 hammer in 2011 despite bearing a British East Africa countermark obliterating much of the detail, whilst a copper pattern in the same sale brought $145,000 hammer. Accordingly, this far finer and intact specimen must surely appeal to the highest level of South African collectors.
Ex. Dr. Frank Mitchell Collection

More information about South African Coins. See also: South Africa.

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