Watch List notes:

Popayan, Colombia, 5 decimos, 1873, fineness 0.835/900, very rare, encapsulated NGC XF 40, finest known in NGC census, ex-Whittier. Popayan issues of this type are very elusive, particularly in grades above Fine, this one crudely struck as usual (especially the centers) but with some luster (the only specimen graded by NGC so far). This piece was obtained by Oen Nelson (Whittier collection) from Mo Geiger around 1983 for $1250, a princely sum for the time. Oen and Mo both considered it a true treasure. This is only its second appearance on the market in the past 33 years, and no equal examples of other dates of Popayan 5 decimos have appeared during that time period. Also note that Lissner did not have any specimens of any date, likely due to his demand for exalted quality, something impossible with this denomination of this mint. According to Oen Nelson, Davis Burnett and the late Mo Geiger, this piece may be the least circulated example of a Popayan 5 decimos known in the USA. Pedigreed to the Whittier collection.

Estimate: $800 - 1200