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FUN Signature US Coin Sale 1251 4-6 & 8-9 Jan 2017
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Proof Three Cent Silver
1873 3CS PR66 Cameo PCGS. CAC. This proof-only issue is the last of the three cent silver series. According to the 2016 Guide Book, 600 pieces were manufactured, all of the Closed 3 variety. Breen (1988) writes: "The Mint's publicity agent, Andrew Madsen Smith, had a hoard of at least 300. Others were melted in July 1873." Smith's hoard likely helps to account for the large number of examples certified by PCGS and NGC: 895 pieces. But that said, the original mintage may be suspect in terms of being underreported, or perhaps the grading services have seen a disproportionately larger number of resubmitted coins.
In any event, the proof-only 1873 is a significant key date in the silver three cent series, one necessary to complete a date set. The current Gem proof with CAC approval will be a standout in such a collection. Cobalt-blue toning resides on the lightly frosted central devices, enabling them to stand out against the mirrored fields, especially on the obverse. The design elements are sharply struck and neither side reveals significant marks, enhancing the pleasing eye appeal. Population: 8 in 66 Cameo, 4 finer. CAC: 7 in 66, 5 finer (11/16).
1873 3CS PR66 Cameo PCGS. CAC. This proof-only issue is the last of the three cent silver series. According to the 2016 Guide Book, 600 pieces were manufactured, all of the Closed 3 variety. Breen (1988) writes: "The Mint's publicity agent, Andrew Madsen Smith, had a hoard of at least 300. Others were melted in July 1873." Smith's hoard likely helps to account for the large number of examples certified by PCGS and NGC: 895 pieces. But that said, the original mintage may be suspect in terms of being underreported, or perhaps the grading services have seen a disproportionately larger number of resubmitted coins.
In any event, the proof-only 1873 is a significant key date in the silver three cent series, one necessary to complete a date set. The current Gem proof with CAC approval will be a standout in such a collection. Cobalt-blue toning resides on the lightly frosted central devices, enabling them to stand out against the mirrored fields, especially on the obverse. The design elements are sharply struck and neither side reveals significant marks, enhancing the pleasing eye appeal. Population: 8 in 66 Cameo, 4 finer. CAC: 7 in 66, 5 finer (11/16).