Great Britain
George III silver Proof Pattern Bank of England 5 Shillings & 6 Pence 1811 PR67+★ Cameo NGC, Royal mint, KM-PnC68, ESC-194A (R7). Thick flan. A significant coin within British numismatics--to say the least. This exceptional beauty possesses collector-qualities that are so often craved and often impossible to find. To start, the color that dresses both sides is outstanding, with the obverse showing a dollop of teal at the center, surrounded by a halo of gold that darkens to magenta and finally cerulean at the legends. The reverse is equally complimentary, with blush-gray hues that transform to lilac and a touch of cobalt at the outermost periphery. All of which is to say, the visual appearance of this massive offering is at its finest. Closer inspection confirms the technical precision of this example to be near flawless, with unimpeded cameo-producing frost across the designs and contrasting mirrors that are endlessly reflective. A touch of die-rust is noted on the depiction of Britannia, as are a few milk spots to the right of the King's portrait--character-building hallmarks that are mentioned purely for the sake of accuracy--as the central images on both sides are beyond phenomenal in their presentation. Obvious care has been bestowed upon this coin for over two centuries, with early storage in a proper coin cabinet that aided in the toning process, and more recently, a certified holder that protects it from environmental damage and human handling. Further, as is indicated by both the "star" and "plus" addition to the numerical grade, a coin that has reached the pinnacle of perfection, and is likely to remain unchallenged in the marketplace as such.
Ex. Boulton Family Collection. Ex. Goldberg Millennia Sale May 26, 2008, lot 413 (hammer price $52,500)
From the Cape Coral Collection of British Crowns
HID02901242017
Estimate: 40000-60000 USD