Stack's Bowers & Ponterio
January 2023 NYINC Auction 13-16 Jan 2023
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ARGENTINA. Tierra Del Fuego. 5 Gramos, 1889. El Paramo (Popper) Mint. PCGS MS-62.
Fr-1; KM-Tn6; Janson-2. Large letters variety. Standing as one of the most important pieces of Latin American coinage, as well as phenomenal example of territorial gold, this exceptional Popper 5 Gramos delivers a story and appeal that is nearly unmatched by any other type. Distinct from the later produced pieces of a similar design that were struck at the Buenos Aires Mint, this example was produced on Tierra Del Fuego by Popper with gold discovered there. The "in the field" nature of the piece is demonstrated by the somewhat crude production, with a slightly askew and soft strike. Even still, this piece retains a tremendous eye appeal, with dazzling golden luster and essentially no evidence of handling or marking. At the pinnacle of RARITY and desirability for Argentinian issues, and a piece that should garner no shortage of excited bidders seeking to add this to their collection.
Fr-1; KM-Tn6; Janson-2. Large letters variety. Standing as one of the most important pieces of Latin American coinage, as well as phenomenal example of territorial gold, this exceptional Popper 5 Gramos delivers a story and appeal that is nearly unmatched by any other type. Distinct from the later produced pieces of a similar design that were struck at the Buenos Aires Mint, this example was produced on Tierra Del Fuego by Popper with gold discovered there. The "in the field" nature of the piece is demonstrated by the somewhat crude production, with a slightly askew and soft strike. Even still, this piece retains a tremendous eye appeal, with dazzling golden luster and essentially no evidence of handling or marking. At the pinnacle of RARITY and desirability for Argentinian issues, and a piece that should garner no shortage of excited bidders seeking to add this to their collection.
The issue of Julius Popper, a powerful and controversial figure, who was granted the rights to prospect for gold on Tierra del Fuego by the Argentinian government. Popper amassed wealth and power, and these coins symbolized his near dictatorial control of the archipelago. His abuse, of and conflict with, the natives led to the reduction of the population of the Selk'nam from 4000 to 500 by the end of the 19th Century. Popper died in 1893 under mysterious circumstances that some have speculated to be poisoning by his enemies.
Estimate: $10000 - $20000