Photo Denom Date Grade TPG Variety GFRC Rating Price Description Buy
Seated 10C 1855 Seated 10C 1855
With Arrows 		MS64 PCGS
30002787 		F-101a
 Choice SOLD
$5750 		Proof Dies, Doubled Die Obverse, Near-Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection.. A monumental opportunity for the Liberty Seated dime die variety specialist as the finest known 1855 F-101a Doubled Obverse Die dime returns to the marketplace. All 1855 proof dimes (estimates of 12-15) were struck with a prominent doubling in the date digits, and to a lesser extent within the shield lines and lower gown folds. Starting in 1853 and throughout 1854 and 1855, the date and arrows were placed into the dime master hub to simplify the die preparation process. As a result, one 1855 exhibits distinct doubling to the right of each digit as noted for proof strike and subsequent usage for a limited number of circulation strikes. Fortin secured this example during the Dr. Tim Cook Collection release at the May 2005 St. Louis CSNS Sale, Lot #6446 as conducted by Heritage Auction. Since that sale, both Dr. Cook and Fortin have not located a finer example. Steely reflective flows equally from both sides considering the proof die origin. The strike is needle sharp in all but one or two isolated areas, and the surfaces have survived the passage of time without acquiring any noteworthy blemishes. This lot is lightly patinated in golden-gray hues, 1855 brought the final use of arrows at the date to identify the lower 2.49 gram planchet. The mintage was substantially reduced after 16.5 million were struck in the two prior years. However, this date suffers a type coin bias though gem Mint State survivors are rare. PCGS has certified eight in MS65 or better while CAC reports four from both services. The PCGS price guide value is stated as $1,250, an entirely understated number for this lot. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder. Ex. Tim Cook Collection. PCGS #538038. December 1969