GFRC Online Auctions

 

 

The Evergreen State Proof Liberty Seated Dime Collection

 

February 27 - March 2, 2025

 

 

The Connoisseur's Auction Sale

The Gerry Fortin Liberty Seated Dime Collection

and

The Newtown Liberty Seated Half Dollar Collection

Session 2 - March 22-29, 2025

Session 3 - May 10-17, 2025

 

Lot Viewing Schedule

ANA Atlanta Money Show, Atlanta, GA- February 27 - March 1, 2025

Also By Special Appointments

 

Talking Newtown Seated Halves with a Twist Podcast

March 6, 2025 8:00 PM ET with Special Door Prize Challenge!

 

Gerry Fortin Liberty Seated Dime Auction Sale Interview

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dARmMOaiBPg&t=3194s

 

Presenting The Connoisseur's Auction Sale Catalogs

The Gerry Fortin Liberty Seated Dime Collection                                           The Newtown Liberty Seated Half Dollar Collection

 

Welcome to a GFRC Online Auctions Connoisseur auction sales event featuring two of the most substantial Liberty Seated coinage collections to be assembled in the past 30 years. Two of GFRC's top consignors have joined forces to offer the numismatic community an opportunity to acquire finest knowns and grade rarities across both the Liberty Seated dime and half dollar series. More will be written in the coming months as these two collections are fully cataloged and published immediately below for your bidding consideration. Three auction sessions are currently planned for late mid-January 2025 followed by late March and May events to close out the sale. Unsold lots will become immediately available for purchase on the GFRC price lists.

GFRC Online Auctions will continue to offer three payment lay-a-ways for auction winnings over $3000 moving forward. To take advantage of this payment option, bidders must registered with Gerry prior to the auction open and confirm their lay-a-way requirement. Those that don't confirm prior to the auction will not be afforded this privilege. Please contact me at Gerry@seateddimevarieties.com or 207-329-9957.

The GFRC Online Auctions application was designed with simplicity for bidders given the No Buyer's Fee policy. Bidders do not need to contemplate the Buyer's Fee percentage when placing bids. Every bidder is free to bid what they wish to pay for a lot. This fact become measurably important during the final hour of the auction sale whereby bidders can stay focused on determining their auction ending bidding strategy without factoring in a Buyer's Fee.

The GFRC Online Auctions platform has become yet another divestment option for collectors along with the regular price list consignments. I've seen the GFRC community become incrementally comfortable with taking holdings onto an auction platform for upside bidding potential and increased prices realized. Again, with a simplistic No Buyer's Fee structure, collectors can easily calculate their proceeds using the final bid and GFRC regular commission rates. All lots that do not meet reserves are posted on the 30 Day Price List after auction end along with the well known Collectors Corner numismatic marketplace. Our goal is to promptly sell you coins across multiple marketing channels.

Good luck with bidding.

Thank-you, Gerry

 

Bidding Instructions

Existing GFRC clients and those who have registered can submit bids by selecting the bidding icon. Those who have yet to register can participate in this eagerly awaited GFRC Online Auctions offering by contacting Gerry Fortin at gerry@seateddimevarieties.com.

 

Sale Terms and Conditions

 

Photo Type Date
Grade
TPG Variety
GFRC Rating
Description Reserve/High Bid Bid
Seated 10C 1860 Seated 10C 1860

PR66CAM
PCGS
21231151
F-101

Gem
Cameo Designation, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. 1860 brought the introduction of the Longacre-Paquet Liberty Seated dime redesign. This new obverse design (Type 1) lasted only through 1861 before being promptly replaced with a more robust design (Type 2) that was less "delicate" and subject to rapid wear. The 1860 proof obverse exhibits a group of horizontal die lines starting from the sixth stripe in the shield and moving right, under the scroll at LIBE(RTY), and ending at the fold in Liberty's gown line. This superb gem example presents an opportunity to study the delicate design features. Accurately designated as a cameo given the heavily frosted main devices that are surrounded by mirrored fields. The PCGS certification is accurate as surfaces are entirely unabraded and free off the faintest hairlines. Mirrors are sharp with faint amounts of whitish-gray toning at the date and on the upper obverse. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder. Reserve: $3650 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1861 Seated 10C 1861
Type 2 Obverse
PR65
PCGS
26161284
F-101

Gem
Superb Eye Appeal, Brilliant Mirrors, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. All 1861 dated proofs were struck with a Type 2 obverse design. The report mintage of 1,000 pieces is suspect as many went unsold and were melted. This notable survivor is an unquestionable gem with brilliant mirrors that "pop" under a bright light. The obverse reflectance is overlaid with aquamarine-rose centers and a gorgeous yellow-gold ring at the borders. Deep rose covers the reverse center with a transition to aquamarine-blue at the wreath with a hint of gold at the extreme rims. The fields are pristine other than three faint hairlines in the right obverse field. The eye appeal is consistent with the Evergreen State Collection's efforts to locate proof strike with pleasing toning and overall eye appeal. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.5 (2012-2013) holder with no auction records that could be located. Reserve: $2500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1862 Seated 10C 1862

PR64
PCGS
39772321
F-101

Choice
Brilliant Mirrors, Near-Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Both proof and business strikes were struck from the 1862 F-101 die pair resulting in attribution difficulties with prooflike business strikes. The primary diagnostic is a horizontal die line directly above LIBER(T)Y which crosses through shield lines 11 and 12. This Evergreen State Collection example is certainly a proof strike given the sharp wire rims and lettering along with mirrored fields. Copper gold is noted at both the obverse and reverse borders while the center are untoned. Fairly graded with moderately brilliant mirrors. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder. Reserve: $850 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1863 Seated 10C 1863

PR66CAM
PCGS
25252576
F-101

Gem
Cameo Designation, Civil War Issue, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. As the Civil War raged, circulating silver species disappeared on the United States east coast given the uncertainties of the war's outcome. Philadelphia issued Liberty Seated dime mintage decreased dramatically with only 14,000 circulation strikes and 460 proof minted from a single die pair. Brilliant blue obverse mirrors are the highlight of this superb gem survivor with a justified Cameo designation. During bright light assessment, the presentation is undisturbed and thoroughly enjoyable. A complete strike emphasizes the device details including sharp edges at the lettering and knife-like wire rims. Two link marks are noted on the right facing arm. A marvelous example that is accurately reserved for the premium quality. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder. Reserve: $3150 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1864 Seated 10C 1864

PR66CAM
PCGS
06754096
F-102

Gem
Cameo Designation, Civil War Era Proof Strike, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Only 470 proof 1864 dated Liberty Seated dimes were struck with a tiny fraction being adequately preserved for Cameo designation. This near-gem example exhibits sharp reflective fields that surround a lightly frosted Liberty device. Coloring is a consistent reddish copper on both sides. Strike is fully executed. The certified grade is a result of faint micro-ticks in the obverse fields. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder. There is a substantial patch of reverse holder wear at the ribbon bow that impacted photography. Reserve: $3750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1865 Seated 10C 1865

PR65CAM
PCGS
36936680
F-102

Gem
Cameo Designation, Brilliant Mirrors, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. This 1865 Cameo Proof dime offers a window into the preparation of proof planchets. Those planchets were reported to be buff with a polishing cloth. Frequently, I will see proof strikes with a struck through "lint mark" that validates the proof status. This newly consigned example is quite special with at least eight lint marks scattered throughout the obverse while the reverse is pristine. Please have a look at the obverse image to note the multiple lint marks in the upper fields as a starting point. Under a bright light, the mirrors are sharply brilliant and pleasing. There is a hint of gold toning at the peripheries. The Cameo designation is certainly warranted based on the overall presentation. A conversation piece concerning the presence of lint marks on early proof coinage. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder. Reserve: $2650 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1866 Seated 10C 1866

PR65DCAM
PCGS
42680068
F-102

Gem
Deep Cameo Designation, Peripheral Rainbow Toning, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. A spectacular Deep Cameo certified 1866 proof Seated dime with multi-colored rainbow hues encircling the border. The eye appeal, overall beauty, and exceedingly rare Deep Cameo presentation is noteworthy and warrants a strong bid to take this superb gem home. Total 1866 proof mintage is report to be just 725 coins from two separate die pairs. The dies that struck this F-102 example were subsequently reused for circulation strikes. The device details are exceptional viewing with a 10x along with sharp wire rim. The contrast between the mirrored fields and frosted motifs is pronounced. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder. Reserve: $3750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1867 Seated 10C 1867

PR66+
PCGS
46212608
F-103

Gem
Repunched Date, Superb Gem, Hammered Strike, Brilliant Mirrors, Evergreen State Collection. 1867 proof dime strikes were limited to only 625 pieces. A proof 1867 strike can be easily attributed by repunching on the bottom of the 1 and 7 digits in the date. That repunching is readily evident on this fully struck example, including sharp wire rims. Brilliant mirrors easily amplify the multi-color patina when placed under a bright light. The in-hand toning melts away to residual sky blue along with peripheral gold on the obverse. This survivor is an unquestionable gem with all the appropriate certifications and approval. Advanced collectors may wish to consider this gorgeous example that was previously sold into the Evergreen State Collection during 2023. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2023) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $3500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1867 Seated 10C 1867

PR65+CAM
PCGS
84021226
F-103

Gem
Cameo Designation, Exceptional Eye Appeal, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. One of the highlights of the Evergreen State Collection, this amazing 1867 cameo presents ostentatious mirrored reflectivity coupled with circular obverse rainbow toning. Under a bright light, this lot scores a 10 out of 10 for visual acumen that is utterly pleasing. A complete strike and elevated wire rims round out the positive attributes. Out of curiosity with respect to the PR65+ grade and not full PR66, a 10x inspection revealed two subtle obverse hairlines of no consequence and yes, I am being very picky with this numismatic curiosity. The CAC census is currently 24 pieces with a cameo certification with five finer. The CDN CAC price guide ranges from $1650 (PR65) to $3000 (PR66) as reference. But, how does one value the exceptional obverse toning? This lot warrants serious consideration and a strong bid. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $2350 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1868 Seated 10C 1868

PR66CAM
PCGS
25011392
F-104

Gem
Cameo Designation, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. The Evergreen State proof Seated dime release continues with a lucious 1868 F-104 specimen. This proof variety is easily recognized by a high date that slopes downward coupled with a weak date punch. A second proof die pair is known with bold misplaced digits in the gown folds and is easily distinguishes from the more available F-104. This piece exhibits brilliant mirrors with the cameo effect being readily apparent under a bright light. Images accurately illustrate the greenish obverse hues with rose being more prevalent on the reverse. Pristine fields are 100% hairline free with sharp edge lettering throughout. Wire rims are consistent with proofs of this era. The CAC census is 13 approved with a fair market guide value of $4200 as reference. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $3750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1869 Seated 10C 1869

PR65+
PCGS
47533910
F-106

Gem
Rare Die Pairing, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Based on the cataloger's research, the 1869 F-106 proof die pairing is the most difficult to locate among the three separate die pairs to have struck the 600 minted. It is estimated that only 12% of the mintage was produced with this die pairing. This Evergreen State Collection lot offers swaths of bold peripheral toning in olive-russet, sandy-red and steel-blue that frame pewter-gray surfaces. Fully struck with a granular frosted preservation and bright mirrors under a bright light. The presentation is consistent with many Seated dimes that recently arrived to market from the James Allaire Millholland Collection, 1842-1911. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $1750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1870 Seated 10C 1870

PR66
PCGS
25576100
F-101

Gem
Rich Rose-Blue Patina, Brilliant Reflectance, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. This is a richly toned and gem 1870 F-101 proof offering that most likely spent time in a felt or velvet lined cabinet based on the obverse toning colors. Note the deep intermixed rose and blue patina that is quite thick and partially mutes the underlying reflectance. The reverse is lightly toned with a gorgeous blue-gold presentation under a bright light along with sharp mirrors. Fields are pristine and without hairlines. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder. Please note that the holder is well worn with some haze that impacts the clarity of the devices within my images. Reserve: $1500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1871 Seated 10C 1871

PR65CAM
PCGS
44922880
F-102

Gem
Cameo Designation, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Three different die pairs were employed for striking 1871 Liberty Seated dime proofs totaling 960 pieces. The F-102 die pairing, as offered here, produced the most complete strikes as compared with the F-101 repunched date pairing that is notorious for partial heads and the F-103 with weakly produced legend and date. This Evergreen State example presents brilliant watery mirrors overlaid with a layer of transparent copper and rose toning. An undeniable proof issue with partial wire rims and a nearly complete strike. The CAC census reports only 14 examples with Cameo designation with only two finer. The CDN CAC price guide estimates that $1400 is fair market value as a reference point though securing a higher grade specimen could take years of searching. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $1650 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1872 Seated 10C 1872
Misplaced Date
PR65
PCGS
45745479
F-109

Gem
Misplaced Date, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. As a Top 100 listed variety, the 1872 F-109 die pairing features the base of a 2 digit erroneously placed into the base. Both proof and circulation strikes were struck with this pairing with proof strikes being more elusive. This GFRC-Gem rated proof example offers brilliant reflectance from copper-gold toned surfaces. The lettering sharpness and overall strike, though not as pronounced as issues from 1860s, is typical and well produced. Under a bright light, the presentation is undisturbed with sharp mirrors. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder. The label documents the die variety attribution as F-109, MPD. Reserve: $2250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1873 Seated 10C 1873
No Arrows, Closed 3
PR65CAM
PCGS
21462197
F-101

Gem
No Arrows, Cameo Designation, Brilliant Watery Mirrors, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. 1873 brought the reinsertion of arrows at the date due to a marginal shift in planchet weight. That shift was within the manufacturing tolerances of the pre-arrows weight. Proof strikes were issued for both the No Arrows and With Arrows types. All No Arrows proof strikes are found with a closed 3 date punch from a single die pair. 1,100 piece were struck making this design type readily available. Those with Cameo designation are a small fraction of survivors. This Evergreen State Collection example exhibits watery mirrors that are quite brilliant during bright light review. Liberty is beautifully frosted in stark contrast to the reflective fields. A few wispy hairlines in the right obverse field are consistent with the certified grade. This piece is mostly untoned other than faint gold at the borders. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with "No Arrows - Closed 3" attribution on the label. Reserve: $1800 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1873 Seated 10C 1873
With Arrows
PR64CAM
PCGS
38143027
F-102

Choice
With Arrows, Cameo Designation, Near-Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Handling the Evergreen State Proof Seated Dime Collection has been an eye opening experience even for this seasoned researcher and cataloger. Case in point is the 1873 proof issue with 800 produced. When reviewing the CAC census, the low number stickered suggests that premium survivors are very challenging to locate most likely due to mint workmanship issues. This lot is noted for its very thick wire rims and mirrored fields that exhibit a soft granular texture during 10x inspection. Under a bright light, the mirrors are sufficiently brilliant against the frosted motifs. Copper-gold toning is noted on the left obverse and fully encompassing the reverse borders. This near-gem is fairly reserved for its scarcity. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder. Reserve: $1650 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1874 Seated 10C 1874
With Arrows
PR64CAM
PCGS
05891282
F-101

Choice
With Arrows, Cameo Designation, Near-Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Though with a mintage of 700 pieces, the 1874 With Arrows proof issue was not particularly well struck with cameo designated survivors being rare in full gem or better. The striking of 1874 proof dimes resulted in soft mirrors with few pieces being capable of gem or superb gem certification. The Evergreen State Collection offering is typical of the issue with soft mirrors though the cameo designation is warranted. Strike is complete with some right obverse field granularity that is as made. Surfaces are untoned. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder. Reserve: $1500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1875 Seated 10C 1875

PR65CAM
PCGS
20215971
F-101

Gem
Cameo Designation, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. 1875 proof coinage includes the Indian cent, the Seated dime, quarter, and half dollar coupled with the Trade dollar. Of the 700 dimes struck, few have risen to the lofty gem cameo certification. This Evergreen State Collection specimen is fully struck with brilliant mirrors. The surfaces are mostly untoned with a trace of gold at the borders. The fields are pristine and without hairlines or lint marks. Undeniably, this lot was struck with the F-101 die pairing based on date position and an arcing die line to the top left of (O)NE. Thought the Fortin online reference reports repunching at the 1 digit, this specimen does not exhibit this anomaly. PCGS has certified 12 at this grade with 14 finer. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder. Reserve: $1350 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1876 Seated 10C 1876

PR65CAM
PCGS
38998787
F-103
Gem
Cameo Designation, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Blast white frosted surfaces and watery mirrors are readily evident on this 1876 proof dime. The cameo designation is appropriate as there is ample contrast between the motifs and reflective fields. The overall strike is well executed. F-103 with bold reverse die doubling on DIM(E). Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder with special silver D.L.Hansen pedigree label. Reserve: $1350 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1876 Seated 10C 1876

PR65
PCGS
07227094
F-103
Gem
Bold Strike, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Aquamarine-blue shades decorate this gem 1876 proof issue along with golden hues at the rims. In particular, the reverse presents a toning arc with similar shades and light gray hues in the more lightly toned upper left region. The overall strike is complete with razor-sharp wire rims. A surprisingly challenging proof Seated dime issue with CAC approval and strict originality. From a mintage of 1,150 piece, only 31 total have been approved in PR, PRCAM, and PRDCAM. At the PR designation, this Evergreen State specimen has a price guide estimate of $1000 with only five better. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $975 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1876 Seated 10C 1876

PR64CAM
PCGS
82156370
F-103
Choice
Cameo Designation, Near-Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. We continue the Evergreen State proof dime auction sale with the second of three 1876 date pieces. This near-gem cameo designated lot displays watery mirrors and light copper hues on the obverse with a more haloed presentation on the reverse. Frosted devices are appropriately framed by the contrasting fields. The strike is nearly complete as With Legend proof issues still suffer weakness at the upper left reverse wheat grains. A few wispy hairlines within the obverse right field are consistent with the certified grade. A challenging date regardless of 1,150 being produced when fully choice. F-103 with reverse die doubling on DIM(E). Only 13 examples with a Cameo designation have been approved at CAC with four finer. The CAC price guide estimates market value at $950 which is understated and needs reconsideration by the CDN staff. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $1250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1877 Seated 10C 1877
Type 2 Reverse
PR66
PCGS
29851939
F-101
Gem
Exceptional Proof Example, Sharp Brilliant Radiance, Bold Wire Rims, Evergreen State Collection. 1877 Liberty Seated dime proof strikes were accomplished with the Type 2 reverse hub design. This exceptional example presents powerful watery radiance from undisturbed fields. Angled lighting showcases a classic proof presentation with center rose and peripheral sky-blue. What a color contrast as the reverse center is toned a blended rose-aquamarine then surrounded with rose-gold at the borders. A consistent and fully executed strike further enhances the eye appeal. The CAC census is limited to 25 examples stickered without a Cameo designation and one has to wonder why PCGS withheld this designation. Housed in PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) Dupont hologram holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $2000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1877 Seated 10C 1877
Type 2 Reverse
PR65CAM
PCGS
20369185
F-101
Gem
Cameo Designation, Intense Reflectivity, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. 1877 saw a reduction in proof strikes to only 510 pieces. This lower mintage correlates to a single digit PCGS Cameo population. This lovely Evergreen State Collection example brings intensely reflective mirrors and essentially untoned surfaces. Fields are entirely unabraded and hairline free. There are a few subtle whitish rings at Liberty's head and near the cap. Strike is completely executed. If in the market for gem Cameo designated proofs, this offering warrants consideration. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) Gold Shield holder. Reserve: $2250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1878 Seated 10C 1878

PR66
PCGS
05763149
F-101
Gem
Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Fiery orange-red obverse colors overlay sharply mirrored fields on this 1878 PR66 Seated dime. The reverse is equally attractive with blended aquamarine and yellow-gold hues amplified by brilliant mirrors. Pristine surfaces are noted during a careful 10x inspection. The strike is complete from a Type 2 reverse as no proof are known to be struck with the earlier Type 1 reverse design. The wire rims are thin and razor-sharp. The PCGS population report indicates that 9 have been certified at this lofty grade with none finer. With respect to Cameo designated examples, there are 4 at the PR66 grade level and a single PR66+. A nearly unimprovable example with a fair reserve. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder. Reserve: $2250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1879 Seated 10C 1879

PR66CAM
PCGS
30883590
F-101

Gem
Cameo Designation, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Lofty grades are present in the Evergreen State proof collection as is evidenced by this richly toned 1879 F-101 example. A delicate orange-rose patination decorates the obverse while the reverse is layered with thick rose, aquamarine, and gold hues. The reverse presentation excels under a bright light and is this offering's highlight. Die erosion is noted under the ribbon ends along with a die scratch within Liberty's left armpit that is the primary diagnostic. Wire rims are complete on the reverse while being partial on the obverse. The CAC census for Cameo designed example is 25 with six at the offered grade and one finer. The reserve is fair given a CAC market fair value estimate of $1900. Housed in PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) Dupont hologram holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $1850 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1879 Seated 10C 1879

PR65CAM
PCGS
20659300
F-102

Gem
Cameo Designation, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. The Evergreen State proof Seated dime collection provides the opportunity to acquire two of the four die pairings employed for the 700 struck. Four different die pairings for such a little mintage may seem excessive, however present die collectors have an exciting collecting opportunity with this date. This F-102 example offers intense mirrors that amplify the rose-gold and blue coloration. The contrast between the mirrored fields and frosted devices is consistent with the Cameo designation. Please note that the weakness at the obverse legend is a function of die hubbing and not a strike issue. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with special "Doily" retro label and CAC approval. Reserve: $1450 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1880 Seated 10C 1880

PR66CAM
PCGS
21607098
F-101

Gem
Cameo Designation, Watery Mirrors, Superb Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Though circulation strike silver coinage levels were limited during 1880, the striking of proofs increased to 1,355 piece, a substantial number for the Liberty Seated dime denomination. Those worthy of Cameo designation continue to be a small fraction of the surviving population. The Evergreen State example typifies what I consider to be the classic cameo proof "look". Sharp reflective fields bring a watery texture under a light source. Surfaces are mostly untoned with a hint of gold at the peripheries. Primary devices are lighted frosted as would be expected. Consistent with the superb gem certification, the fields are pristine other than a single obverse line from the drapery to (A)MERICA. PCGS reports 19 certified at this grade, a reflection of the high mintage. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder. Reserve: $1600 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1881 Seated 10C 1881

PR66CAM
PCGS
20531544
F-101

Gem
Cameo Designation, Superb Eye Appeal, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Peripheral blue toning arcs provide a lovely contrast with light orange-gold coloration. Radiant mirrors fall in the watery spectrum and are quite impressive during bright light assessment. The Cameo designation is more than warranted as the motifs are nicely frosted and fully struck. The illustration only hint at this lot's superb eye appeal. Proof strike were limited to 975 pieces accomplished with three separate die pairs. F-101 with an upward sloping date and lightly hubbed reverse denomination. The current CAC price guide estimate of market value is $1900 as reference. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $1850 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1882 Seated 10C 1882

PR65CAM
PCGS
25218228
F-101

Gem
Cameo Designation, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. "Watery mirrors" is a visually subjective term but accurately describes this 1882 struck proof dime with important Cameo designation. Copper shading is prevalent with a thin peripheral obverse arc noted along with more pervasive concentration at the right reverse wreath. The sharply mirrored fields provide ample contrast with the frosted motifs. A few wispy obverse hairlines are noted and most likely preclude a CAC green bean. The strike is fully impressed with wire rims on both sides. A noteworthy lot that warrants close inspection during the Atlanta ANA Money Show viewing opportunity. The PCGS price guide states $1650 as fair market value as reference. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder. Reserve: $1200 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1883 Seated 10C 1883

PR67
PCGS
38736559
F-103

Gem
Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Liberty Seated dime proof mintage increased to 1039 pieces during 1883 with the date being well represented in the CAC census. CAC has approved 8 examples at the lofty PR67 grade with an additional 7 with Cameo designation. This Evergreen State example is a strong testament to this grade level as the surfaces are absolutely pristine resulting in undisturbed bright light viewing. The brilliant mirrors offer watery textures and the peripheral copper-gold provides the appropriate framing that we expect from superb gem proofs. The strike is typical of the issue with limited wire rims. The CAC price guide suggests $2600 as current market value. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $2600 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1884 Seated 10C 1884

PR66CAM
PCGS
13354652
F-101

Gem
Cameo Designation, Intense Radiance, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. Intensely radiant fields are the highlight of this superb gem 1884 proof dime. The untoned surfaces a hugely brilliant and warrants a sunglass warning for sensitive eyes! The motifs are heavily frosted and are showcased by disparate "dished" fields. The high relief strike is uniform with meticulously impressed devices. A faint line emanating from Liberty's nose is a link mark. There is no explanation for why this lot is not CAC approved other than not being submitted for review. A gorgeous proof strike that deserves careful consideration for type or whatever project that could make use of this gem. Mintage is a reasonable 875 pieces with the date well represented in grades ranging from PR65 to PR67. The reserve has been set well below the PCGS price guide value of $2250. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder. Reserve: $1850 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1885 Seated 10C 1885

PR67CAM
PCGS
43567900
F-101

Gem
Cameo Designation, Exceptional Gem, Reflective Brilliance, Evergreen State Collection. An exceptional 1885 Liberty Seated dime proof strike with nicely contrasted cameo eye appeal. This gorgeous gem was originally part of a complete 1885 proof set which has been holdered and dispersed. Though the images indicate classic center to edge copper gold toning, any angled light exposes deeply reflective mirrors with substantial undisturbed brilliance. A thin peripheral blue arc on the obverse is icing on the cake. This is an amazing offering that needs in-hand inspection to be appreciated. Or you can trust this description as I'm in love with this premium proof strike. CAC has approved 13 at the certified grade with one finer and a price guide value estimate at $3500. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $3500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1886 Seated 10C 1886

PR65CAM
PCGS
36175751
F-103

Gem
Cameo Designation, Intense Radiance, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. An impressive 1886 F-101 proof strike from an issue of 886 pieces, a numerical coincidence that has always captured my attention. Blast white contrasting surfaces are gladly experienced with angled lighting. Yet another Evergreen State Collection example that should come with a sunglass warning due to the intense brilliance. All devices, including the more delicate legend lettering and date digits, are heavily frosted. The strike is hammered with intricately impressed details. PCGS currently sets fair market value as $1650 with our reserve providing ample margin for competitive bidding. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder. Reserve: $1350 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1887 Seated 10C 1887

PR66CAM
PCGS
21775337
F-101

Gem
Cameo Designation, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. The Evergreen State proof dime cavalcade continues with a thoroughly impressive 1887 Cameo designated lot that provides intensely basined mirrors. Under a bright light, the radiance is sharp with swirling cartwheels adding another viewing dimension. A high relief strike is equally impressive as the wire rims are needle-sharp with meticulously defined motifs. A single planchet defect is noted in the left obverse field as made. Proof mintage dropped to 710 pieces this year with the impact being seen in the PCGS population report. Only 6 examples have been certified at the offered grade with six finer. The PCGS price guide suggests $2250 as fair market value for reference. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder. Reserve: $1800 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1888 Seated 10C 1888

PR65+CAM
PCGS
45281221
F-102

Gem
Cameo Designation, Top 100 Variety, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. A strikingly beautiful 1888 F-102 proof Seated dime with watery mirrors and worthy of its Cameo designation. Not only does this Evergreen State specimen provide an exceptional presentation, this is also a notable Top 100 Varieties listing with the excessively polished reverse. Further inspection, of this Evergreen State specimen with a 10x, suggests that both the obverse and reverse were polished as there is a loss of detail at Liberty's left facing arm and hand coupled with weak shield lines. The bright light induced reflectance is spectacular and will please the most selective collector in the community. Mottled copper-gold is noted at the borders. CAC has approved 22 examples in all grades with 15 finer. The price guide estimate ranges between $1400 (PR65) and $1900 (PR66) for reference. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $1650 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1889 Seated 10C 1889

PR66+
PCGS
25387689
F-102

Gem
Marvelous Eye Appeal, Watery Mirrors, Sharp Reflectance, Light Rose-Blue Coloration, Evergreen State Collection. When previously sold into the Evergreen State Collection, this gem 1889 F-102 proof dime was called out with a JUST BUY IT NOW recommendation. This superb offering looks multiple times better in-hand than on the images with its watery mirrors and multi-color patina that includes rose, orange, aquamarine, and blue colors Bright light viewing is a joy as the brilliant reflectance amplifies the delicate patina. A true gem in the sense of the word that belongs in a top rated cabinet. The CAC Cameo proof census is only 13 extant with eight finer. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $1850 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1890 Seated 10C 1890

PR65CAM
PCGS
30041395
F-101a

Gem
Cameo Designation, Gorgeous Bullseye Toning, Tooled Die Crack Below Bow Knot, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. This gorgeous 1890 proof strike validates that the Philadelphia employed reworked business strike dies for "proof strikes". The F-101 die pairing struck both circulation and proof strikes with the proofs coming after circulation strikes. What is amazing with this die pairing is a reverse die crack that developed from the right ribbon end downward to the denticles below the left ribbon end. Interestingly, an attempt was made to tool out the die crack on the reverse die prior to or during the striking of proof coinage. By using a side lighting source during the photography of the die crack for web-book illustration, the tooled area becomes evident. An important offering previously from the Gerry Fortin Reference Collection that is 1890 F-101a web-book plate coin at The Definitive Resource for Liberty Seated Dime Variety Collectors online reference. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder as purchased during early 2004. Reserve: $1450 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1891 Seated 10C 1891

PR66+DCAM
PCGS
25697362
F-130

Gem
Deep Cameo Designation, Flashy Mirrors, Gem Original, Evergreen State Collection. A sharply cameoed proof 1891 dime that brings the final year of the Liberty Seated dime design to a conclusion. This is easily one of the finest and visually appealing survivors from a mintage of 600 proof strikes. An upper end gem with frosted devices and fields that offer flashy reflectance with sunglasses being advised when viewing under a strong bright light. Pristine fields are evident on both sides with a single tiny lint mark noted between the hair curls and right hand fingers. Interestingly, the reverse die exhibits subtle die polish line between D(I)ME and the lower left wreath maple leaf, undoubtedly as made. Sharp lettering and partial wire rims are also noted. No provenance is available after researching PCGS auction records. The CAC census reports only six deep cameo certified examples with a single piece being finer. The CAC price guide estimates fair market value at $6000. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $6000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Thursday February 27th
Seated 10C 1837 Seated 10C 1837
No Stars, Large Date
MS65
PCGS
06617307
F-101c

Gem
No Stars, Large Date, Shattered and Clashed Obverse, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. One of the finest known F-101c examples with bold clash marks on both sides and prominent obverse die cracks providing evidence of excessive die over usage. A gem example with intense frosted luster and spinning cartwheels. Exceptional eye appeal with hints of gold and copper over largely untoned surfaces. Pristine fields provide for unencumbered study of the extensive die clashing. Conservatively graded against present day standards with upgrade potential. Utilized as the F-101c plate coin within The Definitive Resource for Liberty Seated Dime Variety Collectors online reference and listed as entry #1 in the Top 100 Varieties set.? Utilized as the F-101c plate coin within The Definitive Resource for Liberty Seated Dime Variety Collectors online reference. The CAC price guide is $9,400, but we expected a much higher winning bid for this Fortin favorite. Ex. Palakika Collection, Heritage Auctions, 2007 St. Louis Missouri CSNS Sale, Lot #279. Currently housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) Gold Shield holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4561. Reserve: $12000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1838 Seated 10C 1838
No Drapery, Large Stars
MS65
PCGS
06617309
F-104

Gem
Large Stars, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. This 1838 Large Stars lot initiates the release of Gold CAC approved dimes within the Fortin Collection. Though overshadowed by three significantly shattered obverse dies, the F-104 obverse is also a compelling study with bold die crack through the rock and shield along with a second through star 9 and into the right field. This example radiates frosted luster from undisturbed surfaces with pastel sea-green and golden toning on the obverse and sky blue hues on the reverse. Cartwheels are equally impressive. Acquired during May, 2003 from the popular Teletrade platform. With its Gold CAC bean, this dime has claims to the condition census as the CAC population is 7 total at the MS66 and MS67 grades with a fair reserve set accordingly. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) Gold Shield holder with Gold CAC approval. PCGS #4568. Reserve: $9500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1845O Seated 10C 1845-O

AU55
PCGS OGH
4829235
F-101

Gem
Exceptional Gem, Condition Census, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Pittman. An exceptional gem and third finest per CAC records. Partially mirrored fields amplify the colorful toning with incredible bullseye reverse eye appeal. Perfectly struck with obverse die rust throughout Liberty's hair curls and gown folds along with die chips surrounding stars 3 through 6. Repunching is noted below the 4 digit crossbar and die lines behind UNITED. As with earlier 1840s New Orleans issues, few Mint State survivors are known. CAC has recorded only three Mint State examples which does not include the Eliasberg specimen certified as PCGS MS69. Acquired via private treaty during April 2003 along with the 1843-O during an intense research period that led to the Liberty Seated die variety online reference. The only available auction records are David Akers, October 1997 John Jay Pittman I Sale and 1957 Kelly Sale. Near the top of the list of my most cherished Liberty Seated dime acquisitions and deserving of a new home in an advanced New Orleans centric collection. Housed in PCGS Gen 3.1 (1993-1998) holder with Gold CAC approval. PCGS #4587. Reserve: $20000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1846 Seated 10C 1846

AU50
PCGS
25574434
F-101

Choice
CAC Condition Census Rarity, Choice Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The 1846 issue is well recognized as being the key date for the With Stars design hub. Mintage is a meager 31,300 with the date becoming rare at the choice AU grade level and prohibitively rare in Mint State. This dime is one of only two CAC approved across all AU grades with a single MS63 finer. A condition census example with choice original surfaces layered with natural crusty gray patina. Under a bright light, rose-gold hues are evident. Strike is complete with distinctly defined center motif, rounded stars, and full definition of the veins in the wreath leaves. The CAC price guide indicates $9000 as fair market value. Acquired from the Woodlands Collection, a GFRC client, during February 2018. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4588. Reserve: $9250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1850 Seated 10C 1850

MS64
PCGS
38665838
F-103

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Thick mint bloom is layered on both sides of the near-gem 1850 dime. A fully executed strike further enhances the presentation whether under a bright light or via illustration. Note the perfectly detailed hair curls and facial characteristics. Untoned centers are nicely framed by plum-rose shades with deeper blues at the lower right reverse. Accurately graded with a few micro-ticks in the obverse fields. F-103 with 185 digits touching the base and a prominent unfinished die area surrounding the reverse bow. A recent acquisition to the Fortin Collection as a CAC registry set entry, and a fitting example indeed. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4593. Reserve: $1350 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1852 Seated 10C 1852

MS65+
PCGS
38141367
F-108

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. A truly impressive 1852 issue that presents a totally detailed strike coupled with steely-frosted luster under angled lighting. Minute speckled gray is more prevalent on the obverse with peach-gold peripheral shades on both sides. This date is available at the MS64 grade but becomes quite scarce at the gem level. This offering is the lone PCGS MS65+ certified example which increases its desirability. F-108 with an oblique punched date. The epitome of originality and acquired during 2022 via the Newtown Collection release. The CAC census stands at 39 with seven finer. $2,400 is the current price guide value for an MS65 certified example. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. Ex. Newtown Collection. PCGS #4597. Reserve: $2550 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1853 Seated 10C 1853
With Arrows
MS66+
PCGS
39016781
Unlisted

Gem
Exceptional Eye Appeal, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Pittman. A marvelous gem 1853 With Arrows dime that offers exceptional eye appeal. For several decades, I patiently waited to locate the perfect example to upgrade this common date. During 2022, this John Jay Pittman specimen appeared in a New England dealer's inventory and promptly found a home in the Fortin Collection. The strike is needle sharp with exceptional frost that radiates under a bright light. A host of circular toning shades are accurately illustrated and will provide years of visual enjoyment. An unlisted Unhubbed Arrows and Date die pairing with light die cracks through the stars and across Liberty upper body. $3,150 is the suggested MS66 CAC price guide value with this lot being certified as (+) with superb eye appeal, Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. The label documents the Pittman pedigree. PCGS #4603. Reserve: $3500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1853 Seated 10C 1853
No Arrows
MS66
PCGS OGH
9714907
F-101a

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. As the gold: silver ratio became imbalanced due to newly discovered California gold deposits, the price of silver bullion rose above face value for half dimes through half dollars. Silver arbitrage resulted in a silver weight reduction for those denominations. Early in 1853, the Philadelphia Mint produced 95,000 dimes under the old weight standard of 2.67 grams. Afterwards, the weight of the dime was reduced to 2.49 grams with arrows added to the date for differentiating the lighter planchet. Two pairs of dies were employed for the No Arrows dimes at the old standard. With a growing collector base on the East coast, enough were saved leading to today's availability at the Gem level. This specimen exhibits brilliant, frosted luster and pristine surfaces overlaid with a uniform gold patina. One can only marvel at the preservation that enables outstanding eye appeal. A fully executed strike is equally impressive. F-101a, a Top 100 Variety, with bold clashing only on the obverse die. Die defects are noted on both E's in the denomination. 38 examples are reported in the CAC census with three finer. Fair value is listed at $6,750 in the CAC price guide. Housed in PCGS Gen 3.1 (1993-1998) holder with CAC approval. Ex. Newtown Collection. PCGS #4599. Reserve: $4750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1855 Seated 10C 1855
With Arrows
MS64
PCGS
30002787
F-101a

Choice
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. Reserve: $4000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1856 Seated 10C 1856
Small Date
MS66
PCGS
45824402
F-103
Gem
Small Date, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Even golden-gray patina covers the obverse while lighter aquamarine-gold decorates the reverse of this Small Date piece, complementing the ample, granular frosty luster under a bright light. An acuminated strike and partial wire rims are incrementally complimentary. Acquired during late 2022 from a New England dealer after a multi-decade search for the perfect Fortin Collection specimen. Incomplete strikes and lack of natural toning led to the rejection of many candidates as most at this grade level are creamy or blast white. F-103, a common die pairing with high level date. In-hand viewing is strongly suggested as the images only hint at the superb gem presentation. No auction records are known and fresh to market when purchased. CAC has certified 46 coins total, including two pieces at MS66 and two examples finer. The CAC price guide indicates a value of $5,250. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4609. Reserve: $5250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1856O Seated 10C 1856-O

MS64
PCGS
21700875
F-101

Choice
Large O, Near-Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Ex. Jim Gray. A highly attractive example with satiny luster and slight traces of mirrored brightness in the fields. The most significant visual feature is the deniable original toning. Predominately blue-gray, with a more vivid reddish-orange cast over the left reverse. Boldly impressed without any consequential marks. F-101 with Large O on a polished reverse die and employed as the plate coin within The Definitive Resource for Liberty Seated Dime Variety Collectors online reference. CAC census stands at 36 total with three finer. Jim Gray's North Carolina Collection Sale, Baltimore MD July 2004, Bowers & Merena Lot #2108. Ex. Von Stetten-Bauchenbach & Harvey Smith Collections, Bowers & Merena Lot #1626. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4612. Reserve: $3850 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1858S Seated 10C 1858-S

MS63
PCGS
25046167
F-103

Gem
Second CAC Finest, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Newtown, Bender. The 60,000 1858 dated dimes struck in San Francisco circulated extensively due to the demand for small change in western frontier commerce. Few Mint State survivors are known with the CAC approved population limited to this MS63 lot and a single MS66 finer. A medley of crusty bluish-gray, golden-orange, russet, and apricot patination adheres to both sides of this GFRC-Gem rated example. All design elements are fully struck with exacting detail throughout the head, stars, and reverse leaves. There are no detected abrasions whatsoever. The thick skin partially mutes the obverse luster while the reverse presents a steely golden glow under angled lighting. F-103 with a medium downward sloping date. The CAC price guide advises $20,200 as fair market value. Purchased October 2022 via the Newtown Collection with a prior Heritage Auctions offering April 2018 at the Chicago IL CSNS Sale. There is personal knowledge of this being a Tom Bender duplicate release at that sale. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4618. Reserve: $15000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1859 Seated 10C 1859

MS67
PCGS
81875227
F-107

Gem
Exceptional Luster, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Worthy of the "luster bomb" designation as exceptional silky frost radiates from the surfaces of this amazingly preserved superb gem. The hammered strike is equally extraordinary with every minute die detail sharply transferred and defined. The 1859 Philadelphia issue is well known among type collectors as a source for high grade Mint State superb gems. An opinion further validated by a CAC approved total of ten in MS67 with a single example finer. F-107, a die pairing that is frequently encountered for ultra-high-grade survivors. Acquired October 22 courtesy of the Newtown Collection. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4619. Reserve: $7500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1860 Seated 10C 1860

MS66+
PCGS
25649466
F-112

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. 1860 saw the introduction of revised design hubs per Chief Mint Engraver Longacre with assistance by Paquet. A shallower relief rendition of Liberty resulted in rapid wear of what became known as the Type 1 obverse. This superb gem example, with a pinpoint sharp strike, provides an unimpeded view into the new design features. A cameo effect is realized from partially mirrored fields when viewed under a bright light. Both sides offer die striations consistent with the mirrors. Light center gold shifts to deeper copper shades at the peripheries along with partial wire rims being noted. The eye appeal is exceptional for a historical presentation of a first-year design transition. F-112 with bases of the 1 digit thin and both polished obverse and reverse dies. Ideal for plate coin usage within The Definitive Resource for Liberty Seated Dime Varieties Collectors online reference. The lone PCGS certified MS66+ with two finer. The CAC census is notable low at 38 total given the mintage of 606,000. This coin is part of the 8 approved in MS66 as CAC does not recognize (+) grades. PCGS fair market value is $3500 as reference. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. Ex. Newtown Collection. PCGS #4631. Reserve: $2750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1860S Seated 10C 1860-S

MS64
PCGS
43311635
F-101

Gem
Kamal Ahwash Plate Coin, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Kamal Ahwash's Encyclopedia of United States Liberty Seated Dime 1837-1891 was the springboard for the Fortin collecting and research journey. How fitting to be offering Kam's 1860-S plate coin as a GFRC-Gem rated lot. The third lot in the Fortin Collection to secure the coveted "luster bomb" designation given the thick mint bloom and brilliant radiance. A complete strike adds to the historical charm. The obverse presents pristine surfaces with a mark on (D)IME warranting mention. CAC reports two at MS64 and an incremental two one grade higher. The CDN CAC guide stands at $17,300 with a jump to $43,200 in MS65. Acquired May 2001 courtesy of Carter Numismatics and recently crossed into the current PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4622. Reserve: $20000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1861 Seated 10C 1861
Type 1 Obverse
MS65
PCGS
26379068
F-104

Gem
Type 1 Obverse, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. A gem representative of the new Type 1 Longacre/Paquet design hubs with a cereal wreath reverse and our nation's legend transposed to the obverse. The coloration is exceptional as angled lighting exposes center gray encircled by copper-gold and finally, aquamarine at the periphery. The reverse is lightly tone in sea-green shades and some gold at the rims with a glowing frost including more brilliance on the reverse. Surfaces are entirely pristine with white spots on the image being holder wear. The 32 approved at CAC approved seems when considering the nearly 1.9 million struck. However the population is skewed by Mint State survivors as 22 are approved. The CAC guide indicates $1,400 as fair market value. Acquired March 2012 via Harry Laibstain. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.5 (2011-2013) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4633. Reserve: $1600 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1862 Seated 10C 1862

MS66
PCGS OGH
2363301
F-102a

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Lightly mirrored fields are overlaid with a semi-transparent patination consisting of blended olive-gold and rose shades. The reflectance remains sharp and typical of that seen on toned proofs of the era. The overall presentation highlights the "visual strength" of the revised Type 2 obverse design as the strike is hammered with a complete head and fully detailed wreath devices. F-102a, a business strike from proof dies and featured as the plate coin within The Definitive Resource for Liberty Seated Dime Variety Collectors online reference. 41 are CAC approved with one finer. The CAC price guide lists $1,950 as current value. Acquired July 2003 via private treaty. Housed in PCGS Gen 3.0 (1990-1993) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4635. Reserve: $2500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1863S Seated 10C 1863-S

MS64
PCGS
21861241
F-101

Gem
Claims to Finest Known, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Frog Run, Lovejoy, Reed Hawn. Yet another Civil War San Francisco survivor with potential claims to "finest known" given its CAC Gold approval at the near-gem level. The alternative is the Simpson/BigMo specimen that currently resides in the D.L.Hansen Collection. This exceptional gem ranks in the top three Fortin favorites along with the 1845-O Pittman example, and of course the crusty original 1874-CC. A silky, satiny specimen with intense cartwheel luster that radiates beneath faint sky blue, gold, and rose iridescence. The strike, featuring a fully defined upper obverse, is truly atypical as this date is notorious for weak strikes. The reverse is also deeply impressed. F-101 from a lone die pair and mintage of 157,500. The CAC price guide lists $39,500 as MS65 fair value, a full grade point higher and consistent with the Gold bean approval. .American Numismatic Rarities, December 2004 Frog Run Farm Sale, Baltimore MD, Lot #599. Ex. Allan Lovejoy, Reed Hawn. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.2 (2004-2005) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4638. Reserve: $38500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1864 Seated 10C 1864

MS65
PCGS
4944604
F-102a

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Creamy smooth steely-frosted luster erupts under a bright light with yet another "luster bomb" designation warranted. Other than the pesky upper left wheat grains, the overall strike is galvanizing with an intricately detailed Liberty portrait. Light gold toning is noted throughout with deeper shading on the reverse. F-102a, the only circulation strikes from proof dies with a die defect on DI(M)E readily evident. Fitting employed as the plate coin for that die pairing in the Fortin Liberty Seated Dime online reference. CAC notes 26 pieces total, with three at the offered grade and four finer. The CAC price guide value is $6000. Heritage Auctions, April 2004 CSNS Sale, Lot #6563. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.0 (1998-2002) holder with CAC Approval. PCGS #4639. Reserve: $6000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1864S Seated 10C 1864-S

MS66
PCGS
25271175
F-101

Gem
CAC Tied Finest Known, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection.Ex. BigMo, Gardner, Northern Bay The effort to assemble the potentially finest run of San Francisco Civil War era issues culminated with the purchase of this superb gem. A gem brilliant specimen that is finest certified at PCGS while tied for finest at CAC. Granular mint frost is pervasive with an undistrubed velvet-silk presentation under angleed lighting. An exceptional strike, for a San Francisco issue, with fully detailed motifs. F-101 and a lone die pairing with a mintage of 230,000. CAC has certified 22 coins total, including two pieces at MS66 and none finer. The CAC price guide indicates a value of $28,800. Legend Rare Coin Auctions, July 2020 BigMo Auction Sale, Lot 64. Ex. Eugene Gardner, and Northern Bay Collections. Housed in PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) Dupont hologram holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4640. Reserve: $29000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1865 Seated 10C 1865

MS67
PCGS OGH
8331040
F-101a

Gem
Tied Finest Known, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The Civil War cavalcade continues with a heavily striated 1865 Philadelphia issue that ranks as tied for finest. Heavy die polish imparted a mirrored finish through the fields though the motifs are evenly frosted. The bright light display is exceptional with even silver-gray surfaces that approach perfection. A pin-point sharp strike provides a precise window in the intricately hubbed dies including die scratches in the left field and arcing lines framing a repunched date. F-101a, circulation strikes from proof dies with a die defect on (D)IME. The Fortin plate at his Definitive Resource for Liberty Seated Dime Variety Collectors online reference. The CAC census is reported at 25 with six tied at the MS67 level and none finer. Acquired January 2004 via Jim O'Donnell. Housed in PCGS Gen 3.0 (1990-1993) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4641. Reserve: $13500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1866S Seated 10C 1866-S

MS65
PCGS
08115547
F-101

Gem
Tied for Finest Known, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The final Civil War San Francisco Mint issue with conditional census rarity at the offered grade. Few Mint State survivors are known when considering a mintage of 135,000 with western frontier attrition that took a heavy toll. Glowing frosted luster and vibrant cartwheels are hallmarks with angled lighting. Slightly mottled reddish-gold patina is prevalent on both sides with pristine surfaces other than a single tick on the left facing forearm. A nearly complete strike with softness on the head and bow knot. F-101, with weak S mintmark and median die state, as evidenced by a pronounced die crack from Liberty's ear down through the midsection and into the shield banner. A total of 19 examples have been approved at CAC with this lot tied for finest. The CAC price guide suggests $14,400 as fair market value while PCGS states $20,000. Heritage Auctions, March 2006 Palm Beach Florida Sale, Lot #449. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4644. Reserve: $16500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1867 Seated 10C 1867

MS67
PCGS
38519788
F-102

Gem
Tied for Finest, An Exceptional Gem, Gerry Fortin Collection. 1867 brought the lowest Philadelphia mintage with 6,000 struck. Mint State survivors are available in all grades with this lot being tied for finest at PCGS and CAC. An exceptional example with intense prooflike reflectance and colorful rose shaded centers surrounded by peripheral blues as struck with conspicuously striated dies. Partial wire rims are noted with a full obverse strike and near complete reverse other than the upper left wheat grains. F-102, with business strike from a single die pairing with a heavily clashed obverse only. Acquired via private treaty with no known auction records, though the lot is featured as the PCGS price guide plate coin. The CAC price guide value is listed at $17,300 for reference. A side-by-side comparison with the Simpson specimen could be a revealing exercise. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4645. Reserve: $17500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1868 Seated 10C 1868

MS65
PCGS
60118960
F-112

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. When researching the Liberty Seated Dime series, the 1868 Philadelphia issue became a surprising enigma. After the low mintage Civil War era, this early Reconstruction period date increased to 464,000 struck with at least twelve die pairings identified to date. The low mintage per die ratio resulted in hammered strikes being the rule. However, the CAC approved population is 17 in all grades with Mint State survivors being half that total. The Fortin Collection offers a condition census example with deeply frosted surfaces and vibrant cartwheels, Pristine fields have a silver-gray appearance with the strike incomplete on the bow knot. F-112 with a notably high weak date and partial strikes being the rule, also being the most often encountered die pairing in Mint State. The CAC price guide is $4,500 with two at grade and two incrementally finer. Acquired August 2003 via Carter Numismatics. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4647. Reserve: $4500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1868S Seated 10C 1868-S

MS64
PCGS
60159875
F-101

Gem
Tied for Finest, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. A conservatively graded 1868 San Francisco strike that is tied for finest at CAC. This "luster bomb" radiates huge helping of rich frosted luster accented with light gold coloration. A needle-sharp strike and pristine surfaces further elevated the overall eye appeal. F-101 with a Small Thin S reverse and struck with early die state dies. A challenging date fully choice specimen a diminutive 17 CAC approved pieces being validated. This dime is the sole MS64 with four finer. The conservative gradings will certainly draw the attention of the crack-out specialists towards a potential upgrade. Acquired August 2003 at that year's ANA World's Fair of Money as an ICG MS65 certified lot with subsequent crossover with downgrade into its current holder. The CAC fair market value is listed as $5,250 with no examples extant finer. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.3 (2005) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4648. Reserve: $7500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1869 Seated 10C 1869
Long Flag 1
MS67
PCGS
07001661
F-105a

Gem
Tied for Finest, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Bender. The 1869 Philadelphia issue was produced with two different date punch styles, the Short Flag 1 and Long Flag 1, with the latter seen on most Mint State examples. The date is challenging overall with Mint State specimens being very scarce given a mintage of 256,000 pieces. This magnificent Gem ranks in the condition census and is tied for finest known at both PCGS and CAC. Dazzling frosted radiance couples with light ruby-red toning for an immaculate bright light viewing experience. The strike is essentially complete with a partial wire rim. The surfaces are pristine and the fields are clashed. F-105a with a Long Flag 1 date punch and random die lines and defects in the shield. The Fortin Liberty Seated Dime online reference does not document the heavy die clashing as a separate die state. Only 18 examples are approved at CAC with an equal amount in circulated and Mint State grades. The CAC price guide lists $7,500 as fair value though this lot brought $9,000 when acquired at the 2022 Tom Bender sale. Heritage Auctions, August 2022 US Coins Sale, Lot #3768. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. The label documents the Bender Collection pedigree. PCGS #4649. Reserve: $8000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1870 Seated 10C 1870

MS66
PCGS
07797169
F-101a

Gem
Tied for Finest, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Bender. The epitome of originality and tied for finest known. Blended jade-green and sun-gold hues are predominant on the obverse, with incremental blues on the reverse. Lightly mirrored with substantial steely radiance and vibrant cartwheels. Partial wire rims and a scrupulously detailed strike are further noted. F-101a, a business strike from proof dies as noted by a die crack between the ribbon ends. A challenging date overall with the CAC census listing 23 approved. This lot is one of three stickered at the MS66 level with a price guide value of $10,500. Heritage Auctions, January 2023 FUN U.S. Coins Signature Sale, Lot 3382. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. The label documents the Bender Collection pedigree. PCGS #4651. Reserve: $8500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1871 Seated 10C 1871

MS66
PCGS
25256558
F-102a

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Bender. Struck from a retired proof die pairing as validated by a die crack between the ribbon ends. This fact explains the mirrored prooflike fields and sharp bright light reflectance. Both sides are toned with ribbons of rainbow shades while gold coloration being predominant. The surfaces are essentially flawless with a complete strike and sharp wire rims noted. The overall eye appeal is profound and consistent with its superb gem certification. The reserve is well back of the prior Tom Bender sales tally. F-102a with leftover 1870 reverse die. CAC notes 21 in all grades, a surprising number with nearly a million struck. The CAC price guide lists $5,400 while PCGS reports $6,500 as fair value. Acquired via private treaty. Ex. Heritage Auctions, February 2023 Long Beach Signature Sale Lot# 3769 (Tom Bender). Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. The label documents the Bender Collection pedigree. PCGS #4653. Reserve: $7500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1871CC Seated 10C 1871-CC

EF45
PCGS
90092392
F-101

Gem
Key Carson City Date, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Cook. One of the Liberty Seated dime "stopper" dates and a first year issue from the Carson City Mint. The 20,100 struck saw extensive circulation with few choice survivors extant in any grade. One of the highlights of the Fortin Collection with amazing preservation. Though moderately worn, the surfaces are entirely unabraded with a layer of natural coin gray patina that is consistent throughout the piece. The devices are appropriately defined for the issue with a touch of upper obverse weakness. The third finest as the CAC census reports 13 total and two higher at AU53/AU55. A once in several decades opportunity for the astute collector. Heritage Auction, May 2005 St. Louis CSNS Signature Sale, Lot 6504. Ex. Tim Cook Collection. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4654. Reserve: $30000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1872 Seated 10C 1872

MS66+
PCGS
06616192
F-102

Gem
Condition Census, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Bender. Yet another Bender Family acquisition towards upgrading the later "common" dates in the Fortin Collection. This marvelous gem presents autumn-brown, and blue-green toning with orange-red at the obverse center under a bright light. The upper and lower reverse borders are similarly toned with a silver lustrous center. Frosted radiance and vibrant cartwheels are truly pleasing. F-102 with triple punched one and misplaced digits at the end of the scroll. CAC notes 24 stickered in all grades with two finer. The CAC price guide does not list fair value for (+) grades with a range from $3,750 (MS66) to $11,200 (MS67). The PCGS guide stands at $5,000. Heritage Auction January 2023 FUN Signature Sale, Lot 3384. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. The label documents the Bender Collection pedigree. PCGS #4656. Reserve: $4350 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1872CC Seated 10C 1872-CC

EF45
PCGS
43801561
F-101

Choice
CAC Condition Census, Near-Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. "Condition Census", a term credited to Dr. William Sheldon, arrives at a coin value through listing the top five survivors in sequential order. The 1872 Carson City issue is the most frequently encountered within the 1871-CC though 1874-CC date span. However, choice survivors are very rare without a single Mint State specimen with CAC green bean. Darker violet-gray shades are noted on this naturally toned example with olive orange-gray noted at the reverse borders. Well preserved surfaces are undisturbed and entirely pleasing. The strike is typical of the issue as variability is the rule. CAC reports 17 approved in all grades with a single AU58 finer. The CAC price guide suggests $17,300 as fair value which is a conservative number given the ongoing collector demand. Acquired via private treaty during late 2023. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4657. Reserve: $23500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1872S Seated 10C 1872-S

MS64
PCGS OGH
4861164
F-101

Choice
Important Rarity in Mint Sate, Near-Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The 1872 San Francisco issue is known as a condition rarity in Mint State with the Fortin specimen being within the condition census. A sharply struck survivor with only a few upper left wreath cereal gains not fully detailed. Gold coloration graces the undisturbed surfaces with a single diagonal roller line, as made, crossing both Es in the denomination. F-101, a single die pair with later stage die cracks and a Small Block S. The F-101 plate coin within the Fortin Liberty Seated Dime online reference. CAC reports 15 approved in all grades with two finer. A $7,500 fair market value of listed which appears conservative for this challenging S-mint. Heritage Auctions, May 2005 St. Louis CSNS Signature Sale, Lot #6508, Ex. Dr. Tim Cook Collection. Housed in PCGS Gen 3.1 (1993-1998) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4658. Reserve: $8500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1873 Seated 10C 1873
No Arrows, Open 3
MS65
PCGS
50448447
F-106

Gem
Open 3, CAC Finest Known, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. 1873 No Arrows Open 3 was struck for only a short time as the Mint took steps to "open" the 3 date punch to avoid confusion with that of an 8 digit per the initial Closed 3. The reported mintage of 60,000 correlates well with the dearth of gem survivors. The Fortin specimen is the finest CAC approved and tied for finest at PCGS. Granular frosted luster and swirling cartwheels are exemplary while the strike is hammered. The center Liberty device is meticulously detailed as are the corn and wheat grains on the reverse. The overall eye appeal is differentiated from other Mint State examples seen in a long collecting career. F-106 with thick bases at the 1 digit and weakly hubbed denomination on the reverse center. CAC reports 17 approved in all grades without a price guide estimate for fair market value. Acquired February 2023 via primate treaty. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4660. Reserve: $12500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1873 Seated 10C 1873
With Arrows
MS64
PCGS
21688289
F-104

Choice
Choice Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The Coinage Act of 1873 revised the United States' mint and coinage laws, and established the gold standard. One of the provisions was a slight planchet weight increase from 2.48 grams to 2.50 grams, well within the production tolerance of that era. Regardless, the Mint again placed arrows at the date for the 1873 and 1874 issues. Fortin notes that the 1873 issue is much more difficult in Mint State as compared to the subsequent 1874 date. A check of the CAC census will easily bare this fact out and the basis for difficulty in locating a CAC approved upgrade for this offered lot. A fully detailed example with evenly impressed devices. Dusty silver-gray patination is consistent on both sides with soft, steely-frosted luster noted. Pristine surfaces round out the attributes. F-104 with a repunched 1 and employed as the Fortin Liberty Seated Dime reference plate coin. The PCGS price guide states $,1750 as market value. Acquired September 2004 via private treaty. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder. PCGS #4665. Reserve: $1150 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1874 Seated 10C 1874
With Arrows
MS64
PCGS
50034039
F-103

Gem
Finest Top 100 Variety Example, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. An especially important Top 100 Varieties offering as the finest known for the die variety. Generous mint bloom covers both sides of this GFRC-Gem rated dime with thick frosted luster noted under a bright light. Creamy light gold covers the obverse with similar shading on the lower reverse. The overall strike is impressive with several upper left wheat grains not completely formed. F-103 with a bold repunching of the 18 digits and light die clashing throughout. The plate coin within The Definitive Resource for Liberty Seated Dime Variety Collectors online reference. The CAC price guide lists $1400 as this date is a type coin play. Bowers & Merena, November 2002 Logan and Steinbert Sale, Lot #1235. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4668. Reserve: $1850 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1874S Seated 10C 1874-S
With Arrows
MS66
PCGS
06756784
F-101

Gem
Finest Micro S Known, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. After careful research of all CoinFacts auctions records dating back to 2005, this F-101 Micro S dime is the finest known for its variety. Recent sales of MS66/MS66+ examples via Gardner, Bender, and others have been exclusively the F-102 Small S with a weakly hubbed reverse or the F-102a with late die state die erosion. An impressively lustrous example under bright light with spinning cartwheels and light golden-brown patination with pristine surfaces. Essentially fully struck though the left wreath devices are weakly hubbed, an issue for both 1874-S reverse dies. As with many other Fortin lots in this GFRC event, this coin has been employed as the plate within the Fortin Liberty Seated Dime online reference. CAC reports 18 approved examples in all grades with none finer. Acquired August 2009 via Carter Numismatics. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval and no upgrade attempts for a (+) designation. PCGS #4670. Reserve: $15500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1875 Seated 10C 1875

MS66
PCGS
50033554
F-117

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Pastel shades and glowing frosted luster are readily apparent with angled lighting. The obverse is a parade of copper-gold, aquamarine, and rose while the reverse toning is mostly limited to the borders. The strike is nearly complete with the upper left reverse wheat grains being traditionally weak. F-117 with a high level date and random die lines across Liberty. The CAC price guide suggests $1,050 as fair market value with 18 approved at the offered grade. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4672. Reserve: $1100 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1875S Seated 10C 1875-S
Below Wreath
MS64
PCGS
22014093
F-103

Gem
Mintmark Below, Micro S, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. 1875 San Francisco strikes were accomplished with two distinctly different mintmark locations. For the Below Wreath, the Micro S and Small S punches have been well documented by Greer and Fortin with the Micro S seen as very scarce in Mint State grades. The Fortin Collection specimen warrants a GFRC-Gem quality rating given its serene viewing experience and brilliant frosted radiance. A bold strike is again plagued by weakness at the upper left reverse wheat grains. A lot with upgrade potential as the luster is beyond that of the certified grade. F-103 with filled Micro S that is positioned far to the left. Full heads for this die pairing are very challenging. The CAC census is 27 in all grades with ten finer. The CAC price guide value of $550 again suffers from mintage bias equivalent to common date Philadelphia issues of that era. Acquired January 2003 via private treaty. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.3 (2005) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4677. Reserve: $800 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1876 Seated 10C 1876
Type 1 Reverse
MS66
PCGS
83759615
Unlisted

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Rich frosted luster is framed by peripheral aquamarine-gold on this super gem survivor. Elevated wire rims and high relief devices result from a hammered strike including circulated lathe lines in the lower gown folds. The preservation is extraordinary with undisturbed surfaces. Unlisted in the Fortin Liberty Seated Dime online reference with an arcing die line on Liberty's neck. The CAC price guide notes $1250 at the MS66 grade level increasing to $3,300 in MS67, with a single example approved at this lofty grade. Stack's Bowers August 2019 ANA Auction Sale, Lot #1237. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. Ex. Newtown. PCGS #4679. Reserve: $1550 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1876CC Seated 10C 1876-CC
Type 1 Reverse
MS63
PCGS
18742435
F-117

Gem
Superb Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. With all the finest known and tied for finest known examples within the Fortin Collection, why is the 1876-CC date in a lowly PCGS MS63 holder? An inspection of the images should provide a response to that question and the explanation for never being compelled to conduct an upgrade. Am amazing gem with glowing steely-frosted luster and bold definition of the motifs. Under a bright light, the faint orange bullseye center transitions to orange-rose before shifting sky-blue with yellow gold at the immediate borders. Copper-gold dominates the reverse with embedded sea-green at the periphery. Other than a few ancient micro-lines in the right obverse field, the surfaces are unabraded. F-117 in early die state without the reverse die crack through the mintmark, CAC notes $1,000 as fair market value with $1,500 at the next grade. Undoubtedly, a full "4" against present day grading standards and more than worthy of the reserve. Acquired August 2005 via private treaty. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4680. Reserve: $1500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1877 Seated 10C 1877
Type 2 Reverse
MS66
PCGS
08821529
F-107
Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Ex. Gardner Yet another "common date" that suffers from mintage bias, this 1877 Philadelphia strike presents cobalt-blue at the extreme borders coupled with golden-orange that encircles brilliant centers. Glimmering frosted luster and rotating cartwheels pique the eyes during bright light inspection. The complete absence of marks and a bold strike further increase the desirability. An unquestionable superb gem that is ultra carefully preserved. Type 2 F-107 with a high, level date and circular die cracks passing through the legend and date. CAC reports 40 approved in all grades with three finer. The CDN CAC guide lists fair value as $1,300, a common date type number that fails to capture the low MInt State population. Heritage Auctions, October 2015 Eugene Gardner IV Signature Sale, Lot #98288. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4682. Reserve: $1650 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1878 Seated 10C 1878
Type 2 Reverse
MS66
PCGS
50073913
F-109
Gem
Underrated Issue, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Gardner. A "common date" that remains underrated and challenging in gem Mint State. Violet and blue-green patination covers the obverse on this colorfully toned superb gem 1878 Type 2 reverse dime. The reverse interactions between steely-frosted luster and a golden periphery framing a mint-green center are just short of remarkable. Strike is fully executed and boldly detailed. A potential collection mate for the Fortin 1877-CC as the presentation is well matched. Unlisted with a potential match with the F-101 proof reverse die. For a date with 1,677,200 struck, a CAC census of only 21 approved is noteworthy with the majority being Mint State. The CAC guide lists $1950 as fair market value. Heritage Auctions, October 2015 Gardner Collection IV Sale, Lot #1229. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. Ex. Gardner. PCGS #4685. Reserve: $2000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1878CC Seated 10C 1878-CC
Type 2 Reverse
MS64
PCGS OGH
5178940
F-104

Gem
Lapped Type 2 Reverse, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The Fortin Sale arrives at the 1878-CC F-104 dime with a lapped Type 2 reverse, another long time personal favorite without a need for upgrade. Nearly all gem Mint State survivors were struck with a Type 1 reverse (F-101) with steely to partially mirrored fields. This condition facilities a higher probably for searing lofty grades as compared to the rare Type 2 reverse varieties (F-102 through F-104) that were struck with excessively lapped reverse dies. The offered dime is the finest Type 2 strike seen as both a researcher/dealer and irreplaceable in the Fortin Collection. Light violet-rose is overlaid on a silver-gray background with deeper hues on the obverse. Glistening steely-frosted luster and spinning cartwheels explode under a bright light coupled with a hammered strike that meticulously illustrates the excessively lapped reverse die. A dream coin for the die variety specialist and potential upgrade candidate. Of course, a long time Fortin plate coin for the variety. The CAC population report and price guide both reflect the F-101 die pairing and should be considered accordingly. Acquired August 2001 via private treaty. Also Heritage Auctions, December 2000 Excl7usively Internet Sale, Lot #1101. Housed in PCGS Gen 3.0 (1990-1993) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4686. Reserve: $5500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1880 Seated 10C 1880

MS67
PCGS
37904837
F-102a

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. An exceptional gem with mirrored fields, the obverse more so. In-hand viewing is suggested to enjoy the obverse color transition to center rose framed by sky blue and yellow gold at the borders. Copper-gold peripheral toning partially extends into the denomination. The overall eye appeal is further enhanced by completely struck motifs and reflective luster. The GFRC images can only hint at the dramatic bright light presentation. F-102a, a business strike from proof dies with broken 8 and 0 digits and die rust throughout the denomination. Approaching the condition census with seven approved at the CAC stickered grade and three finer. The CAC price guide listed $3,000 as fair value. Acquired August 2016 via private treaty. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4688. Reserve: $3000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1839 Seated 50C 1839
No Drapery
MS63+
PCGS
85168787
WB-4

Gem
No Drapery, Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Original, hairline-free surfaces cover both sides of this Gold CAC example, with the overall appearance lighter in color than conveyed by the images. Varied shades appear as the coin is tilted, alternately revealing gold, blue, and copper colors on both sides, and the aesthetic appeal is strong. A few fields voids are noted above the rock, none of recent origin. WB-4, with die lines behind Liberty’s heel. Most stars are defined, while characteristic softness is present at the eagle’s left leg. CAC records 65 coins total, with five pieces at the MS64 grade and no pieces finer. While the mintage of this issue was healthy, the survival of a near-Gem example is strictly by chance, as collectors of the day were more drawn to colonial and other issues. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with Gold CAC approval. Ex. Newman/Col EHR Green (Heritage, November 2013), lot 33466, there presented as NGC MS64+ CAC (realized $61,687.50), later in the Branch Mint Collection, now in a PCGS MS63+ Gold CAC holder (GFRC, July 2021), at $55,000. PCGS #6230. Reserve: $57500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1840 Seated 50C 1840
Reverse of 1839
MS64+
PCGS
81471362
WB-1

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. A brilliant figure of Liberty emerges from the crusty fields, framed by deeper blue patina at the periphery. The overall preservation level is exceptional, and this near-condition census piece will serve as an upgrade to all but the most advanced sets of Liberty Seated half dollars. Stars to the left are weakly impressed, while the eagle claws are well-defined. WB-1, with reverse die cracks. CAC reports 76 coins overall, with three coins at MS64, four pieces in MS65, and four at the MS66 level. The CAC price guide progresses from $4,350 in MS64 to $11,200 in MS65. Pricing a “plus” attribute is somewhat more art than science, and, in this case, the bidders will decide the appropriate increment above the MS64 value. Ex. Osprey collection (GFRC, June 2021), at $8,500. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6234. Reserve: $8000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1846 Seated 50C 1846
Tall Date
MS64
PCGS
45362404
WB-11

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Scattered shades of smoky gray patina stand out against the frosty luster, surrounding by aqua color at the rims. The Tall Date WB-11 is a distinct variety, with a severe downward slope in the date. Additionally, the 1 and 4 in the date exhibit repunching. Most stars exhibit distinct centers, while the eagle’s claws are separated if faintly so. Obverse diagonal marks to the left are as struck, likely a remnant of the planchet rollers. CAC notes 55 pieces in all grades, with three coins in MS64 and five examples higher. The CAC price guide value is $6,750, advancing to $21,600 in MS65. Acquired from Great Collections. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6252. Reserve: $6250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1855 Seated 50C 1855
With Arrows
MS64
PCGS
33290557


Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Dusty gray patina reveals bits of underlying silver color, more so on the reverse. Light crust is evident around the protected portions of the eagle. Typically struck, with several soft stars. The 1855 Philadelphia With Arrows issue is not rare but remains more challenging than the 1853 and 1854 issues. This is an ideal selection for a type collector seeking additional rarity beyond common date status. CAC has certified 33 coins in all grades, a lower total among Seated halves, with four pieces in MS64 and four examples finer. The PCGS price guide is $5,100. Ex. Regency Auction 26 (Legend, May 2018), lot 573, realized $3,877.50. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6281. Reserve: $4500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1856O Seated 50C 1856-O

MS65
PCGS
50003724
WB-13

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. A bold crescent of charcoal patina fills the stars, contrasting strongly with the brilliant center, while the reverse reveals copper shades to the lower right. Satiny luster flows from both sides, and the eye appeal is strong. Star centers are easily distinct, while claw joints to the left blend together. CAC has approved 92 pieces total, with ten coins in MS65 and just three examples finer. WB-13, with a die crack at Liberty’s shoulder and a vertical die line in the reverse shield horizontals. The CAC price guide is $5,250, a reasonable level given the advanced placement in the condition census. Ex. Pinnacle Rarities. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6288. Reserve: $5850 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1856S Seated 50C 1856-S

AU58
PCGS
21124918
WB-5

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Early San Francisco coinage was not systematically collected at the time of issue, with the result that higher grade pieces tend to be scarcer than their Philadelphia counterparts. The 1856-S half is a case in point, with seven Mint State pieces reported by PCGS, as compared to 61 uncirculated Philadelphia examples of the same year. This is a ratio substantially higher than would be suggested strictly by the comparative mintage levels. The present coin exhibits even shading with rose-gray patina evident on both sides, surrounded by a few crusty bits at the rims. Strike is exceptional, with defined star points and cleanly separated claw knuckles. WB-5, with recut stars and a large mintmark. PCGS notes 168 coins total, with five pieces at the AU58 level. The PCGS price guide value is $6,750. Ex. New Jersey Collection (GFRC, December 2017), at $6,750. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder. PCGS #6289. Reserve: $6500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1857O Seated 50C 1857-O

MS64
PCGS
34329349
WB-1

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. A medium dusting of crust covers both sides, more heavily on the reverse. The originality is immediately apparent, with antique, hairline-free surfaces easily visible under the skin. Star centers are sharp while separation of the left claw joints is evident, if weakly so. WB-1, with the date sloping down and a large mintmark. CAC has approved but 28 coins in all grades, a lower total among Seated half dollars, four pieces in MS64, and no examples finer. PCGS notes nine coins at MS64 and no pieces higher. The CAC price guide value is $7,900. Ex. Heritage (January 2018, lot 3720), at $6,000 – a prescient purchase on the part of the consignor, who was able to acquire this top-pop PCGS/CAC example at an attractive price. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6291. Reserve: $7500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1857S Seated 50C 1857-S

AU55
PCGS
25018618
WB-4

Choice
Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Medium grey-plum patina covers both sides evenly, with steel-gray color peeking out from the protected areas. WB-4, with the date sloping down and a die scratch connecting the left wing to the leaf. CAC has certified 27 pieces in all grades, a single coin at AU55 (the present example), two coins in AU58, and just one piece finer, an outlier at MS66. The CAC price guide value is $3,000 in AU55, $3,450 in AU58, and soars to $90,000 in MS66. Ex. Oregon Beaver, GFRC May 2023, at $7,500. This transaction, at a level considerably higher than the CAC guide, is more indicative of the true rarity of the piece. Indeed, the PCGS price guide, without CAC certification, reflects a value of $5,500. Some coins trade infrequently, a challenge for price guide creators, and in these cases the expertise of a specialist dealer will more accurately reflect true market levels. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6292. Reserve: $7500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1858 Seated 50C 1858

MS65
PCGS
12615672


Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection, Ex. Gardner. Swirling ebon and gold patina fills the fields of this Philadelphia piece, while protected areas of the obverse reveal an outline of steel-gray color. Gem luster is somewhat subdued at first glance but is easily evident under a light. Strike is typical, with stars 4-8 soft. CAC notes 126 coins in all grades, nine pieces at MS65, and two examples finer, both at MS66. The CAC price guide assigns a value of $5,200 in MS65, a reasonable level for a coin removed from top-pop status by only a single point. Ex. Heritage (May 2022, lot 3518), at $5,040, previously from Gardner IV (Heritage, October 2015), lot 98671, where it realized $4,230. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6293. Reserve: $5250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1858O Seated 50C 1858-O

MS64
PCGS
36167037
WB-14

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Frosty luster highlights the even gold and olive patina evident on both sides. A few of the protected areas reveal lighter silver-steel color, and the overall eye appeal is excellent. Strike is typical, with weakness in the eagle’s left leg. WB-14, with the date sloping upward and the mintmark tilted to the left. Production in this year was ample, and Bill Bugert identifies 41 die marriages for the issue. Despite the production level, exceeding seven million pieces, CAC has certified only 115 coins total, three examples in MS64, and six pieces finer. The CAC price guide indicates a value of $3,600 in MS64. Ex. Heritage (November 2018, lot 3689), at $2,640. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6294. Reserve: $3250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1858S Seated 50C 1858-S

MS63
PCGS
38255947
WB-11

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Brilliant, frosty luster flows from both sides, showcasing light patina that is largely confined to the protected areas. A thorough strike sharply renders all design elements, including the normally pesky claw joints. WB-11, with a downward sloping date and a tine in the dentil above (AM)E(RICA). CAC notes 23 pieces total, two coins in MS63, and a single example finer, at MS66. The CAC guide value is $5,600. Ex. Osprey Collection (GFRC May 2020), at $6,750. Remarkably, the Osprey collector located this coin in Asia, prior to consigning the piece to GFRC in 2020. Given the overall eye appeal, low CAC population, and superb technical detail, the present offering represents an important opportunity. PCGS Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6295. Reserve: $7500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1859 Seated 50C 1859

MS62
PCGS
19510618
WB-10

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection, Ex. Dick Osburn. Medium gray fields reveal varied color underneath as the coin is tilted under a light, including gold patina in the protected areas and deeper blue-green shades at the rims. WB-10, with obverse clashing and weak verticals in the reverse shield. A few stars are softly impressed while the reverse is more sharply rendered. CAC has approved 48 coins across all grades, two examples in MS62, and ten pieces finer. The CAC guide value is $1,000 in MS62. Ex. Heritage (August 2023, lot 51163), realized $1,920, previously from the Dick Osburn collection (Stack’s Bowers, August 2011), lot 7067 at $1,380. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. The label captures the Osburn Collection pedigree. PCGS #6296. Reserve: $1500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1859O Seated 50C 1859-O

MS63
PCGS
21786106
WB-7

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Light gold centers give way to concentric rings in the stars and legend, a favored “look” among collectors of silver coins. Maroon and aqua patina intermingles at the rims, and the eye appeal is exceptional. A powerful strike effectively brings up the star centers, feathers, and claw knuckles. While the 1859-O is a common date within the Liberty Seated half series, the visual attraction of the present coin rises well above that usually seen. WB-7, with the date sloping down and 9 centered above two dentils. CAC has approved 74 pieces total, five examples in MS63, and ten coins finer. The CAC price guide is $2,400, and a stronger result at auction will not be a surprise. Ex. Seal Beach (GFRC, April 2019), realized $2,600. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.2 (2004-2005) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6297. Reserve: $2850 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1859S Seated 50C 1859-S

MS64
PCGS
06103536
WB-8

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. The early San Francisco Seated halves were produced in lower quantities, as the western Mint was more focused on gold during the 1850s. This near-Mint State survivor exhibits frosty surfaces with thicker skin on the reverse. A quarter moon of charcoal patina covers the left stars, while the reverse reveals intermixed rose and olive patina with deeper shades at the legend. The strike is excellent, with distinct star centers and eagle feathers. WB-8, the “spiked foot” obverse, with a large mintmark touching the stem. CAC has approved 27 coins across all grades, four pieces in MS64, and four examples finer. CAC assigns a value of $6,000 in MSS64. Ex. Pinnacle Rarities. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6298. Reserve: $5000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1860 Seated 50C 1860

AU58
PCGS
34159946
WB-7

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Mirrored fields host a thick, colorful skin of vibrant shades including rose, blue-green, and electric blue. The figure of Liberty features steel-grey at the high points, and the contrast with the surrounding fields is visually arresting. The strike is typical, with soft stars to the right. Surfaces are largely smooth, with minimal chatter above the eagle. The aesthetic appeal is strong, and the multi-colored toning is hard to resist. WB-7, with the upper serif of F missing, a detail that is easy to miss but readily noticeable once encountered. CAC notes 31 pieces total, five coins in AU58, and eight examples at the Mint State level. The CAC price guide value is $675, and this piece will sell at a significant premium. Ex. Seal Beach (GFRC, April 2020), at $1,350. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6299. Reserve: $1350 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1860O Seated 50C 1860-O

MS65+
PCGS
43203571
WB-5

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Generous frost highlights the olive-gold patina evident in the stars and legend. The obverse exhibits more intense color while the reverse toning is largely confined to the protected areas. A complete strike fully impresses the star points and eagle claws. WB-5, with a crack to the right of star 8, and a large mintmark tilted to the right. This is the Type II hub, with a long base of L in HALF. CAC notes 75 pieces total, five coins in MS65, and three examples in MS66. The CAC price guide is $6,750 in MS65 and rises to $25,900 in MS66, while PCGS quotes $7,000 in MS65, $8,500 in MS65+, and $22,500 in MS66. Ex. Rare Coin Wholesalers. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6300. Reserve: $8000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1860S Seated 50C 1860-S

MS64
PCGS
47451989
WB-1

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Frosty silver surfaces lead to attractive toning at the rims, an effective more fully appreciated with in-person inspection. The strike is exceptional, with the stars rising well above the plane of the planchet. WB-1, with a low date and large mintmark. This piece is tied for top honors at CAC and PCGS, and, given the overall eye appeal, will draw significant attention. CAC has approved but 22 coins total, two pieces in MS64, and no examples higher. The situation at PCGS is similarly challenging, with eight grading events in MS64 and none finer. The CAC price guide is $9,750, while PCGS indicates a value of $18,500. The rare coin market is not perfectly efficient, and price guides struggle to reflect the true market value of thinly traded items. As PCGS Coin Facts indicates, the “market velocity” of the 1860-S half in MS63/MS64 grades is less than one piece per year. In this case, the sale of this same coin in 2023 represents the most important data point. Ex. Regency Auction 61 (Legend, November 2023), lot 131, realized $14,687.50. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6301. Reserve: $15000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1861 Seated 50C 1861

MS66
PCGS
06638382


Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection, Abundant luster flows from the surfaces of the GFRC-rated Gem example, easily radiating through the medium, colorful skin. A light source reveals magenta, blue-green, and khaki-tan patina on both sides, and the eye appeal is compelling. Stars 12-13 are soft, while the eagle exhibits well-defined claws. This piece is tied for finest known at CAC, which has approved 120 coins total, with nine examples in MS66. The CAC price guide suggests a value of $8,250. As a sole finest known this piece might be valued in the $25k range, but the additional examples reported by CAC create a price point that is much more accessible. This piece would be ideal for a high-grade type set, illustrating the Type II hub of the No Motto design, the Type II reverse hub being introduced in 1858. Ex. Witter Coin. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6302. Reserve: $8250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1861O Seated 50C 1861-O
CSA Issue
MS66
PCGS
6576629
W-14

Gem
Bisected Date/Speared Olive Bud, Gem Original, Newtown Collection, The popularity of the 1861-O half dollar represents a serendipitous combination of a good story, good scholarship, and good supply. The transition of the New Orleans Mint authority during this year is well known, and the work of Randy Wiley has put forth well-reasoned speculation that correlates the die varieties with the various coining authorities. Finally, the release of the SS Republic hoard of 1861-O half dollars has made the issue ubiquitous in the numismatic marketplace, with die marriage sets drawing enthusiastic collector interest. This W-14 example, attributed to the CSA coining authority, exhibits a bisected date and speared olive bud. Bugert rates this variety as R-4 in terms of scarcity, tied for the rarest among CSA die marriages. The luster is all there, and the abundant, frosty flash produces active cartwheels. Stars to the right are soft while the eagle claws and feathers are sharp. CAC has certified 117 pieces, with three coins, including the present example, tied for pop-top at MS66. Similarly, the PCGS census reveals six pieces at MS66 and no coins finer. The CAC price guide is $21,600, while PCGS stands at $27,500. Ex. DW Collection of 1861 U.S. Coins and Patterns (Great Collections, February 2023), realized $22,375. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.0 (1998-2002) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6303. Reserve: $22500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1861S Seated 50C 1861-S

MS64
PCGS
21677460
WB-6

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Medium color evenly blankets both sides, with rose, blue-green, and gold patina evident. Frosty luster is consistent with the elevated technical grade, and the overall appeal is excellent. Nicely struck, with the reverse detail superior due to obverse die polishing. This example is instructive to study with the Bugert reference at hand, bearing in mind the equation “detail equals strike plus die state.” WB-6, with weak obverse dentils and a die crack joining the arrow tips. Regardless of the technical aspects, this is simply a pleasing example of a scarce coin, especially when considering its originality. CAC has certified 40 pieces total, including two examples in MS64 and six coins finer. The CAC price guide is $6,750. Ex. Regency Auctions 39 (Legend, July 2020), lot 11 at $6,462.50, from the BigMo Civil War Collection. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6306. Reserve: $7000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1862 Seated 50C 1862

AU58
PCGS
27255176
WB-1

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Rose-gray patina fills the protected areas on each side, while the fields and central devices are less toned. As is typical for the Civil War period, Mint production diminished, with just over a quarter million Philadelphia pieces struck in this year. A few lines in the left obverse field account for the technical grade. Star centers are defined, while a few elements of the eagle’s left leg blend together. WB-1, and quickly attributable as such, with a broken 6 in the date. CAC has approved 40 coins, with five examples in AU58 and 14 pieces finer. This is a top-heavy distribution and reflects a “hard money” environment where silver and gold coinage circulated less than normal. The CAC price guide value is $1,350. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6307. Reserve: $1500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1862S Seated 50C 1862-S

MS64
PCGS
31377347
WB-1

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection, Ex. Newman. A splash of crust covers a frosty rose-gray palette, accompanied by mixed olive patina evident in the protected areas. The surfaces are strongly original, and the antique, medium skin has clearly developed over a long period of time. A few stars lack centers, while most of the eagle feathers are distinct. WB-1, with a diagonal die crack connecting 1 and the dentil to the left. CAC has certified 35 examples, including three pieces in MS64 and one coin finer, in MS66. The CAC price guide is $7,500. With the MS66 outlier valued at $51,800, this piece is a natural selection for most advanced collections. Ex. Witter Coin, previously from Newman II (Heritage Auctions, November 2013), lot 33733, realized $11,162.50, there certified as NGC MS64 CAC. The Newman piece in turn originated from the Col. Green collection, acquired by Newman and the St. Louis dealer Burdette G. Johnson in the early 1940s. The Col. Green collection is the stuff of legend, formed by Col. E. H. R. Green following the 1916 death of his mother Hetty Green, the so-called “witch of Wall Street.” Acquisition of the Green coins immediately established Newman as one of the foremost U.S. collectors, a reputation reinforced as he began to publish related research in the subsequent years. Housed in a PCGS Gen 5.0 holder with CAC approval. The label documents the Eric P. Newman Collection. PCGS #6308. Reserve: $7500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1863 Seated 50C 1863

MS64
PCGS
13565456
WB-7

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. The scarcity of Seated coinage with original surfaces has long been known to specialists, but the CAC census, now in its seventeenth year, offers quantitative proof of the situation. This Civil War-dated half dollar is a typical example, with only 26 pieces reported by CAC across all grades. Even gray and olive surfaces host silver patches in the stars and legend, with additional shades of blue-gray at the rims and protected areas. Luster is frosty, with swirling cartwheels. Nicely struck, as is the rule for 1863 halves, with only a touch of softness in the eagle’s left leg. This is a better Philadelphia date, with just over half a million pieces struck. CAC has certified two pieces in MS64 and five finer examples. The CAC price guide value is $2,750. The PCGS price guide weighs in at $3,000, but the more controlling point is the complete lack of recent sales, with PCGS Coin Facts listing no sales since 2013. The previous GFRC sale is more in line with current values. Ex. GFRC (Sunset Collection, March 2021), realized $5,275. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6309. Reserve: $5000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1863S Seated 50C 1863-S

MS64+
PCGS
25388684
WB-4

Gem
Superb Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Exceptionally flashy surfaces quickly grab the eye, and this piece easily stands out amidst a display of Seated half dollars. Tannish-gold overlays are occasionally evident, but the first impression remains the radiant luster. Stars 7-8 lack centers while the reverse detail is strong throughout, better than usually seen. WB-4, as readily indicated by the broken mintmark and a date style sloping upward. CAC notes 43 coins total, with seven pieces in MS64 and a single coin finer, in MS65. The CAC price guide value is $6,900 in MS64, rising to $15,100 in MS65. One runs out of superlatives when considering the entirety of the Newtown collection, but this lustrous, GFRC-rated Superb Gem example deserves special attention as one of the standout pieces in the set. Ex. Boylston IV (Legend, Regency Auction 57, February 2023), lot 182, realized $8,812.50. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6310. Reserve: $8850 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1864 Seated 50C 1864

MS64
PCGS
32431136
WB-8

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Even color presents frosty, silver-gray surfaces, with the reverse more intensely toned. Details are sharp throughout, with textured stars and distinct feathers. WB-8, with a centered date and die cracks connecting the left stars. As is typical for Civil War pieces, production was lower in this year, with 379,100 Philadelphia examples coined. This piece quickly falls out of “type coin” status as such, and examples are desirable even in low grades. The present coin is decidedly not in the “lower grades” camp, revealing not only a high degree of originality but a strong technical grade to boot. CAC notes 32 examples total, including four pieces in MS64, one example in MS65, and three coins in MS67. The CAC guide value is $4,400. Ex. Park Avenue Numismatics. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6311. Reserve: $4500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1864S Seated 50C 1864-S

MS61
PCGS
29733631
WB-4

Original
Near-Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Active cartwheel luster imparts a satiny texture, highlighting light copper-gold patina on both sides. The satiny luster is indicative of die erosion, most noticeable in the space beneath the reverse shield, the high point of the die. A few micro ticks on Liberty's upper body are consistent with the assigned grade. Nicely struck, with most star points evident and sharp detail in the claws and feathers. WB-4, with a wide, broken S. The reverse die crack connecting (HAL)F to the rim is just starting to form. PCGS reports 299 pieces total, two coins in MS61, and 14 examples finer. The PCGS price guide value is $3,250 in MS61. Ex. GFRC (December 2017), at $2,500, from the New Jersey Collection. While Newtown Seated halves carry well-recognized pedigrees such as Bender, Newman, and Gardner, the New Jersey provenance is equally remarkable in its own way, representing the efforts of an astute, old-time collector who was not afraid to pursue Seated coinage in the 1960s and 1970s, a time when interest in the series was less intense. Housed in a PCGS Gen 5.0 holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6312. Reserve: $2500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1865 Seated 50C 1865

MS66
PCGS
05059463
WB-3

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Ample, satiny luster flows from the surfaces of the GFRC-rated Gem example, with aqua and rose rim color evident as the piece is tilted under a light. The overall flash is readily apparent, and the eye appeal is strong. Interior star detail is soft, while the eagle feathers and claws are more distinct. WB-3, with a die gouge in the dentils, above Liberty’s head to the left, and a clash in the lower right reverse shield. CAC notes 28 pieces total, six coins in MS66, and a single example finer at MS67. The CAC price guide value in MS66 is $12,000, advancing sharply to $40,800 in MS67. The minimal CAC population is among the lower totals in the series, and the scarcity of certain Seated halves with original preservation is not yet fully appreciated by the market. Ex. Legend Numismatics, previously from Heritage Auctions (June 2020, lot 3069), at $9,300. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6313. Reserve: $11500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1865S Seated 50C 1865-S

MS62
PCGS
18472359
WB-5

Choice
Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Rose-grey color is marked by light crust in the protected areas, while a few bits of steel-silver patina are evident in the stars and legend. Antique surfaces are clearly original, and the overall eye appeal is nice for the grade. WB-5, with an upward sloping date and a die crack above (UN)I(TED). CAC records 30 pieces total, a single coin in MS62 (the present offering), and four examples finer. The CAC price guide value is $3,900. Earlier branch Mint coinage tends to be scarce in Mint State preservation, as few contemporary collectors paid attention to mintmarks. The 1865-S half is typical, with just five Mint State pieces noted by CAC, as compared to 11 Philadelphia coins of the same year, even though the San Francisco mintage was higher. Ex. BigMo Civil War Collection (Legend Regency Auction #39, July 2020), lot 89, at $4,465. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6314. Reserve: $5000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1866 Seated 50C 1866
With Motto
MS65
PCGS
12108941
WB-1

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Medium crust reveals a layer of golden skin atop the frosty surfaces of this GFRC-rated Gem example, with deeper blue-gray color at the rims. WB-1, with the top of a 6 in the dentils below the rightmost 6. The reverse die cracks are not yet developed. Star points are evident, while the detail around the eagle’s left leg is less distinct. As with many of the half dollars of the Civil War and Reconstruction era, production was lower, and this issue easily rises above “common date” status with less than a million pieces struck. CAC has certified 34 coins in all grades, three pieces in MS65, and three examples finer. The CAC price guide value is $7,300. Ex. Witter Coin, earlier from Heritage (July 2008, lot 549), at $6,325. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6319. Reserve: $8000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1866S Seated 50C 1866-S
With Motto
MS65+
PCGS
43300428
WB-9

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Ex. Eliasberg. Blazing surfaces reveal touches of gold patina on both sides, and the frosty flash is fully consistent with the assigned grade if not more so. Indeed, the visual “pop” is more impressive than conveyed by the images, and this piece requires in-person viewing to fully appreciate the radiant luster. A few tiny bits of crust are evident here and there. Stars are soft, while the eagle claws are sharp. WB-9, with traces of 8 and 6 in the obverse dentils. CAC notes 22 examples total, one coin in MS65 (the present piece), and a sole example finer, at MS66. The CAC price guide value at MS65 is $15,100, rising to $25,900 in MS66. The PCGS census is equally challenging, with one coin in MS65, one piece in MS65+ (the present example), and one finer coin at MS66. Ex. Regency Auction 48 (Legend, October 2021), lot 115, at $17,625, previously from the Eliasberg Collection (Bowers & Merena, April 1997), lot 2004, at $9,350. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. The label documents the Eliasberg pedigree. PCGS #6320. Reserve: $18250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1866S Seated 50C 1866-S
No Motto
MS63
PCGS
5780603
WB-1

Choice
Near-Choice Original, Newtown Collection, Ex. Eliasberg. Even copper-rose patina blankets both sides of this last year of issue No Motto example. WB-1, the only die pair for the issue. The No Motto design for this year is far scarcer than the With Motto type and represents one of the better-date San Francisco pieces in the Seated half series. Die production remained involved well into the 19th century, and the desire of Mint personnel to reuse the 1865 No Motto reverse die at the beginning of 1866 is typical of Mint practice. CAC notes 40 pieces total, three coins in MS63, a single example in MS65, and two outliers at MS67. The CAC price guide value is $19,200. Ex. Regency Auction 57 (Legend, February 2023), lot 185, realized $15,862,50, previously from the famed Eliasberg Collection (Bowers & Merena, April 1997), lot 2002, at $7,150. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.0 (1998-2002) holder with CAC approval. The label documents the Eliasberg pedigree. PCGS #6315. Reserve: $17000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1867 Seated 50C 1867

MS63
PCGS
32230466
WB-9

Choice
Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Medium skin reveals maroon, olive, and gray patina, more heavily in the protected areas around the stars and date. The reverse is more thickly toned with similar coloration. Luster consistent with the grade is easily evident as the coin is tilted under a light. WB-9, with a die line under the ball of the foot. Typically struck, with weakness in the eagle’s left leg. The 1867 half is an infrequently traded coin, with PCGS Coin Facts listing only seven sales of MS63 pieces since 2004. Such opportunities occur from time to time in the Liberty Seated series, with the population data now confirming what astute collectors have known for a long time. PCGS has certified 202 pieces, 13 coins in MS63, and 18 examples finer. The PCGS price guide value is $2,500. Ex. Heritage (December 2015, lot 4408), at $1,292.50. Housed in a PCGS Gen 5.0 holder. PCGS #6321. Reserve: $1750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1867S Seated 50C 1867-S

AU58
PCGS
84165788
WB-2

Choice
Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Silver-gray surfaces admit traces of gold color, with a few crusty bits evident in both shields. WB-2, with a clashed obverse and slightly high date. Right stars are softly impressed while most of claw joints exhibit separation if faintly so. CAC notes 38 pieces, eight coins in AU58, and but two examples in Mint State, one at MS61 and another at MS64+. Remarkably, PCGS reports 38 grading events at the Mint State level, which only emphasizes the rarity of original pieces. The CAC guide value is $1,350. Ex. David Kahn. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6322. Reserve: $2000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1868 Seated 50C 1868

MS63
PCGS
09707319
WB-1

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Most collectors are not pursuing finest known examples, and pieces at the lower Mint State grades form a sweet spot combining exceptional preservation and significantly lower price. This completely hammered example is held back only by a few field lines, consistent with the assigned grade. Luster is brilliant and frosty, with swirling cartwheels. Silver surfaces host light russet toning in the stars and legend, with the central figures nearly untoned. Stars emerge strongly from the planchet, while the claw and feather details are needle-sharp. WB-1, with a high date and die line in the eagle’s mouth. CAC has certified 25 coins total, three pieces in MS63, and five pieces finer. The CAC price guide value is $2,400, while PCGS indicates a value of $3,000 at the same grade. Ex. Sunset Collection (GFRC, March 2021), at $5,575. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6323. Reserve: $3500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1868S Seated 50C 1868-S

MS64+
PCGS
34815113
WB-8

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Silver-gray centers lead toward subtle rose and gold patina at the rims, which exhibit scattered crust on both sides. Frosty luster is ample for the grade, and a light source immediately activates the near-Gem flash. WB-8, with recut stars to the left and a small mintmark. This is an early die state without advanced die cracks. Stars to the left are soft, while the reverse detail is excellent throughout. CAC has approved 29 examples, with three coins in MS64 and a single piece finer, at MS65. PCGS notes two coins in MS65 and one example finer at MS66. The CAC price guide indicates a value of $6,600 in MS64 and $15,100 in MS65. Ex. Heritage (October 2018, lot 3055), at $5,040. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6324. Reserve: $7000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 50C 1870CC Seated 50C 1870-CC

AU55
PCGS
5651137
WB-2

Choice
Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Apart from the 1878-S and the virtually unobtainable 1853-O No Arrows, this is the key date in the Seated half series. Mirrored fields and sharp reflective luster present steel-blue surfaces to full effect. The obverse strike is sharp with distinct star points while the reverse is a touch soft beneath the shield. The curved line at the top of the right wing is on the holder, as is the line from S to the top of the eagle's head. The marks within the reverse shield are as struck, the result of a clash with the obverse die. The highest piece certified by CAC is AU53, and the bar to make a "top pop" coin at CAC tends to be extraordinarily high. PCGS has certified a single example at AU55 (this coin), one piece at AU58 and five coins in Mint State. The PCGS price guide value is $65,000. The eye appeal of the present coin is strong, and the rarity is undeniable - truly a prize for the Seated half or Carson City collector. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.0 (1998-2002) holder. Ex. Seal Beach Collection (GFRC, April 2020), at $55,000. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.0 (1998-2002) holder. PCGS #6328. Reserve: $56500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday March 22nd
Seated 10C 1837 Seated 10C 1837
No Stars, Small Date
MS65
PCGS
21314594
F-104

Gem
No Stars, Small Date, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. An extraordinary gem in all regards as both sides are draped in warm frosted luster with rose-red and sea-green toning. The surfaces are fully pristine other than a single tick to the left of the clasp. The reverse was previously clashed with a Large Date obverse and presents die clash marks below DI(ME) and across the ribbons and stems. The Small Date punch can be easily distinguished by a round top 7 digit. The Small Date is the better of the two 1837 date punch varieties with the CAC census reported at 59 examples with only five finer. The CDN CAC guide is presently $11,900 as reference. Heritage Auctions, 2003 Long Beach Sale, Lot #330. Housed in original PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4562. Reserve: $12500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1849O Seated 10C 1849-O

MS64
PCGS
05625131
F-101b

Gem
CAC Tied Finest, Large O, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The challenge in locating gem Mint State New Orleans dimes continues with the 1849 date. Of the 300,000 struck, few Mint State survivors are known. The PCGS population stands at eleven certified with four CAC approved. The struggle is further exacerbated by poor mint workmanship, including weak strikes coupled with rusted and lapped dies. Based on research background, this example was acquired during May 2006 via Legend Numismatics.as one of the finest survivors to arrive at the market in modern times. The preservation is exceptional with steely-frosted luster that is consistent on both sides. Natural rose, aquamarine, and blues shades are a testament to the strict originality. F-101 with a Large O mintmark and a die pairing notorious for partial strikes. Though Liberty's head is not fully struck, this example is likely condition census for strike robustness. Tied for finest at CAC with a price guide value listed at $17,300. Housed in an as acquired PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with 2014 CAC approval. PCGS #4592. Reserve: $19000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1850O Seated 10C 1850-O

MS67 Star
NGC
1748227002
F-103

Gem
Tied Finest Known, Exceptional Gem, Gerry Fortin Collection. The Fortin Collection presents the finest 1850 Small O dime which shares the title with a PCGS certified Large O example. Granular mint frost dominates the obverse while the reverse mint bloom is in the steely realm. Once again, a hammered strike was a purchase imperative. All devices are intricately detailed with sharp hair curls and facial characteristics. The overall eye appeal is exceptional, thus being recognized with an NGC Star designation. Photographing this dime proved to be challenging due to the intense center luster that is framed by darker peripheral copper-gold. F-103, the lone Small O die pair of that year. Greer indicates that the Small O is the scarcest of the three mintmark sizes followed by the Medium O, and finally the Large O. Acquired August 2004 via Carter Numismatics as a present to me upon releasing The Definitive Resource for Liberty Seated Dime Variety Collectors online reference at that summer ANA event, A well hidden break in the right obverse field luster precluded CAC approval. Housed in NGC Gen 14 (2003-2004) holder. PCGS #4594. Reserve: $27500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1851O Seated 10C 1851-O

MS62
PCGS
51066606
F-101

Choice
Exceptionally Difficult in Mint State, Choice Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The Fortin Collection auction arrives at the 1851 New Orleans issue, a date that is more challenging in Mint State than its earlier 1843-O and 1845-O counterparts. Since the mid-1990s, a search for an originally toned and fully struck specimen has proven unsuccessful. This leads to a conclusion that the 1851-O issue is the key New Orleans Mint State date. The CAC census validates this determination as a single MS61 example has been approved. The mintage is reported to be 400,000 from a single die pair, an elevated production number as Liberty Seated dime dies typically saw end of life at or before 250,000 strikes. To accomplish the mintage, the mint employees carefully maintained the dies with successive lapping resulting in the loss of device details as the output grew. Survivors at the AU level will exhibit lightly mirrored fields due to die continuance. This dime was struck from early die state rusted dies yielding a bold definition of the lightly frosted motifs. The bright light eye appeal, for the issue, is noteworthy including light rose-gold toning across the lower reverse. I have examined several of the PCGS MS62 and MS63 survivors and noted an uncharacteristic cloth toning pattern with vivid colors outside the realm of natural toning that was not suitable for inclusion in the Fortin Collection. This offering best suited my collecting criteria given its overall presentation. Acquired via private treaty during August 2002 and fresh cross into it current PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder. PCGS #4596. Reserve: $13500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1856S Seated 10C 1856-S

MS63+
PCGS
25346849
F-101

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. This condition census lot exhibits pale gold iridescence overlaying satiny mint luster. Sharp struck and well preserved warranting a GFRC-Gem quality rating. The initial year of Seated dime production at the San Francisco Mint with only 70,000 struck. An issue that was not preserved given the demand for small change on the western frontier. Problem free survivors in circulated grades are a challenge for present day collectors let alone a prized example certified as Choice Mint State. Only one of two certified by PCGS at grade and beware of double counting between the MS63/MS63+ populations. CAC has approved 17 coins in total, three pieces in MS63, and two examples finer. The CAC price guide suggests $17,300 as fair value. Stack's Bowers, March 2014 Baltimore Sale, Lot #4014. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4613. Reserve: $17500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1858O Seated 10C 1858-O

MS65
PCGS Rattler
3069573
F-101

Gem
Superb Originality, Condition Census, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Yet another dime that deserves its story told. Purchased via private treaty from a GFRC client during April 2018 with no auction records. Our consignor was emptying a bank box replete with Seated proofs and gem $20 Saints. Among those holdings was this 1858-O dime as purchased during the early days of TPG grading. This lot never saw the light of day until offered to GFRC. This amazing gem bellows originality with richly toned golden-green shades and glowing satiny luster. Spinning cartwheels are a joy under angled lighting. A completely executed strike is atypical as the date is notorious for strike variability. Worthy of its certified grade and potential the finest of the three CAC approved MS65s with a lone MS66 finer. F-101 from a single die pair. Auction lot viewing is recommended if considering a bid due to the stunning presentation. The CAC price guide lists $10,500 as fair value. Housed in PCGS Gen 1.2 (1986-1989) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4617. Reserve: $10000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1859S Seated 10C 1859-S

AU55
PCGS
3523603
F-101

Original
Early San Francisco Key Date, Near-Choice Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Ex. O'Donnell. Residual white steely-frosted luster is readily apparent under a bright light with the surfaces responding well to angled lighting. The strike is close to complete with Liberty's head and the gown line being a touch soft. Die rust is readily apparent in the shield and the left facing arm while die chips are evident at stars 3 through 6 and at star 12. A lone tick by star 12 warrants mention. The 1859 San Francisco issue is undoubtedly the key date, along with the 1846 Philadelphia issue, within the With Stars series with a mintage of only 60,000. The date is brutally challenging in choice AU on better as CAC has yet to approve a single example in all AU grades and only two in MInt State. My quest for an upgrade, for this offered example, was lost when the Simpson MS62 CAC reached the market while working full time in mainland China. The PCGS population is four at grade with the Tom Bender AU55 specimen realizing $28,800 during its Heritage January 2023 sale. The PCGS price guide estimates $14,500 as current mark value, which appears conservative given the Bender auction record. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.0 (1998-2002) holder. PCGS #4621. Reserve: $16000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1861 Seated 10C 1861
Type 2 Obverse
MS65
PCGS
11475261
F-106

Gem
Type 2 Obverse, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The Type 2 Obverse results from a subsequent redesign to improve the striking characteristic by Longacre as the Paquet inspired Type 1 was too weak. The Type 1 design is the scarcer of the two but not by a wide margin. This example is superbly original and richly toned with a thicker obverse skin while glowing frosted luster radiates from the reverse. A colorful piece with a blend of copper-rose, cobalt-blue and olive-gold colors that are a bit more vivid on the reverse. Easily securing a GFRC-Gem rating with smooth pristine surfaces and high-grade eye appeal. CAC census is 32 total with four finer. $1,400 is the CAC price guide value for reference. Stack's & Bowers, June 2010 Baltimore Sale, Lot #1811. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4633. Reserve: $1400 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1861S Seated 10C 1861-S

MS62
PCGS
60159874
F-101

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The relatively low mintage of 172,500 pieces doesn't even begin to explain the scarcity of this challenging Civil War era S-mint, particularly in XF or better condition. PCGS has certified eight in Mint State while CAC has approved seven within a total census of 23. As a first year of design, the notoriety allowed for a few to be preserved by those curious within the western frontier. Brilliant satiny surfaces are intense, coupled with vibrant cartwheels under a bright light leading to a tremendous viewing experience. A hammered strike provides insights into the short lived Type 1 Obverse design hub. Conservatively graded with no upgrade attempts since acquisition. The CAC price guide lists $12,100 at grade with a jump to $21,600 at MS63. Heritage Auctions, January 2004 FUN Sale, Lot #5614. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.3 (2005) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4634. Reserve: $17500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1865S Seated 10C 1865-S

MS63
PCGS OGH
4580332
F-101

Gem
Rare Complete Strike, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Eliasberg. Astute students of the Liberty Seated dime series should immediately note the differentiated strike offered by the Eliasberg 1865-S. Nearly all strikes from the F-101 die pairing will exhibit partial, and worse, missing heads. When acquired January 1997 via private treaty, this specimen exposed the beauty of a complete Liberty portrait coupled with a brilliant obverse with deeply basined die, polished to provide a prooflike surface. Partially mirrored reverse fields are also noted with frosted motifs while surfaces are unabraded. No auction records are available since the Bowers & Merena May 20-22, 1996, New York City Eliasberg Sale. Featured as the F-101 plate coin, with Small Weak S, within the Fortin Liberty Seated Dime online reference. Tied at the MS63 level within the CAC census with two finer. Housed in PCGS Gen 3.1 (1993-1998) holder with CAC approval. The label documents the Eliasberg pedigree. PCGS #4642. Reserve: $17500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1866 Seated 10C 1866

MS66
PCGS
27382710
F-102b

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. New England Museum Collection. The well recognized New England Museum specimen with splendid gunmetal blue and russet toning along with peripheral gold on both sides. Bright light exposure reveals sharp reflectance consistent with proof strikes. A fully executed strike is apparent on all the devices. F-102b with lightly clashed dies as a circulation strike with only 8,000 produced. Held in a New England museum for generations and first auctioned by Stack's & Bowers at the May 2013 ANA National Money Show Sale, Lot #207. An incredibly original and condition census example that warrants in-hand inspection prior to bidding for appreciating the reserve that is consistent with the 2013 record auction price. Six examples have been CAC approved at the MS66 grade with a single finer. The CAC price guide stands at $4,900 while PCGS quotes $6,250. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4643. Reserve: $12500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1869S Seated 10C 1869-S

MS67
PCGS OGH
4152091
F-102

Gem
Finest Known, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Honors for the third "finest known" in the Fortin Collection goes to the 1869-S issue, a scarce date in Mint State. This lone MS67 certified example suddenly appeared within a Great Collections auction during 2021 with no prior auction appearances. The preservation is flawless with deeply frosted luster and swirling cartwheels. Obverse motifs are fully impressed while the reverse shows typical weakness at the upper left wheat grains. A phenomenal specimen with charm that will last a collecting lifetime. F-102 die pairing with a Small Weak S. Utilized as the plate coin within The Definitive Resource for Liberty Seated Dime Variety Collectors online reference. The CAC price guide indicates $26,400 as market value while PCGS quotes $30,000. Acquired April 2021 via Great Collections auction. Housed in PCGS Gen 3.1 (1993-1998) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4650. Reserve: $26000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1871S Seated 10C 1871-S

MS65+
PCGS
06863865
F-101

Gem
Second Finest Known, Repunched Date, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Bender. This 1871-S repunched date example is close to unimprovable given its status as the second finest known at PCGS and CAC. Rich granular frosted luster is brilliant with faint gold at the obverse rims. The reverse radiance is equally captivating with beautiful blue and mauve patina and swirling cartwheels. The design elements are sharply struck, including Liberty's head, the denomination, and the grains in the corn and wheat stalks, areas that are often weak. A few minute chatter marks on the reverse above ONE account for the grade while the obverse is unquestionably pristine. F-101 with bold repunching above the 18 digits and a Small Weak S mintmark. The PCGS price guide plate coin. CAC reports two at the MS65 grade with a single finer. The CAC guide lists $15,800 as fair value without a value for the (+) grade. Acquired via private treaty. Ex. Heritage Auctions, February 2023 Long Beach Signature Sale Lot# 3656 (Tom Bender), Jason Carter (5/2009), and Eugene Gardner Part II (Heritage 10/2014), Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. The label documents the Bender Collection pedigree. PCGS #4655. Reserve: $16500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1873S Seated 10C 1873-S
With Arrows
MS64
PCGS
14915765
F-102

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Worthy of a GFRC-Gem quality rating, this lot is clearly differentiated when compared with others certified at the same grade. Mirrored fields are noted on both sides with undisturbed reflectivity. A bright light exposes peripheral orange-gold on the obverse and concentric rings of copper, orange, and green-gold on the reverse. The strike is hammered with all subtle device features being deeply impressed. The overall preservation and eye appeal suggests an upgrade possibility since Fortin has left nearly all lots in their original early holders. F-102 with repunched 18 digits and a Small Block S mintmark. The plate coin within the Fortin Liberty Seated Dime online refence. The CAC census lists 25 approved examples with only three finer. The CAC $3,800 price guide value is understated for this lot. Acquired August 2009 via Carter Numismatics. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4667. Reserve: $4500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1875CC Seated 10C 1875-CC
Below Wreath
MS65
PCGS
12013956
F-106

Gem
Tied CAC Finest, Mintmark Below, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The 1875-CC dime is divided into two obvious varieties as determined by the location of the mintmark. The Below Wreath variety is the scarcer of the two with this lot being a strictly original representative. Both sides exhibit heavy satin luster beneath variable antique silver color. The strike is sharp, with weakness seemingly being limited to the high points of the upper left wreath. Below Wreath F-106 with the reuse of the obverse die after pairing with an In Wreath reverse. The CAC census reports 46 approved in all grades with none finer. $4,500 is offered as fair market value per the CDN CAC guide. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4674. Reserve: $4500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1875S Seated 10C 1875-S
In Wreath
MS65
PCGS
50119580
F-103a

Gem
Mintmark Above, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. A rare coin in gem grades as the Above Wreath variety is now acknowledged to be scarcer than the Below Wreath variety. Astute collectors should step back and consider that CAC has only approved eight in full gem from a combined mintage of 9 million for both variations. An overburdened San Francisco Mint resulted in poor workmanship for much of the issue. This lot deserves the GFRC "luster bomb" designation and clearly is an upgrade candidate given today's luster centric grading standards. The frosted radiance is equally stunning on both sides from pristine untoned surfaces. F-106a as struck from severely eroded dies and a fully shattered reverse. CAC notes 19 approved in all grades with three finer. The CAC suggested fair market value at $2,250 suffers from mintage bias as a finest known has to be valued at more than $4,500 at the MS66 level. Acquired March 2000 via Heritage Rare Coins. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4676. Reserve: $3000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1876CC Seated 10C 1876-CC
Type 2 Reverse
MS64
PCGS
03190357
F-101

Gem
Condition Census Type 2 Reverse, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The 1876-CC Type 2 reverse is scarce in all grades while being consistently well struck. Greer points out that "Surprisingly, at least five Mint State Type II examples are known" with rumors of a hoard being the source. Mint State examples are seen as both frosted and lightly mirrored. This lot radiates thick frosted luster with the reverse radiance at the superb gem level. As expected, the strike is fully executed including sharply defined reverse wheat grains, notable for the With Legend design hub. F-101 with a repunched 6 digit. CAC has approved only two circulated coins with the Fortin lot not recorded specific to the variety. PCGS reports this lot and a single MS64+ finer. Scotman's October 2003 Collector's Auction, Lot #553. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. The label reads Type 2 Rev FS-901 (FS-005). PCGS #145501. Reserve: $3250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1876S Seated 10C 1876-S
Type 1 Reverse
MS66
PCGS
12177285
F-109
Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. A stunning premium Type 1 gem, this dime is highly lustrous with brilliant steely-frosted silver surfaces as the bright light performance being compelling. An untoned survivor with a pronounced strike and bold motifs. F-109 with high downward sloping date and die doubling in the denomination. This date has been challenging is gem Mint State though the PCGS population report suggests otherwise. During the 2010-2015 era, this date was a solid $3,500+ at the offered grade. CAC reports 37 approved in all grades, notably low for a mintage of over 10 million. The CDN CAC guide indicates $2,400 as fair value with common date bias. Acquired during October 2006 via private treaty. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4681. Reserve: $3250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1877CC Seated 10C 1877-CC
Type 2 Reverse
MS66
PCGS
13534519
F-109
Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. A magnificently superb gem with vibrant frosted radiance and swirling cartwheels, A rich peripheral sea-green patina frames the tan-gold and creamy-gray fields and devices. The strike is 100% complete with intricately detailed motifs. Purchased at a nearly all-time record price as the eye appeal is unprecedented. Type 2 F-109 the 77 digits in the date lightly repunched and the plate coin within The Definitive Resource for Liberty Seated Dime Variety Collectors online reference. The CAC price guide suggests $4,350 as fair market value with two finer. Heritage Auctions, February 2012 Long Beach Signature Sale, Lot #3349. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4683. Reserve: $4750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1877S Seated 10C 1877-S

MS65
PCGS
14273114
F-101

Gem
Condition Census Offering, Repunched Date, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The disparity between the 1877-S mintage of 2,340,000 and the choice CAC Mint State population is dramatic. The approval rate for all uncirculated examples is a meager 16 examples while the entire census is a stark 21 pieces. This lot ranks in the condition census with three at grade and a lone finer. Light peripheral gold toning decorates brilliantly sharp steely-frosted centers. The bright light spinning cartwheels are equally impressive. The strike is typical for the issue as a case where my full strike requirements was ignored due to the rarity at this lofty grade. F-101 with repunched date and Small Block S mintmark along with being yet another plate coin within the Fortin Liberty Seated Dime online reference. Heritage Auctions, April 2009 Cincinnati OH Coin Action Sale, Lot144. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4684. Reserve: $8250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1879 Seated 10C 1879

MS66
PCGS
04851829
F-105

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. A superb gem with copper-gold shades overlaid over partially mirrored fields and swirling cartwheels. Strike is typical for the issue with slight weakness at the head and bow knot. F-105 with repunched date and heavy die scratches in the left wreath while also serving as the plate coin within the Fortin Liberty Seated Dime online reference. CAC notes 74 approved in all grades and a price guide estimate $1,350 as fair market value. Stack's October 2005 NYC Lemus Sale, Lot #691. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4687. Reserve: $1450 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1881 Seated 10C 1881

MS66+
PCGS
82920688
F-101a

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. The best of the 1879 through 1881 low mintage dates with a meager representation in the CAC population report. 24,000 pieces were struck with recycled proof dies resulting in a sparkling frosted luster being regularly noted for circulation strikes. Peripheral copper-gold and deep blues toning is consistent on both sides with deeper shades on the reverse. A hammered strike leads to fully impressed motifs. Three micro-ticks in the obverse right field are consistent with the (+) grade. F-101a with a medium upward sloping date, otherwise perfect dies. CAC reports 21 approved in all grades with four finer. The corresponding price guide lists $5,000 as fair value. Acquired October 2022 via private treaty. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. Ex. Newtown. PCGS #4689. Reserve: $5000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1882 Seated 10C 1882

MS67+
PCGS
40680316
F-104

Gem
Tied Finest Known, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. A marvelously superb gem that is tied for finest known at PCGS. A razor sharp strike and enchanting frosted radiance are quite compelling and the basis for inclusion in the Fortin Collection. Blended cobalt blue and rose-gold peripheral toning floats on pristine surfaces. In-hand viewing is recommended for enjoying the dramatic cartwheels and overall presentation. A lot that is equally well suited as a top quality type coin or inclusion into date and mintmark set as is the case here. F-104 with broken top 2 digit and die cracks in the left reverse wreath. With a mintage of 3.9 million, the current CAC approved tally of 93 examples is not surprising. The CAC price guides suggest $3,000 as fair value while PCGS lists the MS67+ level at $5250. Acquired October 2021 via private treaty. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4690. Reserve: $3750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1883 Seated 10C 1883

MS67
PCGS
44364205
F-119a

Gem
Exceptional Eye Appeal, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. A circulation strike from proof dies that will be listed in the Fortin Liberty Seated Dime die variety reference as F-119a. Rich sea-green and blended center rose is prevalent on the obverse while grayish-purple hues coat the reverse. Frosted radiance is exceptional along with spinning cartwheels. Strike is also complete on this superb gem survivor. A tremendous candidate for type or inclusion in a stellar date and mintmark set. A common Philadelphia issue with 93 approved within the CAC census and a single example finer. CAC price guide lists $3000 as fair value. In-hand inspection is suggested as this lot has upgraded possibilities. Acquired June 2022 via private treaty. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4691. Reserve: $3000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1884 Seated 10C 1884

MS66
PCGS
50193527
F-109

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. A remarkable 1884 Philadelphia strike that is reflective of mid-2000 era conservative grading. This colorful super gem radiates enormous amounts of steely-frosted luster and swirling cartwheels. The fields are pristine while the strike is nearly complete with only the upper left reverse wheat grains not fully defined. The peripherally toned reverse is a full grade higher with its green and yellow gold peripheral toning. The powerful visual presentation was the basis for inclusion in the Fortin Collection. Please don't confuse this lot with the generic MS66s that routinely trade at the major auctions with discounted or wholesale prices, as reserved well below the purchase price. F-109 with rusted reverse die and die cracks with the wreath. Acquired April 2004 via private treaty. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.3 (2005) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4692. Reserve: $1500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1884S Seated 10C 1884-S

MS64
PCGS
09960659
F-105

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Fortin's die variety research has identified six die pairings accomplished with three obverse and four reverse dies. The F-105 strikes are noted for their bold date punch whereby the 84 digits nearly touch. This GFRC-Gem rated example offers eye appeal of a much higher grade though luster breaks in the right obverse field are technically limiting. The steely-frosted luster explodes under a bright light while shimmering cartwheels are eye-catching. Utilized as the plate coin within The Definitive Resource for Liberty Seated Dime Variety Collectors online reference. A challenging date with CAC approval as the census tally is a low 25 examples with three finer. The CAC price guide suggests $1,1950 as current market value, a number that is quite conservative. Heritage Auctions, January 2012 FUN Signature Sale, Lot #5500. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4693. Reserve: $2250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1885 Seated 10C 1885

MS67+
PCGS
42641233
F-110

Gem
Claims to Finest Certified, Superb Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. An amazing Superb Gem among the top-graded survivors at PCGS and exhibits superior eye appeal at the lofty (+) grade level. Claims to finest known are certainly a possibility as this lot was acquired directly after "being made" and without an auction appearance. Dramatic steely-frosted luster and spinning cartwheels are exceptional and require in-hand lot inspection for appreciation and bidding strategy formulation. Sea-green and blue centers are surrounded by pastel orange-gold at the peripheries with a deeply impressed strike with all devices in high relief. It goes without saying that the surfaces are pristine.F-110 with high level date and weakly hubbed reverse denomination. The CAC census reports 11 tied at the MS67 level with none finer and no differentiation for the (+) grade. PCGS lists this lot in the top three extant. Acquired October 2022 via private treaty. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4694. Reserve: $5500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1885S Seated 10C 1885-S

MS65
PCGS
51066607
F-101

Gem
Second Finest, Gem Original, Fresh CAC Approval, Gerry Fortin Collection. A remarkable condition rarity 1885 San Francisco strike and one of the highlights of the Fortin Collection. That year's mintage was anemic at 43,690 pieces with nearly all entering circulation. This date is undoubtedly the rarest Mint State date from 1873 through the design's termination in 1891. Even choice original circulation strikes are prized by collectors given the date's scarcity. This gem example exhibits shimmering frosted luster and swirling cartwheels with a stunning visual presentation. A transparent copper-gold patina is uniform on both sides while the strike is deeply impressed and meticulously detailed with partial wire rims. Immaculate surfaces provide undisturbed eye appeal. F-101, a single pair with usage as the plate coin within the Fortin Liberty Seated dime online reference. The CAC census indicate a sole example at MS65 (this lot) and a single finer. December 2021 via private treaty. Fresh cross into a PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2025) holder with CAC approval. Reserve: $39500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1886 Seated 10C 1886

MS66
PCGS
21776762
F-119

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. This 1886 dime is superior in all regards with blazing luster and spinning cartwheels when inspected under a bright light. Copper shades are prevalent throughout with deep blues and aquamarine hues at the borders. A highly detailed strike and spotless surfaces further suggest conservative old-time grading and upgrading potential. This dime has proven to be difficult to upgrade given its visual charm and warrants in-hand inspection before bidding. F-119 with a misplaced 6 digit in the denticles though difficult to see on this specimen. A "common date" within the CAC census that totals 111 pieces in all grades and nine finer. CAC notes a fair market value of $1050 as reference, a gift at anywhere near this price. Acquired January 2006 via Larry Whitlow. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.2 (2004-2005) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4696. Reserve: $1250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1886S Seated 10C 1886-S

MS67
PCGS
25679812
F-101

Gem
Exceptional Gem, Tied CAC Finest, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Gardner A close to perfection gem with aesthetic appeal with Gardner pedigree. Soft golden-brown peripheral toning otherwise the surfaces are ever so lightly toned. Once again, the term "luster bomb" arrives to characterize the intense radiance and spinning cartwheel with angled lighting. The design elements are sharply defined with each side being impeccably preserved. In-hand auction lot viewing is strongly recommended for cultivating an appropriate bid as potentially superior to the Eliasberg specimen. F-101 with the second 8 digit centered under the pendant. Acquired February 2022 via private treaty. Previously Heritage Auctions, October 2014 Eugene Gardner Collection II Sale, Lot #98282 where it realized $8,813 as PCGS serial number 4598339. The reholdering under a different PCGS number and CAC approval brings the current CAC census in question as three are listed at the MS67 level with none finer. The CAC price guide suggests $8,250 as fair value. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4697. Reserve: $8750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1887 Seated 10C 1887

MS66
PCGS
50111478
F-110

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Thick granular frosted luster radiates on both sides with associated cartwheels being dramatic. Speckled orange-rose, yellow-gold, and sky-blue toning decorates the obverse while a more continuous rich gold adorns the reverse. The overall strike is well executed though the slight weakness at the top of the head is consistent with the die pairing. Yet another Fortin lot that has proven to be difficult to upgrade given the superior eye appeal and untouched surfaces. In-hand lot viewing is necessary to appreciate the premium gem qualities. F-110 with die cracks in the left reverse wreath. CAC notes 116 approved in all grades with six finer. Acquired August 2004 via Delaware Valley Rare Coins. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4698. Reserve: $1250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1887S Seated 10C 1887-S

MS65
PCGS
21552355
F-108

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. An impeccable strike is promptly noted with completely defined device elements on this brilliantly frosted specimen. The cartwheel action is intriguing while olive-green, orange-rose and hints of gold are quite attractive. Accurately graded given two micro-ticks in the right obverse field. The 1887-S issue is a slightly better date in lofty Mint State grades. F-108 with a high level date and weak base above the 887 digits. Worthy of an auction lot viewing effort as the luster is quite convincing. The overall CAC census reports 63 approved with nine finer at the MS66 level. Bowers & Merena June 2010 Baltimore Sale, Lot #1844. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4699. Reserve: $1100 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1888 Seated 10C 1888

MS66
PCGS
40049485
Unlisted

Gem
Exceptional Gem, Potential Finest Known, Gerry Fortin Collection. Exceptional eye appeal with claims to finest known, this 1888 Philadelphia strike completes the listing of seven Gold CAC approved lots in the Fortin Collection. A simply amazing strike with sparkling luster overlaid with vivid blue-green and lemon-gold patination. The bright light presentation is extraordinary including swirling cartwheels. Purchased at the Heritage Auctions August 2007 Milwaukee ANA Sale, Lot #444 at MS67 money given the marvelous portrait with a CAC Gold bean validating that decision during late 2014. The CAC census lists two at the MS67 level with a fair price estimate of $7500. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with Gold CAC approval. PCGS #4700. Reserve: $6850 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1888S Seated 10C 1888-S

MS66
PCGS
05911114
F-110

Gem
Tied Finest, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection, Ex. Bender, Gardner A conditional census specimen with Tom Bender and Eugene Gardner pedigrees. Thick satiny luster is prevalent with iridescent lavender-gold and aquamarine hues, while the surfaces are free of any noticeable imperfections. The strike is exquisite with fully detailed motifs throughout the front and back dies. Liberty's head and facial definition is quite noteworthy. A condition rarity despite a mintage of over 1.7 million. F-110 with high downward sloping date and Medium S mintmark. Surprisingly, the CAC census notes 24 approved in all grades with none finer. The CAC price guide lists $6,750 as fair market value. Heritage Auctions August 2022 U.S. Coins Signature Auction Sale, Lot #3780. Previously, Eugene Gardner Collection (Heritage Auctions, June 2014). Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. The label documents the Bender Collection pedigree. PCGS #4701. Reserve: $5500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1889 Seated 10C 1889

MS67
PCGS
25215163
Unlisted

Gem
Tied for Finest, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. This Philadelphia piece is a superb gem standout, and the overall eye appeal is hard to overstate. Vibrant rose-gold toning at the centers is encircled by similarly intense teal blue at the rims on the obverse while the reverse is more of a mottled teal and rose combination. The strike is sharply impressed with light die clashing, and the surfaces are absolutely stunning in quality. There is a lot to like here and consistent with the tied for finest known status at CAC. Simply a monumental coin that will add colorful pizzazz to any advanced collection. Stack's Bowers, August 2015 ANA U.S, Coins Auction Sale, Lot 305. Housed in PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) Dupont hologram holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4702. Reserve: $4500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1889S Seated 10C 1889-S

MS64
PCGS
50014924
F-108

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Steely-frosted surfaces reveal light, golden patina with a few deeper shades at the rim, while the reverse is equally patinated. Bright light inspection notes a sharp brilliance and vibrant cartwheels. The strike is serrated with complete facial details and upper left reverse wheat grains, typical of Fortin's acquisition requirements. This lot requires in-hand inspection as there is upgrade potential. F-108, with an even date and the mintmark centered under the bow knot. The CAC pop report notes seven pieces in MS64, six coins in MS65, and two examples in MS66. The CAC price guide value is $1,400. This is a pleasing example for the money, attractively toned and reasonably close to the top of the census. Acquired November 2002 via Jason Carter. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4703. Reserve: $1400 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1890 Seated 10C 1890

MS66
PCGS
05931338
F-112

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Frosted surfaces host varying shades of orange-gold with teal blue patina at the rims, and the eye appeal is immediately transfixing. Central devices are lighter, with the deepest shades at the borders, a favored scheme among aficionados of toned coins. Fully struck other than the pesky upper left reverse wheat grains. With angled lighting, vibrant cartwheels are noted along with a special reverse portrait. F-112 with a high downward sloping date. CAC notes 89 examples total, with twenty pieces in MS66 and eight finer. The CAC guide value is $1,050 though the special eye appeal warrants a premium. Acquired June 2007 via Pinnacle Rarities. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4704. Reserve: $1450 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1890S Seated 10C 1890-S

MS65
PCGS
12824073
F-103

Gem
Double Die Obverse, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Glistening frosted luster highlights a fully impressed strike, while the rotating cartwheels are undoubtedly pleasing. Speckled lavendar-gold toning is noted throughout with copper-rose at the borders while the surfaces are pristine. The overall presentation is noteworthy given a fully executed strike. F-103 with bold die doubling in multiple locations including the horizontal shield lines, throughout AMERICA, lower gown lines and below Liberty's foot. Utilized as the die variety plate coin within the Fortin online reference. The CAC census stands at 49 total with eight at MS65 and four finer. Acquired April 2008 via Pinnacle Rarities. The CAC price guide suggests $1,600 as fair market value. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4705. Reserve: $1750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1891 Seated 10C 1891

MS66
PCGS
38156413
F-106

Gem
Repunched Date, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. As the 1891 Philadelphia issue is one of the most common dates in the Seated dime series, the challenge was locating a truly special specimen is spectacular eye appeal. The journey led to an example with sparkling frosted radiance and swirling cartwheels coupled with a hammered obverse strike, including partial wire rims. The presentation is exquisite other than the upper left reverse wheat grains not being fully struck. Acquired May 2020 via the Newtown Collection. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4706. Reserve: $1100 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1891O Seated 10C 1891-O

MS66
PCGS
37380978
F-113

Gem
Tied CAC Finest, Repunched Date, Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. A medium streaked skin reveals olive-gold color across the obverse with more intense gold patina at the rims, while the reverse features a concentric ring presentation. Frosty luster is generous, as expected for the technical grade, and a light quickly activates rotating cartwheels. The strike is sharp, with partial wire rims and cuds at 9:00 on the obverse. F-113 with repunched 8 and 9 digits and die cracks while the left and right wreath devices. A marvelous specimen from a mintage of 4,540,000. CAC notes 79 coins total, eleven pieces in MS66 with none finer. Acquired July 2019 via David Sunshine Rare Coins. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #4707. Reserve: $2750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 10C 1891S Seated 10C 1891-S

MS66
PCGS
5801959
F-116

Gem
Gem Original, Gerry Fortin Collection. Spinning cartwheels and blazing frosted luster are consistent with a higher grade rendering this old-time acquisition as an upgrade candidate. An acutely hammered strike leads to meticulously detailed motifs with subtle die polished lines across Liberty's breasts. Light gold in concentrated at the obverse rims and throughout the reverse. In hand inspection is suggested as this little lady provides exceptional eye appeal. F-116 with high level date and polished reverse die along with yet another plate coins within the Liberty Seated Dime online die variety reference. The CAC census notes 48 in all grades with nine MS66 and three finer. Acquired November 2005 via Darrell Low. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.0 (1998-2002) holder with CAC Approval. PCGS #4708. Reserve: $2500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1855S Seated 50C 1855-S
With Arrows
AU58
PCGS
19473955
WB-2

Choice
Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Thick grey skin blankets both sides of the conditionally rare, first year of issue San Francisco piece. Emerald color is evident in the stars, while the rose-gray fields admit occasional deeper patina. A couple stars lack centers, while the individual claw joints are distinct. The 1855-S half is one of the key issues in the series, not at the level of the 1878-S, but easily taking second honors among the San Francisco pieces. CAC notes 18 coins across all grades, three pieces in AU58, and a single example finer, at MS61. PCGS has graded a single Mint State piece, at MS62. The CAC guide value is $17,300, while PCGS assigns a value of $20,000 in AU58. WB-2, with recut stars and weakness in the reverse shield verticals. Ex. Regency Auction 36 (Legend, January 2020), lot 195, at $14,100, and clearly an astute purchase on the part of the consignor. Note, reverse haze is on the holder. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.5 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6284. Reserve: $18500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1869 Seated 50C 1869

MS64
PCGS
15386454
WB-1

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Frosty surfaces reveal traces of smoky patina at the rims of this example, but the first impression is that of a lustrous, untoned piece. A strong strike delivers textured stars and near complete detail in the feathers and claws. WB-1, with a low date. The 9 is centered above two dentils. Western silver discoveries had not yet reached the Philadelphia Mint, and production remained under a million pieces in this year, elevating this issue beyond a “type coin” pricing profile. This example further claims near-finest known status at CAC, which notes 47 pieces total, five coins in MS64, and two examples higher. The CAC price guide is $4,500. Ex. Boylston (Legend, Regency Auction 57, February 2023), lot 189, realized $5,405. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6325. Reserve: $5500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1869S Seated 50C 1869-S

AU55
PCGS
21018831
WB-1

Choice
Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Dirty satiny luster blankets both sides, with the reverse a bit reflective. Deep russet and indigo shades are splashed throughout with more intensity southwest of the eagle. The strike is typical with most star points evident and the usual softness below the reverse shield. Three die pairs exist for this issue, with the WB-1 exhibiting a mintmark placed directly below the feather tip. A couple horizonal lines bisect Liberty's left arm with toning that blends into the surrounding area, an important consideration when evaluating originality. CAC notes 24 coins total, five pieces in AU55, and five examples finer. The CAC price guide value is $850. Ex. Seal Beach Collection (GFRC, April 2020), at $950. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.0 (1998-2002) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6326. Reserve: $950 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1870 Seated 50C 1870

MS65+
PCGS
50205117
WB-7

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Satiny luster flows from brilliant centers, leading toward attractive rim toning with blue-green and russet patina evident in the stars and legend. The eye appeal is undeniable, and it is hard to imagine a more aesthetically pleasing piece for the grade. The strike is exceptional, with complete detail throughout. WB-7, with a reverse die lump between W and E. The 1870 half is a somewhat scarcer issue in the series, with less than a million pieces struck, but in this case the visual “pop” is the controlling factor, and the next owner will be justifiably proud. CAC has certified 32 pieces, with two coins in MS65 and none finer. PCGS has approved only one higher example, at MS67. The CAC guide value is $10,500. This coin is not inexpensive, but the combination of condition census placement and superb in-hand appeal is hard to beat. Ex. Heritage (August 2023, lot 3595), realized $12,000. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6327. Reserve: $12500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1870S Seated 50C 1870-S

MS62
PCGS
33054769
WB-1

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Frosty silver surfaces host a light mist of crust on both sides. Nicely struck, with most of the claw joints clearly separated. In this case, the weak date and softer texture within Liberty’s gown are a function of die wear, as opposed to suboptimal strike pressure. Bugert notes only two obverse dies for the issue, which equates to more than a half a million strikes per die, an extremely high ratio among Liberty Seated issues. Nonetheless, the luster is all there for the grade, and this is an original, pleasing example. WB-1, with a weak date and small mintmark. CAC notes 25 coins total, one piece in MS62 (this coin), and six examples finer. The CAC price guide value is $4,650. Ex. GFRC (January 2020) at $3,700. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6329. Reserve: $4500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1871 Seated 50C 1871

MS63
PCGS OGH
4761963
WB-7

Choice
Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Brilliant surfaces reveal hints of russet and gold patina, along with smoky color in the legend. The obverse luster is frosty, while the reverse fields are more reflective. Obverse toning is less apparent in-hand than conveyed by the image. WB-7, with a reverse die crack connecting the arrowheads. CAC notes 41 coins total, three pieces in MS63, and eight examples finer. The CAC price guide value is $1,250. Ex. Heritage (February 2018, lot 4771), at $960. Housed in a PCGS Gen 3.1 (1993-1998) old green holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6330. Reserve: $2000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1871CC Seated 50C 1871-CC

AU55
PCGS
90069609
WB-3

Choice
Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Reflective luster with partially mirrored fields reveals old-time gray-silver toning with deeper shades around the stars. Proofilke strikes are not unusual in the Carson City series, so much so that one example of this issue has been described as a "one-sided proof." The smooth surfaces are exceptional for the grade and the strike is strong, with plain star points and distinct detail in the eagle feathers. CAC has certified a single piece in AU55 (the present coin), and only four in higher grades. The CAC price guide value is $14,400, advancing to $23,000 in AU58. This is a rare opportunity - pieces like this tend to fall into "strong hands" and rarely see the light of day. This is not an inexpensive piece, but the combination of rarity and quality is elusive, and extraordinary coins such as this example will always draw significant attention and jealous looks from other collectors. Ex. Seal Beach Collection (GFRC, April 2020), at $14,250. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.1 (2002-2004) holder. PCGS #6331. Reserve: $15000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1871S Seated 50C 1871-S

MS64
PCGS
36683754
WB-8

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. This is an exceptionally original piece, and the overall appeal is not fully conveyed by the images. Smoky gray and olive patina fills the protected areas, while the silver fields reveal hair-line free, antique surfaces. Luster is consistent with the grade and readily rotates through the medium skin. This piece sold at a premium to the guide value in the 2018, and a quick inspection under a glass quickly justifies the “push” necessary to acquire a premium quality example. WB-8, with a centered date and small, wide mintmark slightly tilted to the right. CAC notes 51 coins total, with a single piece in MS64 (the present offering) and four examples finer. The CAC price guide value is $2,850. Ex. GFRC (December 2018), at $4,400. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6332. Reserve: $4250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1872 Seated 50C 1872

MS65+
PCGS
81108530
WB-6

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Blazing surfaces reveal hints of maroon color at the rim, and the overall flash of this GFRC rated-Gem example is considerable. Fully brilliant fields exhibit only a few ticks, consistent with the grade. Abundant luster is frosty, with some reflectivity evident as the coin is tilted. The strike is complete, with strong details on both sides. WB-6, with the date punched noticeably to the right. Collecting is always a matter of taste – some numismatists prefer colorful silver coins while others are fanatics about strong strikes. The visual “pop” of the present offering will especially appeal to those for whom luster is the primary attribute of interest. CAC has certified 30 coins in all grades, two pieces in MS65, and two example finer, both in MS66. The CAC price guide is $8,250, advancing to $12,000 in MS66. Ex. Boylston (Legend, Regency Auction 44, April 2021), lot 57, realized $9,106.25. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6333. Reserve: $9500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1872CC Seated 50C 1872-CC

AU55
PCGS
25628423
WB-5

Choice
Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Charcoal patina fills the protected areas, creating pleasing contrast with the lighter color of the high points. The stars and legend host the most intense color, with olive, gold, and deep gray shades evident. WB-5, with a low date and large mintmark sloping down. Strike is typical, with weakness in the eagle’s left leg. Carson City coinage is among the most popular within the Liberty Seated series, featuring low production figures and evoking the milieu of the Old West. While San Francisco was a bustling port city, Carson City was a relative backwater in the Sierra Nevada range. Coinage was not easily produced and required a high degree of manual labor, as the silver ore was extracted and transported to the Mint only with great difficulty. CAC notes 34 coins total, two pieces in AU55, and two examples finer, both in MS63. The CAC guide value is $7,200. Ex. Seal Beach Collection (GFRC, April 2020), at $9,500. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6334. Reserve: $11000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1872S Seated 50C 1872-S

MS65
PCGS
81939446
WB-1

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. This wildly reflective half is a multi-colored headlight and reveals a full spectrum of color atop the prooflike surfaces. A golden obverse skin hosts blue-green and russet shades while the reverse exhibits rings of violet and blue, leading to gold rims. The obverse represents the very definition of "skin," which has the appearance of a foil that one might peel back. Apart from a few light marks in the right obverse field, the surfaces are near-perfect. WB-1, with the 1 in the date centered over three dentils, while the mintmark is small and wide. A strong strike completely defines the stars. PCGS reports three examples in MS65 with a single MS66+ piece finer. CAC notes 20 pieces total, two coins at MS65 (including this) and two examples at MS66. The CAC price guide value is $17,300. While collectors may alternately be drawn toward either Mint State or proof formats, this colorful, flashy piece is a reminder that business strikes can come with highly prooflike finish. Ex. Branch Mint Collection (GFRC, July 2021), at $21,105. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6335. Reserve: $20000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1873 Seated 50C 1873
With Arrows
MS64+
PCGS
19846534
-

Gem
With Arrows, Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Ex. Dick Osburn. Exceptional frost flows from the silver-gray surfaces of this With Arrows example. The eye appeal is strong, and the GFRC Gem rating is easily merited. Stars above Liberty are soft, while the feather detail is more distinct. CAC records 60 coins in all grades, 12 pieces at MS64, and two examples finer, both in MS66. The CAC guide value is $4,200 in MS64, rising to $12,000 in MS65. Ex. Regency Auction 57 (Legend, February 2023), lot 193, at $4,465, previously from the Dick Osburn Collection (Stack’s Bowers, August 2011), lot 7113, at $8,050. The Osburn auction result suggests that at least two bidders considered the piece upgrade-worthy, and, while we agree with the stated grade, the visual “pop” of this piece is compelling. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. The label documents the Dick Osburn Collection pedigree. PCGS #6343. Reserve: $5000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1873 Seated 50C 1873
No Arrows, Closed 3
AU50
PCGS
20996355
WB-4

Choice
No Arrows, Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Light crust outlines the protected areas of this Closed 3 example, while medium rose-gray centers lead toward pleasing blue-green color at the rims. Although not excessively rare, these coins were produced for only a short time at the beginning of 1873, before the Mint realized that the 3 in the date more closely resembled an 8. WB-4, with the date far to the right and a clash in the lower right portion of the reverse shield. CAC notes 32 coins total, three examples in AU50, and 14 pieces finer. The CAC price guide value is $525. This is a solid collector coin at the stated level, scarce with original preservation and featuring the “closed 3” numeral punch. Ex. Heritage (August 2023, lot 27236), realized $720. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6336. Reserve: $550 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1873CC Seated 50C 1873-CC
With Arrows
MS63
PCGS
36940280
WB-8

Choice
With Arrows, Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Reflective luster emerges from the medium skin, highlighting the maroon and gold patina at the rims. The strike is complete, with sharp star centers and distinct claw knuckles. WB-8, with errant digits in the dentils, and a large, level mintmark. The Carson City Mint struck both No Arrows and With Arrows types in this year, and although the No Arrows pieces are a bit scarcer, both issues were struck in low quantities. PCGS notes 228 pieces total, 2 coins at MS63, and five examples finer. The PCGS price guide value in MS63 is $20,000. Mint State examples are not often encountered, and PCGS Coin Facts indicates a “market velocity” of approximately two appearances of Mint State coins per year. The appeal of the CC mintmark is strong, and such examples are highly prized by collectors. Ex. GFRC (February 2019), at $17,000. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6344. Reserve: $17000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1873CC Seated 50C 1873-CC
No Arrows
VF35
PCGS
19319102
WB-1

Choice
No Arrows, Choice Original, Newtown Collection, Ex. Dick Osburn. Coin gray surfaces betray only honest wear, and the fields are smooth for the grade. Light crust outlines the stars and legend, while the recessed areas of the reverse shield exhibit uniform charcoal patina. WB-1, with a high mintmark. The 1 is not repunched, as on the WB-2. As is typical for early Carson City coinage, production was minimal in this year, with 122,500 examples of the No Arrows type struck. This issue circulated heavily, with most survivors coming in low grades. Indeed, the present coin is remarkably advanced in the CAC census, with just 12 pieces finer. CAC has certified 35 coins in all grades, including five examples in VF35. The CAC price guide value is $3,750. Ex. Dick Osburn (not included in the Stack’s Bowers August 2011 sale of the Osburn collection). Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6338. Reserve: $3750 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1873S Seated 50C 1873-S
With Arrows
AU58
PCGS
21832402
WB-1

Original
Original, Newtown Collection. Silver-gray patina covers both sides, with lighter color evident in the protected areas of the obverse. This is a sharply struck piece with textured stars and well-defined claw joints. A few hairlines in the right field preclude CAC certification. WB-1, the only die pair for this issue, with the date placed to the right and a small mintmark punched high and to the left. Apart from the Carson City examples, this is the scarcest of the With Arrows issues, with a mintage under a quarter million pieces. Apart from the absolute rarity, populations narrow even further when approaching Mint State, as the PCGS census readily demonstrates. PCGS has approved 126 pieces total, including five coins at AU58 and nine examples at the Mint State level. The PCGS price guide value is $3,500. Ex. New Jersey Collection (GFRC, December 2017), at $3,550. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.2 (2004-2005) holder. PCGS #6345. Reserve: $3500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1874 Seated 50C 1874
With Arrows
MS66
PCGS
4943398
-

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Medium crust reveals pleasing blue green patina at the rims and within the protected areas. The deepest color resides as the rims, while the fields are lighter. Ample luster is consistent with the assigned grade, and the overall eye appeal is exceptional. Most of the star centers are evident, while a couple claw joints to the left blend together. The Mint added arrows to the subsidiary silver denominations in 1873 and 1874 to indicate a weight change to a metric standard, in this case an even 12.50 grams vs. the 12.44-gram standard previously in place. The two-year With Arrows type is widely pursued by type coin collectors, adding additional pressure to an issue already pursued by date and mintmark collectors. The present coin would easily fit in a world-class type set, bested by only the fewest of examples. CAC notes 69 coins in all grades, four examples in MS66, and two pieces higher, both at MS67. PCGS reflects similarly challenging data, with eight examples at MS66, one coin in MS67, and the MS67+ Hansen collection piece. The CAC guide value is $26,400, while PCGS indicates a value of $42,500. Ex. GFRC (August 2023), at $37,000. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.0 (1998-2002) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6346. Reserve: $34000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1874CC Seated 50C 1874-CC

MS63
PCGS
25399807
WB-3

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Along with the 1870-CC and 1878-CC, the 1874-CC is one of the keys to Carson City half dollar set. Few pieces survived from the small mintage of 59,000 pieces and today examples in all grades are highly prized. This piece exhibits even, medium gray toning, with hints of gold, russet, and blue more evident as the coin is tilted under a light. Moderate cartwheel radiates from both sides, a touch more actively on the reverse. WB-3, with a die lump below the curl and a diagonal die line through (STAT)ES. The mintmark is small with close spacing and slopes upward. Well struck with star centers evident and typical softness in the left claws. CAC has approved 47 coins total, a single piece in MS63 (the present coin), two examples at MS64, and a single coin at MS65. PCGS reports three higher pieces in MS64, one coin in MS65 and one example in MS66. The CAC price guide value is $37,400 while PCGS is a tick higher at $37,500. The significance of this offering is hard to overstate, as Carson City pieces are among the most desirable issues in the Seated series. This piece combines the all-important CC mintmark with key date status and a strong technical grade. As if that were not enough, CAC endorses this example as premium for the grade. The new owner of this special coin will be exceptionally pleased. Ex. GFRC (August 2021), at $35,000, previously from the Milford Collection (Heritage 1/2011, lot 5565), realized $26,450. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.5 (2012-2013) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6347. Reserve: $37500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1874S Seated 50C 1874-S

MS64
PCGS
25698095
WB-2

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. The two-year With Arrows type is a must have for U.S. type collectors, and even lower graded pieces command a premium over “common date” pricing. This example is most decidedly not in the “lower grade” category, with only three pieces finer at CAC. Original, silver-steel silver surfaces are hairline-free and smooth for the grade. Nicely struck, with most of the star centers well-defined. WB-2, a distinctive variety with an oddly placed, filled-in mintmark. Note, the reverse lines across the ribbon are planchet roller marks, as struck. CAC has certified 11 pieces, one coin in MS64 (the present offering), and three examples finer. The CAC price guide value in MS64 is $6,600, while PCGS quotes $10,000 in the same grade. Given the advanced placement in the condition census, the next owner will be justifiably proud with the acquisition of this With Arrows example. Ex. Boylston (Legend, Regency Auction 57, February 2023), lot 199, realized $10,575. Housed in a PCGS Gen 5.0 holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6348. Reserve: $10000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1875 Seated 50C 1875

MS65
PCGS
19696072
-

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Blue-green and russet patina fill the rims of the GFRC-rated Gem example, complemented by frosty luster, and the aesthetic appeal is strong. Protected areas exhibit similar aqua color, contrasting with silver centers. The stars are well-defined, while a couple of the claw knuckles blend together. CAC notes 95 pieces total, 11 coins in MS65, and three examples finer, all at MS66. The CAC price guide value is $4,100 in MS65. Ex. Heritage (February 2019, lot 4048), at $3,360, an astute purchase decision that we expect will be rewarded in the current sale. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6349. Reserve: $3850 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1876CC Seated 50C 1876-CC

MS62
PCGS Rattler
9099127
WB-2

Choice
Choice Original, Newtown Collection. The lustrous surfaces of this Centennial-dated piece are reflective, as is often seen with high-grade Carson City coinage. Brilliant centers give way to thick blue-green and russet color at the rims, and the aesthetic appeal is wholesome. The strike is complete, with sharply defined stars. WB-2, with a die crack connecting the left stars and a large, level mintmark, while the date exhibits a slight upward slope. CAC has approved 45 coins total, six pieces in MS62, and 16 examples finer. The CAC guide value is $3,900. The allure of the Carson City mintmark is powerful, and when combined with eye appeal and a strong technical grade, a compelling offering is made. Ex. Great Collections (October 2021), at $4,124.25. Housed in a PCGS Gen 1.2 (1986-1989) old rattler holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6353. Reserve: $4150 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1877CC Seated 50C 1877-CC

MS66
PCGS
81340169
WB-15

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Strong originality is the hallmark of this GFRC-rated Gem Carson City example, which exhibits hairline free, antique silver surfaces. Frosty luster booms through the medium skin, and a light quickly activates swirling cartwheels. Olive and grey patina mix into the protected areas, and the overall eye appeal is exceptional. WB-15, with a die crack at the date and a medium, level mintmark. CAC notes 81 pieces in all grades, three coins in MS66, and a single example finer in MS67. The CAC guide value is $11,200. With only the lone MS67 piece higher, this example is a prize that combines the all-important CC mintmark with a high degree of originality. Ex. Regency Auction 44, (Legend, April 2021), lot 72, realized $11,162.50. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6356. Reserve: $11200 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1878 Seated 50C 1878

MS66+
PCGS
81874149
-

Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Blazing luster flows from the surfaces of this frosty Philadelphia piece. The visual “pop” is exceptional, and the piece attracts the eye quickly, even when displayed among a group of high-grade examples. Brilliant fields reveal a swath of maroon-russet color at stars 10-13, with the reverse marked by tan and aqua patina about the legend. The obverse is hammered, while the reverse exhibits characteristic softness at the eagle’s left leg. The left side of the first 8 is weak, matching the “wimpy 8” obverse depicted in Wiley & Bugert’s 1993 reference, The Complete Guide to Liberty Seated Half Dollars. CAC notes 40 pieces total, with four examples in MS65, two coins in MS66, and single piece finer in MS67. The CAC price guide value is $18,000. Ex. Heritage (June 2020, lot 3073), realized $11,100. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6358. Reserve: $14500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1878CC Seated 50C 1878-CC

MS63
PCGS
45062666
WB-1

Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Reddish-copper patina mixes into the protected areas of this frosty Carson City example, with the deepest shades present at the rims. A band of silver color on the reverse suggests long term storage in an envelope. Surfaces are frosty and the overall eye appeal is wholesome. WB-1, the only die pair for the issue, with the date punched far to the left and an uneven mintmark. Nicely struck, with defined star centers and most of the claw joint detail evident. Among the Carson City halves, the 1878-CC stands near the top in terms of scarcity, tied with the 1874-CC but not quite as rare as the 1870-CC issue. The “CC” Seated half set consists of ten coins, including both the No Arrows and With Arrows types for 1873, and, to say the least, the acquisition of the present coin would represent a most promising start on such a set. CAC has approved 37 pieces in all grades, one example in MS63 (the present offering), and five coins finer. The CAC guide value is $24,200. This is the PCGS Coin Facts plate coin. Ex. Stack’s Bowers (August 2020, lot 7060), realized $20,400. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6359. Reserve: $22500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1879 Seated 50C 1879

MS66
PCGS
29250361


Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. The half dollar run from 1879-1890 forms a series of low production issues, with the highest mintage, 12,001 pieces, occurring in 1888. While many examples were saved at the time of release, the low mintage figures are hard to resist, and these remain popular with collectors today. For those contemplating building such a set, the present sale offers several possibilities, and buyers will do well to consider the various offerings. This 1879 example reveals marbled luster that highlights varied shades of maroon, grey, and tan patina. Stars are sharply impressed, while some of the details in the eagle’s left leg blends together. CAC notes 87 coins across all grades, 16 pieces in MS66, and 14 examples finer, all at MS67. The CAC price guide value is $5,800. Ex. Heritage (August 2022, lot 4528), at $5,040. Housed in a PCGS Gen 5.0 holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6361. Reserve: $6000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1880 Seated 50C 1880

MS65+
PCGS
80687135


Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Smoky gold patina covers reflective surfaces, and the contrast between the icy figure of Liberty and the prooflike fields is compelling. The stars emerge strongly from the flan, while some of the claw joints are less distinct. The 1878 Bland-Allison Act caused much of the Mint capacity to be diverted to Morgan dollar production, and subsequent production of quarters and half dollars was minimal for the following decade. The Mint produced just 8,400 half dollars in this year, and this piece is one of the finest survivors recognized with CAC certification. CAC records 42 pieces total, nine examples in MS65, and nine coins finer. The CAC price guide value is $4,950. Ex. Pinnacle Rarities. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6382. Reserve: $5350 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1881 Seated 50C 1881

MS66+
PCGS
33452644


Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Attractive, multi-colored toning covers the reflective surfaces of this GFRC-rated Gem example, and the eye appeal is strong. Fields and central devices host mixed grey and blue-green patina, while the rims reveal russet and maroon shades. The strike is typical with some softness in the eagle’s left leg. In-hand viewing is more compelling than conveyed by the images, and the next owner will be pleased. One cannot have enough coins like this! CAC notes 42 coins in all grades, six pieces in MS66, and three examples in MS67. The CAC guide value is $7,500 in MS66, advancing to $15,000 in MS67. Ex. Witter Coin. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6383. Reserve: $12500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1882 Seated 50C 1882

MS65
PCGS
25679998


Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Thick skin reveals tannish-brown patina on both sides, with the deepest color at the rims. Additional plum shades are evident beneath the eagle. Most of the claw knuckles exhibit separation, if faintly so. The 2 in the date is distinctly shaped, with the lower right serif nearly touching the upper loop. The Philadelphia Mint produced just 4,400 pieces in this year, the lowest total within the 1879-1890 run, tied with the 1884 issue. With many saved by contemporary collectors, survivors are apt to be in higher grades, but this example still stands near the top. CAC has certified 10 coins at the offered grade. The PCGS price guide value is $5,500 as reference. Ex. Eye Appealing Coins. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder. PCGS #6366. Reserve: $4500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1883 Seated 50C 1883

MS64
PCGS
83906411


Choice
Eye Appeal of Higher Grade, Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Reflective surfaces host icy central figures, and the cameo effect is immediately apparent. Ample frost on Liberty and the eagle is complemented by intense color at the rims, with tannish-russet and blue-green patina evident. The head and stars are sharp, while the feathers of the left leg are a touch soft. The Newtown consignor generally selected examples graded MS65 or finer for the late-date (1879-1890) half dollar run, but the visual appeal of this MS64 piece easily warranted making an exception. CAC notes 35 examples across all grades, five pieces in MS64, and 11 coins higher. The CAC guide value is $3,300. Ex. Executive Coin Company. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6365. Reserve: $3300 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1884 Seated 50C 1884

MS66
PCGS
25041307


Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Frosty obverse luster pairs with more reflective flash on the reverse, and one can imagine the coiner lightly polishing the reverse die just prior to striking this piece. The obverse reveals greenish-olive patina framed by intense russet color at the stars, while the reverse exhibits more uniform evergreen shade throughout. The head is completely detailed, while the area beneath the reverse shield is somewhat soft. The Philadelphia Mint coined just 4,400 pieces in this year, a quantity tied with the 1882 issue as the lowest production total during the 1879-1890 low mintage run. CAC has approved 48 pieces total, seven coins in MS66, and eight examples finer. The CAC guide value is $7,500. Ex. Oregon Beaver Collection (GFRC, March 2022), at $8,500. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6366. Reserve: $7500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1885 Seated 50C 1885

MS66+
PCGS
37581583


Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection, Ex. D.L. Hansen Medium skin reveals gray-rose color in the fields with more intense blue and gold patina at the rims. Frosty luster is generous, as expected for the technical grade, and a light quickly activates the cartwheels. Stars are sharp, while characteristic softness is evident beneath the reverse shield. CAC notes 31 coins total, two pieces in MS66, and two examples higher, both in MS67. The CAC guide value is $9,000 in MS66, rising to $13,000 in MS67. Purchased from GFRC (January 2023), at $13,000, previously from the D. L. Hansen Collection. Not surprisingly, D. L. Hansen retained a finer coin, a PCGS MS67+ piece with CAC approval. The flip side is that with the Hansen coin off the market for the foreseeable future, the availability of the best coins becomes even thinner. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. The holder features a special D.L. Hansen Collection label with a reverse bar code. PCGS #6367. Reserve: $12500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1886 Seated 50C 1886

MS63
PCGS
34973082


Choice
Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Proof-like mirrors contrast with the frosty central devices, and the eye appeal is immediately apparent. Intense ebon color at the rims complements the “black and white” appearance that results from a tilt under a light. A couple stars above the head are soft, while the reverse detail beneath the shield is more sharply defined. CAC has certified 35 coins in all grades, three pieces in MS63, and 17 examples finer. The CAC price guide value is $2,250, a reasonable price point given the overall aesthetic appeal. Ex. Heritage (February 2018, lot 4800), realized $1,860. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6368. Reserve: $2250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1887 Seated 50C 1887

MS67
PCGS
46819680


Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Deep mirrors are the hallmark of this GFRC-rated Gem example, and the impression of the reflectivity is reinforced when tilting the piece under a light. Ice-white frost covers Liberty, creating visceral contrast with the watery fields, while the rims reveal scattered crimson patina. The overall flash is compelling, as expected at the MS67 level, and it is hard to imagine that the piece has lost the slightest bit of visual “pop” since it came off the dies. The top of the head and star 7 are soft, while nearly all reverse elements are distinct. CAC notes 33 coins across all grades, with five pieces in MS67 and none higher. PCGS notes six examples in MS67 and a single coin at MS67+. The CAC price guide is at $15,800, while PCGS designates a value of $25,000. Ex. GFRC (August 2023), at $27,500. Tied for finest known at CAC, this piece is surely destined for an advanced collection. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6369. Reserve: $25000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1888 Seated 50C 1888

MS66+
PCGS
25686012


Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Rich blue patina frames the plum-gray centers of this late-date Philadelphia piece, and the strong, frosty luster easily shines through the medium skin. Surfaces are blatantly original, and the CAC certification is easily merited. The overall eye appeal is exceptional, and the next owner will enjoy showing this coin to other (no doubt jealous) collectors. Strike is typical, with a couple flat stars and a few claw joints joining together. CAC has approved 59 pieces in all grades, 14 examples in MS66, and seven coins in MS67. The CAC guide value is $7,200 and MS66 and rises to $14,400 in MS67. The upper four-figure price is not a trivial matter for most collectors, but such a combination of scarcity, luster, originality, and aesthetic appeal rarely comes cheaply. Ex. Rare Coin Wholesalers. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6370. Reserve: $8250 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1889 Seated 50C 1889

MS66
PCGS
03589910


Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. This Philadelphia piece was a standout during the cataloger’s lot viewing, and the overall eye appeal is hard to overstate. Stone original fields host golden-brown patina with hints of rose color, while the rims are encircled by attractive blue-green bands. Gem luster is immediately obvious, and a light source quickly creates cartwheels that radiate through the medium skin. There is a lot to like here, consistent with the near-finest known status CAC. A field mark inside of star 13 holds back the technical grade. Stars are sharp while detail at the eagle’s left leg is softer. CAC notes 47 examples across all grades, five pieces in MS66, and a single coin finer at MS66+. The CAC price guide value is $10,800. Ex. Witter Coin. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2024) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6371. Reserve: $10500 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1890 Seated 50C 1890

MS65
PCGS
25010814


Gem
Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Reflective surfaces host varied patina, with plum-rose, evergreen, tan, and silver color evident as the coin is tilted in-hand. The 1890 issue completes the low mintage Philadelphia run (1879-1890), with only 12,000 pieces struck in this year. While pieces were saved in higher proportion than other Seated halves, especially branch Mint issues, survivors at elevated grades remain legitimately scarce. Typically struck, with weak detail at the eagle’s left leg. CAC has certified 35 pieces total, five coins in MS65, and ten examples finer. The CAC guide value is $4,950. Ex. GFRC (March 2021), at $4,500. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6372. Reserve: $4950 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th
Seated 50C 1891 Seated 50C 1891

MS64
PCGS
36093412


Choice
Near-Gem Original, Newtown Collection. Aqua crust outlines the figure of Liberty, with deeper brown colors evident around the stars and date. The reverse is nearly brilliant, with tan and smoky chestnut shades at the legend. The strike is typical, with feathers at the left leg less distinct. Fields are original and hairline-free, as the CAC certification attests. The Mint resumed a larger production of Seated halves in this year, but the overall total, 200,000 pieces, remains on the low side as compared to other Philadelphia issues. CAC notes 61 pieces total, eight coins in MS64, and 22 examples finer. The CAC price guide value is $1,950. Ex. GFRC (December 2020), at $1,750. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval. PCGS #6373. Reserve: $2000 Auction Opens
9:00pm Saturday May 10th