Stack’s Bowers Spring 2024 Rarities Night Preview – Gold Coins

Stack's Bowers' Rarities Night auction on March 26, 2024, features over 300 lots of rare and exceptional gold coins. Notable highlights include the 1884 Gold Dollar, graded MS-67+PL NGC CMQ-X, which is considered one of the finest examples of the date. The auction also offers the elusive 1841 Liberty Head quarter eagle, nicknamed the "Little Princess," with only nine examples graded by PCGS. Additionally, a stunning 1911 Indian Head Quarter Eagle Proof, graded PR67+ PCGS, showcases the unique Sandblast/Matte-Proof finish. The auction concludes with a rare 1820 Capped Head half eagle, confirmed as the BD-4 die marriage, and a 1866 Liberty Head Eagle Proof, graded PR-65 PCGS CAC CMQ-X, bearing the inscription "IN GOD WE TRUST."

Stack's Bowers Rarities Night: A Showcase of Exceptional Gold Coins

By Charles Morgan

Lot 4227: 1884 Gold Dollar

An extraordinary example of the 1884 gold dollar, graded MS-67+PL by NGC and certified CMQ-X, graces the auction block. With a mintage of just 5,230 pieces, this type coin is scarce in Gem grades, with an estimated survival rate of fewer than 100 examples. This particular specimen boasts remarkably smooth surfaces and stands as the finest PL specimen in the NGC census, potentially the second finest PL overall. It presents a compelling case for being among the top 10 finest examples of its date.

Lot 4236: 1841 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle

A highly sought-after rarity, the 1841 Liberty Head quarter eagle was initially believed to be a Proof-only issue. However, subsequent research has established that a number of these coins were struck for collectors, possibly under the direction of Chief Coiner Franklin Peale. Known as the "Little Princess," this issue received its moniker in the 1940s from coin dealer Norman Stack. The present example, graded MS-60 by PCGS and CMQ-approved, exhibits a significant upgrade from its previous grading as PF55 by NGC in 2012. The coin's overall rarity is undeniable, with PCGS reporting just nine examples in its population data and NGC counting only three. Stack's Bowers previously sold the finest known specimen, graded PCGS PR64CAM, for an impressive $408,000 in 2020. The present coin is estimated to fetch between $150,000 and $225,000 USD.

Lot 4243: 1911 Indian Head Quarter Eagle Proof

A testament to the United States Mint's experimentation with Sandblast/Matte-Proof finishes in the early 20th century, this 1911 Indian Head quarter eagle Proof is graded PR67+ by PCGS. Its unique finish enhances the sunken relief of Bela Lyon Pratt's iconic design, creating a visually stunning piece. PCGS reports only five coins in this grade, with one example at PR68+, the plate coin on PCGS CoinFacts. The last two PR67+ coins sold for $69,000 in Heritage sales in 2018 and 2023.

Lot 4280: 1820 Capped Head Half Eagle

While the 1820 Capped Head half eagle may appear to be a more affordable option in the series, its complexities make it a formidable challenge for collectors. With three Guide Book varieties and nine die marriages, this issue requires careful attention to detail. The present example, confirmed as the BD-4 die marriage, represents the rarest of all marriages in the series, with only two certified examples in Mint State. Graded MS-62 by PCGS, this coin demonstrates exceptional quality and is a valuable addition to any Capped Head half eagle collection.

Lot 4285: 1866 Liberty Head Eagle

A significant piece of numismatic history, the 1866 Liberty Head half eagle was the first issue to feature the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" on American gold coinage. Graded PR-65 by PCGS, CAC, and CMQ-X, this Proof example is one of approximately 10 surviving specimens from a reported mintage of 30. The coin exhibits a pleasing level of frost on its devices, despite not being attributed as Cameo or Deep Cameo by PCGS at the time of grading.

Lot 4384: MCMVII (1907) Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

A fascinating connection to the Theodore Roosevelt Administration is embodied in this MCMVII Saint-Gaudens double eagle, graded SP63 by PCGS. According to the lot description, this High Relief specimen originates from the estate of James Wilson, the fourth United States Secretary of Agriculture. Its importance lies not only in its numismatic value but also in its historical significance.

Beyond the Preview

These highlighted lots represent a mere fraction of the exceptional gold coins offered in the Stack's Bowers Rarities Night auction. Numerous other noteworthy pieces await collectors' attention, promising a memorable and rewarding bidding experience. As we eagerly anticipate Heritage's Central States offerings, we extend our best wishes for continued success in the pursuit of numismatic excellence.