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1858 1C Small Letters PR65 PCGS. Low Leaves Reverse. PR-2. This is one of the finest known examples.

Currency:USD Category:Everything Else / Other Start Price:NA Estimated At:945.00 - 1,260.00 USD
1858 1C Small Letters PR65 PCGS. Low Leaves Reverse. PR-2. This is one of the finest known examples.
1858 1C Small Letters PR65 PCGS. Low Leaves Reverse. PR-2. This is one of the finest known examples of this rare issue, and it is also one of the most aesthetically desirable. A stunning specimen, Richard Snow describes it as a "deep mirror cameo Gem." The devices are fully struck up with every feather and wreath element showing razor sharp detail. The fields are virtually flawless and show splendid mirrored reflectivity when held at direct angles. Characteristic striations (as produced) are also evident when the coin rotates under the light, and they are suggestive of a very early die state. Aside from the outstanding condition of this piece, the eye appeal benefits from beautiful champagne, apricot, and pastel-lilac shadings. A few well scattered and not outwardly distracting carbon flecks are noted for accuracy, although we stress that they are barely perceptible to the naked eye. The mintage of 200 pieces that many catalogers report for this proof issue seems to be somewhat higher than the actual number of coins produced. A more appropriate estimate would be somewhere in the range of 100 pieces. There is also some confusion surrounding the number of coins extant, particularly because auction records include prooflike business strikes that the Mint issued in the 1858 12-piece pattern sets. These coins are still occasionally graded as proofs in error. Furthermore, the errors in the PCGS Population Report described for the proof 1858 Large Letters Cent also make it difficult to ascertain the number of survivors for the present issue. Nevertheless, Richard Snow believes that approximately 75 proof 1858 Small Letters Flying Eagle Cents are extant, a total that makes this issue similar in overall rarity to the proof 1857. Collectors with enough curiosity to look at the reverses of their coins may discover the changes that the Mint implemented in 1858. At some time early in the year the design was changed in an effort to lower the relief. This would enable the coiner to lessen the striking pressure and extend working die life. The high relief design is called the "High Leaves Reverse" because the leaves inside the wreath at the C and T in CENT are fairly long. This design was in use in 1856, 1857, and early 1858 and may also be called the "Type of 1857." The lower relief design is called "Low Leaves Reverse" with the leaves by the C and T in CENT short and extending just above the base of each letter. This is also referred to as the "Type of 1858." The proof 1858 Small Letters exists with both the High Leaves and Low Leaves reverses. The presently offered example is an example of the latter variety, although this distinction is not noted on the PCGS insert. Population: 6 in 65, none are finer (10/02).From the Joseph P. Gorrell Collection. Important notice: We expect to be auctioning lots at the rate of 200-250 per hour. Sometimes eBay Premier live bid software cannot keep up with that pace, so we strongly recommend that you place a realistic proxy bid now as insurance to avoid disappointment. Also please note that all Heritage/CAA lots purchased through eBay Premier carry a 20% Buyer's Premium. Please make sure you read the Terms and Conditions.