643

Lot 0643 1869 Indian Head 1C NGC PF66 RB

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money Start Price:50.00 USD Estimated At:100.00 - 150,000.00 USD
Lot 0643 1869 Indian Head 1C NGC PF66 RB
A truly pleasing moderately deep mirror toned gem with a beautiful frosted contrast on the head of Liberty decked out in a feathered headdress. Not even a hint of contact marks so there is nothing to keep this coin from its assigned 66 level. Many times die polishing lines in the fields on 1869 Proof cents may be mistaken for hairlines.

The scarcer dates in the late 1860s and early 1870s are found with moderately deep mirrors, which is a plus in anyone's book. It seems the reverse dies were normally held over and used for many years, being repolished many times throughout its life. Proof distribution for 1869 is estimated by the Bowers Indian Cent guidebook at between 850 and 1,100 pieces. "Most are red and brown. Some were sloppily made." Fortunately, the present example is very sharp and full featured, with no hint of "sloppiness" about it. A first-class gem!