Feb 18-19, 2002, The Benson Collection Part 2, Sale 13
Lot 332
1794. Logan-McCloskey-2,
Valentine-2, Rarity-5. PCGS graded MS-64. As we start with the Half
Dimes from this famous collection, we simply want to say that this is one of
the finest collections of half dimes ever auctioned. Many coins have
illustrious pedigrees, and the quality is superb. Most dates and major types
are included, and this collection will long be remembered for its spectacular
toning and outstanding quality.
This 1794 is perhaps the finest known of the
variety, is it a point better than the lovely coin auctioned by Bowers and
Merena in the Eliasberg Sale, 5/96:885 listed as MS-63. The strike is typically
weak for the variety, with localized softness on the lower curls of Liberty and
above the left wing of the eagle, while the balance of the coin is sharp. Deep
blue and gray toning around the periphery, with glowing red rose hues at the
centers. Blazing luster in the fields, and we note minor hairlines which are
scarcely visible, even with a glass. This coin is simply stunning, and the
surfaces are outstanding. PCGS has graded 7 this high, with 6 graded higher, of
the date. Color photo.
Estimated Value $15,000-20,000.
From the
Benson Collection and purchased on February 8, 1945 for $66.00 from
Macallister.
Lot 333
1795. Logan-McCloskey-8,
Valentine-5, Rarity-3. PCGS graded MS-65. This is certainly one of
the finest known of this date, PCGS has graded 8 this high with just 5 graded
higher, the better ones all MS-66. Well struck by the dies, but with localized
weakness on a couple of the curls. We note satiny luster in the fields which
combines with delicate blue and gold shades to present an old time type coin in
wondrous condition.
Free of adjustment marks or any post mint problems, the
surfaces are simply pristine in every way. Certainly one of the most important
and valuable coins in the Benson Collection, and worthy of the finest
collection of half dimes.
Although a common variety, few survive in full gem
condition, and precious few survive even in mint state. As a variety, this die
pairing also has the dubious distinction of being counterfeited by the spark
erosion process. The counterfeits can be discovered by a telltale pit at the
top of the 7 and are normally found in circulated grades. This coin is
obviously an original, and has been held in Dr. Benson's collection for many
decades.
Estimated Value $15,000-20,000.
Purchased by Dr. Benson on
March 30, 1946 for $50.00 likely from Ira Reed or James Macallister.
Lot 334
1795. LM-10, V-4A,
Rarity-3. PCGS graded AU-55. This one slipped in to circulation for
a brief time, just long enough to get a few tiny handling marks on the fields
and devices. We note lovely blue shades around the periphery while the centers
are silvery-white. Expect this one to bring a premium for it's superb National
Pages album colors and clean surfaces. The strike is typical, weak on the hair
curls and the left wing of the eagle. Familiar and common die state with the
obverse die cud through TY of LIBERTY and star 9. One for the type collector.
Estimated Value $3,000-3,500.
From the Dr. Benson Collection and
likely purchased in the 1940s.
Lot 335
1795. Logan-McCloskey-10,
Valentine-4, Rarity-3. AU-55. We note several minor scratches on
this coin, including some light ones beneath RTY and behind the head.
Examination with a strong glass will note tiny scratches atop the letters of
LIBERTY, and other minor surface problems can be found. Early die state as the
obverse cud has not yet developed. Deep blue and gold colors throughout, and a
decent coin despite it's problems. Color photo.
Estimated Value
$1,000-1,200.
Purchased by Dr. Benson on April 3, 1944 from Macallister
for $15.00.