Feb 18-19, 2002, The Benson Collection Part 2, Sale 13
Lot 2346
1847 Hawaiian Cent.
PCGS graded MS-63 Brown. This one is nice for the grade, there is a
hint of mint red near the devices and the coin is fully struck. We note minor
handling marks in the fields, but none are problematic. On the reverse, there
are two faded spots, both near the wreath and lettering.
Estimated Value
$800-1,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from an unknown
source in the 1940s.
Lot 2347
1883 Hawaiian Silver Four
Coin Set. Fine to Very Fine. Includes Dollar, ½ Dollar,
¼ Dollar and 10 Cents. KM-3,5,6,7. All toned, some have been cleaned in
the past. Lot of 4 coins.
Estimated Value $150-UP.
From the Benson
collection and purchased from an unknown source probably in the 1940s.
Lot 2348
1883 Hawaiian Dollar.
PCGS graded MS-63. One of the famous issues during the brief reign
of King Kalakaua while the sugar interest (Claus Sprekels) in America was
trying to worm his way to more and more power. The need for coinage and
currency in the Islands was acute, and once David Kalakaua solidified his power
in 1874, he attempted to bring the Territory of Hawaii into the 19th Century.
Coinage was ordered, and Mint Engraver Charles Barber executed the dies. For
the silver dollar, a total of 500,000 were coined, but most were melted,
leaving a net mintage of just 46,348. Of these, most are well circulated, and
finding a mint state example usually requires quite a bit of patience. To find
a choice example, is quite a treat. This particular coin has mottled smoky gray
toning with hints of blue gray and sunset tones near the devices. Boldly struck
by the dies, we note strong details on the beard and the shield on the reverse.
In their Population Report, PCGS notes only 8 graded this high, with 18 graded
higher (best MS-65). Examination of the surfaces shows few signs of contact,
and this coin is conservatively graded in our opinion. An important offering
and one the specialist will truly enjoy.
Estimated Value $4,000-5,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from an unknown source in the
1940s.