| Description: |
An extremely rare variety, discovered by Harry Bass and unknown to Walter Breen and
others. Researcher and gold specialist John Dannreuther has recorded about six specimens,
two of which are impounded—a choice Mint State example in the American Numismatic Society
and the very unusual tooled double strike in the permanent collection of the Harry Bass
Foundation. This specimen is deeply reflective with rich yellow gold surfaces showing very
attractive if subtle coppery toning. The cartwheel lustre is nearly intact and is
especially bold on the reverse. Some hairlines and light scattered marks may be seen,
boosted in presence by the prooflike fields, traces of an old spot noted between stars 1
and 2, nick or planchet chip between stars 5 and 6 serves as an identifier. A little nick
left of the base of D in the denomination is the only notable reverse mark. The strike is
extremely sharp and better showcases the essential identifiers of this unique obverse
better than the double struck Bass coin, whose error had been partially effaced in an
ancient attempt at improvement. This reverse was used on other quarter eagles dated 1821,
1824, and 1825. A highlight rarity in the quarter eagle series, attractive to behold and
as fine a specimen as is known in private hands. An example sold in January 2000 by Bowers
and Merena was likewise graded MS-62 (NGC). This piece would have been a highlight in
Harry Bass's cabinet and will likewise be a point of pride for its next owner. |
