72
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Twenty Cent Pieces
C
AMEO
P
ROOF
1877 T
WENTY
C
ENTS
382
1877
.
NGC graded Proof 66 Cameo
. Well struck and
fully white. Only 510 minted.
Pop 7; 4 finer, 1 in 66 Star,
3 in 67 Star
.
Estimated Value .....................................$16,000 - 17,000
Ex: The Kenneco Collection
.
Enlargement
1878 G
EM
P
ROOF
C
AMEO
383
1878
.
NGC graded Proof 65 Cameo
. Fully white Gem
Proof. Only 600 struck. Although the Western silver produc-
ers were selling large amounts of silver to the mints at a
decent price in the early 1870s, due to the acquiescence of
the Mint Director, Linderman, it never seemed quite
enough. Nevada Senator Jones attempted to improve the
situation by introducing legislation for a twenty-cent piece,
producing the absurd claim that storekeepers in the West
were shortchanging customers on the grounds that no five-
cent pieces were on hand. There were plenty of half dimes
yet in circulation in that area, but no one bothered to men-
tion that fact.
At any rate, Congress did authorize the new coins, but they
were the "original" Susan B. Anthony dollars and about as
popular as the later model. Authority to coin them was
revoked in 1878 and they were quickly forgotten, except by
shrewd numismatists.
Stunning original brilliance and mirror “depth” on this one,
with simply outstanding surfaces. Even the strike is 100%
complete, while we find no distracting handling marks. If
you have been searching diligently for a top end Gem of
this important Proof-only issue, then here is a high-end
example for the brilliant-coin lover. Philadelphia coined
Proofs only in 1878; the denomination was put out to pas-
ture, as it were, after 4 short years of very limited produc-
tion. Worth a premium for the majestic beauty and cameo
effect, and certain to please the advanced collector.
Pop
16; 7 finer, 5 in 66, 2 in 67.
Estimated Value ........................................ $8,000 - 8,500
