 1915'S' Panama-Pacific Exposition Double Set including the original frame of issue. Brilliant Uncirculated to Gem Brilliant Uncirculated. This remarkable set contains two coins of each denomination and/or design struck in commemoration of the Exposition.
The frame that accompanies these coins is either equal or superior to that of the next set. Unlike that of the next lot, however, the reverse of this frame still retains its hanging ring. The easel, furthermore, is in somewhat better condition. It should be stated, however, that this frame lacks its original screws and there is some matting of the velvet inside the depressions that hold each coin. This matting appears to be from some glue deposits intended to hold each coin in its place. None of this glue is present on any of the coins and, therefore, is an insignificant detraction in the overall assessment of this fabulous set. The fact that this set still retains its original box (which is large enough to accomodate two double sets) is especially remarkable, as they were typically discarded as a result of their fragility and rapid deterioration. This box, though damaged to some degree and subsequently reinforced at its edges and corners with tape very long ago is simply a sight to behold! Although similar boxes for smaller Panama-Pacific sets do surface on very rare occasions, the appearance of this sized box is simply unprecedented! It goes without saying that the extreme rarity and paramount importance of this set cannot be taken lightly. The advanced commemorative specialist, or for that matter any collector with a penchant for unrivaled quality and rarity, should give every thought to participating in the sale of this magnificent set!
The quality of each coin and a brief description is as follows:
$50.00 Gold Octagonal. Gem Brilliant Uncirculated and offering surfaces that are free of all but the most insignificant of imperfections. A balanced satiny warmth completes this sharp orange-golden jewel.
$50.00 Gold Octagonal. Very Choice Brilliant Uncirculated. This velvet-like specimen is a worthy companion to the piece described above. In fact, the color and visual appeal is essentially identical, the only significant difference being some ever so trivial obverse facial disturbance.
$50.00 Gold Round. Choice Brilliant Uncirculated from an overall standpoint. Close scrutiny of the obverse yields a limited number of extremely light lines on Minerva's cheek and in the left field. The reverse, as is the norm for both round and octagonal Panama-Pacific $50.00 gold pieces, is of somewhat nicer quality than the obverse and justifiably could be called Gem.
$50.00 Gold Round. The obverse is Brilliant Uncirculated and virtually of Choice quality. The reverse is easily that of a Very Choice example. This premium quality pale orange-golden specimen nicely matches all of the other $50.00 gold pieces in this set with respect to both color and lustre.
$2.50 Gold. Gem Brilliant Uncirculated. Outstanding surface quality is drenched in shimmering mint frost on either side. Fabulously ''fresh'' and quite compelling.
$2.50 Gold. Very Choice Brilliant Uncirculated and just a whisper away from a full Gem distinction. An assertive strike is bathed in unbroken satin-velvet mint bloom.
$1.00 Gold. Gem Brilliant Uncirculated and an absolutely splendid example! Deep yellow-golden fields and design features are rippling with an abundance of luxuriant silken lustre. A beauty!
$1.00 Gold. Gem Brilliant Uncirculated. Lovely satin mint lustre is not quite as vibrant as the prior lot, however the surface quality is easily every bit as attractive. An exemplary specimen on all accounts.
Half Dollar. Gem Brilliant Uncirculated. The obverse is immersed in a blend of lavender and aqua-green iridescence. The reverse displays areas of russet and mauve toning at the peripheries. Glowing underlying mint bloom completes this lovely coin.
Half Dollar. Gem Brilliant Uncirculated. A full measure of icy mint frost is accented by wisps of lavender-rose and delicate champagne-gold on both the obverse and reverse.
A total of 10 coins plus the frame and original box.
For detailed information regarding the history, rarity, and artistic symbolism of both this set and the coins that are contained within it, we refer the reader to the comprehensive brochure on the Panama-Pacific Exposition and its coins that accompanies this catalogue in addition to the introduction preceding this lot. You will need Adobe Acrobat to View this brochure.
| |
| Hammer Price: $335,000.00
|
|
