 1844 'Breen 8', N.8 (High R-6). Proof-64. Red. Another rare Proof-only Die variety that is seldom found so attractive. The '18' is dramatically repunched with the top serif of the '1' extending from Liberty's bust, and the top of the '8' found on her truncation near the base of her neck. Extensive die file lines on the lower right obverse rim extend into the field from the dentils. The reverse die was also used to coin Proofs of later years. The present coin shows well frosted devices on Liberty that contrast strongly with wonderfully mirrored fields. The surfaces exhibit only a very limited number of minor, inconspicuous specks that do not at all impede the visual appeal of this coin. Only the most minor of hairlines can be noticed under very close examination with a glass. A phenomenal coin of excellent quality despite its minor imperfections.
As noted by New Netherlands when this coin last crossed the auction block in 1958, ''Coins of this quality and rarity will never be cheaper.'' This coin realized a comparatively high $200 back then, worth perhaps a bit more today!
Ex F.C.C. Boyd and Judge Thomas L. Gaskill Collections (New Netherlands, June 20, 1958, lot 1253).
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