1795 Nine Leaf Reverse. Taraszka-3, Breen 4-C (High R-6). The only reverse of this date and for that matter the only reverse of this type to bear only nine leaves on the branch held in the eagle's talons. A wonderfully honest, entirely unmolested About Uncirculated specimen. Traces of coppery-red toning in the protected areas handsomely augment rich greenish yellow-golden surfaces, which are wholly free of the inherent surface flaws that sometimes afflict this coveted type. Remnants of reflectivity are evident in the reverse devices. The remainder of the coin displays quite a bit residual mint frost that evenly bathes this wonderfully well balanced example. As is typical of the very limited number of known survivors, there is a minor degree of striking softness at the centers on either side. The definition is otherwise quite sharp, as the wingfeathers, stars, denticles, and legends show no areas of noteworthy weakness.
Trivial obverse adjustment is visible behind Liberty's ear, and is not at all a detriment to the eye appeal. There is a single ridiculously minor curving hairline below the left wing on the reverse, otherwise there are absolutely no detractions that even begin to warrant any mention. An ideal ''collector quality'' example of this very rare and highly important issue. In fact, an advanced type set is not complete without a nine-leaf, Small Eagle reverse $10.00 Gold Piece (actually a full expanded type set would require a nine-leaf, eleven-leaf, and thirteen-leaf reverse of this Small Eagle major design type). We cannot overemphasize that if originality is your pursuit, then this is your coin. Be prepared to bid liberally as the successful buyer of this beauty will be suitably rewarded!
From the collection of well known numismatist George H. Blake and consigned to this sale by one of his direct descendants.
The great rarity of this issue has allowed researchers to effectively trace most of the known survivors. Taraszka, for instance, lists fifteen distinct specimens along with their pedigrees. The presently offered coin has been very closely held for decades, and thus may indeed be new to the census. Regardless of this fact, however, it is highly unlikely that more than 20 or so specimens have managed to survive, and a paltry few within the grade range offered here can claim to be as wholesome as this coin!
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| Hammer Price: $240,000.00
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