1818 25C B-7 MS(PCGS#38948)

1818 25C B-7 MS (PCGS#38948)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: Tompkins Die Stage 1/3, Rea et al. Die State a. Charming softly frosted surfaces retain much luster, as well as universally sharp to full striking detail throughout the design. Both sides are also attractively toned, the obverse with olive-gold peripheral iridescence around a lilac-gray and powder blue center, the reverse generally silver-apricot with wisps of powder blue at and near the borders. Smooth and inviting during in hand viewing, there are no troublesome marks to distract the eye. Although not included in either census, this coin qualifies as Condition Census for the variety based on the 2008 Tompkins and 2010 Rea et al. listings, in which it would be tied for CC#2 and CC#3, respectively.<p>This is the typically encountered die state of this scarce Browning number, and it was struck just before the reverse was paired with a different obverse to strike some examples of the 1818 B-9 variety. The final die stage of the 1818 B-7, Tompkins 1/4, is a remarriage of these dies. For Die Stage 1/3, represented here, the reverse die crack through the letter N in UNITED has thickened somewhat and extends nearly to the outside edge of the eagle's right wing.<p><strong>Steve M. Tompkins Commentary:</strong> One of the best examples known for this challenging die marriage. I was very excited adding it to my holdings when buying it at auction, especially since I knew how much Denis had loved the coin.