1795 $1 Silver Plug, BB-18 MS(PCGS#39993)

The Regency Auction 33

Auctioneer

Legend Rare Coin Auctions

Lot Number

323

Grade

AU50

Price

38,775

Lot Description

Silver-plug dollars are a very interesting artifact of the early U.S. Mint. In the earliest days, it was of the utmost importance to ensure the the weight and composition of precious metal coins met the letter of the law. Many early coins show file marks, known as adjustment marks, that appear on coins that were overweight; the planchets were filed lightly to take the weight down to proper levels before striking. For underweight planchets, a small hole was drilled (generally in the center) and a heavier plug of silver was inserted before striking. It was easier to do this than to melt and reroll the blanks. Of all the varieties of 1795 Flowing Hair dollars, the B-7, BB-18, is seen more frequently with a Silver Plug than any other die marriage. The presently offered coin clearly shows a large plug right in the center of the planchet. Pleasing olive, russet, and tan patina bathes both sides of this highly attractive AU coin. A couple of scattered light marks are accounted for but do not detract. The strike is very bold and pleasing. There is a small planchet flaw at the lower reverse, mint made. PCGS 4, NGC 4. The most recent example had extensive adjustment marks that crossed the central obverse, which realized $38,400. This coin sold in our July 2017 Regency Auction for $43,475, and the current Collectors Universe valuation is $55,000. Decidedly RARE any finer. . A rare and desirable piece of early federal numismatics that should see considerable bidding activity from early dollar or type coin specialists. Cert. Number 27986712 PCGS # 006854