| Slot: |
Gold Proof 1804 $10 |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
EAGLES - DRAPED BUST |
| Item Description: |
$10 1804 PLAIN 4 BD-2 SIMPSON |
| Grade: |
NGC PF 65 Ultra Cameo |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
The exact number of 1804 proof eagles struck in gold has been lost to history, but a mere three examples are known today. Of these, one is presently on long-term loan to the museum of the American Numismatic Association, while a second is likely to always remain with its companion coins as part of the famed King of Siam proof set. That leaves this third example, which sold at a record price for a certified and encapsulated United States gold coin. A splendid gem, it is certified by NGC as PF-65* Ultra Cameo. The fields of this coin are delightfully brilliant and reflective, while its devices are richly frosted. This magnificent rarity is superbly struck throughout and has very clean surfaces, with just a hint of orange toning around its peripheries. Long recognized as the finest known example, it is pedigreed to the famed collection of Virgil M. Brand and now resides in the Simpson Collection.
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| Slot: |
Silver Proof 1804 $10 |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PATTERNS & TRIAL COINS 1792-1863 |
| Item Description: |
$10 1804 J-34 SIMPSON |
| Grade: |
NGC PF 64 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
Though the 1804 proof eagles are clearly not patterns, they were nevertheless assigned Judd Number 33 in the standard reference book on pattern coins. Found directly below that entry is Judd-34, a proof struck from the same dies but in silver with a reeded edge. A rarity in its own right, the Judd book rates this issue as High Rarity 7, suggesting that around four to five examples are known. Just this single specimen has been certified by NGC, and it grades nearly gem at PF-64 (8-10). A unique, plain edge impression is also reported, but it is not presently traced.
The reason for striking silver impressions from these dies is not certain, but they were likely coined at or near the date of issue for the gold pieces. Whether these were trial strikes or caprices produced for numismatists will forever remain a mystery, unless some contemporary correspondence should surface.
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