Owner Comments:
1825/2 25C AU58 PCGS. B-1, R5. Population (PCGS 5/2, NGC 3/1).
The B-1 variety is easily the rarest of the three 1825 die marriages, and it is extremely difficult to locate in higher grades. As such it receives a separate Guide Book listing, as it is the only 1825/2 variety. It can be identified by the high location of star 8 relative to the cap. In addition, there are obvious curves of the under-digit 2, the first 8 in the date is also boldly re-cut and a lengthy mint-made spine from the back of the lowest arrowhead confirms the reverse die. In his revision of Browning, Walter Breen recorded two die states, either perfect or with die crumbling inside the digit 5. The other two die pairings of the year, B-2 and B-3 are variously described as 1825/4, 1825/3, and 1825/4/3.
The present boldly struck near-Mint example has only delicate sky-gray and gold tints on the obverse, the reverse has a peach center bounded by lighter cream toning. Unmarked for the grade, the obverse is somewhat proof-like the reverse displays extensive cartwheel shimmer. The dies are lightly clashed but otherwise perfect.