Set Description
Hi!! I Am Currently In The Process Of Doing Complete Die Diagnostics For Each Date and Completely Revamping This Set. This Will Take At Least A Year From June 2018.
Also Lots of New High End Coins With NGC Raw Photography To Be Added When They Return From NGC! Dates With Full Die Diagnostics Currently Completed Are:
1890
1891
1896 TF
1914
1915
1917
Ignore Info About Varieties On Other Dates Not On This List For Now! Thanks!
There are many exceedingly difficult dates in this overlooked series, and cases where there is only one (or no) certified example. A lifelong project most likely.
1/5 Sols by Type
- Type 1: 1863-1875. Earliest form of Seated Liberty. 5 DE SOL appears curved. Ribbons appear from wreath on reverse.
- Type 2: 1885 A.C. (Arequipa): Similar to Type 1, but all elements more crudely engraved
- Type 3: 1886-1892: Fully revamped design. Make-over of Ms. Liberty includes: "5 DE SOL" in straight line. LIBERTAD excuse. No ribbons coming from wreath. Reduced number of berries
- Type 4: 1893-1900: Libertad is incuse. Large "L" in SoL. Rounded top, rather than flat top to "1" in date.
- Type 5: 1901-1910: Subtle changes to Liberty. "Libertad" in new larger font" Initials "JR" will no longer appear. Flat Top to "1".
- Type 6: 1911-1917: Coins of this type sometimes have an "R" to the left of the shield. Liberty's ponytail is pointy at bottom end, rather than flat.
How To Use The Registry
My set includes research that is meant to function as an online book for collectors of the series. For each coin, detailed information is given for the following areas:
1. General Comments: Gives a quick overview for the date.
2. Overdates/Varieties: Gives a list of known overdates and minor varieties for the date, as well as further discussion when warrented.
-- When a given variety is not mentioned by Horace Flatt in his "Coins of Independent Peru: Volume VI", the initials (FC) are given to denote it's my personal discovery.
3. Availability: A quick glance at rarity by grade level.
4. Population Data: Summaries of all coins graded for the date at PCGS/NGC.
5. Value Guide: Reports published price data for the 1972 Almanzar/Seppa guide and recent Krause prices. Followed by a discussion of these prices and my own valuation estimates.
6. Mintage: If a mintage is known, the number is given. Many coins don't have reported mintages, however,
7. Auction Results: Reports a selection of auction data I have recorded for each date. Be aware that this is only a selection of what I have seen. Some sales have been missed, and private sales largely go unknown.
-- (WP) Denotes auction data found on the Worthpoint website. It is imperative to remember that these figures do NOT include shipping costs, which can sometimes be substantive, especially if the coin is being sold from a non-US market. Thus, an auction result of 11.99 may in reality be 18.99 with 7 dollar shipping.
-- Most other auction data comes from a year I spent recording end results from ebay from Summer 2015 to Summer 2016. I also try to include auctions from Heritage and other auction houses when applicable. My data INCLUDES shipping cost, but remember that sometimes multiple won lots may ship at reduced shipping costs.
8. Set Specimen: Detailed description of my personal set coin and it's relative placing in the population report.
Set Goals
To acquire a complete set by date, featuring the finest quality available. I try to give a detailed analysis for each date listed. Given the paucity of research and information on Peruvian numismatics, I hope this will be of help to anyone interested in the series. Why Peruvian 1/5th Sols? The United States Seated Liberty series was appealing from a young age., especially the 1/2 Dimes and Half Dollars. But the cost of a high end set (or even low-end) can be prohibitive. I owned a One Sol coin in my youth, which cost only bullion value at the time, about $4. I liked this coin, and the design, but considered myself a "US" collector. Looking at the Peru Seated Liberty denominations: 1/2 Dinero: I love the design of the early (1863, 64) coins. It's probably my favorite design of any of the Seated Liberty series. But the later dates (which comprise most all of the series) aren't as attractive. While some dates are genuinely scarce, there are a few "hoard" coins like the 1897 JF,, 1903, and of course 1916. Often 1/2 Dineros will have severe die polishing marks, which the grading services don't mark down for. Yet, in terms of eye appeal, they can be very distracting. Dineros: After the 1/5 Sols, this is my favorite series. But they are almost noncollectable. I have a few nice Top Pop's, but other than a few common dates like 1904 or 1916, a high end set of Dineros is a formidable challenge. Even the common 1916 is much more scarce compared to it's smaller counterpart. 1/5th Sols: Fairly easy to collect in circ, a high end uncirculated set is exponentially more difficult. 1/5 Sols, when toned, tend to have the most interesting and beautiful toning of any of the series. Collecting this series has taught me to appreciate uncirculated coins that aren't "blast white". 1/2 Sols: I'm not a big fan of the billon Sols and 1/2 Sols, given their dull look and poor strikes. Which leaves the 1/2 Sol with only with only 8 dates to collect. Sols:
History:
Background to 1/5 Sols:
The monetary situation was dire in 1850's Peru. Bolivian debased coins, or "Moneda Feble" made up the bulk of circulating coin in the country, counterfeits of good Peruvian coin were rampant (due to an overly simple design that wore quickly, counterfeits were not much of a challenge to pass), and technical problems plagued the mint in Lima. What .903 fine silver coin was struck by Peru was mostly exported to foreign markets, leaving the country awash in debased Feble. Peru's neighbor to the South, Chile, moved to a Decimal monetary system in 1852, a move that cause the wheels of change to slowly churn in Peru.
For many years the country bickered about how best to amortize the Feble. Various new policies were enacted to clean up the Peruvian money. New minting equipment arrived from the US in 1855 so as produce more uniform coins. The Pasco mint was shuttered in order to focus efforts at uniformity in Lima. Importantly, in 1858, a talented engraver was hired from Great Brittan. Only 25, Robert Britten, a former apprentice and teacher at the Birmingham Mint, brought expertise that was sorely lacking in the engraving department. He was to be the engraver for most of the designs you will see in this set.
The Patterns of 1855 were the first step towards a more uniform coinage. These were struck in the United States, the first foreign coins ever struck here. Included among the new denominations was the 20 Centavos, the precursor of the 1/5 Sol. This coin was to replace the contemporary 2 Reales coin. The patterns never came to circulating fruition.
The law of 1857, though never fully implemented, was the important next step. It was proposed to stop accepting the Feble at nominal value. There was to be a new Decimal coinage of 100 Centisimos to the Peso. The 20 Centavo piece was to be the "Peseta", a term resurrected in 1880.
The coinage struck in semi-accordance with the Law of 1857 are now known as the "Transitionals". First came the 1858 1/2 Real and 50 Centimos, of the old "Peso of Castilla" design. These were struck from hubs produced in the US. These coins brought a premium in the marketplace and were quickly exported making little dent in Peru's monetary crisis. Next came the 50 Centavos of 1858-59. Because silver was on the rise, these were also largely exported.
Early in 1859 the 25 Centavos was released. It is unclear why Peru moved to a coin valued 25/100 rather than 20/100. They coin is very scarce in circulated grades, and rare in Uncirculated. 1/2 and Real coins of 1859 to 1861 were then also struck.
The transitionals were both success and failure. Largely more uniform than the previous circulating coinage, these new designs largely thwarted counterfeiters. However, a great many varieties about with these coins, with varying weights being reported.
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| 1826 Lima 2 Reales |
PERU 1822-57
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2R 1826LIMA JM
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NGC MS 63
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| 1835 B Cuzco 2 Reales |
PERU 1822-57
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2R 1835CUZCO B
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General Comments:
1835 B Cuzco is a one year type coin, and the first coinage of debased moneda feble in Peru (along with the 4 Reales of the same year). Striking began by July 22nd, 1835, while Gamarra was in control of Cuzco. As a type coin it is distinct not just for being debased, containing .6667 silver instead of .903 (note that Krause is incorrect on their reported silver percentage) but also having CUZCO abbreviated "CUZ" instead of spelled out fully as on previous 2 Reales.
Orbegoso, the constitutional president, faced opposition from Gamarra in the South and Salaverry in the North. Gamarra had learned of the potential profits of striking debased coins during his exile in Bolivia in 1834 due to a failed insurgency.
The striking of the Peruvian debased coins of 2 and 4 Reales started after Gamarra signed a treaty with Santa Cruz of Bolivia which sought to unite the two countries in confederation. Santa Cruz was later to switch sides and sign a treaty with Orbegoso. Gamarra was defeated at the battle of Yanacocha by Bolivian forces.
The debased coins of Bolivia (struck since 1830) and Peru aided the current war effort of Santa Cruz. The problem of moneda feble would not be solved for nearly thirty years; debased coins would become the main circulating coin in Peru, as the good money was driven from the country.
Unlike the very common 1836 4 Reales, which was struck with a "frozen date" until perhaps 1840, the 1835 Cuzco 2 and 4 Reales do not appear to have been struck in future years. The 2 Reales is somewhat common in low grades. But coins are almost always worn flat or nearly so and often with damage. Coins of this date with even a modicum of detail are scarce to rare.
Varieties:
Type 1:
1. Bottom of Liberty's pole does not touch ground, ends above right serif of "F". Stem points to left corner of 5 in date (FC)
2. Same as #1 but stem points to middle of the top of 5. Smaller date. (FC)
3. Stem points to middle of the top of 5. Larger date. (FC)
4. Stem points to middle of the top of 5, larger date, ribbon goes out far enough to be fully under assayer initial "B". (FC)
Type 2:
2. Bottom of Liberty's pole ends in ground, which is less flat than above. Pole would end at left serif of "F". Possible overdate 3/2. (FC)
I have only seen one example of type 2.
Availability:
G-F: Somewhat Common
VF: Scarce
XF-AU: Rare
60+: Very Rare
Population Report (January 2018):
NGC: One in 62
PCGS: None graded
ANACS: One in 50
Total graded 2; 1 in Uncirculated
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: G: 5 VG: 8 F: 15 VF: 22.50 XF: 35
2009 KM: VG: 12 F: 25 VF: 45 XF: 90 UNC: 275
Current KM: VG: 12 VF: 45 XF: 100 UNC: 300
Almanzar/Seppa did not list 1835 B as it's own type, lumping it in with the earlier "CUZCO" 2 Reales. The lowest price for an earlier Cuzco 2R was $50 in XF in that book. This is a smaller spread than Krause's $100 to $220 in XF.
Krause mistakenly lists this coin as .9030 silver.
The current price points seems reasonable at the low end. In higher grades, any problem free coins with nice strikes should expect much stronger prices. The Whittier MS 62, which sold for $276 in 2006 could easily sell for double now, or $550.
Selected Auction Results:
Heritage June 2006 Whittier NGC MS 62: $276 (This coin has a worse strike on both sides than my set specimen)
Ebay 1/21/18 ANACS AU 50 $328.75 (My coin, four underbidders were above $250)
Set Specimen:
Currently in an old ANACS white cache, which can not be added to the set. AU 50, conservatively graded. Liberty's garb is fully outlined, the strongest details I've seen for this date; a much stronger strike than the Whittier MS 62. Sporting a pleasing light patina as an old wiping has pleasantly retoned. Type 1, #1.
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| 1850 Lima 2 Reales |
PERU 1822-57
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2R 1850LIMA MB
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NGC MS 65
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| 1855 MB 20 Centimos Pattern |
PERU - DECIMAL
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20C 1855 MB SILVER PATTERN PHILADELPHIA MINT
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PCGS PF 64
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| 1859 YB 25 Centavos (Transitional) |
PERU - DECIMAL
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25C 1859 YB
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NGC MS 63
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General Comments:
Peru issued a short series of Standing and Seated Liberty coins now known as "transitionals" during the turbulent changeover to a decimal system. The Seated Liberty coins were also the first set of coins designed and engraved by Robert Britten, who was hired by the Peru mint from Britain to be Talla Abridor for the mint. The Seated 1/2 Real and Real can easily lay claim to being the precursor to the 1/2 Dinero and Dinero, respectively.
The 25 Centavo may be a different denomination and size to the forthcoming 1/5 Sols, but it is every bit the "Flying Eagle" to the "Indian Head Cent" of 1/5 Sols. The 25 Centavos is 6.25 grams at 25 cents, the 1/5 Sol 5 grams at 20 cents, both decimal weights. The reason why Peru decided to move from a 25 cent to 20 cent piece remains a mystery. The design of the 25 Centavos is largely similar to that of the 1863 1/5 Sol, mainly with differences of scale.
Minor varieties:
These are the three varities I've seen:
1. 9/8, period low in YB, close to laurel leaf
2. No overdate, period low in YB, low 9 in date
3. No overdate, period towards middle of YB
Flatt's listing is a bit confused, but he adds this
4. Period close to Y, large 5 in date, weakly clashed dies on Obverse.
Flatt reports that there is an Arabic 1/Roman 1 on the 9/8's.
Availability:
G-VF: Very scarce, available once or twice a year
XF-AU: Rare, available perhaps once a year
60-62: Rare
63-64: Rare, may take a couple years to find an Uncirculated specimen. While there are 6 graded, it's in high demand as a type coin, and is thus usually in strong hands.
Population Report (April 2016):
NGC: Three in 62; Two in 63; One in 64
PCGS: One in 45
Total at both services: 7; 6 in Uncirculated
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: G: 12.50 VG: 20 F: 30 VF: 45 (Prices are for 1859/8, which the guide states all dates appear to be)
Current KM:
1859: VF: 85 XF: 175 UNC: 400
1859/8: VF: 65 XF: 155 UNC: 325
Although the 1972 guide doesn't even list a normal date, and KM values the overdate by 20 percent, my experience is that the plan date is more common, with about an even mix of low or middle period in Y.B. This is a difficult coin, and a one year type, I feel the prices in KM are fairly close to market. The prices for overdate versus plain date should probably be reversed though. Circulated coins do well in the market.
Auction Results:
Heritage 6/6/2006 NGC MS 63 $166.75 - The Whittier coin. Most Peru coins in this auction did poorly. This is the plate coin in KM.
Heritage 6/4/2007 NGC MS 62 $64 Cheap! But also very weakly struck in centers, kind of ugly, and eight years ago.
Heritage 4/16/2011 NGC MS 63 $1,495 (My coin. I did not pay this much!)
Heritage 4/18/2011 ANACS EF 40 9/8 $149.50
Sedwick 4/28/2011 NGC MS 63 $632.50 - Whittier Coin again.
Ebay 6/4/2011 VF, maybe light cleaning $20.50
Heritage 4/3/2012 NGC UNC Details Surface Hairlines $172.50
Ebay 11/13/2013 VF, ugly? $70.00
Lissner Sale 8/2015 NGC 64 $393.50 including BP
Set Specimen:
Tied with the Whittier coin as second finest known. One better in 64. The 64 is the Lissner coin, and from my experience, many of those coins graded at levels a bit better than they should have. That coin has dark spots on the center of the obverse, and was not stickered by WINGS. My coin has much reflectivity, featuring lightly mirrored fields with clashing on both the obverse and reverse. When held at an angle, a warm orange hue halos around the coin on each side, with a small area of rainbow oil-slick toning in the obverse exergue. Light scattered contact marks, none significant or distracting, determine the grade. From the Dana Roberts Collection. Heritage claims the weight to be 5.9 grams, rather than 6.25. They also note an "extraordinarily deep strike"
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| 1863 YB (RB Close) |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1863 YB Forest City Collection
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NGC MS 66
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| 1864/3 YB |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1864/3 YB Forest City Collection
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NGC MS 64
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| 1864/3 YB DD |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1864/3 YB DD Forest City Collection
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NGC MS 64
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| 1865 YB |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1865 YB
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NGC MS 63
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While available in circulated grades, the 1865 becomes a condition rarity in strict Uncirculated.
Overdates:
1. 1865/4
I have not seen the overdate. KM puts a couple dollar premium on it. Most coins appear to be the plain date.
Minor Varieties:
1. Large o, normal 5 in date (large o may be oval or fat and rounded), long fern leaf pointed directly at R
2. Large o, low 5 in date, REPUB.PERUANA doubled, long fern leaf pointed directly at R
3. Large o, low 5 in date, "normal" ferns
4. Small o, normal 5 in date, "normal" ferns
5. Small o, normal 5 in date, shortened leaf pointed at R
6. Small o, low 5 in date, "normal" ferns
7. Small o, low 5, long fern leaf pointed directly at R
8. Small o, low 5, last fern leaf pointed between E and R
As usual, the placement of the superscript o and bar may vary. The varieties here are a combination of Flatt and my own experience. Not sure if #1 exists, but it likely does.
Availability:
G-VF: Common
XF-AU: Scarce
60-62: Very Scarce. I've seen a couple raw coins over the years that would like grade in this area.
63-64: Difficult, only one graded at 63, none higher. I haven't seen any raw coins that would grade above 63
Population Report (Jan 2015):
NGC: One in 62; One in 63
PCGS: None Graded
Total at both services: 2; 2 in Uncirculated
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F: 2 VF: 4 XF: 7.50
Current KM: VF: 6 XF: 13 UNc: 57
Almanzar/Seppa liked this date a bit much in circulated grades, pricing it higher than any other early date, including the 1869. Current KM values are about right. I'd expect to pay 35-50 for an AU example if one can be found. And 60-100+++ for strict Uncirculated.
Auction Results:
Ebay 2/21/2013 VF $10.69
Ebay 4/1/2013 VF $10
Ebay UK 10/13/2013 Described as XF, looks AU-UNC+ $13.73 (Worthpoint, pricing may not be accurate, may lack large shipping cost). Even with shipping, someone likely got a great deal on this coin.
Ebay 2/21/2015 Choice AU/UNC lightly cleaned $22.82
Set Specimen:
Finest Known. Gorgeous rolling luster with almost an imperceptible bluish tinge. Moderately strong strike. Very attractive for the grade, only even light scattered marks and very minor carbon spots keep this from a higher designation. Some light clashing on obverse. Has a large oval superscript o, with low 5 in date, doubling on REPUB.PERUANA.
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| 1866 YB |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1866 YB
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NGC MS 65
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Of the early type 1/5 Sols minted 1863-1875, the 1866 is the by far the most available. In circulated grades, it should be considered quite common, at least for a Peru issue. In low end Unc, a raw example may be found after a few months of searching for a reasonable price. It becomes more scarce in Select and better.
Overdate:
1866/5
Large superscipt o w/large bar, S/S and Large L/Small L in Sol identify this coin besides the overdate. The 6 can often look "filled". 1-8-6 downward, last 6 up.
Easy identifier: There is always an extra leaf in the ferns pointing in between E and R in Peruana that is only present on the overdate. It's conceivable the reverse could be paired with another obverse die.
Minor Varieties:
1. Small superscript o w/small bar, 18 higher than 66
2. Small superscript o w/small bar, 1-8-6-moves downward, last 6 up
3. Small superscript o w/small bar, low leaning last 6
4. Small superscript o w/small bar, wide date, 6 low, leaning only slightly
5. Small superscript o w/small bar, obvious Roman I, last 6 high and leaning, N/N Peruana
6. Small superscript o w/small bar, obvious Roman I, 8 and 6 part, first 6 learns forward, second the other way
7. Small superscript o w/small bar, Curl of last 6 touches upper part of ball of the numeral
8. Small superscript o w/small bar, first 6 thinner and upright
9. Small superscript o w/long bar, Normalish date with curl of last 6 touches upper part of ball of the numeral, possibly same reverse die as #7.
10. Large oval o w/largish bar, 1-8-6 downward, last 6 up, F/F in Feliz and E/E Peruana - likely the same reverse die as #2 repunched
11. Large o w/large bar, Thin I in FINO, low leaning last 6
12. Large oval o w/ short bar, 18 higher than 66, reverse die likely the same as #1
Availability:
G-VF: Very Common
XF-AU: Common
60-62: Common
63-64: Scarce
65+: Difficult
Population Report (Jan 2015):
Normal Date:
NGC: One in 58; One in 62; One in 63; Two in 65
PCGS: One in 58; One in 63; One in 65
Total at both services: 8; 6 in Uncirculated; 3 in Gem
Overdate:
NGC: One in 64; One in 65
PCGS: One in 63; One in 64
Total at both services: 4: 4 in Unciruclated; 1 in Gem
Total for normal plus overdate at both services: 12; 10 in Uncirculated; 4 in Gem
For being a common date overall, there aren't very many certified UNC's to go around. This is a date that can be found in low-end Unc with some looking, but overall, Uncirculated coins are exponentially more difficult to find than circ's.
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F: .75 XF: 1 UNC: 1.50
Current KM:
Regular Date: VF: 6 XF: 11 UNC: 42
Overdate: VF: 8 XF: 16 UNC: 62
The 1972 guide priced this date the lowest of any date in the entire series. Fair enough in low grades, but certainly not in AU+. Many later dates such as 1906 and 1907 are much more common. The overdate is findable, but scarce. Perhaps 1 in 12 coins is an overdate, so the premium is justified, although I'm not sure if the market cares much about varieties.
This date seems to do better in Uncirculated than 1874 for whatever reason. Perhaps type collectors prefer it. 1866's do have sharper more appealing engraving overall than the 1874 and 75. Here's what I've seen for market prices: 30-50 for an MS60-62, 50-80 for a 63, 125-150 for MS 64, 200-350+ for Gem.
Auction Results:
Ebay 10/29/2010 Choice VF $14.99 (WP)
Ebay 4/10/2011 NGC MS 65 $212.39 (WP) - This is my coin, but purchased in 2015 for a pretty well better price!
Ebay 6/12/2011 NGC MS 63 $45.50 - Nice coin for the price!
Ebay 9/13/2012 VF $18 (WP)
Ebay 11/22/2012 VF $5.90 (WP)
Ebay 12/17 2012 Nice Raw UNC, could be as high as 63/64 $33 (WP)
Ebay 1/18/2013 Fine $13.75
Ebay 2/7/2013 VF $14 (WP)
Ebay 6/2/2013 NGC MS 62 $26.77 - Nice for grade!
Ebay 8/2/2013 AU, slight rim damage, $19 (WP)
Ebay 9/29/2013 VG $19.99
Ebay 10/18/2013 XF $14.99
Ebay 2/28/2014 Cleaned XF $14.80
Sedwick 11/6/2014 1866/5 NGC 65 $176.25 - Nice! Cheap!
Ebay Early 2014 NGC MS 65 - I was under-bidder on the other NGC 65 that went for $325
Ebay 12/16/2014 Good $7.58
Ebay 1/8/2015 Cleaned XF $15.88
Ebay 1/27/2015 Fine $2.99
Ebay 2/20/2015 VF $5.21
Heritage 1/1/2015 1866/5 NGC 64 $141
It's a bit shocking how well VF/XF coins do compared to only slightly higher prices for much rarer better grades. Hold out for the better coin!
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| 1866/5 YB |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1866/5 YB
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PCGS MS 64
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The 1866/5 is an easily identifiable overdate that can be cherrypicked from a dealers stock or ebay.
Diagnostics:
Large superscript o w/large bar, S/S and Large L/Small L in Sol identify this coin besides the overdate. The 6 can often look "filled". 1-8-6 downward, last 6 up.
Easy identifier: There is always an extra leaf in the ferns pointing inbetween E and R in Peruana that is only present on the overdate. It's conceivable the reverse could be paired with another obverse die.
NGC: One in 64; One in 65
PCGS: One in 63; One in 64
Total at both services: 4: 4 in Unciruclated; 1 in Gem
Current KM: VF: 8 XF: 16 UNC: 62
Set Specimen:
This coin glows. Strong creamy luster on each side mutes into subtle toning near the rims. Full cartwheel luster rolls around the surfaces. Most surface "flaws" are really die issues or simply areas where the luster is a slightly different tone due to clashed dies. Perhaps it is the small blackish areas at 1 and 4 o'clock that hold this back from being a 64+ or 65, but they are in no way distracting. Strike is strong for this type. Very premium for grade. Tied for second best graded with one coin at NGC. I missed bidding on the NGC 65 in the 2014 Sedwick auction, but am very happy with this example.
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| 1866 YB "Low Leaning 6" |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1866 YB
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PCGS MS 63
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| 1867 YB |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1867 YB
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NGC MS 64
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General Comments:
1867 is widely available in lower grades, yet becomes rare in Choice AU or better. True Mint State coins of this date very rarely appear on the market; years may pass without one offered. Unknown in Gem.
Many 1867's have a "soft" look to the strike. I have discovered three main varieties for date placement, see below.
There exists a massive error involving an 1867 1/5 Sol that accidentally found it's way into the press coining 1868 Sols.
The 1/5 Sol shows the design of the reverse of the Sol on it's Obverse, and the Sol shows a cavity with the Brockage image of the Reverse of the 1867 1/5 Sol on it's Reverse.
Minor Varieties:
1. Regular High 7, small dot after REPUB. (FC)
2. Low Leaning 7, small dot after REPUB. (FC)
3. High Close 7, large dot after REPUB. (FC)
These are the three varieties I have discovered; oddly Flatt did not report any of these. The regular High 7 and High close 7 with large dot after REPUB. are both common. The Low 7 is scarce.
Flatt did note a long and short bar under superscript o. Myriad punches were used for this o and the bar below it, and trying to quantify them is a maddening task.
All stems in the fern appear to be the same for this year, with stems pointing between "U" and "E" in REPUB, towards the dot, and between "P" and "E" in PERUANA.
Availability:
G-XF: Common
AU: Very Scarce
60+: Very Rare
Population Report (August 2016):
NGC: One in 58; One in 61; One in 62; One in 64
PCGS: None Graded
Total at both services: 4; 3 in Uncirculated
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F: .90 VF: 1.25 XF: 2
Current KM: VF: 6 XF: 13 UNc: 52
There isn't a good reason why this date should be priced below dates such as 1874 and 1875 which are more commonly found in AU/UNC. Expect to pay 5 to 15 for a VF/XF. 15-35+ for an AU, depending on the quality.
52 is not an unreasonable price for a very low-end UNC. MS 63 should bring 70-100+ and MS 64 125-175.
Auction Results:
Ebay 11/17/2010 Choice AU+ $49.99
Ebay 4/6/13 Good $10.98 (WP)
Ebay 3/1/14 XF Ebay UK $11.73 (WP)
Ebay 6/28/14 AU+? cleaned? $13.30 (WP) cheap
Ebay 7/20/14 Nice VF+ $12.93 (I bought this)
Ebay 11/27/14 Nice AU $14.95 (WP)
Ebay 4/10/15 VF Lightly Cleaned $8.50
Ebay 5/25/15 Terrible AG with Scratch on Obv Canada Ebay $11.55 (Not sure why this went for more than Junk silver)
Ebay 5/30/15 VF $9.50
Ebay 9/16/15 Nice VF/XF $13.98
Ebay 9/20/15 VF+ Maybe Cleaned $11.98
Ebay 12/11/15 Really Nice VF 26.44
Ebay 1/14/16 Good $7.35
Ebay 2/4/16 VF/XF Probably light hairlines $7.99
Ebay 3/13/16 VF $10.49
Ebay 5/12/16 Nice XF $8.01
The raw Whittier 1867 that sold in a June 2006 Heritage Lot was Uncirculated, perhaps MS 63/64.
Set Specimen:
The Finest Certified Example by 2 grade points. Gorgeous original surfaces evenly toned on both sides with intermixed rose and slate grey hues. Extremely clean surfaces. Regular High 7 in date.
Photo copyright NGC
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| 1869 9/9 YB |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1869 YB Forest City Collection
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NGC MS 66
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| 1874 YJ/YB |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1874 YJ/YB
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NGC MS 66
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| 1874 YJ |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1874 YJ
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NGC MS 64
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| 1875 YJ Roman I |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1875 YJ Forest City Collection
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NGC MS 65
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| 1875 Intermediate YJ |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1875 YJ
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NGC MS 65
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Many curious and perhaps undiscovered varieties away the collector for this date. 1875 is probably the most available early date after 1866 and 1874. Although somewhat scarce overall, nice XF/AU examples do come on the market occasionally. Difficult in Gem.
The ferns on the reverse are all generally the same for all 1875 coins, even the 4 berry varieties. A couple 1875 YB's have been reported, but to my knowledge they are all crude counterfeits.
Minor Varieties:
Flatt's listing:
1. 4 Berries 7/6, very slight trace of B by J
1. 4 Berries, Y . J intermediate width, clashed dies
3. 3 Berries, very wide initials Y . J
4. 3 berries, small superscript o
5. 3 Berries, large superscript o, Roman 1
6. 3 Berries, large superscript o, Roman 1, clashed dies
7. 3 Berries, 1875/5, very wide initials Y J
I will leave Flatt's listing intact, and offer my own findings:
My listing:
1. 4 berries, small superscript o w/short bar, Med-Large DE, YJ Close, 7 Low in date, Perfect Left Ribbon on Wreath
2. Same as #1 on reverse, but over an overdate, 1875/65? No obverse image of coin seen.
3. 3 berries, small superscript o w/short bar, Large DE, YJ Intermediate, "Fat date" w/Low 7 8 and 5 recut, Left Ribbon short with prongs (close to 4)
4. 3 berries, small superscript o w/short bar, Large DE/DE, SO may be over something, YJ Intermediate, 1875/18 First 1 touches leaf, short ribbon with prongs (seen 2)
5. 3 berries, small superscript o w/long bar, Regular DE, YJ Wide, Close Tight Date, Left Ribbon longer but not perfect
6. 3 berries, small superscript o very close to long bar, Regular DE, YJ Intermediate, 7 lower than 8 and 5 in date, Almost Perfect Ribbon
7. 3 berries, large superscript o w/short bar, Regular DE, YJ Intermediate, 1875/187 Low 7, Left Ribbon very short
The Key things to look at are:
1. Is the upper left berry present or missing
2. How big is superscript o and bar
3. Is DE large or small
4. Close, intermediate or wide YJ (Intermediate YJ, the leaf is pointing at the J, in the Wide, it's under it.)
5. The left ribbon coming off of the wreath on the reverse.
Availability:
G-VF: Somewhat scarce
XF-AU: Somewhat scarce, but come nice when available
60-62: Somewhat scarce
63-64: Rare
65+: Rare
Population Report (Jan 2015):
NGC: One in 53; One in 62; One in 65
PCGS: One in 65
Total at both services: 4; 3 in Uncirculated; Two in Gem
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa:
Initials wide: F: 1 VF: 1.50 XF: 3
Inials close: F: 7 VF: 12 XF: 20
Current KM:
Normal Date: VF: 7 XF: 13 UNC: 57.50
1875/65: VF: 9 XF: 17 UNC: 62.50
1875 YB is unpriced. KM has added the superfluous addendum: "Engraver's initials RB appear left of shield on reverse". Well, all the early dates do!
Auction Results:
Ebay 2/6/2013 Looks Choice AU with nice luster, but a couple rim dings and described: "XF detail remaining with light toning and residual accumulation of contamination." $11.50 (WP)
Ebay 4/10/2013 My coin, raw, sold for $49.99 (Yes, I paid a bit more for it in an MS 65 holder!)
Ebay 7/28/2013 Looks MS 62/63 $10.99 (WP) Cheap!!!
Ebay 2/4/2014 XF/AU Looks nice $13 (WP)
3/26/2014 Pretty AU $37.99 (I bought this coin)
Ebay 1/6/2015 Choice AU+, extremely clashed dies, $46 (I bought this coin.)
Set Specimen:
A true Gem. My variety #3. Strong rolling luster glitters underneath totally original toned fields. Field marks are at a minimum, the strike is only slightly weak. Tied for Top Pop with one other 65 at PCGS. Next highest coin is a 62 at NGC.
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| 1879 20 Centavos |
PERU - DECIMAL
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20C 1879
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NGC MS 65
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The copper-nickel 1879 20 Centavos (75 percent copper/25 percent nickel) is far and away the most difficult coin in the short-lived "Moneda-Provisional" series of 1879-1880. The 5 Centavos and 10 Centavos coins are widely available in all grades short of Superb Gem. These coins were minted in Brussels, not Peru.
The purpose of this Provisional base-metal coinage was to replace fractional currency in the marketplace or to serve as a stop-gap measure for those areas suffering from lack of small coin. And small coin was extremely scarce. The last 1/2 Dinero and 1/2 Sol's were minted a decade and a half earlier, 1/5 Sols had not been minted for 4 years. The small mintage of Dineros in 1877 was the last small coin produced. And what good 90 percent silver Peruvian money remained was being exported rather than circulating in the country. These base-metal coins were more likely to stay in circulation.
Why are the 20 Centavos rare? Soon after the first shipment arrived from Brussels, reports began surfacing that 20 Centavos counterfeits were being passed. The government reacted by suspending minting of these coins and melting those still in government hands. Circulated examples are occasionally available, although often seen with problems. A long wait may be in store for those seeking an Uncirculated specimen. The 20 Centavos seems to usually come with muted luster.
Availability:
G-VF: Scarce
XF-AU: Scarce
60-62: Difficult
63-64: Very Difficult
65+: Rare
Population Report (Jan 2015):
NGC: One in 63; Two in 64; Two in 65
PCGS: None Graded
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: VG: 1.50 F: 2.50 VF: 3.50 EF: 5.00
Current KM: VF: 8.50 XF: 20 UNC: 55
Pricing high end examples is difficult due to the paucity of coins in the marketplace. A best estimate for 63-64: 75 to 125 and Gem: 125-250. The Lissner coin sold for a very healthy amount. I obtained my coin at a lower price point.
Mintage: 498,000
Auction Results:
Heritage - 4/26/2010 NGC MS 64 $74
Lissner Sale - 8/2/2014 NGC MS 65 $302.50 (Lissner coin - then the only Gem)
Ebay - 12/5/2015 - VF+ with ugly toning $8.50
Ebay - 1/20/2016 AU Holded $10.99
Set Specimen:
The NGC Price Guide plate coin. Tied for finest known with Lissner coin (my coin is more attractive). Very clean surfaces with light patina. Thanks go out to my collector friend from Miami for helping me secure this coin.
Photographs copyright Numismatic Guarantee Corporation.
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| 1880 Peseta w/Dot |
PERU - DECIMAL
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PESETA 1880B. BF WITH DOT WHITTIER COLLECTION
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NGC MS 64
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| 1885 AC Arequipa |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1885 AC
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| 1886 Proof |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1886 LONDON MINT PATTERN SILVER
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General Comments:
The only Proof Pattern 1/5 Sol, struck at the Royal Mint as designed by Leonard C. Wyon. Similar to the future design of 1888, but not exact. Very rare and desirable. See history below.
Brief History:
Peru was struggling to regroup after the War of the Pacific. The Lima Mint was in dire straits; it's equipment deteriorating, some machinery still in use dated to the Colonial era. Chilean looters likely absconded with the old die punches for the minor coins, and skilled engraver Britten had passed in 1882, leaving the mint without anyone capable of preparing acceptable new coin.
With such paltry amounts of new coins exiting the mint, paper money was the circulating medium during this time. The solution for these issues was found in one Leonard C. Wyon, famed engraver since 1851 at the Royal Mint in the UK.
Example coins were sent to Wyon, and a contract was made for new dies, punches, and tools. There exists a unique uniface die trial in the Wyon estate for the 1/5 Sol, with assayers initials Y.J. The initials were to be omitted on the pattern proofs.
Wyon considered these patterns as "proof of workmanship" only, stating "it is not usual for proof coins to be of exact standard." His coin dies, to the chagrin of the Peruvian mint, were thus prepared at slightly too large a diameter.
Because these matrices did not conform to the correct standards, the Peruvian government opted not to use them, except in the case of the Soles of 1888-1892, which are slightly larger than the Soles of 1893, when new hubs were engraved.
The Royal Mint was only able to produce 6 sets of pattern coins due to a busy schedule. Christensen reports that nine sets were made, however I am more likely to side with Flatt and Krause, who both report six total sets.
While the obverse of the 1886 Proof appears very similar to that of the 1888 1/5 Sol, the reverse features are of different workmanship. It is unclear why the reverse was reworked for the coins of 1888.
Population Report (Jan 2015):
Two at NGC in 66
The Non-Whittier 66 is now the NGC plate coin. I have not seen this coin on the market.
Value Guide:
KM lists at 1500
Given that the one auctioned coin (Whittier) brought almost this amount in the 2006 Hertage auction where so many Peru decimal coins floundered, and given that more recent sales of Proof Centavos did very well, I'd say this coin could bring $3000+ if brought to auction today. I'd love to have a crack at it, and it would certainly be a centerpiece to a 1/5 Sol collection.
Mintage: 6
Auction Results:
Heritage 6/2/2006 $1380 - Corresponding 1/2 and Dinero Proofs sold for similar amounts in that auction.
Important Sources:
Christensen, William B. "Pattern Coinage of Peru." Article in "The Coinage of El Peru" by William L. Bischoff. American Numismatic Society. pp 177-190.
Flatt, H.P., "The Flawed Peruvian Proof Coins of 1886." American Journal of Numismatics (1989-) Vol. 2 (1990), pp. 151-165
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| 1888 TF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1888 TF
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NGC MS 67
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| 1888 TF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1888 TF
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NGC MS 67
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A second 1888 in MS 67. As fresh and nice as the first. Actually, I think the luster is slightly nicer on this one, although there is a small ding on her face (which is only noticeable under a loupe).
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| 1888 TF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1888 TF
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NGC MS 67
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A third MS 67, this time with beautiful toning. I have three of the four graded 67's. They are so beautiful, I hoard them.
The reverse is mostly brilliant with golden highlights at the rim. The obverse is bathed in patina, sans the lower portion of Liberty. The exergue in particular is nice, with multi-hued tone of sea-green, magenta and eggplant. This may just be my favorite of the 1888's and is technically excellent in addition to the patina.
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| 1888 TF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1888 TF
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NGC MS 64
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A fourth 1888. Technically an MS 67 that NGC marked down three grades for the spot on the reverse. I may try to have this conserved as some point. Luster is a touch softer in appearance compared to my other 1888's, but just as full. A very light palm or thumb print at 1 o clock.
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| 1889 TF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1889 TF
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General Comments:
Whereas some Peru coins with unusual date/assayer combinations such as the 1875 YB 1/5 Sol and 1907 JF Dinero appear to be counterfeits, the 1889 may exist as a unique die trial or specimen.
In "The Coins of Independent Peru Volume II," Flatt reports: "The author has not seen an example of this coin [1889 1/5 Sol]; there is no documentation showing this coin was made, but an expert known to the author has examined one example. Apparently the dies for 1889 were destroyed 8 January 1890; all of the dies listed were for soles. However, as for the one sol of 1876, the best evidence is the coin itself."
In "The Coins of Independent Peru Volume VI," Flatt continues: "There is no record of any small coins have been made in 1889. However, a respected numismatist reported having seen in a Lima collection a quinto of 1889. From the activity in the mint described in the preceding paragraph, it is quite possible that the reported coin was the result of a trial strike of the new dies."
"The existence of this coin has been disputed by many and there is no record of the coins having minted [sic]. However, Dr. W.B. Christensen has said that he saw the coin in a Lima collection."
I have no further evidence of this coins existence to report.
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| 1890 9/9 TF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1890 TF
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NGC MS 63
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| 1891 TF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1891 TF
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NGC MS 63
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| 1892 TF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1892 TF
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PCGS MS 64
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General Comments:
Despite having a higher mintage comparively to the 1890 and 1891, the 1892 is an undervalued date in upper grades, much more difficult to find nice than the guides suggest, if just a tad bit more available than the two previous years.
Minor Varieties:
1. REPUB: PER Doubled
2. 2 Wide In Date
3. N/N in FINO
4. 1892/88 T.F. in Almanzar/Seppa, may be confused with 1890/88?
5. o/o superscript o (FC)
The first three are Flatt's designations, none of which he had seen in hand, but were part of the "Lima listing".
I have not seen "REPUB: PER" fully doubled. Numbers 2 and 3 I have seen. The distance of the "2" from the "9" varies from coin to coin.
I have not seen the overdate, which is only listed in Almanzar/Seppa. It may be confused with the 1890 overdate.
Availability:
G-VF: Somewhat Scarce
XF-AU: Very Scarce
60-62: Rare
63-64: Rare, none known in Gem or better
Population Report (March 2018):
NGC: One in 62, One in 63
PCGS: One in 63, Two in 64
Total at both services: 5; 5 in Uncirculated
Previously there was a PCGS 1892 in MS 62. That was removed and a second MS 64 added.
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F: 1.50 VF: 2.00 XF: 3.50
Current KM: VF: 6 XF: 13.50 UNc: 27.50
This date is very undervalued in both the 1972 Guide and Krause at upper grade levels. VF/XF coins may be found for 10-20 dollars. In certified 63/64 this date should bring 80-200.
Mintage:128,000
Auction Results:
Ebay 1/15/2013 AU (No obverse photo) $33
Heritage 7/16/2015 PCGS MS 64 $199.75 (Not my coin, though nearly the same die state. At least two bidders went beyond my bid.)
Ebay 7/30/15 Nice Choice AU $22.30
Ebay 6/2/16 VG $7.95
The Whittier Example sold in a Hertiage auction lot in June 2006. The coin appears to be Uncirculated, not better than 63
Set Speciman:
Tied for Finest Known with one other at PCGS. Creamy white cartwheel luster. There is a luster scrape (not scratch) through Liberty's neck and arm.
Photo copyright PCGS
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| 1893 TF JR |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1893 TF JR Forest City Collection Ex. Whittier
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NGC MS 65
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| 1893 TF-JR |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1893 TF JR
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NGC UNC Details
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General Comments:
1893 ushers in a new type: a slightly revamped design, engraved in the style of (but not identical to) the Soles of 1893, lasting through the year 1900. The initials "JR" (the engraver Juan Rodriguez) now often appear to the left of the shield on the obverse, and "LIBERTAD" is now incuse. On the reverse, a differently textured and shaped wreath appears, and the dot following "LIMA" is now absent.
1893 TF-JR is a Key Date which, along with the 1895, is rare in all grades. The mintage was a paltry 49,000, which includes the mintage of 1895 dated 1/5 Sols. In circulated grades, the 1893 might be more difficult to find than the 1895. At the high end though, I have seen a few more UNC 1893's than I have 1895's. Despite this, mint state 1893's rarely appear on the market, and Gems, bar one graded example, are unheard of. All coins of this date feature the initials "JR" in the rock base to the left of the shield. Striking quality, while not exceptional, is better than for 1895 dated coins.
Minor varieites:
1. o/o superscript o
2. 1893/893 Whittier coin
A diagnostic I have seen on just about every 1893 is a "U/U" in UNION. This over-lettering can serve to help verify genuine coins.
Availability:
G-XF: Rare
AU-MS-62: Very Rare
MS 63-65: Extremely Rare
Population Report:
NGC: Two in 62, One in 65
PCGS: One in 62 (Not listed as "JR")
Total at both services, 4; 4 in Uncirculated; 1 in Gem
Plus One in UNC Details.
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F: 6 VF: 10 XF: 17.50
2009 KM: VF: 13 XF: 20 UNC: 75
Current KM: VF: 27.50 XF: 47.50 UNC: 155
The recent price increase is justified, and perhaps did not go far enough. Almanzar/Seppa had the 1893 at under 50 percent the UNC value of the 1895. Krause has them closer, but still more premium for the 1895. In reality, both dates are quite rare in all grades. Like the 1895, auction data is scarce. Low end coins seem to slip by at much less than the catalog value, reflecting the few collectors working on circulated sets. My pricing for problem free coins is as follows: G/VG: $10-15, F/VF: $15-$30, XF/AU: $30-$70 Third Party MS 61/62: $100-$200, MS 63/64: $250-$400, MS 65: $400-$600.
Mintage: 49,000 including 1895 dated coins.
Auction Results:
Heritage 6/2/2006 NGC MS 65 $195.50 (The Whittier coin, and finest known by three grade points. Most every coin in this sale is now worth at least double the 2006 hammered value.)
Sedwick 4/9/2010 "Lustrous UNC, very lightly cleaned, starting to tone. Pedigreed to the Flatt collection." $109.25
Ebay 4/10/2015 Fine, cleaned, small pit on reverse $4.48. (I won this from Meridian Coin on ebay.)
Ebay 11/18/2015 Good, cleaned $3 - Another that sold very cheap, I unfortunately missed this auction.
Peru Numismatic Society Private Auction October 2017 Raw, perhaps MS 63, with some foreign residue $540
The Flatt plate coin is Uncirculated. I'm not sure if this is the same coin as the Flatt coin in the Sedwick sale 2010.
Set Specimen:
While I understand why NGC gave a "Details" designation to this coin, in reality, the coin has not been cleaned, but features quite severe die polish lines on the obverse (and to a lessor extent on the reverse). Add to this reflective fields, and the coin really does look like it's been polished, yet the lines do not show on the devices.
The obverse does have three small spots of foreign residue (one other high grade raw 1893 I've seen also had similar residue). Still an attractive coin with a very strong impression of the dies, and rare in this state of preservation. Four better at PCGS/NGC. U/U in Union.
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| 1895 TF JR |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1895 TF JR Forest City Collection
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NGC MS 65
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| 1895 TF-JR |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1895 TF JR
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NGC XF 45
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General Comments:
1895 TF-JR is one of the Key Dates of the series with a mintage of only 49,000 which includes 1893 date coins. Although difficult to find in low grades, they do show up on occasion. Problem free XF/AU coins are very challenging, and mint state coins are rare. Only the 1869 is more challenging to find in mint state. I only know of four mint state coins: The NGC MS 62, the NGC MS 64 (sold on Sedwick in 2012), a low end raw coin sold at the Peru Numismatic Society auction in 2017, and the coin in the 2006 Whittier sale lot (likely not above a 62/63, was apparently not nice enough to be graded). Gems may not exist.
All coins of this date feature the initials "JR" in the rock base to the left of the shield. Most coins of this date have very weak strikes, especially on Liberty's right arm, leg and knee, and cheek. Only on the NGC MS 64 coin have I seen a full strike. I have identified two die types, see below. Type 1 is more scarce by perhaps 3 to 1.
Die Types:
1. 5 in Date is high - base of 5 slightly above base of 9 (FC) *
2. 5 in Date is lower and slightly tilted - base of 5 slightly below base of 9 - Center of "O" in SOL has boxy appearance (FC) **
*All coins of this type I have seen have very weak strikes. Superscript o is thicker on the right side. On my raw coin re-punching is seen on REPUB: PERUANA, 1895 and TF. One example I have seen has a very short "1" in the date. I'm not sure if it's an optical illusion in the photo. If not, this could be it's own variety.
**Two coins I've seen have a U/U in UNION. There is slight indent in the bottom of the superscript o.
Type 1 is the more scarce variety.
Availability:
G-VF: Scarce
XF: Very Scarce
AU: Rare
60-62: Very Rare
63-64: Extremely Rare
Population Report (January 2018):
NGC: One in 45; One in 64
PCGS: One in 62
Total at both services, 3; 2 in Uncirculated
There is also a PCGS VF Details Cleaned, making 4 total coins graded.
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F: 14 VF: 20 XF: 37.50
2009 KM: VF: 19 XF: 30 UNC: 90
Current KM: VF: 40.50 XF: 60 UNC: 190
The Krause price increase in Uncirculated seems reasonable. Notice how prices were lower for this date in 2009 than 1972 - Almanzar/Seppa priced 1895 at $37.50 in XF versus $17.50 in XF for the 1893. The fact is 1/5 Sols with wear usually have trouble finding buyers, and the elevated prices for circulated 1895 1/5 Sols do not reflect the market with mid-grade examples sometimes bringing well under $50.
Both price guides value the 1895 higher than the 1893. While the 1893 seems to come to market equally infrequently, there are a couple more graded examples.
Pricing is difficult with few coins crossing the market. The NGC MS 64 coin inexplicably tanked at Sedwick back in 2012, but a lower-end raw UNC did very well at a Peru auction in 2017 (see "Auction Results"). My pricing is as follows for problem free coins: VF/XF: $25-$40 AU: $50-$100 MS 61-62: $125-$200 Certified MS 63/64: $300-$500
Mintage: 49,000 including 1893 dated coins.
Auction Results:
Sedwick 6/28/2012 NGC MS 64 $106.20 Comments: Easily the nicest 1895 1/5 Sol I've seen with a superb strike.
Despite the lower catalog values at the time, this price is a shocker. Even more confusing is that other 1/5 Sols in the same auction did well: 1897 VN in NGC 63 went for $70.80 (high); a colorful 1900 in NGC 65 went for $67.26 (a normal price); and a 1901 in NGC 64 brought $57.82 (strong).
Ebay 8/18/2014 VF/XF Harshly Cleaned 13.70 Meridian (WP)
Ebay 11/16/2014 VGish $7
Ebay 5/7/16 Choice VF Lightly Cleaned $20.45 (I bought)
Ebay 8/2/2016 XF/AU Lightly Cleaned, light scratches in field $20 (I bought)
Peru Numismatic Society Private Auction October 2017 Low-end raw UNC (probably a 61/62, 63 max, chance at 58) $420
Set Specimen:
An unusual coin for the grade. A flat strike gives the impression of a lower grade, while luster at the rim over mauve toning gives the impression of a higher designation. Two better, one in 62 at PCGS, one in 64 at NGC. Variety 2.
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| 1896 TF-JR |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1896 TF JR
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NGC MS 63
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| 1896 F-JR |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1896 F
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NGC MS 66
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| 1897 VN |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1897 VN
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NGC MS 68
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'General Comments:
The initials VN, which only appear in 1897 on 1/2 Dineros, Dineros and 1/5 Sols, correspond to the assistant assayer Vicente Novoa. Novoa took over duties in fulfilling an order to re-coin 100,000 melted Soles into small coin. This was the first year Soles were melted to mint minors. Coins with the "VN" intiials were struck between late November 1897 and late January 1898 (all dated 1897).
An overlooked date/assayer combination, overshadowed by the more common 1897 JF. The "VN" is more scarce overall compared to the "JF" and especially so in mint state. It is, however, usually available in circulated grades. Mint state coins do turn up, but patience (perhaps a lot) is needed.
Variety Discussion:
1897 VN's are only found without initials JR. For the first time since 1888 only 6 berries are seen in the branches (previously there were 7). Six berries would continue through the end of the type in 1900. 1897 JF has 7 berries.
"O" in SOL is always a bit high. Minor differences are seen in the superscript "o".
Some coins have thin assayer letters, and other thick. The thicker letters appear more crude. See photo for comparison. These exist on a continuum which is hard to quantify.
1. Thicker letters (FC)
2. Thinner letters (FC)
3. Thinner letters, 7/7 in the date (I have seen three) (FC)
4. Thinner letters, VN/VN. I have only seen on the set specimen. The under-V is up and to the left. The under-N is more directly under the top N. (FC)
Availability:
G-VF: Somewhat Common
XF-AU: Scarce
60-62: Scarce
63-64: Very Scarce
65-68: Rare, though one 66 and one 68 have been graded.
Population Report (January 2018):
NGC: One in 63; One in 64; One in 66; One in 68
PCGS: None graded
Total at both services: 4; 4 in Uncirculated; 2 in Gem or better
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F: 1.25 VF: 1.75 XF: 2.75
2009 KM: VF: 4 XF: 6 UNC: 15
Current KM: VF: 9 XF: 13 UNC: 30.50
The catalogue gives the VN a 50 cent premium over the JF. It deserves more. At least the value was raised overall and is not far off my pricing. My pricing would be as follows: VF/XF: $10-$15, AU: $20, MS 63: $40, MS 64-65: $50-$100 MS 66: $150-$250
Mintage: 744,500 (includes 1897 JF)
Auction Results:
Sedwick 6/28/2012 NGC MS 63 $70.80
Ebay 4/24/2013 Choice Fine $36.00 (WP)
Ebay 7/2/2013 1897 VN with 1911 1/5 Sol Low end UNCs 26.77 (WP)
Heritage 10/1/2013 NGC MS 68 $1,175 (see comments under set specimen)
Ebay 8/24/2014 Raw Unc MS 62/63 $32.80 (I purchased)
Ebay 2/14/2015 Choice VF $17.99
Ebay 5/22/15 Really exceptional raw toned Unc. MS 64 minimum, likely 65 or 66. Attractive. $57 (I was underbidder. In retrospect, I should have bid a lot more.)
Ebay 8/7/2017 Raw MS 62/63 $37.50 (My sale, same coin I bought 8/24/2014)
Ebay 1/29/2018 VF Some Spots $14.99
Set Specimen:
This monster coin sold on Heritage in October 2013 for $1,175. I later saw it listed as "SOLD" on a private site catering to the toned collector for (if I remember correctly) $1,895 the following year. In early 2018, it ended up in a dealer's inventory where I was able to obtain it for a reasonable price. This is the only Lima minted 1/5 Sol I have seen sell at auction for over $1,000. Only four MS 68's exist in the entire series. Two 1888's (one NGC; one PCGS, this coin, and a 1906 at PCGS).
Far and away the nicest 1897 VN I've seen, and one of the nicest 1/5 Sols out there. Heritage noted "Fiery antique rainbow tone traverses both sides with apparent luster and limited underlying disturbances. The finest graded by two graded and the example from which all others should be compared." The only marks on the coin are from die chatter, as-made, and commonly seen in this series. Really outstanding.
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| 1897 JF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1897 JF
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NGC MS 64
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| 1897 JF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1897 JF
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NGC MS 63
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General Comments:
1897 JF is more common that with VN assayer. A scarce date in Uncirculated, but available in low grades. All 1897 JF have 7 berries, the VN 6. IF there were to be a VN/JF, check the berries! 5 graded jan 2015, 12 march 2018. 3 new pl
Varieties:
1. Normal date, small superscript o, J.F. Close
2. Normal date, small superscript o, J.F. Medium
3. Low 7 in date, superscript o very close to dot, J.F. Close
4. Low 7 in date, superscript o very close to dot, J.F. Medium
5. Very low 7 in date, J is low in J.F. (NGC 63 coin, old holder)
6. 7 far to the right, large wide superscript o, 7/7 (maybe 897/897)
7. 7 far to the right, superscript o over giant dot, 7/7 U/U - Looks like possibly VN/JF, but 7 berries
These are my findings. Flatt reported a "with JR", but as with the 1898, I haven't seen one. The O is up and L down in "SOL" on most all coins I've viewed.
Availability:
G-VF: Common
XF-AU: Somewhat Common
60-62: Scarce
63-64: Scarce
65-66: Scarce
Population Report (March 2018):
NGC: Two in MS 63; Two in 63 PL; Three in 64 (one is JF-JR); One in 65; Two in 66, One in 67 PL
PCGS: One in MS 62 (JF-JR)
Total at both services: 12; 12 in Uncirculated; 4 in Gem or better
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F:1 VF: 1.50 XF: 2.25
Current KM: VF: 9 XF: 11 UNC: 30
Same pricing given for with and without JR.
Mintage:744,500 (with 1897 VN)
Auction Results:
Ebay 4/18/2011 VFish $14.95 (WP)
Ebay 6/16/2012 NGC MS 63 $99 (WP) Was Pop 1/1 at the time
Ebay 5/9/2013 Raw Gorgeous Gem Probably a 66 $79.99 (WP) - Possibly the nicest gem raw 1/5 Sol I've seen
Ebay 6/18/2013 MS60ish $15.65 (WP)
Ebay 12/14/2013 NGC MS 66 $45.11 - Tied for Top Coin - Cheap! (WP)
Ebay 11/29/2014 Low End but nice UNC $22.19
Ebay 12/15/2014 VG $6.86
Set Specimen:
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| 1898/8 JF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1898 JF
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NGC MS 66
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| 1899 JF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1899 JF
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NGC MS 66
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| 1899 JF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1899 JF
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NGC MS 65
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1899 JF
1899 is an available date that can be found nice in Gem for a reasonable price. The "LE" SOL variety adds interest. A great representative coin for the 1893-1900 type. With "JR" may be scarce.
Minor Varieties:
1. Initials JR - DE Sol
2. Initials JR - DE Sol Sol/Sol 5/5
3. No JR - DE Sol
4. Intials JR - "LE" Sol
5. No Initials JR - "LE" Sol
6. 1899/88 JF-JR (KM)
7. 1899/8 JF-JR? (KM)
All coins of this date have 6 berries rather than 7 on the reverse (true also for 1897 VN, 1898-1900). The "LE" SOL variety was almost certainly caused by die polishing, rather than an incorrect letter punch, as an outline of the "D" can still be seen on most coins of this variety. Though it doesn't carry much premium, it's certainly one of the more interesting "errors" of the series, and can be fun to cherrypick! I have not seen the overdates listed in KM (which come with no or minimal premium). "S" in SOL appears low on all coins I've seen.
The size of the superscript o and dot below it vary widely. Here are some combinations I've seen:
1. Small o over small dot
2. Small o over small dot, close together
3. Oval medium o over medium dot
4. Large o over medium dot
5. Medium o over medium dot, dot is off-center towards the right
6. Medium o over small dot
7. Large o over small dot, dot slightly off-center towards the right
It's near impossible to quantify these, and since there is no premium, I won't try. Small o over small dot might be the most common.
Availability:
G-VF: Common
XF-AU: Common
60-62: Fairly easy to find
63-64: More difficult than circulated grades, but among the more easily found dates
65-66: No coins graded (or have I seen) above Gem. There are raw Gem-y coins sometimes available. Overall common for a 1/5 Sol, though not as common as, say, the 1916
Population Report (Jan 2015):
NGC: One in 58; One in 61; One in 62; One in 63, Three in 64, Four in 65
PCGS: One in 40 (why!?), One in 65
Total at both services: 13; 11 in Uncirculated
All but one NGC 63 are listed as "1899 JF" with no mention of the JR. Most coins of this date do not have the "JR", however some of the coins holdered as "without" may actually have the "JR". KM doesn't offer a premium one way or the other.
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F: 1.35 VF: 1.90 XF: 3.00
Current KM: VF: 9 XF: 11 UNC: 25
Mintage: 700,000
Auction Results:
Sedwick 10/15/2009 NGC MS 64 $82.60 (Possibly an overdate?)
Ebay 3/24/2011 NGC MS 65 $52.30
Ebay 5/25/2014 NGC MS 64 $54.33
Ebay 1899/9, F/F/Y (as reported by seller WCS) Gem BU $77.50
Many circ examples sold on ebay for well over $10 for whatever reason.
KM values aren't far off market. A VF-XF may only bring 5-6 dollars. For a nice Gem certified UNC, expect to pay around 50-60. This date may do a bit better than common dates of the 1900's (ex. 1906, 1907) as it's a type coin for the earlier type. For some reason Seppa liked this date better than 1896 TF, 1897 VN and JF, 1898 and 1900. While 1898 and 1900 are not difficult dates, at least the 1897's and 1896 TF are more difficult coins.
Set Specimen:
Tied for Top Pop with 3 other NGC coins and 1 PCGS coin in 65. A lovely golden patina covers both sides. Small dot under small o.
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| 1900/800 JF JR |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1900/800JFJR Forest City Collection
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NGC MS 66
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| 1901/1 JF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1901 JF
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PCGS MS 65
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General Comments:
1901 marks the first year of the last design re-working for the Seated 1/5 Sol type, changes that lasted with only very minor adjustment (see the with-R coins of 1911-1917) through series completion in 1917. Some subtle identifiers: Initials "JR" no longer appears on any coins of this type, the "1" has a flat top in the date rather than the old-style rounded top, and 7 berries appear in the laurel branch rather than 6 (although this was the case on some earlier dates).
The most expedient way to tell this type from the preceeding type is simply to look at "Libertad". It features a much "looser" and bolder font than the "strict", "thin", and "rigid" look of the previous font. Krause does not recognize the 1901-1917 type as distinct from the 1893-1900 type. I understand their categorization, since mainly only the fonts were changed. I personally consider it as it's own type, however.
1901 is a slightly better common date. Mint state examples may be hard to locate at any given time, yet many Gems do exist. Two more Gems were graded in late 2016 through early 2018, and I expect a few more to be graded in the future. I have not seen any that I believe would grade above Gem. Weak rims are the norm.
Minor Varieties:
1. Small superscript o
2. Large superscript o
3. o/o superscript o, S/S in SOL. (FC)
4. 1901/1 Recut Date, 1 is upright rather than tilting left as in other coins of the date (FC)
Most all coins have a notch in the center of the "S" in Sol. The re-cut date is not rare.
Availability:
G-VF: Somewhat Common
XF-AU: Somewhat Common
60-62: Somewhat Scarce
63-64: Somewhat Scarce
65: Somewhat Scarce
Population Report (January 2018):
NGC: One in 62; One in 63; Two in 64, Three in 65
PCGS: One in 55; Two in 64; Four in 65
Total at both services: 14; 13 in Uncirculated; 7 in Gem
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F: 1 VF: 1.50 XF: 2.25
2009 KM: VF: 2.50 XF: 5.50 UNC: 12
Current KM: VF: 11 XF: 22.50 UNC: 36
Almanzar/Seppa had a very slight premium on this coin, which is accurate. Values are raised from $12 to $36 in UNC in Krause. $12 was too low, and $36 is too high for a raw low-end Unc, but fair for a choice example. My pricing would be: VF/XF: $5-$10, XF/AU: $10-$20, certified MS 63-64: $30-$45, certified MS 65: $50-$80.
Mintage: 637,750
Auction Results:
Ebay 2/26/2011 Described as XF, but appears to be fully mint state $18 (WP)
Sedwick 6/28/2012 NGC MS 64 $57.82
Ebay 3/9/2013 Select to Gem UNC, dark toning $18.05 (WP)
Ebay 7/7/2013 VF/XF $20.50 (WP)
Ebay 8/16/2013 VF/XF $16.03 (WP-exact same coin as last auction)
Ebay 9/22/2013 XF+ $14.16 (WP)
Ebay 8/10/2014 PCGS 65 Toning $61.95 (I won, not the set specimen.)
Ebay 1/28/2015 NGC MS 62 $41.99
VCoins 2016 PCGS MS 65 Same coin as 8/10/14 $78 plus shipping (I sold it to a dealer who resold it online.)
Ebay 5/19/2016 Cleaned XF $7.99
Ebay 6/26/2016 XF+ $7.44
Ebay 1/24/2018 Good $8.99
Set Specimen:
This 1901 has a re-cut date, with the very visible base and serif of the under-numeral "1" appearing under the last "1" in the date. Perhaps they punched the numeral too low on first attempt.
Appealing creamy white luster covers both sides of this true Gem, with subtle golden highlights near the rim. Almost all "marks" are die lines or die chatter. Brighter than PCGS photos show; the darker spots on Liberty don't appear that way in hand. Tied with six other Gems at PCGS/NGC for finest graded.
Photo copyright PCGS
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| 1903/3 JF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1903 JF
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NGC MS 64
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| 1906 JF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1906 JF
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NGC MS 66
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1906 is one of the more common dates in the series, and can be found in Gem or better with some searching
Minor Varieties:
1. Small superscript o
2. o/o superscript o, normal 6 in date
3. o/o superscript o, high 6 in date
4. 1906/906 recut date, tilted superscript o (FC)
5. All letters in "5 DE SOL" recut, "L" very large, 906 recut in date, low O in date. (FC)
The first 3 are Flatt's designations. Certainly many of the coins have a large superscript o, but I can't be sure how many of those are o/o. #'s 4 and 5 are my discoveries.
Availability:
G-VF: Very common
XF-AU: Very common
60-62: Very common
63-64: Common
65-68: Available with some searching, one supergrade MS 68 exists in a PCGS holder
Population Report (Jan 2015):
NGC: One in 58; Two in 62; Three in 63; Five in 64; Three in 64; One in 65; Two in 66
PCGS: One in 58, One in 63; Four in 64, Two in 65, Five in 66, One in 68
Total at both services: 28; 26 in Uncirculated; 11 in Gem of better
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F: .90 VF: 1.25 XF: 2.00
Current KM: VF: 13 XF: 22.50 UNC: 36
KM raised their prices massively across the board from a few years ago. The 2009 KM had this date at 3.25 in VF, 5.50 in XF, and 12 in UNC. The old prices still reflect the current market for circs. The price for a low grade UNC should fall somewhere inbetween old and new prices, about $20. For a certified MS 64, expect to pay around $35-40, $50 for an MS 65, $60-70ish for an MS 66. The lone MS 68 could bring some serious money by type collectors.
Mintage: 659,750
Auction Results:
Ebay 11/7/2010 PCGS MS 64 $26.05 (WP - Coin looks PL)
Ebay 4/22/2012 PCGS MS 66 $54
Ebay 8/12/2013 NGC Ms 64 $36 (WP)
9/29/2013 Raw Gem-y $28 (WP)
Ebay 2/2/2014 PCGS MS 66 $127.50 (WP - This coin, and the previous MS 66 were graded at the same time)
Ebay 2/12/2014 NGC MS 62 $22.63 (WP)
Ebay 5/25/2014 NGC MS 63 $26 (WP)
Ebay 12/7/2014 NGc MS 64 $34
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| 1907 JF |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1907 JF
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NGC MS 64
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General Comments:
The 1907 JF date/assayer combination is largely overlooked. Four high end coins have been graded by the TPG's, but this coin is generally scarce in all grades and largely unavailable in mint state.
Minor Varieties:
1. o/o superscript o, with many repunched letters (FC)
Flatt notes that these come with a large superscript o, or an even larger superscript o (not an overly technical designation!)
All coins that I have seen have the 7 high in the date.
Availability:
G-VF: Scarce
XF-AU: Scarce
60-62: Very Scarce to Rare
63-64: Very Scarce to Rare
65-67: Very Scarce to Rare
Perhaps 1 in 10 to 15 coins of 1907 has the JF assayer rather than FG.
Population Report (April 2016):
NGC: One in 64; One in 66; One in 67
PCGS: One in 66
Total at both services: Four; Four in Uncirculated; Three in Gem or better
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F: 1.20 XF: 1.70 UNC: 2.50
Current KM: F: 11 XF: 14 UNC: 30.50
Almanzar/Seppa recognized the "JF" as the better date/assayer, but that information got lost at SCWC who prices the "FG" better. No one is likely paying attention that the "JF" is much scarcer, but at the very least, the prices should be at par in the catalog. In grades Gem and above, this should be a three figure coin.
Mintage:
1,370,000 - combined for both FG and JF
Auction Results:
Ebay 4/24/2011 AU/UNC Light Hairlines: 11.38 (WP)
Ebay 4/2/2014 AU Cleaned: 10.27
Ebay 1/19/2015 AU Nicely Toned: 20.20
Ebay 8/6/2015 XF+: 14.98
Ebay 8/29/2015 VF Cleaned: 8.03
Set Specimen:
A bright white coin with Gem-y satiny luster, held to the 64 grade by contact marks. Many re-punched letters, o/o superscript o. The 0 in the date features light re-punching. Three finer, yet a very difficult coin in this grade.
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| 1907 FG |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1907 FG
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NGC MS 66
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| 1907 FG |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1907 FG
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PCGS MS 65
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| 1907 FG |
PERU - DECIMAL
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1/5S 1907 FG
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NGC MS 65
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Like 1906, 1907 FG is a readily available date in all grades, featuring the largest reported mintage of the 1/5 Sol series.
Minor varieties:
1. Extra-large superscript o
2. Large superscript o
3. Large superscript o D/D in "DE" (FC)
Availability:
G-VF: Very common
XF-AU: Very common
60-62: Very common
63-64: Common
65-67: Common in Gem and 66, more difficult in 67 with only one graded
Population Report (Jan 2015):
NGC: One in 58; Three in 62; Two in 63; Two in 64; Five in 65; Five in 66; One in 67
PCGS: One in 64, Two in 65; Four in 64, Two in 65, One in 65+, One in 66
Total at both services: 24; 25 in Uncirculated; 15 in Gem of better
Value Guide:
1972 Almanzar/Seppa: F: .90 VF: 1.25 XF: 2.00
Current KM: VF: 13 XF: 22.50 UNC: 36
KM raised their prices massively across the board from a few years ago. The 2009 KM had this date at 3.25 in VF, 5.50 in XF, and 12 in UNC. Suprisingly, VF-XF coins do bring upwards of $10-$15 sometimes. The price for a low grade UNC should fall somewhere inbetween old and new prices, about $20. For a certified MS 64, expect to pay around $35, $50 for an MS 65, $60-70ish for an MS 66. KM really fails when they put the value of 1907 FG above that of the rarer 1907 JF. They've got it backwards.
Mintage: 1,370,000 - combined for both FG and JF
Auction Results:
Ebay 5/29/2011 PCGS MS 64 $23.49 (WP)
Ebay 9/19/2013 NGC MS 63 $23.02 (WP)
Ebay 11/5/2013 NGC MS 63 $89.00 (WP - Exact same coin from a few months earlier. No doubt a dealer bought it up and got their BIN price!)
Ebay 5/25/2014 NGC MS 64 $32 (WP)
If I remember correctly the PCGS MS 65+ was a toned example that went for near 100 on ebay in late 2014, by the same seller who got 900 for his MS 65 1903/1 that week
A surprising number of circulated coins of this date have sold for over $10 a piece. I'm not sure what to make of that.
Set Specimen:
Tied with 4 others at NGC and 2 at PCGS in 65, 8 better. Swirling original luster peeks through matte metallic grey toning. Clean surfaces, an original coin. Small die cracks on reverse. Adjustment marks at 9 on obverse? I have seen a 1907 in a 2008 heritage auction with adjustment-like marks along the entire bottom. Extra-large o.
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