Owner Comments:
1974 20C (Bailly Seated)
Judd-1355, Pollock-1499
Rarity: Low R.6; PR64BN:
Ex Lumus :
Struck in copper with a plain edge.
Obverse: :The central figure of the obverse is a seated Liberty facing left, with Liberty pole and globe. The globe is inscribed LIBERTY. The figure is surrounded by two bales of cotton, a tobacco plant, and a sheaf of wheat. An arc of 13 stars surrounds the figure above with the date below.
Reverse: :The reverse die is similar to the design adopted for regular issue coinage except for minor differences in leaf position, and the second arrowhead points above the T in TWENTY.
Comment: :
The popular design for the obverse is attributed to the French-born sculptor Joseph Alexis Bailly. Mint Director Linderman foresaw difficulties with the twenty cent piece because of its close resemblance to the quarter. He specifically requested a pattern of this design to help differentiate between the two coins. In the end, the Seated Liberty obverse was adopted, and Linderman's concerns proved valid. The new denomination was extremely unpopular, and was abandoned after only four years. USPatterns.com estimates about one dozen examples are extant.
Mint red color lingers in protected areas near the devices, while the fields are highlighted with attractive crimson and lilac toning. All details of the intricate design are clearly delineated.
Provenance/Appearance:
The Lemus Collection, Queller Family Collection Part Two, Heritage Jan 2009 FUN /Lot 1842; Legends Auctions Dec ;
Possible : Bowers & Merena Jan 1985 (Milton G. Cohen Collection) / Lot # 510 &
Superior Jul 1985 (Auction 85) / Lot # 664