One of the classic rarities in American numismatics, the 1852 Liberty Seated dollar was struck in extremely limited numbers for circulation, reportedly 1,100 pieces only. Most were melted as the price of silver ran up compared to gold as a result of the wild monetary swings caused by the influx of gold from the California Gold Rush. Of the circulation strike 1852 silver dollars that survive, about 55 grading records exist for combining the PCGS and NGC census data. Others exist with varying problems that are not part of this tiny number, but all survivors are highly coveted. The demand for this date was recognized early on, and by the 1850s collectors met with significant difficulty locating examples for their cabinets. In response, Proof restrikes were made, and with multiple reverse dies known. Researchers such as Q. David Bowers, John Dannreuther, and others have suggested that restrikes were struck more than once over several years. Even so, a meager 30 to 35 pieces are estimated to survive today, suggesting restrikes were not minted in significant numbers. This example uses the same reverse die used to strike a Proof restrike of the 1851 Liberty Seated dollar, indicated by the fact that the "Leftmost vertical shield stripe elements… taper downward in relief just before touching the bottom horizontal line, as specified in Q. David Bowers 1993 book Silver Dollars & Trade Dollars of the United States: A Complete Encyclopedia. The present coin has exceptional eye appeal, with original antique silver devices enhanced by highly reflective orange-gold and lilac toned fields. The surface quality is outstanding. Subtle planchet roller streaking is noted from stars 4 to 9, and serves as a pedigree marker. A combined total of five coins have been certified at this level between PCGS and NGC, with just a single example finer (MS-66) at NGC. A premier rarity in Gem condition with gorgeous toning and a fabulous pedigree -- all factors that specialists hope to find, but rarely do. ， Provenance: From our (Bowers and Merena s) sale of the Norweb Collection, Part III, November 1988, lot 3800; Heritage s ANA Signature Sale of July 2005, lot 10268. Est. $40,000-$75,000
