(after 1862) Muling of J.A. Bolen’s U.S. Arsenal dies. Copper. 28mm. Musante JAB M/E-1. MS-63 (NGC).，Mostly light olive brown with pale gray steel overtones. Accents of pale blue and violet may be seen close to the devices. A bit handled, commensurate with the grade, but no serious marks. Though Bolen cut these dies in 1862, they were sold George B. Mason, then later to Frank Smith, possibly Bushnell, and then to the Chapmans. It is unknown who actually made them or when they were struck, but the dies are by Bolens hand so they are worthwhile additions to any advanced collection of his medallic works.From the Tim Gabriele Collection. Earlier ex Q. David Bowers.
