Type of Friedberg 268-270 (W-799-801). ND (1896) $5 Silver Certificate. PMG Gem Uncirculated 66 EPQ. Face Progressive Essay Proof.Hessler-358. Black print on India paper, mounted on original wide margined card. Central vignette, Electricity Presenting Light to the World. Design by Walter Shirlaw, with border designs by Thomas F. Morris. The prominent central feature is Electricity with angelic wings, flowing drapery, and semi-nude torso advancing forward holding the incandescent light bulb high in her right hand. To the left is Jupiter, the Roman deity associated with light, victory, and stability. In the foreground, before Electricity, Fame (with trumpet) proclaims progress. To the right is Peace, releasing a dove into flight above her head. The dome of the U.S. Capitol is visible in the background. The engraving is by G.F.C. Smillie, with some finer details added by George U. Rose, Jr., R. Ponickau, Edward M. Hall, L.F. Ellis, S.B. Many, D.S. Ronaldson, J. Kennedy, and E.E. Myers. Advanced progressive die proof of the face design, with all basic constructs of the border design added. The central vignette has been shortened horizontally compared to the vignette essay proofs to make adequate room for the border. At the viewers left the vignette border has been tightened, while at the right about half of the architectural feature has been removed. Some internal details are not engraved, such as Fames facial features. Ghosted at the right are the beginning of details there. An immaculate example in an amazing state of preservation. One of them most distinctive progressive essay types in this entire gathering. Last offered in our Harry W. Bass Jr. Collection, Part V sale where it brought $11,500.From our Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection Sale, Part V, August 17, 2011, lot 5023; purchased from Mrs. Louise Entriken, December 16, 1971; formerly in the collection of Robert F. Schermerhorn.
