1870-CC Liberty Seated Silver Dollar. OC-2. Rarity-5. AU-58 (PCGS). CAC. This impressive near-Mint example boasts the undeniable originality and strong eye appeal that collectors of Carson City Mint Liberty Seated dollars value so highly, but which so few coins possess. Warmly patinated in deep pewter gray, both sides also exhibit intermingled highlights of sandy-gold and light olive. This coin is boldly struck overall, the virtually lack of wear meaning that many design elements retain sharp to full definition. Softly frosted luster is a bit subdued by the toning, but remains lively enough to be appreciated as the surfaces dip into a light. Smooth in hand and absolutely problem free for a lightly circulated survivor from this challenging series, we anticipate strong bidder competition that will result in a premium price being paid for this noteworthy condition rarity.<p>One of only four Carson City Mint issues in the Liberty Seated silver dollar series, the 1870-CC is also the most available in todays market. The 2,303 examples delivered on February 11 of that year represent the beginning of coinage operations at this branch mint. By years end an additional 10,159 coins were struck for a total mintage of 12,462 pieces. (Carson City Mint expert Rusty Goe believes that the oft-quoted figure of 11,758 coins struck is an error made by numismatists who overlook two additional deliveries of coins, one made prior to June 30 and the other in August.) The novelty of these large silver coins with the CC mintmark resulted in a fair number of examples being plucked from circulation years later by sharp-eyed Americans. Today we can account for upward of 700 survivors, most of which are well worn and grade no finer than VF. Even among Extremely Fine and About Uncirculated examples dipped or impaired surfaces are the norm, rather the than the exception. As above, few Carson City Mint Liberty Seated dollars of any date are as attractively original and problem free as this historic and highly desirable 1870-CC. From the Naples Bay Collection. Earlier from our (Stacks) sale of the Arthur B. Stewart Collection, May 1972, lot 1346. Lot tag included. From the Naples Bay Collection. Earlier from our (Stacks) sale of the Arthur B. Stewart Collection, May 1972, lot 1346. Lot tag included.
