1795 Draped Bust Silver Dollar. BB-52, B-15. Rarity-8 as a Specimen. Centered Bust. Specimen-65 (PCGS). We are honored to present this historic Specimen striking of the 1795 Draped Bust dollar, newly available to collectors for the first time since May 1996. It represents the only Specimen 1795 BB-52, Centered Bust dollar graded by either PCGS or NGC and one of only three Specimens known for the overall 1795 Draped Bust issue. Swaths of sapphire blue iridescence blend with golden bronze and pearly silver coloration across each side of this exquisite Gem. This patina remains fully undisturbed by friction and is illuminated by intense underlying luster. The fields boast considerable prooflike reflectivity which is most intense on the reverse. A uniform ring of razor-sharp denticles frames each side, indicating a deliberately centered strike. The devices exhibit astounding sharpness that is more sculptural than numismatic. Each strand of hair in Libertys portrait is distinct and each feather on the eagles wings is prepared to take flight. Traces of minor planchet adjustment are visible around Libertys ear and at the right obverse edge, indicating the careful preparation of the planchet before striking. Similarly, there are lintmarks above the eagles head, left by the cloth used to wipe the dies clean, evidence of the special consideration this coin received preparatory to striking.<p>Long acknowledged as something special, this piece was featured as the plate coin for the variety in Q. David Bowers 1993 <em>Complete Encyclopedia of United States Silver Dollars.</em> Bowers links this piece to the enigmatic R. Tettenhorst, aka Bernard Edison, who is most famous for his inclination towards magnificent half cents and large cents, including assembling the legendary Missouri Cabinet. This Specimen silver dollar was acquired for the Zito Collection in May 1996 and has been held privately for the past 25 years. Here is an incredible auction opportunity for the most advanced specialists of silver dollars and early American presentation coinage. </p><p>While the definition of what constitutes a Specimen has changed over time, the fact remains that a handful of special coins exists among pieces struck at the Philadelphia Mint in the 18th century. They are distinctive not just for their grade or eye appeal, but for their method of manufacture and the care with which they were struck. Many, though not all, of these special coins happen to be from the first years of their design type--the present piece included. The reason they were produced was never recorded, and they rarely meet the modern definitions of what a "Proof coin" should be. However, experienced numismatists have long focused on these coins and elevated them, knowing that a few are just so clearly different from their ilk that particular forethought must have been involved in their creation. This is one such coin, a first-year issue of the Draped Bust type that represents the birth of this iconic design as coined within the Philadelphia Mint.</p><p>Writing in his Proof coin <em>Encyclopedia </em>(1977), Walter Breen indicates that "pieces qualifying as presentation coins exist of both [1795 Draped Bust] varieties...there are possibly 3 or 4 presentations coins of each". In the 45 years since, we have seen the emergence of two Specimens of the BB-51, Off-Center Bust variety, including an SP-62 (NGC) and the magnificent SP-66 (PCGS) Pogue coin that realized $1,057,500 in our May 2016 sale. The present SP-65 (PCGS) represents the only recognized Specimen from the BB-52, Centered Bust variety, and it may be a unique treasure. The entire numismatic world is sure to be watching when the historic Zito specimen crosses the auction block in our Spring 2022 sale.</p> From the Dr. Paul and Rosalie Zito Collection. Acquired May 13, 1996. Reportedly earlier ex. R. Tettenhorst, aka Bernard Edison. Plated in Q. David Bowers 1993 C<em>omplete Encyclopedia of Silver Dollars of the United States.</em>
