1834 Matron Head Cent. N-7. Rarity-7. Large 8, Stars and Reverse Letters. Proof-10 BN (PCGS). A legendary large cent rarity, the proof-only 1834 N-7 variety is the absolute key to a set of Matron Head cents by Newcomb number and there are just eight examples presently accounted for. To the best of our knowledge an example hasnt sold at auction since the Mervis Collection sale in January 2014. This piece is one of three well circulated examples known while the others are Mint State or nearly so. Very nice for the grade with glossy light brown surfaces that show just grade-consistent circulation marks and no hint of roughness. A few thin planchet laminations are seen at the lower right reverse. Solid detail for the grade with full borders and all of the basic detail and attribution points clear. This variety is the preeminent highlight of the McBride collection as it would be for any specialized collection of Middle Date large cents. Certainly an exciting offering for the many advanced collectors that still lack this variety, and a great opportunity to obtain one of the relatively more affordable circulated examples. PCGS# 397584. From the John McBride Collection. Earlier ex Rod Widok who discovered it unattributed in Las Vegas in December 1994; 1996 EAC Convention Sale, lot 261; Wes Rasmussen; Superiors March 2000 ANA National Money Show Auction, lot 103; Col. Steve Ellsworth, June 2020.
