1873-S Liberty Head Double Eagle. Open 3. MS-61 (PCGS).Our multiple offerings in this sale notwithstanding, the Open 3 is the scarcer date logotype of the 1873-S double eagle, and it is rare in Mint State. This handsome BU example is bathed in a rich blend of vivid rose-apricot color and frosty mint luster. The strike is impressively sharp with full detail to virtually all design elements. Well composed for the grade with abundant eye appeal, strong bids are certainly in order for this desirable offering.<p>The Close 3 and Open 3 varieties were publicized by Harry X Boosel, who had no period after his X middle initial. He began collecting and dealing (on the side) in coins in the 1930s. From March 1957 through December 1958 he wrote articles concerning the coinage of 1873, and the change in the 3 date logotype that was instituted by the Mint in the course of that year. The 3 used for multiple coin series that year initially had the knobs on the open ends of this digit too close together, and the numeral to some people looked like an 8. Accordingly, in the course of the year the date logotype was modified so that there would be more space between the open ends to the left side of this numeral - hence the designation thereafter of an Close 3 and an Open 3 variety for 1873. At first the term "Closed 3" was used, but then Kenneth Bressett and others involved with the <em>Guide Book of United States Coins</em> changed the nomenclature to "Close 3," as the two knobs were not closed or touching, but were close together.PCGS# 8979. NGC ID: 26AM.
