Lot Number 84
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1824 - O.116 R.3 PCGS AU 55
Ex Stewart P. Witham, noted on the PCGS label. Lot 4894 in Heritage’s Aug. 2010 sale of the Witham Collection. Keith Davignon prevailed at $1,035. Appearing again in my Philadelphia Rarities Sale [MB 36], Aug. 2012, lot 43. There described:
A sleeper “R.3” in higher grades... The coin is simply superb. Witham, it will be remembered, was a founder of the Bust Half Nut Club, holding BHNC number 1. He was a keen student of the capped bust series and, in the words of my primary mentor Elton Dosier, “Stew had more genuine uncirculated coins than anyone else.” Today’s knowledgeable collectors will understand Witham’s fondness for this coin: on the obverse, a subtle blue halo surrounds the original “grey dirt” centers. The reverse is similar, with pale gold embellishments to the grey patina. Here is an especially handsome coin that carries a distinguished pedigree.
The coin sold to Dr. Charles Link, current BHNC #1, at least in terms of completeness and quality. The pedigree now reads Witham-Davignon-Link, a royal group of bust half collectors! Est. $750 to $950.