Lot Number 71
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1831 - O.120 R.6 PCGS F.15 CAC
Evenly worn and softly impressed, with natural dark grey toning, the coin appears undistinguished. Until, of course, one notices the telltale die bulge in the left field. Then, voila, it becomes a magnet to your eyes. In 1983, when I developed an interest in the series, there were about 10 pieces known. Today’s population hovers at 20-22, top-heavy with low grade, abused examples. As with the earlier listed 1827 O.148’s, a collection that includes a `31-120 commands immediate respect. The die pair has an interesting history. It is 1970. Al Overton is about to publish his 2nd Edition. Don Gunnet, BHNC #13 of York, PA, is examining an unattributed 1831. Don joyously announces a “UP” [UnPublished variety] but, alas, too late to be included in Overton’s revised edition. The 1831 “DG.1” becomes the first of 13 UP’s discovered between the publication of Overton’s 2nd and 3rd [1990] Editions. It sports a “new” obverse die, notable for a prominent and ultimately fatal die injury, a grotesque bulge in the left field. The reverse die debuted in 1830, where used to strike the 1830 O.109 (as well as the 1831 O.107). I find no auction record of the example offered here. It appears to be the first 1831 O.120 given CAC’s seal of approval. Check your AMBPR, grit your teeth and join the fray. Est. $5,000 to $7,000.
