J-1426 1875 Trade Dollar T$1 NGC PF62. J1426, P-1569, High R-7 Ex: Farouk. One of only four pieces of this pattern which were identified by Pollock in 1992, this pattern does not appear to have seen only a single piece added to the population since then. Only three pieces have been graded by the major grading services, with a third example (permanently) impounded in the Harry W. Bass research foundation. Given the fact that it is struck in silver, the regular metal of this denomination, and part of a very interesting and popular pattern series (Trade dollars) this is a very important opportunity to acquire a pattern which is seldom available on the market. Together with its pedigree and the famous Liberty by sea-shore design, this coin is very appealing, despite its somewhat lower numerical grade. Yet, it appears to be of premium quality to us, with sharp definition of all the details and nice contrast in the fields.

The Liberty by the seashore design was a serious contender to be used on the trade dollars, but another modified figure of seated Liberty was ultimately chosen. The present was made by William Barber, Chief engraver at the Mint at the time and father of Charles Barber, a father of son whose work was seen in commerce for several decades. Most interesting about this design is the ship that is sailing on the sea. Despite the ship having the appearance of sailing to the east (because of the sails) the smoke is being blown to the west. Obviously, this is totally unnatural and a common mistake by William Barber, who created the same kind of error on various coins. The reverse is that of the regular trade dollar, which was introduced in 1875 as well.

Struck in silver with a reeded edge (most likely on a regular Proof planchet), this coin once belonged to the famous collection of King Farouk of Egypt. A famous collector and once owner of the only legalized 1933 double eagle, his coins have been on the market since the Palace Collection was sold in the 1950s. It remains to be one of the most famous pedigrees in American numismatics, and the only one of a person who was not an American himself. The coin that we presently offer is one of many example of his collection, which was extremely large. It features excellent detail, as previously mentioned, and only a limited number of hairlines that would limit the grade. Stickered by CAC for its quality, we consider this piece to be a true premium quality piece, and an important opportunity for the specialist of pattern coinage or trade dollars. This coin has been certified by NGC in a new holder.