A rare variety that was listed as Rarity-6 in the Dime Book although now considered Rarity-5. In 1984, the Dime Book authors reported the finest seen as just EF-40. A couple finer examples have been located since that time, including the present example, the only coin listed as Mint State in the Dime Census. This is almost certainly the finest known example of this variety. Far finer than the Very Fine coin in the Lovejoy collection. This example was described as "Choice Almost Uncirculated" by Stack's in their December 1992 catalogue. Upon examination, this appears very similar to the AU-58 example in Eliasberg, and only side-by-side comparison may determine which of these two coins is actually finer. It is almost certain that either this coin or the Eliasberg example will qualify as finest known. This is the first obverse die use before the Proof-only JR-10 and second use of the reverse die after JR-8. Perfect obverse. The reverse has extremely faint clash marks. Previously certified MS-62 by PCGS.
Purchased from Jim O'Donnell at the 1996 ANA Convention. Previously from Stack's sale of December 1992, Lot 1051. Ex William L. Subjack.