1854-O. Arrows, Huge O. PCGS graded AU-55. CAC. A frosty white example with a touch of tone. The huge O was likely created when the coiner/engraver in New Orleans noticed the reverse die from Philadelphia did not include the "O" mintmark, although the reverse die was appparently hardened already, an "O" was hand engraved into the proper place, a bit too large and too deep, but was necessary for the records. The stress of engraving new letters on a hardened die soon appeared with numerous die cracks and retained cuds, so mintage of this issue was indeed quite limited. This is one of the finest survivors known today, as it was lost at sea in 1857, shortly after it was struck and picked up in New Orleans in 1857 when the ill fated S. S. Central America made its last port of call on it way to New York Harbor, but ended with its sinking in September of 1857 in a powerful hurricane many miles off the North Carolina coast. Housed in a special PCGS holder with gold dust from the find. A Premium Quality example as confirmed by the CAC green sticker. Pop 1; 2 in 58 as finest graded at PCGS. Estimated Value $10,000 - UP
Ex Ship of Gold Treasure. From our Sale 117, lot 1250 (realized $11,400).