1837 P Crown Esc-2471 Barton's Metal Uniface Reverse PR(PCGS#902024)

The Summer 2022 Global Showcase Auction World Coins

拍卖行

Stack's Bowers

批号

31307

等级

PR63

价格

91,078

详细说明

GREAT BRITAIN. Uniface Barton's Metal Reverse Crown Pattern, 1837. London Mint. William IV. PCGS PROOF-63. ESC-2471 (R6); Linecar and Stone-12. By Merlin and Wyon. An incredibly interesting and SUPREMELY RAREpattern reverse for a proposed Crown of William IV, this piece provides an intriguing story and copious aesthetic draw. Designed by Jean Baptiste Merlin, the intricate coat-of-arms presents splendid details, with a precision that would impress a Dutch master. Only the reverse was stuck, being produced on a planchet of "Barton's Metal", gold sheet fused to a copper base. A similar reverse design to the present example was struck in lead, differing on the account of a missing final two digits of the date and lacking a central shield of Hannover. On that lead trial, Wyon's handwriting is present on the periphery, with the notation "Merlen's crown good, but too good, too high L.C.W." The eventual rejection of this proposed design should come as no surprise, given the incredible complexity that must have been required to engrave and strike just the few trial pieces known to exist. English Silver Coinage records one example of the aforementioned lead trial along with two examples of the present type. The gold sheet is not showing any breaks, and a handsome, shining luster bounds off the surfaces. Very little evidence of handling presents on this amazing and engaging piece. Estimate: $3,000 - $6,000. Provenance: From the Mark and Lottie Salton Collection. Ex: Sotheby's (2/1986) Lot # 237. Ex: H. M. Lingford Collection (Glendining - 10/1950) Lot # 541. To view all items from the Mark and Lottie Salton Collection, click here. Click here for certification details from PCGS. Image with the PCGS TrueView logo is obtained from and is subject to a license agreement with Collectors Universe, Inc. and its divisions PCGS and PSA.