1936 50C Bridgeport MS (PCGS#9279)
August 2021 ANA U.S. Coins Auction
- 拍卖行
- Stack's Bowers
- 批号
- 6249
- 等级
- MS67+
- 价格
- 20,990
- 详细说明
- 1936 Bridgeport, Connecticut Centennial. MS-67+ (PCGS). CAC.
Crescents of deep reddish-russet iridescence along the upper and lower obverse borders interrupts otherwise dominant toning in pale silver-gray. Both sides are fully lustrous with a smooth and inviting appearance that will please even the most discerning numismatist. Among the over one dozen different new varieties of commemorative half dollars issued in 1936, the Bridgeport, Connecticut Centennial has long been a favorite, what with the obverse depicting the most famous citizen of that city, none other than P.T. Barnum. Most such pieces in existence -- 25,000 were distributed -- have extensive handling marks or other blemishes. Only rarely does a premium quality Superb Gem appear, as here.
P.T. Barnum is one of the most interesting characters on the 19th century American numismatic stage. His autobiography, Struggles and Triumphs, issued in many editions over a long period of time, makes interesting reading. Today, a cursory view of Barnum brings forth certain sayings as "There is a sucker born every minute," which no historian has ever authenticated. It sounds good, however, in a sweeping way -- just as one might apply the term "Robber Baron" to just about any 19th century individual who was successful in making money. In actuality, Barnum was a kind, generous individual, a great benefactor to Bridgeport and to others. The great financial disaster of his life was the signing of an obligation on behalf of the Jerome Clock Company, which went bankrupt, after which the creditors pursued Barnum. It was a struggle, but eventually there was a triumph, and Barnum paid off the debt. Not many would have. Over a period of years Barnum mounted many public displays, none more prominent than the American Museum near the southern tip of Manhattan. The large museum building offered many rooms and galleries of displays, entertainment, and more. Scarcely a day went by without the New York papers advertising or reporting on attractions and events. In the 1850s the American Museum mounted what seems to have been an important numismatic exhibit and was said to have produced a catalog listing certain of the specimens on view, although we have not been able to locate a copy. Expanded information concerning this and other Barnum numismatic connections appears in Dave Bowers' American Numismatics Before the Civil War.
PCGS Population: 13; 0 finer.
PCGS# 9279. NGC ID: BYG9.
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