John B. Hamrick

One of the enigmatic rarities of American numismatics, the 1794 Starred Reverse cent has been long regarded as the most fascinating large cent or even early American copper. The present specimen is the second finest certified example being trumped only by the Husak PCGS AU50 coin that sold for $632,500 in February 2008. There are also 2 PCGS XF45's, but neither have appeared at auction in recent years. The only other notable sale of this coin was in September 2009 when a PCGS VF30 coin sold for $212,750. This date has an amazingly low population. PCGS has graded 27 coins as follows: 1 AU50, 2 XF45's, 4 VF's, 1 F, 8 VG's, and 11 in lower grades. NGC HAS GRADED A MERE 7 COINS. 1 XF45 (the present coin), 4 F's and 2 in lower grades. The surfaces are cleaner than typically seen on this date/variety, and they exhibit a brown and purple tone. Bold details on the reverse with the stars highly visible about the denticles. As of right now, it is the finest example available with the ex-Husak coin being firmly held by an East coast collector. This is an incredible opportunity to acquire a classic American numismatic icon that appears for sale seldom in any grade. The opportunity to acquire this great American rarity will not last long. Ex: Allison W. Jackman Collection, Henry Chapman 7/1919; Henry C. Hines, 1945; Dr. William H. Sheldon, 4/19/1972; R.E. Naftzger, Jr., 2/23/1992; Eric Streiner; Jay Parrino (The Mint), 6/1995; Michael Arconti; Old Roswell Mill Collection.

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