Coin of the Issue: 1870-S Liberty Seated Dollar, PCGS VF25

The 1870-S Liberty Seated Dollar is a rarity bearing one of the most coveted date-and-mintmark combinations in American numismatics. Several great 19th-century rarities were produced at the San Francisco Mint in 1870. Among these were the unique 1870-S Liberty Seated Half Dime and 1870-S $3 gold coin, along with the elusive 1870- S Liberty Seated Dollar – the latter offering fewer than a dozen known specimens.

There are no publicly available mint records indicating how many 1870-S Liberty Seated Dollars were made – in fact, there’s no mint record stating these coins were struck at all. Some numismatic scholars theorize a small run of 1870-S Dollars were produced as souvenirs for a cornerstonelaying ceremony during the construction of the second San Francisco Mint, dubbed “The Granite Lady” and in operation as a branch mint from 1874 through 1937. Most known specimens are worn, suggesting they entered circulation at some point. We may never know the exact origins behind why this mysterious coin was struck. Still, it has captured numismatic imaginations since it was first publicly seen at the 1914 American Numismatic Society Exhibition.

Any 1870-S Liberty Seated Dollar is a prize, bearing in mind that this coin is rarer than the majestic 1804 Draped Bust Dollar, which offers 15 examples. While all 1870-S Dollars have a colorful story, the specimen highlighted here once resided in the famous cabinet of Egypt’s King Farouk. One of the most prolific numismatists of the mid-20th century, King Farouk also once owned the 1913 Liberty Nickel and 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – two of the greatest rarities of the 20th century.

Before entering the collection of King Farouk, this 1870-S Liberty Seated Dollar had been handled by Norman Shultz, a legendary coin dealer who traded many big rarities during his career of more than 60 years. Along with its Farouk-Shultz pedigree, this exquisite specimen boasts outstanding surfaces and a gorgeous patina.

The coin’s moderate wear hints at its previous life in circulation. Yet, the degree of surface wear is such that all key design elements are boldly pronounced, with sufficient detail in Miss Liberty’s drapery folds on the obverse and within the feather detail of the eagle on the reverse. The coin’s originality is phenomenal – not a point to be overlooked given how rare uncleaned, undamaged Liberty Seated Dollars are regardless of date or mintmark.

“I believe this is, without question, not only a standalone rarity but, of course, also a must have for anyone trying to complete the series!” says Tangible Investments, Inc., Executive Vice President Mike Bonham. He also adds that the coin has exceptional status in the eyes of American numismatists. “It is listed in the latest edition of 100 Greatest U.S. Coins. So, this is an extraordinary opportunity to acquire one of America’s rarest and most historically significant coins.” Bonham goes on to say, “I’m proud to add the 1870- S Dollar to our in-house hall of fame list of extraordinary world-class rare coins that Tangible Investments has had the pleasure of offering.

Looking forward to passing the torch to its new owner!” Anyone who is serious about purchasing this magnificent 1870-S Liberty Seated Dollar or any other great rare coins should contact Mike Bonham by phone or text at 949-878-0393.