$5 Barber, Liberty Facing Right "Trade Dollar" Patterns
1873 $5 Five Dollar, Judd-1338, Pollock-1482, R.7, PR66 Red and Brown PCGS
A William Barber design with Liberty facing right, 13 stars around, and the date below. This obverse is similar to the design used on his Trade dollar (Judd-1287). The reverse is the Amazonian design used on Judd-1240-1242, showing a majestic eagle with wings outstretched and a shield covering part of the right (facing) wing, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around most of the periphery, FIVE DOL. on the lower margin. Struck in copper with a reeded edge.
William Haseltine stated that two pieces were struck in gold of this design, five in copper, and two in aluminum. Of the five copper pieces produced, two are now gilt, leaving only three pieces in copper. The year 1873 is known for Trade dollar patterns. In all, 17 different patterns were struck, from nine obverse and six reverse dies. The six most common designs were sold by the mint in sets for $30. This design was not one of those included in these sets, thus accounting for its rarity both as a Trade dollar pattern and as a five dollar pattern.
$43,125.00 (Aug 8, 2007 HA.com)
Source for information and pictures courtesy of Heritage Coin Auctions
