| Description |
Bowen-Congreve Patent Back Color Tint Essay. Congreve Patent Plate with "FIVE" across in Brown and Red Undated (Ca. 1833). Proof. PCGS Choice New 63 Apparent. The eighth and final back essay proof is stunning. Similar in style to the prior three, with FIVE, corners, and arced strips in patterned red overlaid on a brown tint with floral flourishes and stacked end dies. The bisecting oval has a solid red inset with an outlined eagle and shield emblem. Red oblong lozenges at the ends show the white BANK and CHECK respectively. The complexity of the CONGREVE/PATENT/CHECK/PLATE color combination is readily apparent from the prior two examples. Semi-circular red and brown ornaments are in the corners. The Bowen imprint is at bottom right, but there is no additional text or number. We know of only one other example like this in a private collection. Of the previous seven, we know of no other examples. Noted with "Small Holes at Bottom Right" and "Mounted on Woodblock." The colors are rich and contrasting, and this proof has enticing eye appeal. Though technically stateless, this is truly stately and will reward its next caretaker with great enjoyment. Ex: NASCA, T. James Clarke Sale, June 26-29, 1978, part of lot 2050; Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society, Heritage Auctions Internet Sale (5/2017). Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society, Heritage Auctions Internet Sale (5/2017).
(Description courtesy of Heritage Auctions, ha.com.) Realized $763.75. |
