Lot 1803
A Gem Example of Bickford's International Eagle in Copper. PCGS graded Proof 65 BN. This International Ten Dollar pattern, by Dana Bickford, was part of the extensive series of experiments to enter the worldwide money market which the Trade dollar also attempted to fulfill. This coin's reverse attests to the challenge of European exchange (still ongoing 125 years later, of course): the denomination is fixed in six cartouches revolving about the central legend, 10 dollars being supposedly tradeable in English sterling pounds, German marks, Dutch guldens, Austrian kronen, and French francs. The experiment failed but the pattern was a triumph of design, showing on its obverse an elegantly engraved Liberty sporting a diadem topped by stars. This piece is a Gem Proof in darkish chocolate brown, but has some oil on its surfaces which should be removed, truth to tell. Nonetheless it's a wonderful specimen.
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