Is this really an 1875 Snow-16 "Dot Reverse"?

redraider

I saw this coin for sale with a well known copper dealer and I have my doubts that this is the 1875 S-16 variety. The date does not line up with known examples, it appears this example has a date further to the right. The coin is Photosealed, but I dont think Rick made this attribution as the stickers applied to the slab indicating the variety are not the type he uses. Thoughts?
Example in question...

Genuine example:

redraider

Also just noticed the die cracks by the shield on the reverse don't line up and this is one of the pick up points in Ricks attribution guide.

IkesT

Correct; it is not the S-16 variety.

The "dot" is also not the same, and looks like it might actually be a hit on the example in question:

redraider

@IkesT, great picture comparison. This coin is listed for almost $6K and I really hope no collector is going to be burned on this. I don't have a relationship with the dealer, but this individual is active on the forum and hopefully this will be seen.

Copperindian

@redraider: I’ll add my 2C - it’s definitely not the Dot. Ikes T’s pic confirms the “chip” doesn’t conform to the variety.

redraider

Thanks everyone! This coin is Photosealed, which is concerning as it could be perceived as Rick approves of this variety, which it is not.

Copperindian

Here’s a pic of a closeup of my Dot:

MFeld

Please direct the dealer to this thread. Maybe he's unaware or can provide a credible explanation. But even if not, it's better that he knows others know about it.

Lakesammman

Not a variety I would collect but appreciate the education.

Copperindian

@Lakesammman: below is a somewhat hard to read letter from the National Archives that explains the story behind the “dot” reverse.

oih82w8

The die crack difference is what gave it away for me...as mentioned early in the thread.