Counterstamps

B.C. HOFF on an 1835 Capped Bust dime, JR-3. Brunk H-674, Rulau NY-Sy 11D. Host coin Fine.

This is the well-known stamp of Benjamin C. Hoff (b. 1816) who was a jeweler running a jewelry and music store in Syracuse, NY from 1859 to 1867. An advertisement from 1860 states that his company also sold firearms and rented musical instruments, while located at No. 28 South Salina St. This mark is the one he used to stamp his wares. Hoff was a prolific counterstamper of coins with examples reported on almost all denominations of United States copper and silver coins. However, this example is one of only 3 reported on an early Bust dime.

From the Steve M. Tompkins Collection.

Estimate: $ 175