Lot 2119
1808, 8 over 7. . BD-1, Breen-6454. Rarity-6. PCGS graded AU-50. A nice frosty coin with perhaps a few too many tiny marks on the surface to call it choice, but splendid all the same as one of the true overdates from this early period in our history. A lengthy die crack traces across the obverse from the rim above the cap across the hair curls and clasp down through the date by the first 8 and to the bottom rim.
In this variety, the 1 in the date is short and centered over a dentil below. According to Dannreuther's guide, "This variety is about five times rarer than the other overdate of this year (both employ Reverse E of 1807), and it is among the keys of this type." The author goes on to explain that "This combination is difficult to locate because the obverse quickly shattered and was retired. This and the following variety were overdated from two 1807-dated dies. Both are similar -- this one has a very short 1 almost centered over a dentil. Traces of the previous 7 are seen at the upper and lower left of the 8." Pop 3; 35 finer (PCGS # 8103) .
A couple of events worth mentioning for 1808: (1) Oct. 30 When the schooner Betty, commanded by Benjamin Ireson, arrived at Marblehead, Mass., Ireson was accused of sailing away from a sinking ship because he feared for his own safety. Marblehead citizens tarred and feathered Ireson and rode him out of town. Later, the poet John Greenleaf Whittier dramatized the event in his poem "Skipper Ireson's Ride." (2) Nov. James Madison (1751-1836), the 4th President of the U.S., was elected and would ride into a hornet's nest in the War of 1812 with Great Britain. (Fortunately, Madison made it through his eight years in office without being tarred and feathered.).
Estimated Value $6,500 - 7,000.
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| Realized $8,338 |
