Lot 1897
$2.50 Capped Bust. 1802, B-1 or 3, R-4. PCGS graded AU-58. This is the more common die pairing of the year, and it is quickly identifiable by a thin die line connecting the second feather down on the right wing to the upper part of the first A in AMERICA. Another heavy die line extends from near the top of the shield left into the wing towards the D of UNITED. Research has shown (Mark Borckardt and the Harry Bass Foundation) that the so called overdate does not exist on quarter eagles, and perhaps entered the numismatic mainstream due to the commonness of the 1802/1 dollars and half eagles. The PCGS holder labels the date as 1802/'1', in keeping with the current Guide Book, but departing from Breen's Encyclopedia and others as mentioned. There is simply no trace of an undertype 1 under the 2. In the 1960s Breen Monograph on the series, both the Breen-1 and Breen-3 varieties are apparently the same die pairing as further research has shown.
As to the strike, we note minor weakness at the centers, as often seen, with the curls around Liberty's ear weak, and similarly weak on the eagle's head and neck with few feathers showing definition, elsewhere the strike is sharp. The coin is toned a rich coppery gold color over substantial luster. Barely circulated, the upper devices show traces of wear, and the fields show very few handling marks. There are no traces of adjustment marks which we could find. Perfect for the type, date or variety collector who demands a quality example. PCGS has graded 8 this high, with 15 graded higher of the date (PCGS # 7650) .
Estimated Value $6,000 - 7,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from Ira S. Reed on September 22, 1944 as "extremely fine" for $65.00.
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| Realized $20,125 |
