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Sale 39
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Lot 1442
1832 Capped Bust Half Dollar. NGC graded MS-67. Star. In NGC holder 1848581-008. A spectacular gem! Well struck with "bull's eye" toning. This is an extremely vital coin for the stellar-quality Type collector and the Bust half dollar specialist putting together a collection of "finest knowns." It is safe to say this is the finest example of this die marriage extant (Overton's Condition Census reads: 65; 65; 63; 63; 62). It is also possibly the finest-known 1832 half dollar irrespective of variety. Simply put, this is a beautiful Superb Gem whose vivid surfaces more than uphold the validity of the "star" definition for "eye appeal." Electric-blue peripheral toning frames softer, reddish-apricot centers, the former color more widespread on the obverse. One can also discern pale-gold highlights toward the rims as the coin dips into the light. There is not a single noticeable abrasion. The surfaces shimmer with a full endowment of satiny mint luster. Combined, it forms a coin that directs attention to itself for the advanced numismatic buyer.
Upon his appointment to the position of chief engraver in 1824, William Kneass was initially tasked with refining the coinage designs then in use by the United States Mint. In 1832, he put his hand to John Reich's capped bust half dollar. Examples differ from earlier-dated pieces chiefly in the fine points of Liberty's hair and features. Thanks to Kneass' work, extant 1832 halves display the bust in higher relief, with finer hair curls and a slightly altered profile. Of the 23 known die marriages this issue, all but one (O-101) display small letters in the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Throughout virtually its entire production, the half dollars with Lettered Edge (1807-1836) were the largest silver coins being struck by the United States. This was the preferred denomination of contemporary banks and bullion depositors, exporters and merchants. Most dates in this series have reasonably large mintage, and survivors can be found in circulated as well as lower Mint State grades without difficulty. Examples higher than MS-63 are, however, scarce-to-rare from the standpoint of market availability. The relatively robust mintages posted for most Lettered Edge halves required a number of working dies each year. As such, this series is perhaps the most widely collected by variety specialists. Many die marriages are plentiful in an absolute sense, but some are significant rarities. Pop 1; none finer at NGC. (PCGS # 6160) .
Estimated Value $30,000 - 35,000.
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| Realized $40,800 |
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