Lot 236
Dime. 1796. NGC graded MS-66. JR-1, Rarity-3. NGC graded Mint State 66. One of the very finest known of this first year of issue, and decidedly rare in this grade. In fact, NGC has only graded 6 this high, with none graded higher. The coin itself is lightly toned on the obverse, with deeper colors around the periphery, the inner fields and Liberty herself show a delicate gold tone which only enhances the devices featured. Turning to the reverse, the eye is greeted by an ocean of blues and greens with the central area and the eagle gold and rose in color. Blazing luster in the fields, which is undiminished by the toning. Well struck for the issue, with a hint of weakness on Liberty's neck and on the eagle's chest. Of course, one of the main features of this coin is the remarkable grade, a choice gem 66, which means there are virtually no signs of contact anywhere on the surfaces. How this coin has come down to us may never be known, but the fact remains that it is here, virtually untouched since the day it was struck, and only graced by lovely toning colors.
This particular variety has a small lump near the first star on the obverse, this was caused by a bubble in the obverse die, which collapsed very early in the dies life, only a single coin is known without this familiar die lump. All others struck show evidence of this curious die feature. As a variety, this is one of the more "common" varieties of the date, but truly no 1796 Dime can be considered "common". All are scarce and have been eagerly sought out by collectors for decades, not only as the first year of issue of the denomination, but as an important two year type coin. A superb coin in every way and worthy of the finest collection.
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| Realized $37,400 |
