Lot 194
1797. 15 stars. LM-1, Rarity 3. NGC graded MS-65. Frosty and mostly white with a dash of russet toning through the stars on the obverse, less so in the legends on the reverse. The strike is wonderfully sharp for this notoriously poorly struck early half dime--notice the central hair curls which are just a trifle soft, the others are bold, along with Liberty's drapery folds. These features are rarely found so sharp on these historic and short lived Draped Bust, Small Eagle half dimes. Of course the surfaces are amazing, as there are just a few tiny signs of handling located when examined with a strong loupe. The eagle as always is somewhat softly defined on the feathers, but is sharply outlined on his breast while the wing feathers are actually well struck (this is most welcome and unusual on these early half dimes, which normal show no feather definition on the wings). As such, this is combination of high grade, high appeal and mint luster combine to make this one the finest seen of this prized issue. Only 44,527 struck. Pop 3; 3 finer in 66. Estimated Value $40,000 - UP
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