Lot 631
1800 B-2, BB-182. Rarity 6. NGC graded EF-45. Wonderful medium gray surfaces are flourishing with rich natural color and a virtual absence of little abrasions. A small rim bruise noted above star 6. Well struck for the date, with some reverse details mostly present including full, readable E PLURIBUS UNUM on the ribbon, though nothing approaching "full" can be said. Fully struck coins of this scarce date are rarely seen.
According to the authoritative Bowers encyclopedia on Silver Dollars, "1800 BB-182 is one of the great rarities of the year. Only an estimated 30 to 50 are known to exist. Years ago, the issue was regarded as unique. J.W. Haseltine knew of only one, and M.H. Bolender stated the same, noting that it may have been the Haseltine specimen that came under his view. Thus, when Bolender's book went to press in 1950, it was believed that there was just a single coin extant.
"Since then, additional pieces have been recognized. BB-182 is not only remarkable for its rarity, but also for the fact that all known specimens show evidence of circulation. Among examples which have been reported, not a single piece makes the AU level. It appears that the finest grade is about EF40." Pop 3; 1 finer in 55. Only 6 examples graded for the variety at NGC.
Estimated Value $6,000 - 7,000.
Ex; Hesselgesser Collection.
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| Realized $6,900 |
