Lot 1726
1794. 0verton-108, High Rarity-7. One of the Finest Known of the Variety. . O-108. NGC graded VF-20. This is one of the finest of only 4 known of this extremely rare variety. The obverse die broke quickly with a heavy die crack from the rim near the 4 in the date up through the last 4 stars, this crack must have terminated the obverse dies use. As this variety was struck with the same reverse as the common O-101 variety, it is worth noting that the O-108 die variety was struck first, as there is no reverse die crack near the first S of STATES, this die crack is present on all O-101 coins. The finest specimen is believed to be in the collection of Robert P. Hilt II, who authored a controversial study involving die group strength that was published in 1980. In that study Hilt photographed a splendid example of this variety, which does not appear to have the obverse die break. The coin he photographed must grade EF 40. The others known are the coin offered in this lot, one grading Fine 12 plated in the 1993 Parsley-Overton Third Edition, and one other low grade specimen.
The surfaces here are average for the grade, we note minor adjustment marks around the obverse periphery, with a few minor adjustment marks in Liberty's hair near her ear. Examination will note that the rims are clean, free of the usual distracting bumps or bruises, and the fields and devices show typical handling marks expected for coins of this era. Medium gray color in the fields combines with lighter silver on the devices, giving good contrast to the coin. One of the most exciting coins in this sale for an advanced numismatist to pursue, and once sold, will likely not be offered again anytime soon. This is the first (and only) auction appearance of this die variety and a foremost opportunity for the advanced die variety specialist.
Estimated Value $10,000-UP.
Purchased in June of 1999 from an unknown source.
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| Realized $16,100 |
