Lot 1523
1799. B-9, BB-166, Rarity 1. NGC graded MS-65. The BB-166 1799 dollar is a commonly seen die pairing easily recognized by the so-called "Apostrophe" reverse where a die break is seen after the final S in STATES. 1799 was the first full year that featured the Heraldic Eagle reverse and marked the largest mintage of Draped Bust dollar production. A total of 22 die varieties are known, and most, like this BB-166, fall into the 7x6 Obverse Stars category with a normal date and 13 reverse stars. While the first Philadelphia Mint worked to strike 423,515 1799 dollars, it is interesting to note that no half dollars, quarters, dimes, or half dimes with that date exist. The reason is that bullion depositors preferred the dollar denomination over its fractional counterparts, partly because the silver dollar had achieved general acceptance in most foreign markets. In East Coast commerce, Spanish-American silver was seen much more often than Bust dollars and remained legal tender until 1857.
This truly memorable specimen features lilac-gray surfaces with rich, satiny underlying luster that exhibits accents of deep blue and green with the coin is rotated under a light source. Close examination reveals a crisscrossing streaky toning pattern on the reverse which only adds to the credibility of this wonderfully preserved Gem, and can help identify it to future collectors. All details are sharply defined, save only for a few of the tiny feathers on the eagle's neck. No visible marks or abrasions are seen on either side furthering the validity of the assigned grade. The fact that Mint State Draped Bust (or Flowing Hair) dollars of any date are known over 200 years after the fact is remarkable; that some actually warrant a MS-65 grade today is even more remarkable. The present Gem is no doubt headed for a world-class cabinet of early dollars or an advanced high-grade type set. Pop 7; 2 finer, 1 in 66, 1 in 67.
Estimated Value $160,000 - 170,000.
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