Lot 488
1796 Draped Bust Dime. . R-4. NGC graded MS-66. This is very likely one of the finest known of the variety. Both sides display deep blue and gray toning in the fields with lighter gray tones on the devices. Fully struck on the stars, with each point and center bold, similar on Liberty's curls which show separation even on the highest design elements. Slightly weak on the eagle's breast and thigh, where a few of the feathers are not fully brought up. As a die variety, this is more desirable than the usually seen JR-1 or JR-6 coins, as far fewer are found of this die pairing. Special care was taken in 1796 to produce really exceptional coins, as this was the first year of issue of this denomination. The design was adopted by famed portraitist Gilbert Stuart, who employed Ann Willing for his model of Liberty, said at the time to be the most beautiful women in Philadelphia. On the reverse, the rendition of the "small eagle" design was also well received, with the proud outstretched wings and delicate wreath surrounding. A superb example of an important type coin that is of unimprovable quality. The recent NGC Population Report shows 9 graded this high, with just 2 graded higher for the date.
Estimated Value $35,000 - 45,000.
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| Realized $32,200 |
