Lot 1290
1852-O. NGC graded MS-66. Light blue toning. with golden accents. The strike is typical for this scarce issue, with minor softness on Liberty's head and curls as well as a few stars. The area opposite of her head on the reverse is also a bit softly struck. Notice the interesting die crack on the obverse where the first star is split and the crack enters Liberty's arm and extends up along her arm toward her shoulder. During 1852 recall that the value of silver bullion had risen above the face value of our coinage. This was largely due to the huge gold discoveries in California. Hence it was profitable to melt silver coins, and many apparently were melted. Although the stated mintage is 260,000 it is believed a many of these were later melted by the mint, and coined into lower standard silver coinage once the bullion requirements were reduced in early 1853. Gems of the 1852-O half dime have long been known to be historic rarities. Pop 2; tied for the finest example graded at both services. Estimate Value $8,000 - 9,000
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