Lot 1937
1796 $5 Capped Bust. Small eagle, 6 over 5. . M-16. PCGS graded AU-53. Only a single pair of dies were used to coin these 1796 half eagles. As a date, virtually none are found in mint state, and PCGS has graded two as MS-62, and one as MS-63, with all others seen in AU grades and below. Here is a particularly nice example for this date. The surfaces show scattered handling marks on both sides, with a minor scratch on the lower bust and into the drapery above the 6. The reverse is also well struck, with full feather details on the eagle's wings although the breast on thigh show expected weakness and wear. On the obverse, there are some trivial scattered dark flecks, and these should help hallmark this coin for the future. No adjustment marks or similar distractions, and just about all a collector could hope for from this difficult early date half eagle. PCGS has graded 5 as such, with 11 in higher AU grades, and the 3 mint state coins mentioned at the top of the census. A rare opportunity.
Estimated Value $17,500 - 20,000.
No provenance known.
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| Realized $19,550 |
