Lot 881
1797 Draped Bust Half Dollar. 15 stars. PCGS graded VF-20. All early silver collectors understand the significance of this rare coin. The draped bust, small eagle design is one of the rarest of all silver type coins. A paltry 3,918 were struck during the two years of 1796 and 1797 before the design changed for the third time in eight years when half dollar production resumed in 1801. Of the draped bust, small eagle coins struck, many circulated into low grades, while the clear majority were melted or lost. Today, we see that PCGS has graded 48 half dollars of 1796, and 58 of 1797, precious few to go around in all grades! This coin is particularly nice, it has golden gray toning on both sides, is well struck and completely free of problems. The lower reverse rim light adjustment marks, light enough that they can be counted, and these are not distracting. An early die state, struck before the dies cracked into pieces, and this early state means all the devices are evenly struck. Substantial hair detail and feather detail on the reverse too, and frankly, this coin is very conservatively graded. Average surface marks expected on a silver coin of the period, but without the usual problems that often mar these important and rare type coins.
Estimated Value $18,000 - 22,000.
From the Benson collection and purchased from James G. Macallister on November 3, 1944 for $300.00 (quite a strong price for that time!) and we also note the grade when purchased is noted as "Extremely Fine, nearly Unc."
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| Realized $31,050 |
