Lot 1329
1799 Draped Bust Dollar. . B-23, BB-159. PCGS graded AU-53 8x5 Stars. Nicely toned. Only 5 stars to right of bust on this Red Book variety. The obverse stars are arranged eight to the left and five to the right; the only 1799 with this peculiar arrangement. The reason for this configuration is not known. It may have been a mistake, or the engraver may have punched the eight stars on the left after just having cut a die for a 1799 $10 gold coin (all of which have stars set 8x5 this year). He would then have been compelled to finish the die using only five stars on the right. BB-159 is the only time this die was used.
In a year with relatively little to offer in the way of notable die varieties, the 1799 BB-159 is a favorite with collectors due to its distinctive character. Most are in low grades through Very Fine. There is no dispute that About Uncirculated examples are popular pieces. Pop 1; 1 in 55. Only 3 graded for this variety.
Estimated Value $6,000 - 6,500.
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| Realized $7,360 |
