Lot 852
1815 Capped Bust Half Dollar. 5 over 2. NGC graded MS-64. In NGC holder 1619260-004. Wonderful blue and golden toning. Well struck and choice for this rare date. One of the finest examples we have ever handled. A fascinating example of this key Bust half dollar date that is one of the top dozen known. Even disputatious experts agree it ranks among of the finest in terms of aesthetic enjoyment, though tied with several others at this technical grade level. The toning supplements greatly to coin's allure, with rich colorful shades over iridescent lustrous surfaces. There is a concentrated ring of purple and blue at the margins on both sides. Both dies have minor clash marks, as seen on a large number of half dollars in 1815. Mintage fell to 47,150 pieces when the climax of the Napoleonic Wars reached a crisis, upsetting the world's specie payments system (see below).
According to historical accounts, the 1815 coinage that was produced was circulated through the Planter's Bank of New Orleans. Most survivors today are well circulated or impaired. Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated coins can be found but it takes some doing. However, this particular specimen seems to be with us only through the favor of providence. It belongs in a world-class set of United States coins. Pop 7; 2 finer in 65 (PCGS # 6108) .
Historic note: Regarding the damage to the rolling and cutting apparatus, while this affected the Mint planchet preparation process, another reason for lack of half dollar coinage after 1815 was a shortage of deposits. The War of 1812 had officially ended on December 24, 1814, but news of this was not fully disseminated until well into 1815 (the Battle of New Orleans, showcasing the heroism of Andrew Jackson, took place in January 1815 after the war had ended). The commerce of Europe remained chaotic, disrupted not only by the aftermath of the British-American "War of 1812," but also the wider-ranging, more destructive Napoleonic Wars including the French-Russian "War of 1812."
Estimated Value $40,000 - 45,000.
Ex Bowers & Merena Pryor Sale, January 1996; previously Stack's, April 1978, Lot 325; Lester Merkin, February 1972, Lot 153.
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