Lot 2672
1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar. NGC graded AU-55 O-110A. Nicely toned. A refreshingly solid-looking AU55 and of the highest reported quality for this popularly collected flowing hair design. Ample luster blends effortlessly with sleek medium "antique gray" highlights on the mark-free surfaces. The main feature of this obverse is, of course, its dramatic die break in two concentric arcs at 2 o'clock. Not only did the die break in this area, but it sank, leaving a stepped-appearance to the break.
In the 21st century, the half dollar has disappeared from the channels of American commerce, becoming almost irrelevant to the nation's monetary system. That's a far cry from the role it played in America's first full decade after the Constitution was ratified, when it had a significant function and carried exceptional weight. Its importance was underscored by the fact that in 1794, when United States silver coinage began, the half dollar was one of the first three denominations to be issued in that metal, along with the silver dollar and half dime.
The Overton-110 variety is characterized by recutting on the 9 in the date, several raised lines are visible between the curls and stars 2 and 3, and the 9-8 berry configuration with a leaf tip below the center of F. Late die state examples like this are the most dramatic looking. Pop 1; the finest graded for the variety at NGC. In a new 4 pronged NGC holder.
Estimated Value $15,000 - 16,000.
|
| |
| Realized $13,800 |
