Lot 3312
1878 Pattern Half Eagle. Copper Gilt. NGC graded Proof 63 Low Rarity 7. Obverse: An enlarged version of the head on the copper $2.50 (J-1567): Head of Liberty by George T. Morgan, signed with an incuse M on neck truncation. She is shown facing to the left, with abundant hair done in waves, tied at a bun in the back, and with tresses falling down behind her neck. She has two ribbons, one of which is inscribed LIBERTY and touches her forehead, the other of which contains a symmetrical leaf pattern. The inscription E PLURIBUS UNUM is around the border, and the date 1878 is below, the latter curved to match the border.
Reverse Design: The reverse design is also similar to that used on quarter eagle, but here in enlarged form and with inscriptions relating to the half eagle. What differentiates Judd-1568a from Judd-1568 is that it is from a different die with no pellets between the legend and denomination. First identified by Harry Bass.
From the Bass sale description: "A splendid specimen, and a rarity as well. Perhaps a dozen examples can be accounted for.
"Technical Aspects: Weight: 70.7 grains. Diameter: 25.4 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: The reverse die does not represent the same die as P-1758 [J-1568] with periods added but, instead, is a different die, with some different characteristics of alignment, etc. (evident, for example, at the LL of DOLLARS) which on the present piece are parallel at the bottom, but which on the preceding piece the second L is tilted left; other differences could be described. The reason for having two similar dies is not known.
"Harry W. Bass, Jr. Notes: This variety, without pellets, was unidentified by Judd in his reference. The discovery is credited to Harry Bass." Pop 1; The only example graded at NGC Non Cameo.
Estimated Value $8,000 - 10,000.
Ex: Bass Collection Lot 1156; earlier in Stack's sale of the DiBello Collection, May 14, 1970, Lot 488.
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| Realized $11,500 |
