Lot 3380
1843 $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-65. Well struck and probably the finest known. Although more than 600,000 pieces were struck of this issue, it is conditionally elusive in all strict Mint State grades and downright rare in Gem Mint State 65 (see statistics below). This is the finest 1843 we have offered in at least ten years. The striking details are sharp throughout and the luster is bright and frosted. Lightly abraded, the only mark of any note is a small tick on the cheek of Liberty to the right of, and below, the eye -- and that is just barely visible without a glass. Pop 1; finest graded at either service.
The Liberty Head half eagle coinage (considering the present No Motto Type and the following Type with motto IN GOD WE TRUST added) has a unique distinction not accorded any other United States coin type or denomination. Specimens were struck from time to time in each of the seven different United States mints: Philadelphia, Carson City, Charlotte, Dahlonega, Denver, New Orleans, and San Francisco.
The type set collector will have no problem acquiring one of the more plentiful Philadelphia Mint dates in any desired grade from Very Fine through AU, with a typical grade encountered being Very Fine to Extremely Fine. Uncirculated pieces are scarce, and Gem Uncirculated coins such as this Finest Certified specimen are very rare.
Estimated Value $24,000 - 26,000.
|
| |
| Realized $25,300 |
