Lot 2847
1806 $5 Capped Bust. NGC graded AU-58. Mostly untoned. 54,417 minted. A highly lustrous AU with a nuance of brilliant surface on both sides, this being underpinned by full frost around the stars and legends. Luster is retained within the devices as well. Struck from typically-sharp dies that imported all its fine detail, especially at the Liberty's hair and cop. The eagle, too is mostly sharp, barring a few vertical stripes in the shield and the left edge near the top where the shield overlaps the wing. Pop 41; 148 finer.
Students of history have heard about the trials and tribulations of the early days at the Philadelphia Mint. Congress nearly voted to close the facility in 1801, and only renewed the law authorizing its existence every five years through 1828, when its continuance was finally set in perpetuity.
Holding an 1806 gold half eagle in your hand brings to mind an era when Missouri was still a distant land with trappers and Indians dominating the landscape west of the Appalachians; Thomas Jefferson had only recently completed the Louisiana Purchase which brought Emperor Napoleon (the seller) much needed gold to fight his endless wars in Europe. Somehow, through wars and inflation and the fickle finger of Fate, this $5 gold piece has survived virtually unscathed. It will not be forgotten by today's appreciative collector.
Estimated Value $9,000 - 9,500.
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| Realized $10,063 |
