Lot 3773
1820 $5 Capped Head. NGC graded MS-61. Attractively toned and boldly struck. The 1820 date is one of the more interesting years in the 1820s. Not as rare as others from this decade, the coin is nevertheless elusive with Bass-Dannreuther suggesting about one hundred examples known. (The mintage of 1820 half eagles, 263,806 coins, would seem to be an anomaly since it was never again approached during the 1820s.) There are, however, nine varieties of 1820 half eagle, explaining the large production figure.
The Square Base 2, Large Letters variety also isn't rare. However, with so many different dies used in this single year, this piece displays the smooth, shimmering frosty fields one would expect. The devices are also retain their original frost. One would be hard put to find a more truly snappy looking, sharp example of an early gold issue with not even a smidgen of softness on the eagle or shield. There are no objectionable abrasions on either side. All of which adds up to a coin with splendid eye appeal for the grade. An mint-original Capped Head Left half eagle. Pop 4; 40 finer.
Note: Large letters reverse style with defective Ts, each having a small notch at the right juncture of the foot and stand. An interesting characteristic shared with other reverse dies for this and other years through 1826.
Estimated Value $18,000 - 19,000.
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