Lot 2125
1839-D. NGC graded AU-58. Only 18,939 struck. Light golden toning. The 1839-D half eagle is a distinct one-year type coin. The odd thing is, few collectors, even advanced ones, recognize it as such. It features Gobrecht's Liberty Head design but with the mintmark on the obverse. The Liberty Head motif varied significantly from the one done by William Kneass (1834-38); and it varies from 1840-66 issues which have their mintmark (if any) on the reverse. The 1839-D is much scarcer than the 1838-D first year of issue at the Dahlonega Mint. This is especially so in upper grades. There may be as many as 125 to 150 known of the 1839-D Half Eagle, with 25 to 30 in AU and another five to seven in Mint condition.
All will concur that the coin is well struck. Residual luster glints at the stars and legends. More luster can be found within the hair curls and eagle plumage. The quality of the planchet used on this 1839-D half eagle is very good. It shows none of the mint-made roughness seen on others. Furthermore, this handsome piece has a smooth exterior in all areas which is improved by the absence of heavy circulation marks, there are none, only light surface abrasions.
In summation, we feel this is one of the most difficult Dahlonega half eagles; and to find one with good eye appeal as this original coin, well that gives it the edge over competing coins in the same grade. Pop 19; 5 finer, 2 in 61, 3 in 62 (PCGS # 8193) .
Estimated Value $11,000 - 12,000.
|
| |
| Realized $13,800 |
