Lot 5076
1799 B-4, BB-153 Irregular Date 15 Stars Rarity 4. PCGS graded AU-53. Subset of PCGS # 6879. In a new secure plus holder. Condition Census. Blundered die. 15 stars; the two extra stars are identifiable only by points emanating from the bottom of clouds. Clouds 1 and 8 are oversized to hide the blunder. The stars are arranged in arcs as 5-6-2, rather than 6-5-2. Far right edge of A is over cloud 3.
A satiny matte-like specimen with resilient underlying luster in the devices and around the stars and legends; some faint toning highlights but mainly the color is light to medium "old silver", or shall we say dove gray for those with an avian bent to their descriptors. From center to periphery, the coin is generally medium well struck with some ordinary weakness at the hair waves and on the eagle and shield.
Estimates suggest there are 76 to 200 examples of 1799 BB-153 extant today, placing it in the medium range of availability within varieties of this year. Most survivors are in grades up through VF, although EF examples come on the market at intervals. In AU or Mint State, however, BB-153 is a great rarity. The blundered reverse die feature lends interest and value. Pop 1; none finer at PCGS for the variety (PCGS # 40062) .
Estimated Value $12,000-UP.
The Dr. Hesselgesser Collection.
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| Realized $13,800 |
