Lot 1720
1794. Overton-102, Rarity-7. The Eliasberg Coin. . O-102. PCGS graded Fine-15. One of the truly rare coins of this important 1794 die variety collection. This one turned up in the Louis Eliasberg Collection sold by Bowers and Merena in April 1997. The Bust Half dollar condition census lists one coin that grades EF-40 of this variety, then the census drops to F-12 with two specimens at that grade. This one sneaks in just ahead at Fine-15 and stands alone as the second finest known of the die variety. Outstanding quality for a 1794 half, this one has lovely antique grayish brown on the obverse, a bit darker around the devices and lettering, the reverse with faint bluish and amber tones deepest near the devices. The obverse has some trivial adjustment marks, mostly on the right side running horizontally. As to the reverse, the fields and surfaces are clean and natural appearing. One tiny planchet impurity is noted at the end of the wreath on the upper right side, through the three leaves above the right wing of the eagle. A strong glass will note faint scratches but they are seen on every coin of this era in circulated grades. An excellent coin for the grade, and a foremost rarity in this state of preservation. This is the rarest collectible variety of the 1794s, the others (Per Sheridan Downey) like O-108 (4 known), O-109 (unique), O-110 (five known) and O-111 unique being rarer.
Estimated Value $10,000-UP.
From Bowers and Merena's Eliasberg Sale II, 4/97, lot 1661, and through various intermediaries.
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| Realized $14,950 |
