Lot 871
1815. 5 over 2 Sharpness of AU-55. We note a moderate old scratch in the left obverse field. Nice light blue toning. Popular date. A high degree of detail distinguishes the medium silver gray surfaces from others of the date which are less original even though in technically similar grade. Collectors familiar with the series will recognize this difference at once and will especially note the sharp cap, hair curls, and drapery clasp on the obverse. The reverse, for its part, continues the bold attraction. Everything on this side shows its finer detail. A desirable Key date, even in light of the obverse mark.
On January 11, 1816, a fire in the rear building of the Mint damaged rolling and cutting apparatus sufficiently to make any further coinage of gold or silver impossible until extensive repairs could be made.
Regarding the damage to the rolling and cutting apparatus, while this affected the Mint planchet preparation process, the real reason for lack of half dollar coinage after 1815 was lack of deposits. The War of 1812 had officially ended on December 24, 1814, but news of this was not fully disseminated until well into 1815 (the Battle of New Orleans, showcasing the heroism of Andrew Jackson, took place in January 1815 after the war had ended). The commerce of Europe remained in turmoil, affected not only by the aftermath of the War of 1812, but also the recent wider-ranging Napoleonic Wars (PCGS # 6108) .
Estimated Value $2,500 - 3,000.
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| Realized $7,344 |
