5316

1797 H10C 15 Stars MS62 NGC. LM-1, V-2, R.3. In J

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:1.00 USD Estimated At:1.00 - 1,000,000.00 USD
1797 H10C 15 Stars MS62 NGC. LM-1, V-2, R.3. In J
<B>1797<H10C> 15 Stars MS62 NGC.</B></I> LM-1, V-2, R.3. In June 1796, Tennessee was admitted as the 16th state in our young nation. It is generally accepted that coinage dies with 15 stars were produced prior to that month, and those with 16 stars after that month. Once Mint officials determined that they could not add additional stars, later dies were produced with 13 stars representing the original 13 states. Walter Breen often stated that those 1797-dated dies with only 15 stars were produced from dies that were actually made early in 1796, only without the final date digit. Although there is no documentary evidence to prove his theory, it may be that none is needed. This example has a "perfect" first seven, the top horizontal stroke having upper and lower vertical serifs, while the final digit 7 is imperfect, lacking its upper left serif. The entire shape of these two digits is different, showing they were produced from two different punches.<BR> This is a lovely Mint State example withy full luster and slightly prooflike fields. A few light scratches and abrasions have prevented a higher grade. The surfaces have light ivory color with amber and steel toning. Perfect obverse and reverse dies.