5194

[L#5194] 1798 $5 LG8 13-STAR REV NGC MS61

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:4,250.00 USD Estimated At:17,000.00 - 20,000.00 USD
[L#5194] 1798 $5 LG8 13-STAR REV NGC MS61
The Philadelphia Mint seemed to be operating in a state of disarray during the first few years, if the half eagles are any reflection of their operating approach. Just observe the changes taking place; with Tennessee affixed to the Union on June 1, 1796, obverse dies needed 16 stars crammed onto the half eagle, up from 15 used in 1795-96. When 1798 rolled around, the star counts continued to show a variety on silver dollars (1798s are known with 15 obverse stars and a small eagle reverse as well as a 13 star obverse with a small eagle reverse). However, on half eagles, all 1798 obverses finally settled on 13 stars (although one reverse is known displaying 14 stars, no doubt an engraving error).

This frosty Mint State has plenty of eye appeal for an early 1798 issue, the color warm golden in hue; there are some light adjustment marks across the face and hair in the center.