LOT Superior Galleries  /  Santa Clara Elite Coin Auction  / 

714

Lot 714 - 1796 Draped Bust Half Dime. 6 over 5 NGC MS60

Currency:USD Category:Everything Else / Other Start Price:11,000.00 USD Estimated At:22,000.00 - 25,000.00 USD
Lot 714 - 1796 Draped Bust Half Dime. 6 over 5 NGC MS60
1796 Draped Bust Half Dime. 6 over 5. V-2, LM-2. Rarity-6. There are two known die marriages for this first-year issue in the Draped Bust, Small Eagle half dime series. V-1 has the "Normal Date," is the most frequently encountered in today's market. V-2 carries an R-6 rating in the book Federal Half Dimes: 1792-1837 by Russell J. Logan and John W. McCloskey. The authors believe that examples of the latter variety are scarce-to-rare in all grades, with most being heavily abraded. They also mention a Mint State 61 example that was sold as lot 895 in our Bowers' May 1996 sale of the Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection as possibly the finest seen for the V-2 die marriage.

Like the Eliasberg example, this handsome Mint State 1796/5 V-2 Half Dime easily qualifies as Condition Census. Both sides are semi-Prooflike in finish with hints of reflection unmistakable in the fields as the surfaces incline into a light source. The strike on the main device is well centered with good clarity between the denticles and over the peripheral devices. The centers, as usual, are softly defined over the reverse eagle. There is some emerging definition over the recessed features of Liberty's hair and the eagle's wings. Any abrasions are small in size and fortunately inconspicuous, with blushes of attractive light tan to "old silver" iridescence boosting the eye appeal. This is an immeasurably important coin that would serve as a centerpiece in even the most advanced collection of early U.S. silver.

Several moderate-size adjustment marks (as made) are seen through the central reverse. NGC serial #1650296-006. NGC Census: 1; 5 finer. (#4255)<p><i>Ex: Price.</i>
Sign In to Bookmark Lot