1799 $10 Large Stars Obverse MS63 PCGS....

Description

Splendid 1799 Large Stars Eagle, MS63

1799 $10 Large Stars Obverse MS63 PCGS. BD-10, R.3. Bass-Dannreuther Die State a/a. Traditionally, the 1799 Small Stars ten has been considered scarcer than the Large Stars variety of the same year. Recent research and empirical data sheds light on the relative nature of the two 1799 eagle sub-types--or does it? The important Bass-Dannreuther reference on early gold (2006) provides estimates, by variety, pertaining to mintage, extant population, and auction appearances (1990-2005). For the eight Small Star varieties, Bass and Dannreuther suggest a mintage of between 18,500 to 27,500 pieces, with 416 to 564 survivors, and 258 auction appearances. Regarding the two Large Star die marriages, the same authors estimate a mintage of between 13,250 and 18,750 coins, of which 314 to 418 are extant, with approximately 173 appearances at public sales. The above numbers indicate that the 1799 Large Star tens are scarcer in all categories than their Small Star counterparts. However, the PCGS Population Report documents a total of 121 Small Star coins in all grades compared to 435 certified Large Star examples (8/08). To complicate matters, the 2006 Garrett-Guth Encyclopedia of U.S. Gold Coins shows that 118 Small Star coins appeared at auction from 1991 to 2005 compared to 177 showings for the Large Star pieces, thus pointing to the Small Star coins as the less available of the two sub-types. So which version is scarcer?
Clearly one--or both--of the above references have put forth imperfect technical data regarding the 1799 eagles. Perhaps we can compromise and agree that both are of comparable rarity, especially considering that fewer than 500 pieces are believed to exist for either type. Of course when dealing with a high grade specimen such as current offering, the matter is less relevant and we simply focus on the splendor of such a fine survivor. Orange-gold coloration combines with vibrantly lustrous surfaces to define this Select Uncirculated beauty. Minor strike weakness is noted in the usual lower portion of the obverse and central area of the stars on the reverse. Light adjustment marks are observed on the lower stars and Liberty's bust, although the affect on the eye appeal of this magnificent offering is negligible.(Registry values: P1)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 2623, PCGS# 8562, GSID# 9345)

Metal: 91.67% Gold, 8.33% Copper
Weight: 17.50 grams
AGW: 0.57oz
Mintage: 37,449

Note for clients in the European Union: This lot is considered by the European Union to be “investment gold”. We believe that it meets the criteria established in Article 344(1), point (2) of Council Directive 2006/112/EC and thus should be exempt from import VAT regardless of the selling price. Any questions or concerns about VAT should be addressed to your accountant or local tax authority.

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