1793 1/2 C, BN

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1793 Half Cent, Remarkable AU 55 Preservation

1793 1/2 C Bent Cap, Bunched Leaves AU 55 PCGS. B-2, C-2, R.3. The 1793 half cent holds an important place in U.S. coinage history. The first coin of this denomination to be produced by the Mint, this issue is also a coveted one-year type. Breen (Encyclopedia of United States Half Cents: 1793-1857) believes that the Philadelphia Mint prepared two obverse and three reverse dies for this issue between April and July, 1793. The obverse design was based on sketches prepared by David Rittenhouse, who in turn relied heavily on Augustin Dupre's attractive Libertas Americana medal of 1782. On July 20, the first 7,000 pieces were produced, followed by 24,934 coins on July 26, and a further 3,400 pieces on September 18. These deliveries totaled a mere 35,334 pieces.
The present variety is the second scarcest die marriage of this issue after B-1, C-1. Since Breen's (1983) Condition Census for B-2, C-2 includes three XF coins, the present Choice AU example easily qualifies for this important status. This is a remarkably appealing representative, and it is the finest 1793 half cent that we have offered in several years. Both sides are evenly toned in crimson-brown shades. The strike is both expertly centered and exceptionally bold. For accuracy, we note that the reverse is rotated several degrees clockwise in relation to the obverse. There are a few small abrasions on the obverse and green verdigris has gathered between some of the leaves in the reverse wreath, but we stress that the surfaces possess nearly unsurpassable eye appeal for the issue. A lovely coin that makes a significant contribution to the importance of this sale.
From the Bob Bisanz U.S. Type Set.

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 2222, PCGS# 1000, GSID# 429)

Metal: 100% Copper
Weight: 6.74 grams
Weight: 0.24oz
Mintage: 35,334

View Certification Details from PCGS