1809/8 $5 MS65 NGC. Breen-6458, BD-1, High R.3....

Description

1809 BD-1 Half Eagle, MS65
Tied for Finest at NGC

1809/8 $5 MS65 NGC. Breen-6458, BD-1, High R.3. Bass-Dannreuther Die State b/b. The only die pair known for the 1809 half eagles is the BD-1 that is usually described as an 1809 over 8. There is clearly something under the 9 in the die, although the actual errant figure is sometimes debated. It might be an 8, or possibly a 9, or perhaps something else.
In Early U.S. Gold Coin Varieties A Study of Die States, 1795-1834, John Dannreuther writes:

"Bass owned two examples of this date/variety. He seems to have doubted the overdate status of this variety. The author also doubts the overdate status of this example and believes that it may only be a misplaced 9."

The cataloger agrees with Bass and Dannreuther that this is not an overdate. Its uncertain status is little cause for concern, as it is a single-variety issue, and marginally the scarcest date of the short Capped Bust Left design type. Only about 250 examples are known in all grades. This piece is also one of just nine MS65 NGC coins with none finer (11/11), and it is only the fourth MS65 to appear in any of our sales since 1993.
We are unable to trace a provenance for this piece, although it is different than the Garrett, Eliasberg, or Bass coins. Both sides are sharply defined with frosty yellow luster showing distinct green toning and peripheral rose highlights. A few grade-consistent marks are evident although none are detracting. A lovely example for a specialized collection, or to represent John Reich's design in a type set.(Registry values: P2)

Coin Index Numbers: (PCGS# 8104, Greysheet# 8875)

Weight: 8.75 grams

Metal: 91.67% Gold, 8.33% Copper

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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