1795 $5 Large Eagle, BD-15, High R.5, AU53 PCGS....

Description

1795 Capped Bust Right Half Eagle, AU53
Rare Heraldic Eagle Reverse
BD-15 Variety

1795 $5 Large Eagle, BD-15, High R.5, AU53 PCGS. Bass-Dannreuther Die State b/c, displaying branching die cracks on the lower reverse. The 1795 Heraldic Eagle (or Large Eagle) five dollar gold pieces were all struck in mid-to-late 1797 or possibly in 1798. The issue was certainly struck after the 1797 BD-5 coins according to the Bass-Dannreuther reference, but the exact striking sequence is unknown. Perhaps as many as 500 to 1,000 pieces were produced of the BD-15 die pair, but only 30 to 35 coins are estimated to survive.

The date is recut, most obviously on the 1(7)95. The 9 is positioned lower than the other numerals. On the reverse, the A of AMERICA is diagnostic, sitting on wing feather 4 unlike any other 1795 Large Eagle variety. Multiple die breaks are seen through and around the eagle's tail. The obverse die state is confirmed by a lengthy crack that starts at the edge near star 10 and proceeds down through the hat, hair, and to the neck.

No 1795 Large Eagle fives appear at auction with any frequency, although the occasional opportunity does arise. When it comes, the chances are it will be an offering of the BD-15 variety to be pursued not only by date and variety collectors, but also by those who need a 1795 example for type.

Sharp detail remains throughout the surfaces of this appealing, green-gold coin. The fields display prooflike reflectivity in sheltered areas -- especially on the margins surrounding the stars and legend. Liberty's cap and hair strands are boldly detailed. The eagle shows a touch of the usual weakness at the head, neck, and scroll center. The wings and wingtips, shield, and talons are crisp and frosted. The fields and devices show only minor abrasions commensurate with the About Uncirculated designation. Early gold specialists of all disciplines will be on high alert when this attractive lot is called.
Ex: Robert Hilt, Liberty USA Collection / FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/2015), lot 4277, as AU53 NGC, brought $76,375; Central States Signature (Heritage, 5/2016), lot 4775, realized $64,625.

Coin Index Numbers: (Variety PCGS# 519869, Base PCGS# 8075, Greysheet# 198181)

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.

View Certification Details from PCGS