1796 $10 BD-1, R.4, AU53 PCGS. Bass-Dannreuther Die State c/b. A clash mark from the bust truncation bridges the uppe...

Description

1796 Ten Dollar Gold, AU53
BD-1, Sole Variety for the Year

1796 $10 BD-1, R.4, AU53 PCGS. Bass-Dannreuther Die State c/b. A clash mark from the bust truncation bridges the upper leaves of the wreath and a vertical die crack below E of LIBERTY extends into the cap folds. The 1796 Draped Bust, Small Eagle tens were struck from a single die pair with 4,146-piece reported mintage. This coin's die state is earlier than a later die state with additional obverse and reverse die cracks, indicating there was a die remarriage struck sometime after the 1797 Small Eagle coins or possibly even later. The stars are arranged 8x8 with the cap peak nestled closely to L and I of LIBERTY, giving the 1796 eagle a more balanced and artistic appearance than of the other early ten dollar issues. John Dannreuther estimates between 125 and 175 examples survive in all grades combined, making the 1796 issue considerably scarcer the inaugural 1795 eagle.
     This coin is partially prooflike at the margins and within the fields for a flashy look that pleases the eye. Greenish-gold color allows faint orange accents and hints of olive at the interiors. A tiny planchet flake exists below the E of LIBERTY some swirling field hairlines require a loupe to view. Light adjustment marks were not entirely eliminated by the strong strike, but they are hidden within the hair in addition to a couple of short marks angling up above the date area. On the Small Eagle reverse, the strike weakens a bit at the central breast feathers and at the eagle's leg, perhaps enhanced by a touch of circulation wear. All else looks extra-crisp for the AU53 grade. Advanced gold type collectors and ten dollar gold specialists alike would be well advised to take full advantage of the bidding opportunity that this About Uncirculated lot presents. PCGS Population: 13 in 53 (1 in 53+), 53 finer (4/26).

Coin Index Numbers: (Variety PCGS# 45715, Base PCGS# 8554, Greysheet# 393213)

Weight: 17.50 grams

Metal: Gold

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