1798/7 $10 9x4 Stars XF40 PCGS....

Description

Visually Pleasing XF 1798/7 Eagle, BD-1

1798/7 $10 9x4 Stars XF40 PCGS. BD-1, High R.4. BD Die State c/b. The only early gold issue, regardless of denomination, bearing the 9+4 star arrangement. The odd layout of the obverse devices, together with the bold overdate, is a testimonial to the fact that our infant first Mint was more concerned with quantity than quality. Someone at the Mint must have been displeased with the layout of BD-1 as BD-2--and all subsequent eagles--have a more balanced design. Collectors today, however, are thankful for such quirkiness as it adds to the intrigue and charm of early American coinage issues. Of course few will ever have the chance of owning this particular variety, as fewer than 100 coins are believed to be extant in all grades. In fact, PCGS has certified a mere 33 pieces as of (8/08) and the population at NGC is slightly lower. Considering that only 300 to 842 BD-1 tens were struck (per the Bass-Dannreuther reference), the low population today is not at all surprising.
Straw-gold fields are framed by lovely russet patination that clings heavily to the devices on both sides of this early ten. At first glance the details are what one would expect to find on a piece grading finer, although the conservative designation by PCGS, all factors considered, is accurate. Not affecting the grade, but mentioned for the sake of completeness, are minor adjustment marks observed on the eagle's left wing. Overall, the current offering is a pleasant example of a scarce--and by some measures, rare--early ten dollar gold piece struck when George Washington was still alive.(Registry values: P7)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# BFYR, PCGS# 8560, Greysheet# 9354)

Weight: 17.50 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