1796 50C

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Sold on Aug 9, 2001 for:

$50,600.00 Bid Source: Live: Floor bidder

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Legendary 1796 Draped Bust Half Dollar, 15 Stars

1796 50C 15 Stars AU55 PCGS. O-101, R.5. The 2001 Guide Book states that approximately 3,918 half dollars dated 1796 and 1797 were produced. These are the only coins of this denomination that display Robert Scot's Draped Bust, Small Eagle design. There are two distinct varieties of the 1796-dated issue: one with 15 stars on the obverse and the other with 16 stars. The 15 star obverse (O-101) was prepared before Tennessee's admission into the Union as the 16th state on June 1, 1796. Breen (1988) believes that the 60 half dollars that the Philadelphia Mint delivered to the Bank of the United States on February 28, 1797, and some of the 874 pieces delivered on March 21 of the same year, were produced from the 1796-dated obverse die with 15 stars. No coins of this type were produced in 1796.
The limited number of examples produced explains the rarity of both the 1796 and 1797 Draped Bust, Small Eagle half dollars. As representatives of a low mintage, two-year type, survivors command strong prices from the numerous type collectors who require an example for their collections. We have not offered a Choice AU1796 15 Stars half dollar in the last 10 years, and, since NGC and PCGS report only five coins graded AU55-58 (5/01), it will certainly be many years before we offer another example of similar quality. This coin is boldly defined in most areas, only the slightest softness of detail is noted over some of the obverse stars and the reverse portrait. Some adjustment marks (as produced) are also noted in the latter area, but these are light and not at all distracting. Pedigree concerns compel us to mention a small abrasion in the obverse field inside star 2, but the remaining distractions are small and consistent with the grade. An even blanket of charcoal-gray toning overlays both sides with some brighter undertones evident at certain angles. One of the most important half dollar offerings in this sale, and a coin that is sure to attract strong bids.
From the Richard Genaitis Collection.

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 24E8, PCGS# 6057, Greysheet# 6124)

Weight: 13.48 grams

Metal: 89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper

View all of [The Richard Genaitis Collection, Part 1 ]

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