1809/8 $5 MS64+ PCGS. CAC. Breen-6458, BD-1, High R.3....

Description

1809/8 Half Eagle, BD-1, MS64+
Exceptional Preservation of Surfaces

1809/8 $5 MS64+ PCGS. CAC. Breen-6458, BD-1, High R.3. This appears to be an intermediate die state between an early version of b/b and c/c. The die crack for Obverse State b only goes through the first four stars, rather than the first seven, but it does extend to the point of the bust. The reverse does not show the crack from the edge to the final S in STATES to O(F) to the edge. Along with Harry Bass and John Dannreuther, we also doubt the overdate status of this issue. An earlier die state in high grade would be needed to positively confirm it as an overdate. Such a coin should show a trace in the exergue above of the upper loop of the 8 above the 9, since there is something, presumably the bottom loop of an 8 or 9 in the lower loop of the 9 in the date. This coin, like the coin in the Bass core collection, shows die chatter on the reverse.
Only one variety is known of this date. The mintage is estimated between 20,000 and 33,875 pieces, quite a remarkable run to show such minimal cracking of the dies. Only 250 to 325 pieces are known today in all grades. There is remarkable distribution of the 1809 five in high grades from AU through MS64 with a couple of dozen examples in most grades. This may suggest that this date was held by banks as currency backing; after all, the half eagle was considered the workhorse denomination among gold coins produced by the Mint. As one might imagine, there are very few Plus coins certified at the MS64 level. This is a lovely example that has bright, frosted mint luster. There are very few marks or luster grazes that separate this coin from a Gem. Each side has just the slightest tinge of reddish patina, an indication of originality and careful preservation. The strike is complete throughout with full radials on the stars, sharp hair curls, and fully brought up feathers on the eagle. An exceptional early gold type coin. Population: 3 in 64+, 5 finer (11/11).(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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