1840-D $5 Small D MS61 NGC. Variety 4-C, ...

Description

1840-D Half Eagle, MS61
Very Scarce Small D, Variety 4-C

1840-D $5 Small D MS61 NGC. Variety 4-C, "very scarce" according to Doug Winter's new third edition (2013) of the Dahlonega reference. The mintmark is squat, shorter than on the Tall D variety, and the upright of the D is directly above the gap in the top of the V in FIVE. This piece shows the die break that most exhibit running from the fletchings through the inside curve of the D and the right side of the V to the dentils. The first three digits of the date were first punched too far right, then correct, and this coin boldly shows the remaining underdigits.

The 1840-D half eagle issue is important, as the design was modified slightly, and it is the first Dahlonega issue with mintmark moved to the reverse (it is on the obverse of the 1838-D and 1839-D). The present MS61 example would be at the lower end of the Condition Census that Winter presents, tied with an MS61 PCGS piece from the Auraria Collection. This coin offers far greater eye appeal than the grade might imply, the antique-gold surfaces showing great original "crust" despite a few small marks and luster grazes. Wispy die cracks run from the front of the forehead toward the rim, and from the rear of the hairbun through star 10 to the rim. NGC's Census for both varieties shows six in MS61 with four in MS62 and one in MS63, but duplications are almost certain, and most of those pieces are likely the more-common Large D, Variety 3-C (11/13).
From The Ole Miner's Collection.

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 25SG, PCGS# 8199, GSID# 8959)

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper
Weight: 8.36 grams
AGW: 0.24188oz

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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