1800
Half Eagle (BD-4, R-4) PCGS AU58 CAC. A variety easily
identified by the terminal state of the reverse die.
Only one variety is known that was made using this reverse
die, which developed die cracks and later two cuds near
the periphery.
The obverse die was used the strike
the majority of 1800 half eagles, and is easily identified
by the missing serif of the 1 in the date. The dies
clashed several times during its usage, and several
clash marks are seen on the present coin.
The reverse die is the last time it
was used, and the terminal die state of the die. A cud
has developed over NIT in UNITED, and a second cud can
be seen developing over the first T in STATES. The M
in AMERICA is strongly repunched, still evident on the
present coin. Some consider this to be a large over
small M, although this theory is still disputed.
Stickered by CAC for exceptional quality,
we can absolutely agree with this. Fully struck with
lustrous surfaces, only the slightest luster breaks
on the highest points keep this coin out of a mint state
holder. Presumably in several old-time collections,
it can be assumed that this friction comes from handling
by collectors, and not from actual circulation. A rare
opportunity to acquire a premium quality, over 200 year
old gold coin!
