1808/7 Half Eagle - 1808/7 $5 (BD-4, R-4+) NGC MS61. A splendid uncirculated example of this popular overdate, listed in the red book. Very scarce, with the present specimen being the more available of two overdates of this year, the other only with some minor differences. Scarce in all grades, these coins have become increasingly difficult to find in uncirculated condition, such as the coin we offer here. The present specimen is an early die state of this variety, without the die cracks that are frequently encountered on other specimens.

An interesting feature of this variety is the presence of a small dot, in the center of the obverse die. This is visible on all known examples of the BD-2 die marriage, and is one of the easiest identification markers for this die. Unlike centering dots, which are usually raised, it is incuse, and its purpose is unknown. Perhaps it was just an accident while the die was made that caused it, or maybe it was done with another intention we don’t know about. Whatever it is, for sure it is a very interesting identification marker that happens to be very curious as well.

This is a popular variety and the present offering represents a premium quality coin for this variety. The overdate is bold, and the overall eye-appeal is very good. Some moderate marks are noted on both sides, consistent with the grade and nearly all design elements are brought up by the relative good strike. Light golden color is visible on both sides, with some darker areas in the protected areas. Great coin for an advanced type or date set, with a dozen examples that have been graded finer, a number certainly influenced by some resubmissions of the same coin.