1800 Half Eagle (1800 $5) (BD-5, R-3+) PCGS AU58 (Ex Bass). Beautiful early half eagle which was a part of the famous Bass Collection. The obverse die was previously used to strike several different varieties, and is easily identified by a blunt 1 in the date. This is the last use of this die, as a bisecting die crack developed while in use. This is an earlier obverse die state, with no die cracks yet visible.

The reverse die was only used for this variety, and is easily identified by the star touching the back of the eagles head. Soon after striking, die cracks developed and the reverse die state soon became terminal. In their reference, Bass-Dannreuther estimate a total mintage of 7,500 to 12,500 coins from these dies, which would mean the majority of 1800 half eagles were struck using this die combination. The remaining examples of this date also seem to indicate this.

The present coin once belonged to the famous collection of Harry W. Bass Jr. In the core collection, most of the varieties he owned still remain, with the balance being sold over several famous auctions in the 1990s. Due to an oversight however, this particular die variety was not saved, and thus this is your chance to obtain a coin from this famous collection.

Prooflike fields, especially so on the reverse are an indication of this early die state. The obverse die was most likely also polished before being put into use again. Only the slightest friction on the highest points keeps this coin out of a mint-state holder. However, the grading companies do not always limit coins on that point, and this coin looks just as good as many mint-state pieces. Slight adjustment marks, as made, are seen on the obverse that is remarkably mark-free.

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