1807 50C Bearded Goddess, O-111b MS(PCGS#39358)

The Regency Auction 28

拍卖行

Legend Rare Coin Auctions

批号

1

等级

AU53

价格

404,229

详细说明

Ex Link, as noted on holder. Tied for second FINEST graded, and this one is exceptionally CHOICE for the grade, and boasts a one of the great pedigrees in American numismatics, NORWEB. This was the first die of the new John Reich Capped Bust design. The obverse die cracked early on, with a bold crack forming from Liberty's chin to bust, thus the colorful moniker, the Bearded Goddess. As the dies continued to be used, the crack became larger, branching out into the headband at the bottom of the cap. The present example has about as big a die break as this cataloger has ever seen; it started at the chin to the bust, then continued up through the mouth, nostril, eye, hairline, then forking. One end goes diagonally through the E in LIBERTY, the other ends at the base of the I. At the top of the bust, the die break appears as a blob, then continues into the drapery and to the field in front of the 1. An additional die crack links all the stars on the left side. With such an advanced state, it is possible this one was among the last one struck before the die was rendered unserviceable. While technically a die state, it has long been considered a major "Red Book" variety. The coin itself is a wonderful example of this tough R-5 variety. Both sides display sharply struck and boldly defined details. A delicate golden iridescent tone blends well with the russet-tan and olive-gray tone that is evenly and delicately laid across the smooth, problem free surfaces. The eye appeal is incredible and totally original. We cannot find a more recent auction appearance than its November 1988 appearance in Part III of the Norweb Collection. It was purchased from "Alexander" by Albert Fairchild Holden prior to 1913. PCGS 4, NGC 2, CAC 1 (not listed on the population report). There have been no AU53 O-111b's ever sold in auction graded by PCGS. A PCGS AU50 recently sold in the 2017 Central States auction for $36,425. Only two AU55s have graded finer at PCGS, neither of which have ever sold in auction. If you are a serious collector of Bust halves, this Bearded Goddess is a "must own!" Indeed, this is one of the cataloger's favorite coins in the Konstantine Set! We anticipate very strong bidding when this beauty crosses the block--good luck. Cert. Number 28524057 PCGS # 39357