1812 $5 MS(PCGS#8112)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

拍卖行

Stack's Bowers

批号

2016

等级

MS65

价格

642,665

详细说明

BD Die State c/a. This Gem will be right at home in the finest type set or advanced early gold collection. Satiny and lustrous yellow gold surfaces are enhanced with blushes of iridescent rose toning that are largely confined to the peripheries. Sharply struck and expertly preserved. Seldom do we offer a Capped Bust Left half eagle of any date or die marriage that is as technically sound and aesthetically pleasing as this delightful 1812.<p>On June 18, 1812, President James Madison declared war on the United Kingdom in response to impressment of American sailors and interference in America's expansion westward, thus precipitating an armed conflict that would last the next two and a half years. In the midst of this turmoil, business carried on as usual at the Philadelphia Mint in the opening year of the War of 1812. Gold coins remained in demand for foreign trade and production did not slow. The reported mintage for all 1812 half eagle varieties is 58,087 pieces, but this is likely low. Work to extend die life seems to have paid off dividends as the entire mintage of at least 58,087 pieces was accomplished using only one obverse and two reverse dies. The significantly scarcer of the two pairings, the BD-2 variety can be recognized by the close 5D. denomination indicator on the reverse, the only use for this die. It has been estimated that 10,000 to 15,000 coins were struck with this combination, and with a general survival rate of less than 1%, this leaves fewer than 100 examples in all levels of preservation. Fortunately for admirers of early American gold coinage, the 1812 half eagles are among the most available of the Capped Bust series in Mint State and are generally very well struck, making the issue a prime candidate for inclusion in a top grade type set. Offered is a glorious example from the last issue of the Capped Bust half eagle series and one deserving of a place of honor in the finest cabinet.