Lot 215
1795 Flowing Hair Half Dime. NGC graded MS-62. One of the very finest known of this very rare variety, this coin is probably represented by less than 30 known specimens in all grades. A few have been found in mint state, but certainly less than five. This particular coin has spectacular eye appeal, with satiny luster in the fields and the toning is a perfect light gray with blue and green highlights. Fully struck from a later die state, we note a bisecting crack on the obverse die from the first star through Liberty's head and out the rim through the left side of the Y, just grazing the upper serif. The devices are well struck throughout. Identifiable by a tiny mark on Liberty's shoulder where it joins her neck, above the 5 in the date, and a very light scrape in the hair on the second strand from her neck a couple of millimeters below her ear. Die file lines are noted on the reverse, and these were part of the die preparation process. No annoying adjustment marks or other detractions.
Simply a splendid coin that is a rare variety but may not bring much of a premium as such over a typical common type example. As rare as it is beautiful.
Estimated Value $9,500-UP.
No provenance included, but possibly the Holmes coin, and very similar to Stack's Alto coin, 10/91:558, but that was an earlier die state.
|
| |
| Unsold |
