Lot 1603
1805 Draped Bust Half Dime. NGC graded AU-55. Only one die marriage is known for this rare, early half dime, representing 75-100 examples, most of which are VF or less. This is one of the finest pieces known and has represented this date in two of the finest collections formed in the last hundred years. The 1805 is generally considered the second scarcest issue of this short-lived type, and is similar in rarity to the 1801. One of the striking characteristics of the 1805 is that localized weakness is seen on all specimens. On this coin, the bust is completely flat and the O in OF is not visible. The gray-rose surfaces show a darker patch of color on the left side of the obverse, and there are a few light abrasions noted on each side. Of the 1805 half dimes that have been certified, only six have been graded higher than this piece, and only one is better than AU-58 (the astounding coin owned by Kenny Goldman that is justifiably certified MS-64 and currently offered for sale for $750,000). Pop of 2 with 2 in AU-58 as best by NGC.
Estimated Value $15,000 - 20,000.
LM1 ex Eliasberg/Price.
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