Lot 1455
1811. Small 5. PCGS graded AU-55 PQ. CAC Approved. Well struck and untoned. In 1807, following the coinage of some of the old-style pieces, John Reich redesigned the half eagle. The new style is the forerunner of that adopted a year later for the quarter eagle. The obverse depicts Liberty facing left, wearing a cloth cap inscribed LIBERTY, with seven stars to the left and six to the right. The last star on the right has a small chip out of one point (the one nearest the rim dentils).
The reverse shows an eagle perched on a palm branch, holding three arrows, with the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM on a ribbon or band above. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, 5 D. surrounds.
This new format was continued through 1812. The brief span of this design yielded a coinage estimated at 399,013 pieces.
Although there are some scarce die varieties within the 1807-1812 years, there are no rare dates. The type set collector can choose from virtually any date desired. Specimens are available in all grades, with Very Fine to AU coins appearing on the market with some frequency (relatively speaking, of course). Mint State examples are offered now and then and, if choice in appearance, are highly prized. These typically have frosty rather than prooflike surfaces (PCGS # 8109) .
Estimated Value $7,000 - 8,000.
The William H & Beuelaress K. Helem Collection.
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| Realized $10,925 |
