Lot 1425
A Classic Rarity, the 1795 Nine Leaf Reverse in VF-35. PCGS graded VF-35. A classic American rarity! Long known as the rarest of the major varieties of the Capped Bust series, the nine leaf reverse deserves its coveted status. Breen notes that the discovery coin was held by Granberg, Woodin, Newcomer piece in Very Fine, possibly this coin (?). Last year an excellent new reference work was published by die variety collector Anthony Taraszka, which enumerates at least 15 examples of this die variety known. This particular coin is probably not listed, as it grades just below the EF and above grades enumerated in Taraszka's list.
Surfaces show moderate handling marks, as normal for this grade, but none are deep or offensive. A touch of purplish tones have settled in near the devices and lettering. The obverse has a couple of minor rim marks above LIBERTY, and the reverse can be identified by a shallow scrape under the left wing of the eagle and a small planchet pit below the right side of the branch. Breen notes that most nine leaf coins show "flan chips" as seen below the palm branch here, perhaps from something adhering to the die during striking.
The nine leaf reverse die is known to always display several areas of die sinking, in the field below the palm branch, in the upper half of the first T of STATES, and at the first A of AMERICA (on the lower right foot of that letter). As to why this die only has nine leaves, probably the engraver simply forgot, and wasn't paying attention to the number of leaves when engraving the die.
Since being listed in the Guide Book many years ago, few have turned up, confirming its status as a great rarity. While other fads may come and go, classics like this 1795 eagle will never go out of style.
|
| |
| Unsold |
