Lot 1520
1796 $10 Capped Bust. PCGS graded MS-62. Boldly struck on a slightly porous planchet with partial reflective surfaces. Glancing over the surfaces, we see impressive soft, smooth luster that radiates its way through the somewhat delicately toned overlay of even light green-gold toning. We look up and down this coin, from side to side and on obverse and reverse, and what do we see? A very pleasing specimen, unsullied and bold. With just the barest hint of weakness near the top portion of the reverse (eagle's neck feathers, and one leg). No contact marks to speak of, and the most saturated toning seems to be confined to the immediate areas around the main design and legends; the coin is remarkably mark-free. This specimen shows every bit of detail on Liberty's profile, and has simply outstanding beauty for a coin from this decade. Very atypical, its visual appeal is far above average. It is far better looking than its grade might suggest, and certainly only a few eagles from this early scarce issue could be considered prettier. A charming specimen of this significant Capped Bust, Small Eagle rarity. Be a sportsman and give it a big bid! Only 4,146 minted. Pop 3; 2 finer in 63. (PCGS # 8554) .
Historic note: Just one die variety is known for the 1796 capped bust eagle. The obverse stars total 16, reflecting Tennessee's admittance as a new state, arranged 8 + 8. LIBERTY is positioned higher on the obverse than on the 1795 varieties, starting from the peak of Liberty's cap (farther left than on the 1795 coin) and ending adjacent her forelocks. The palm branch on the reverse now bears 11 leaves instead of 13 or nine as in 1795. The mintage is 4,146.
Estimated Value $150,000 - 160,000.
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| Realized $161,000 |
