Early Half Eagles
1809/8 $5 BD-1, High R.3, MS61 PCGS. Bass-Dannreuther Die State b/b. A nominal mintage of 33,875 Capped Bust Left half eagles was accomplished in 1809, with a single die variety known for the date. The "1809/8" half eagle is traditionally considered an overdate, but both Harry Bass and John Dannreuther believe the undertype below the final digit in the date may just be an errant 9. The reverse die was used previously to strike the BD-4 variety of 1808. The 1809/8 has a surviving population of 250-325 examples in all grades, making it elusive as a date, but fairly available in the context of early gold varieties.
The present coin is an impressive Mint State example, with sharply detailed design elements and some faint peripheral die cracks on the obverse. Some dramatic clash marks are evident on the reverse, but both sides are lightly marked for the grade. The pleasing orange-gold surfaces retain much of their original mint luster.
HID02901242017