1795 $5 Small Eagle (BD-3, R-3+) NGC AU-53 Presently offered here is a premium example of this rare early American gold coin issue. While it is usually considered to be the most available coin for the series, one should not forget that this is a rare series and that even the most available coin will be hard to find, especially in higher grades. The present specimen, which has shortly circulated but has remained in remarkable condition is completely original, a feature which has become rare on these low-mintage, heavily circulated gold coins. As such, even while not circulated it remains to be a rare offering for the devoted specialist or advanced type set collector.

An estimated 200 examples are known at most from this die pairing, which has the only use of this particular reverse die. The obverse is identified by stars 11 and 12, to the right, which touch the Y in LIBERTY. This obverse die was paired to three different reverses, where this was the second use. The reverse, which was only used on this variety is identified by a leaf touching U in UNITED, and the presence of four berries on the wreath that is in the beck of the eagle. Another identification marker is the touching of the wreath with the second S in STATES. The present specimen is an example of the latest die states for both dies for this variety, with the obverse lapped after it had clashed, and a die crack which is present above the E in UNITED.

Scarce in all grade, this is a relatively affordable representative of this scarce, and ideal for an advanced type set. These coins, seldom offered at coin shows or in dealers fixed price lists helped to build the United States to a wealthy nation. One has to remember that at the time that this coin was struck it was not yet twenty years of age, and had already survived a war and numerous crises. The present coin survived that at later times as well, and only has some minor wear on the highest points. Premium green-gold toning is seen, with some luster still visible in the protected areas. Despite its time in circulation there are no major marks that are worth to be mentioned, and the overall strike is sharp. This coin has been certified by NGC in a new holder.