1805 Half Eagle (BD-2, R-4) NGC MS61 (Richmond Collection). A splendid choice uncirculated survivor of this rare early half eagle. A total of 33,183 were produced with this date, of which an approximate 6,000 to 8,000 were of the present variety.

The present coin, pedigreed to the famous Richmond collection, is close to the latest use of the soon terminal obverse die. Several interesting die cracks show, one in particular through the 0 in the date up through the portrait of Liberty. Another one shows from the back of the hair down to the dentils. A few tiny cracks are not yet visible, which would make this die soon to be retired.

The reverse die, later used for several other varieties of 1805 and 1806 half eagles was already heavily clashed when this coin was made. Clash marks are notably seen on the shield, and to the right of it.

Completely original and a truly uncirculated coin. This is a splendid mint-state example of this coin which has survived for more than 200 years in wonderful condition. Sun-yellow gold shows on very lustrous surfaces, no major marks are distracting from the gorgeous originality of this early half eagle.

For more information about this coin. Click Here