1795 $5 Small Eagle MS(PCGS#8066)

Mid-Winter ANA2001 (Salt Lake City)

拍卖行

Superior Galleries

批号

798

等级

MS65

价格

2,450,440

详细说明

1795 Small Eagle. PCGS graded Mint State 65. Tied Finest Certified. A wonderful specimen that is clearly the title-holder for finest known, although there are also 5 others (all in NGC holders) in the population database, several having recently been bumped up from Mint State 64. Boldly struck throughout and perfect centering, it offers brilliant flashy prooflike reflection on both sides, while the eagle displays a lovely touch of cameo frost. The near absence of marks on this specimen adds immeasurably to its already superior aesthetic appeal and general attractiveness. Inside the wreath are a few tiny abrasions, while there is an identifying lint mark or thin planchet flake below the right wing of the eagle. Of immense historic value as well, this superb Uncirculated 1795 Small Eagle $5 gold would be a delight to even the most discriminating of collectors. The Half Eagle, or five-dollar piece, was the first gold denomination issued by the newly opened United States Mint. The earliest delivery of coins occurred on July 31, 1795, when 744 examples were sent to the U. S. Treasurer. More would follow having the Small Eagle reverse and, by the end of 1796 (yes, that’s 1796), some 8,707 pieces dated 1795 had been produced. Some were struck well into the next year as often happened in the mint’s early days. The design was prepared by U.S. Chief Engraver Robert Scot. Liberty is adorned in a loose fitting blouse and wears atop her head a mob- cap as it is called, an accessory of clothing fashionable at that time. The circle of 15 stars around the periphery represent the 15 states in the union, though the admission of Tennessee in 1796 as the 16th state soon made this figure obsolete. On the reverse is a small but spirited-looking American bald eagle, holding in its beak a wreath. The eagle is perched on a branch, creating in the process a simple but charming ensemble. United States gold coins minted before the new weight standard of 1834 went into effect are all scarce, as their bullion value exceeded their face value, causing them to be exported and melted in large numbers. While a few mint condition 1795 Half Eagles are preserved (as the first of their type), gems are decidedly rare, with this being tied with five others for the finest certified. (PCGS holder 4679082) Estimate: $225,000-5350,000 Roughness in the die at the first two stars and 1 of date was caused by rust on the die. An NGC Mint State 65 (small mark to the left of the eagle’s neck, holder #676945-001) was offered in our February 2000 ANA National Money Show auction. This coin is marginally superior and has greater visual appeal due to its more vibrant surface.