 1799 B.18. BB-154. Die State I. Normal Date. Choice Very Fine. The B-18 is one of the rarest varieties for the date, Bowers estimated less than 65 examples exist. The variety is nearly always found with a heavy reverse die crack between the 'E' and 'D' through the left wing and into the top of the shield. Other lighter cracks are often found in later states of the die life. This particular example was minted from the extremely rare die state I, with perfect dies. The coin has no die cracks at all. This specimen is easily attributable by the centering of the highest hair curl between 'E' and 'R'. At the reverse a small point at the stem end, the star point touching the eagles lower beak and the recut 'U' are diagnostics. This die state was known to Haseltine, but was eliminated by Bolender who did not believe the coin existed with perfect dies. Since the publication of Bolender examples have been located but the die state is still considered very rare with only 1 to 3 coins known!@ This wholesome example was subject to problem-free circulation. It shows mild wear at the highest points which are toned pale steel-gray and contrast nicely against slightly deeper toned fields. The surfaces are smooth and there are none of the adjustment marks or areas of porosity that often plague early U.S. coins. The present example is of a slightly superior grade to what is normally encountered for this variety. All of the major design elements retain bold definition. The first three stars clearly show recutting, a detail which is only visible on higher grade examples. A minor pre-striking planchet flaw is found at the rim to the left of the date and can be seen from the reverse above OF. This spectacular coin is of extreme importance to collectors of early Dollars, its extreme rarity cannot be stressed enough. A magnificent coin that is worthy of placement in an advanced Silver Dollar collection. ANACS VF35.
| |
|
