Two distinct star punches were used by the U.S. Mint to
produce Capped Bust Right eagles in 1799. Production began using a smaller star
punch which likely broke before the end of the year, forcing a transition to a
larger punch that would continue to be used for 1800 and part of 1801. Five
obverse dies are known with small stars and just one is known with large stars.
These combined with six reverse dies to create 10 distinct varieties. Overall, the two design types are equivalent
in rarity, with the Small Obverse Stars type appearing just slightly more often,
according to survival estimates by specialist John Dannreuther.
Small Stars variety BD-7, as exhibited by the impressive
example featured in our Spring 2019 Baltimore Auction is estimated to have a
population of as few as 250 examples. It is often found with a series of
dramatic die breaks across the obverse connecting the stars at the left and
running from the rim at 1 o’clock down through E of LIBERTY. The current
example was struck from an early state of the dies, free from any cracks but
exhibiting crumbling at the lower left dentils on the obverse, equivalent to BD
Die State b/b.
Certified MS-62 (PCGS), it is among the finest
examples known of the 1799 Small Stars Obverse issue, with just 25 graded finer
by PCGS. A sharp and even strike is complemented by considerable satiny luster
across both sides. Additionally, a green sticker of approval from CAC
guarantees superior quality and eye appeal, which is often elusive in the early
U.S. gold series.
This example will be a featured highlight of our Official
Auction of the 2019 Whitman Coin & Collectibles Spring Expo. We will be
accepting consignments for this sale through the end of 2018. If you would like
to showcase your coin or collection alongside this impressive rarity, call
800-458-4646 or e-mail Info@StacksBowers.com to speak to a numismatic expert
today.
