Among
the highlights of our September 2017 Collectors Choice Online Auction is a
stunning MS-66 (NGC) 1837 No Stars Liberty Seated half dime presented in lot
91086. This exceptional piece is a representative of the Valentine-1 die
marriage, exhibiting the Large Date logotype.
The
inaugural issue of Liberty Seated half dimes employed two different date
punches designated Large Date and Small Date, although the variance in actual
size is relatively imperceptible. A vestige of the preceding Capped Bust type,
the Large Date format was used to strike the earliest examples of the new
Liberty Seated design. It is best distinguished by the narrow, peaked 1 and a
slightly curved placement. Conversely, the Small Date displays a flat-topped 1
and a nearly straight digit placement, seen on half dimes from the later
portion of 1837 and 1838.
While
the Large Date variety is of average absolute rarity, a Premium Gem survivor is
surely reason for excitement. From a
mintage of 1.4 million examples for the overall 1837 Liberty Seated issue, just
150 pieces are thought to survive in grades of MS-65 or above. Just 21 pieces
have been certified finer than this example by NGC, including both the Large
Date and Small Date varieties.
Satiny
luster is accented by powder blue, gold, and crimson iridescence throughout. A
sharp strike has rendered the devices intricate from center to rim, boldly
showcasing the repunched date and a wire rim in select areas on the reverse. This is an incredible piece for type collectors
or half dime specialists.
This
beautiful example will be offered in lot 91086 of our September 2017 Collectors
Online Auction, which will be available for viewing and bidding online at www.StacksBowers.com. Also, download our
mobile app to participate via your Android or Apple device.
Contact us today at 1-800-458-4646 or email info@StacksBowers.com for more information.
