Among the significant rarities in our June 2018 Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Summer Expo is an exceptional 1795 Flowing Hair half dime certified MS-61 by NGC. This handsome and boldly defined 18th century rarity is offered in lot 1226 of our Baltimore Auction.
This little beauty showcases deep navy and violet on both sides, accented by golden-tan on the central devices. This colorful patina creates a wonderful cameo effect and contributes to the eye appeal. Liberty is sharply executed in all respects, showing delineated hair strands and chiseled profile features. The eagle on the reverse is similarly sharp, with evidence of planchet adjustment noted at the lower left reverse border. It is an aesthetically and technically superior example that is ideal for both type collectors and specialists.
There were two distinctive head punches used for 1795 half dimes: one has six curls on Liberty and is believed to be the work of engraver John Smith Gardner while the other has seven curls on the back of Liberty’s head, attributed to Robert Scot. All the 1794 dated obverses employ the head punch of Robert Scot. The three Gardner 1795 obverse dies are quite rare; two broke early on, and the other was apparently replaced as soon as Scot was able to do so. This variety (LM-10) is one of the Scot obverse head punch designs.
This important Mint State 1795 half dime in lot 1226 from our June 2018 Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Summer Expo in Baltimore, appears alongside rarities from the Beasley Collection, the Fairmont Collection, the Boston Old City Hall Collection, and other important cabinets. The sale is available for viewing and bidding on our website www.StacksBowers.com, or you may contact our offices to secure a printed catalog. To speak with a numismatic representative today, please call 800-458-4646 or email Info@StacksBowers.com. Also, download our mobile app to view and participate in our auctions via your Android or Apple device.
