The
Sutton Court Collection of Early Half Dollar Varieties is one of the most
exciting cabinets of this specialty that we have handled in recent years.
Assembled by Overton number with a focus on the Draped Bust, Heraldic Eagle
type, specialists will delight at the array of Rarity-5 and Rarity-6 examples,
including many Condition Census and finest known specimens. The Sutton Court Collection was formed in the
1980s through auction purchases and direct acquisitions from Stack’s and other
respected firms. The treasures of this collection have been off the market for
over three decades.
Among
the newly uncovered treasures to be featured in our March 2018 Official Auction
of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Spring Expo is the finest known survivor
of the 1805 O-104a variety. Certified AU-53 (NGC), it is spectacular, offering
both incredible rarity and exceptional preservation. Delicate golden
iridescence also displays a region of deeper patina noted over the eagle’s
right wing. Satiny mint luster remains in the protected regions and complements
the overall attractive surfaces. Considerable die fatigue is evident across
each side, with a network of cracks connecting most of the peripheral legends.
The dramatic cud consuming stars 9 through 12 is now virtually terminal,
exhibiting a late state of Tompkins Die Stage 4. A mild weakness to the central
elements is expected at this level of die wear, but the devices remain
otherwise uniform and bold.
This
magnificent piece is the finest known example by a significant margin, followed
by handful of examples in Fine and VF condition, some with problems. Just about
a dozen specimens are known, and it is noteworthy that the famed Queller Family
Collection failed to include an example of this Rarity-6+ variety. The present
piece was last offered in Bowers and Merena’s sale of June 1985 and has managed
to evade the Condition Census over the past 30 years.
This
1805 O-104a example will accompany many other significant half dollar rarities
in our March 2018 Baltimore auction. These include a MS-62 (PCGS) 1795 O-116, a
1795 O-126a Small Head graded AU-58 (NGC), a scarce 1801 O-102 in AU-58+ (NGC),
the MS-62 (PCGS) ex Clarke and the MS-61 (NGC) ex Miles specimens of the 1805
O-112 dies, and handsome examples of the 1806 O-110 and O-124 E/A in States
varieties, each considered to be Rarity-6. The emergence of the Sutton Court
Collection represents a significant opportunity for early half dollar
enthusiasts, so contact us for more information about this exciting collection.
Call 1-800-458-4646 or email Info@StacksBowers.com
to speak with a representative today.
Also, download our mobile app to view and participate in our exciting
auctions via your Android or Apple device.
