$241,800.00 USD
– SOLDBass-Dannreuther Die State c/b. A radial die crack runs from the dentils through star 12 on the obverse, and small die flaws are evident between ED and the dentils on the reverse. BD-3 is the most plentiful of the 15 1795 half eagle varieties (Small and Large Eagle all considered), and it is the only one that is encountered with some regularity. As a result, it is the favorite choice of type collectors, even though it is not the first marriage in the die pair chronology. As many as 200 or more examples are thought to survive.
BD-3 shows Bass-Dannreuther obverse die 2 in its second of three uses. The obverse was also used for the BD-2 and BD-4 Small Eagle varieties, the former of which is very rare and the latter of which is extremely scarce. The BD-3 reverse was never used again. In Early U.S. Gold Coin Varieties, Dannreuther discusses how Harry Bass hoped to eventually locate a terminal die state of the reverse, although he never found one. The BD-3 reverse, then, becomes one a few different early half eagle dies that was possibly retired without actually failing.
All of this might cause one to consider the current BD-3 example a common coin, but it must be remembered that the majority of the BD-3 survivorship is in circulated condition, with only limited numbers of Mint State coins, most of which grade no finer than MS62. In MS63, NGC and PCGS combined report only 19 examples of the Small Eagle five, regardless of die variety, and only a few handfuls of finer coins are known. This example displays frosty cameo contrast with rich yellow-gold original mint luster with slight field reflectivity that complements overall strong and bold strike sharpness. Some small marks in the left reverse field adjacent the eagle's head and wreath are the only mentionable abrasions, while some faint adjustment marks (mint made) on the high points of the devices are also noted. The eye appeal of this coin easily surpasses any and all expectations for the MS63 grade level, earning this coin the trifecta of a Plus designation, Star designation, and CAC endorsement. Census (all varieties included): 9 in 63 (1 in 63+, 1 in 63+★ ), 10 finer (6/24). A stunning and absolutely gorgeous coin. Very Rare
