The Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection - Part II
Half Eagles - Lots 917-985
Uncirculated 1843
Half Eagle
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917 1843 Breen-6543. Normal Stars. MS-61 (PCGS). Satiny golden surfaces display a high degree of lustre. Choice for the grade, and nicely struck as well.
Date to right, upper serif of 1 well to right of point of chin.
The reverse of this piece exhibits clash marks as well as a few interesting die cracks. The first of these begins at the rim at 12:00, descending through the second T of STATES, and from there into the field and across the eagle’s beak and neck, stopping at the horizontal shield lines. The next crack begins at the rim and passes between the I and C of AMERICA, across the field and two upper arrow heads, and from there to a central point on the shield. Another crack ascends from the rim at 6:00, through the V of FIVE, and from there to the bottom of the shield; other tiny cracks can be seen as well.
Purchased from Julian Leidman, February 1972.
918 1843 Breen-6543. Normal Stars. MS-60. A frosty and satiny coin with strong lustre and a hint of olive toning. Sharply struck and choice for the grade.
Date to left, upper serif of 1 nearly even with point of Liberty’s bust.
Purchased from J.E. Ryan, August 1973.
Liberty Half Eagle Quintette
919 Quintette of half eagles of the 1840s: I 1843 Small, thin stars. AU-50 I 1843 Large Letters. AU-50, lightly whizzed I 1847 AU-55 (3). Mostly brilliant with pleasing mint lustre. (Total: 5 pieces)
Choice Mint State 1843-C $5
Among Finest Certified
The Norweb Specimen
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920 1843-C Broad Mill. MS-63 (PCGS). Glowing orange-gold surfaces show strong lustre and a minimum of marks of any consequence. Nicely struck in most areas. Rarer than its mintage of 44,201 pieces indicates, and typically found VF or EF. In his excellent study of the Charlotte Mint series published in 1987, Douglas Winter stated the 1840-C was "unknown in Mint State." Today we are confronted with certification numbers that indicate that not only is the variety unknown, but that a handful exist in MS-63 and finer grade. Rather than believe that all of a sudden a flurry of Mint State 1843-C $5 pieces have mysteriously appeared on the market in recent times, we suggest that certification numbers are padded by resubmissions of identical coins. In absolute terms, this MS-63 1843-C half eagle is an incredible rarity.
PCGS Population: 3; 1 finer (MS-64).
Under 1843-C in his Encyclopedia, Breen noted "Occasional specimens are on broader flans (resurrected 1840 die?)." Our Norweb Collection catalogue offers the following information under Lot 810 regarding the Broad Mill classification of this specimen: "It becomes immediately obvious that, the comments by Walter Breen notwithstanding, the ‘Broad Mill’ was not discontinued in 1841 but at the Charlotte Mint was continued through 1843, being replaced by the Narrow Mill in 1844. Thus, previously undescribed 1841-C, 1842-C, and 1843-C Broad Mill coins exist." Moreover, the suggestion by Walter Breen that broader flans (planchets) made broader coins is not relevant, as the diameter of Liberty Head half eagles was determined by the collar, not by the planchet. A planchet that was too broad would not fit in the collar at all. A planchet that was too narrow would simply expand to reach the limits of the collar.
One obverse die was shipped to Charlotte on December 23, 1842. This was used in combination with two reverses on hand from earlier times. It would seem reasonable that additional obverses might have been sent later, as it was not policy at the time to take a chance that the only die on hand might break, thus halting coinage of the most popular denomination. However, Walter Breen, the source for the die information given here, mentions only the shipment of a single die.
From our sale of the Norweb Collection, Part I, October 1987, Lot 810; ex New Netherlands Coin Company, July 5, 1956.
Another Incredible
1843-C $5
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921 1843-C Broad Mill. MS-61 (PCGS). Lustrous orange-gold on satiny surfaces. A few stray marks are present, but the overall appearance is quite fine for the grade. As noted on the preceding lot, 1843-C half eagles in Mint State are of great rarity, and we suspect that the fairly generous population numbers represent only a few different specimens.
PCGS Population: 2; 5 finer (MS-64 finest).
From Lester Merkin’s sale of March 1967, Lot 464.
922 1843-C Broad Mill. EF-45. Lustrous yellow gold with some deeper toning on the high points. A few faint marks are present, but the coin holds up well under close scrutiny.
From Abe Kosoff’s sale of the Shuford Collection, May 1968, Lot 2032.
Choice Mint State 1843-D $5
Large D Mintmark
Finest Graded by
PCGS
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923 1843-D Large D Mintmark. MS-64 (PCGS). Bright yellow gold with frosty devices and prooflike fields. Sharply struck in all areas.
The present coin is a cameo of great beauty, a piece that could well have been used for presentation purposes. In a word, the coin is amazing. Even the most experienced specialist in Dahlonega Mint coinage will find this piece to be remarkable. We readily expect that its next owner will consider it the centerpiece of his or her collection.
When encountered, the 1843-D is usually seen in VF condition, occasionally EF, and not often AU. Perhaps a couple thousand 1843-D half eagles exist today, this possibly being a generous estimate. Whatever the figure, the presently offered specimen, the finest and only such piece graded by PCGS at this level, seems to rank as the very best.
PCGS Population: 1; none finer.
In his Encyclopedia, Walter Breen noted that the large mintmark variety of this date was struck in combination with a rusted obverse die, this being characteristic of all authentic specimens. On the specimen offered here, a group of raised lumps, caused by die rust, is seen between the first two obverse stars. Another raised lump is near the lowest point of the 12th star, and two more lumps are seen at the uppermost right corner of the 3 in the date. Additionally, some small, faint die cracks can be seen among the reverse peripheral legends. The actual mintmark is placed in a central position between the V and E in FIVE.
From Stack’s Garrett sale, March 1976, Lot 375.
Another Remarkable
1843-D $5
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924 1843-D Large D Mintmark. AU-55 (PCGS). A lustrous golden yellow specimen with strong overall eye appeal. A whisper of pale olive graces the lightly reflective surfaces. Nicely struck. Another remarkable example of this Dahlonega Mint variety.
From the same obverse die and state as the previous lot.
From Superior’s sale of March 1973, Lot 389.
Lustrous 1843-D Half Eagle
Small D Mintmark
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925 1843-D Small D Mintmark. AU-55 (PCGS). A lustrous golden specimen of this variety, the Small D issue being considerably rarer than the Large D. The AU level seems to represent the highest category among known specimens. PCGS has not certified a single example in Mint State. The specialist will delight in this opportunity and no doubt will bid liberally.
PCGS Population: 1; 2 finer (both AU-58).
The mintmark is centered above the V in FIVE on this variety, and is slightly smaller in size than its Large D mintmark counterpart.
From Quality Sales Corporation’s sale of December 1970, Lot 1702.
Rare 1843-O Half Eagle
Small Letters
Condition Census
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926 1843-O Breen-6548. Large Date, Small Letters. AU-55 (PCGS). Lustrous yellow gold. Somewhat prooflike in appearance. A rare variety in all grades, especially if Extremely Fine or finer. At the AU level the 1843-O Large Date, Small Letters is especially important. In fact, the present specimen is certainly one of the finest known.
PCGS Population: 2; 1 finer (AU-58).
A spidery network of faint die cracks can be seen among the peripheral legends on the reverse.
Purchased from Fred Sweeney, July 1967.
Another 1843-O Half Eagle
Small Letters
Another Condition
Census Coin
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927 1843-O Breen-6548. Large Date, Small Letters. AU-50 (PCGS). Highly lustrous with warm honey gold toning. The slightly granular surfaces resemble the Matte Proof surfaces found on Indian half eagles of the early 20th century, although in this case, the matte-like appearance is probably due to immersion in seawater. An attractive coin overall, Condition Census in quality.
PCGS Population: 2; 3 finer (AU-58 finest).
Purchased from Jack L. Klausen, June 1968.
Important 1843-O Half Eagle
Large Letters
Tied for Finest
Graded by NGC
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928 1843-O Breen-6549. Large Date, Large Letters. MS-64 (NGC). Warm golden orange toning on lustrous surfaces. Prooflike in appearance, with frosted motifs and mirror fields presenting a strong cameo contrast. A landmark rarity from the New Orleans Mint, at least where condition is concerned.
Regarding the rarity of the 1843-O at the present level, David Akers, who saw and studied many things, wrote: "Strictly Uncirculated examples may exist, but I have personally never seen one." This was prior to the appearance of the present coin on the market.
This may be the finest known specimen. At least we do not recall ever seeing a nicer one.
NGC Census: 2; none finer.
From Stack’s sale of the Milas Collection, May 1995, Lot 452.
A Final 1843-O Half
Eagle
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929 1843-O Breen-6549. Large Date, Large Letters. AU-50. Pale orange-gold surfaces. Slightly granular with seawater surfaces.
Purchased from Stanley Kesselman, April 1967.
Choice Mint State 1844 $5
Condition Census
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930 1844 MS-63 (PCGS). Satiny surfaces display a high degree of lustre and attractive olive toning. A rarity in Uncirculated despite a generous mintage of 340,330 pieces. Sharply struck and choice for the assigned grade.
PCGS Population: 5; 1 finer (MS-64).
From Paramount’s Auction ’86 sale, July 1986, Lot 1918.
Memorable Prooflike 1844 $5
Among Finest Known
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931 1844 MS-62 (PCGS). Satiny surfaces exhibit frosty devices and somewhat prooflike fields. A lustrous and lovely example of the date, and decidedly choice for the grade. This is one of the finest we have ever seen, one of the finest known.
In the reverse shield, virtually every vertical line extends well into the horizontal lines above; they are all extended into the eagle’s tail feathers as well.
From Stack’s ANA sale, August 1976, Lot 2960.
Choice Mint State 1844-C $5
Tied for Finest
Graded by PCGS
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932 1844-C MS-63 (PCGS). Frosty yellow gold with plenty of brilliance and lustre present. Well struck (from lightly clashed dies) for the date, essentially sharp in nearly all areas. An incredible rarity in Mint State, and easily one of the finest examples of the date extant. As David Akers noted regarding this date and mint: "Specimens in AU or Uncirculated are almost unobtainable." He continued by noting that the finest he had ever seen was the Bareford coin—which is the specimen now currently offered as part of the Bass Collection.
The present coin, off the market for over two decades, reappears to delight a new generation of enthusiasts and admirers.
PCGS Population: 2; none finer.
On the reverse, a small die crack runs from the rim at 10:00 to the tip of the eagle’s wing. Another crack, this more prominent, begins at the rim over the first A in AMERICA, horizontally crossing the field and the eagle’s wing, ending at a central point on the eagle’s neck.
According to Breen’s Encyclopedia, "a burglar burned down the mint" at Charlotte on July 27, 1844. Author Clair Birdsall gives a more in-depth accounting of the events of that July day in his book titled The United States Branch Mint at Charlotte, North Carolina: Its History and Coinage. An article appeared in the August 1, 1844 edition of the Charlotte Journal, describing the events of the day in some detail. It seems the fire was first discovered in the early morning hours of Saturday, July 27. Mint Superintendent Dr. Green W. Caldwell had not spent Friday, July 26, in his quarters at the mint (as was his custom), but had instead gone to the mountains of Lincoln County for health reasons. His stand-in for the day, unnamed in the article (later determined to be one Mr. Todd), had not stayed at the mint that day either. The fire was discovered early Saturday in the west wing of the mint, near the room housing the coinage presses. According to the article, it was a small fire when first discovered, perhaps just eight-feet square or so, and could easily have been squelched by use of water reservoirs that were in place on the roof of the mint. For some unknown reason, the fire was allowed to burn, with the building "left to the mercy of the flames," as the article noted. The building was nearly completely destroyed, along with most of the machinery and other equipment contained therein. The mint register, bullion, and coins were rescued, however, and spent some time at the Branch Bank of the State of North Carolina in Charlotte. Superintendent Caldwell reportedly lost all his private papers and a goodly sum of money in the blaze.
As for the actual cause of the fire, history is not so clear. There were rumors that a group of college students were seen smoking "segars" on the roof of the mint about 2:00 PM on Friday, July 26, and that a discarded cigar may have been the cause of the conflagration. This was later ruled out as a cause, as workmen sent up to the roof to investigate before the blaze occurred found no smoldering cigar butts. Superintendent Caldwell was convinced that the fire was set on purpose, and intimated that a servant of Burgess S. Gaither, former superintendent of the mint, was to blame for the fire. On August 10, 1844, Calvin, a man slave of Gaither, went to trial for arson. He had been overheard threatening to burn the mint to ashes after his master lost his job there, and so was a primary suspect. Fortunately for Calvin (or unfortunately, as he was a married man), it was proven that he was with his girlfriend at the time of the events at the mint, and he was found innocent of all charges. The judge in the case, Richard M. Pearson, did determine that a trapdoor on the roof of the mint had been left unlatched, and that a person or persons of unknown identity had set the fire in the mint. According to Birdsall: "Superintendent Caldwell accepted the verdict with skepticism and continued to maintain in his correspondence with Mint Director Patterson that his apartment in the xint had been robbed and the fire set to cover up the robbery."
From Stack’s sale of the Bareford Collection, December 1978, Lot 166; ex Stack’s Lee Collection, October 1947, lot 1363.
Lustrous 1844-C Half Eagle
Rare so Fine
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933 1844-C AU-50. Brilliant yellow gold surfaces exhibit a hint of olive on the prooflike fields and frosty motifs. A prized rarity in grades above EF, and seldom found thus. Nicely struck in many areas, although some flatness is found in places. Some faint hairlines and a few scattered marks are noted, but the overall appeal of the coin is far above average. An important opportunity for the half eagle specialist, as AU-50 represents a very elegant grade for the issue.
Three obverse dies and four reverse dies were sent to Charlotte from Philadelphia this year, but apparently not all were used.
Purchased from Paramount, October 1969.
A Final 1844-C $5
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934 1844-C EF-40 (PCGS). Medium gold with some orange-gold lustre in the recessed areas. Nice design details present. Choice for the grade.
From Lester Merkin’s sale of February 1972, Lot 429.
Mint State 1844-D Half Eagle
Condition Census
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935 1844-D MS-61 (PCGS). Lustrous honey gold with some olive highlights in the fields. Nicely struck for the date. One of the more readily available dates from this popular southern mint; 88,982 pieces were coined. The typically available grade, however, is just VF or EF, and Mint State examples can be considered quite rare.
PCGS Population: 5; 3 finer (MS-64 finest).
Purchased from N.K.S., October 5, 1967.
936 1844-D EF-45. Pale olive-gold surfaces. A final example of this popular and desirable Dahlonega Mint half eagle.
A reverse die crack runs from the rim above the T in UNITED to the top of that letter, and from there across the tops of TED, where it juts at an angle back to the rim.
From Lester Merkin’s sale of March 1969, Lot 229.
Stunning Gem 1844-O Half Eagle
Finest Certified
by PCGS
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937 1844-O Breen-6553. Normal Stars. MS-65 (PCGS). Bright yellow gold with a touch of olive in the prooflike fields. Intensely lustrous and sharply struck in all areas. An incredible rarity in gem Mint State, despite its generous mintage of 364,600 pieces, the second highest mintage figure for any denomination gold issue from the New Orleans Mint. Douglas Winter called this date "Genuinely rare" in Mint State, further noting the issue is "Extremely rare in MS-63 and unknown finer."
The specimen offered here is almost certainly the finest known business strike of the date, and was apparently overlooked in Winter’s Condition Census for the date.
Harry Bass purchased this coin from the Miles sale in 1968, 31 years ago. At the time the catalogue description, probably by Norman Stack, commented: "Surely the finest known. Boldly struck with some prooflike surface. These choice Uncirculated early half eagles are so rare that a bid at double Guide Book would be considered conservative."
In the annals of New Orleans coinage, the present 1844-O stands tall and proud as the finest known business strike, a coin combining beautiful appearance, incredible rarity, and seldom encountered opportunity. For those not wanting to wait another 31 years, the present offering is of paramount significance.
PCGS Population: 1; none finer.
Struck from a faintly rusted obverse die, tell-tale traces of which can be seen on Liberty’s portrait. On the reverse, faint die cracks unite the tops of UNITED, and the bottoms of STATES OF AMERICA. Another faint crack runs from the left upright of the U in UNITED to the F in FIVE, running through the pellet between those two letters. Another crack runs from the D in the denomination to the dentils below.
From Stack’s sale of the Miles Collection, October 1968, Lot 399.
Another Important
1844-O $5
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938 1844-O Breen-6553. Normal Stars. MS-61 (PCGS). Lustrous orange-gold with frosty devices and decidedly prooflike fields. Sharply struck in all areas of the design, a notable contrast to the typical issue. Although at the MS-61 level the rarity of the 1844-O cannot be described as incredible, still the piece is highly important.
Another 1844-O $5
939 1844-O Breen-6553. Normal Stars. AU-58 (PCGS). Frosty golden orange surfaces display strong lustre. Choice for the grade.
The reverse die used to strike this particular specimen was heavily polished in the area of the arrow feathers, the eagle’s right leg, and the olive branch, with much of the design details in those areas weak and attenuated as a result.
Purchased from Michael G. Brownlee, April 1967.
940 1844-O Breen-6553. Normal Stars. AU-55 (PCGS). Lustrous orange-gold surfaces free of major contact marks. Nicely struck in most areas.
From Paramount’s sale of March 1973, Lot 1074.
941 1844-O Breen-6553. Normal Stars. AU-55. Lustrous yellow gold surfaces. A pleasing specimen for the grade.
Purchased from Arizona Stamp & Coin, March 1969.
942 1844-O Breen-6554. Small Thin Stars. AU-50. A lustrous prooflike specimen. Perhaps lightly cleaned long ago, but still quite attractive for the grade.
Small, thin obverse stars, probably caused by excessive polishing of the die; the reverse die is cracked in several places, as described for this variety by Breen in his Encyclopedia.
From Lester Merkin’s sale of April 1969, Lot 230.
Outstanding 1845 Half Eagle
Tied for Finest Graded by PCGS
The Norweb Specimen
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943 1845 Breen-6555. Heavy Numerals. MS-64 (PCGS). Highly lustrous and satiny medium gold surfaces display warm rose iridescence. Somewhat prooflike with a modest cameo contrast. Sharply struck. Surprisingly rare in Mint State despite a very generous mintage for the date of 417,099 pieces. A truly pleasing example of the date, high Condition Census, a coin of incredible importance, exceeded in quality by none other of which we are aware.
PCGS Population: 2; none finer.
There are some interesting and sizeable reverse die cracks present on this specimen. The first and most prominent of these winds its way from the rim along the back of the D in the denomination, upward to the olive branch and arrow feathers, where it juts to the viewer’s left, following the center of the eagle’s wing to the rim at 10:00. The second descends vertically from the rim at 12:00, passing through the E of STATES, and from there to the eagle’s neck. The third crack reaches from the rim at 5:00, passing through the CA of AMERICA to the lowermost arrowhead.
From our sale of the Norweb Collection, October 1987, Lot 816; ex New Netherlands Coin Company, October 5, 1956.
Another Mint State
1845 $5
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944 1845 Breen-6555. Heavy Numerals. MS-60. Lustrous golden orange surfaces. Well struck. Rare so nice.
The reverse is cracked in several places. The most noticeable of the cracks descends vertically from the rim above OF, through that word and the field below, then through the eagle’s wing to the lowest arrow head. Another prominent crack unites the rim to the tops of MER; it appears as if a chunk is about to drop out of the die in this area.
From Abe Kosoff’s sale of November 1968, Lot 852.
A Third Mint State
1845 $5
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945 1845 Breen-6555. Heavy Numerals. MS-60. A bright and lustrous coin with the appeal of a finer grade. Nicely struck in all areas. A prize within the parameters of the assigned grade.
From Stack’s sale of December 1970, Lot 165.
946 1845 Breen-6556. Partly Repunched Date. AU-58 (PCGS). A whisper of rose iridescence on lustrous orange-gold surfaces. The obverse is slightly prooflike in appearance. This date is typically found VF to EF, and AU specimens are fairly rare.
Some repunching is noted in the date area, most noticeably at the numeral 8. Breen called this variety "rare."
From Stack’s sale of the Bartle Collection, October 1984, Lot 1028.
A Final Mint State
1845 $5
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947 1845 Breen-6557. Thin Numerals. MS-60. Decidedly prooflike, with strong lustre present on frosty motifs and reflective fields. Sharply struck. The overall appeal is choice despite a few stray marks.
Purchased from J.E. Ryan, August 1973.
Monumental 1845-D Half Eagle
Finest Graded by PCGS
The Norweb Coin
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948 1845-D MS-65 (PCGS). Highly lustrous and satiny surfaces with lovely olive iridescence. Much prooflike surface is seen, particularly on the reverse. A truly outstanding, indeed monumental example of the date and mint. As we noted in our Norweb catalogue description of this specimen: "In general, Dahlonega Mint pieces are notorious for their unavailability in Mint State, the ultimate business strike classification."
The coin offered here, reappearing on the market after being in a bank vault for 12 years, defines ultimate for the date and mint. Here is one of the most important opportunities a Dahlonega Mint specialist and connoisseur will ever encounter.
PCGS Population: 1; none finer.
A fine reverse die crack runs horizontally across the bottoms of ERICA, then to the tops of FIVE D, then crossing the U in UNITED, terminating at the second upright of that letter.
From our sale of the Norweb Collection, October 1987, Lot 817; ex New Netherlands Coin Company, July 5, 1956.
Choice Mint State 1845-D $5
Condition Census
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949 1845-D MS-63 (PCGS). Satiny orange-gold with strong lustre and rich orange toning highlights on both sides. The present coin is of world class importance, Condition Census, and one of the very finest known. The bidder who does not obtain Lot 948 will wish to compete strongly for the present lot, realizing that it is not at all a consolation but, instead, stands proudly as one of the nicest ever to cross the auction block.
PCGS Population: 3; 1 finer (MS-65).
From the same reverse die as the previous lot, and cracked in the same manner.
Purchased from Joe Flynn, March 17, 1978.
Attractive 1845-D
Half Eagle
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950 1845-D AU-55 (PCGS). A highly lustrous specimen of a popular Dahlonega Mint issue. Typically found VF or EF, an AU example of the date is a notable prize in today’s numismatic arena.
From Superior’s sale of the Ruby Collection, February 1975, Lot 1178.
A Final 1845-D $5
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951 1845-D AU-55 (PCGS). Strong lustre and a whisper of rose toning on orange-gold surfaces. An altogether suitable and excellent example of the date and grade.
From Stack’s sale of the Davis Collection, February 1968, Lot 293.
Choice Uncirculated 1845-O $5 Rarity
Finest Certified
by PCGS
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952 1845-O Breen-6560. Repunched 18. MS-63 (PCGS). Lustrous honey gold with a trace of olive iridescence. A splendid specimen that will be a highlight to even the most experienced specialist in the New Orleans gold series. David Akers paid homage to the piece, noting that this particular coin "is the only real gem I have ever seen." Again, the word opportunity comes to the fore. Once sold, a similar coin may not appear for a long time, if ever. Nicely struck with only a trace of weakness seen here or there. Choice for the assigned grade. A rarity in Mint State; indeed, the date is seldom seen above EF. Winter called this date High Rarity-7 to Rarity-8 in his treatise on this mint’s gold coinage. As noted by Akers, "The superb Gilhousen specimen purchased by Harry Bass for $2,000 is the only real gem I have ever seen." A prize for the alert collector who fully appreciates the "unsung" rarities from our southernmost mint.
PCGS Population: 1; none finer.
The ticket containing Harry Bass’s notes on this lot simply stated "FINEST?" Some 26 years later, we think Harry was right on the mark with his theory as to the status of this specimen.
From Superior’s sale of the Gilhousen Collection, February 1973, Lot 397.
Another Incredible 1845-O $5
Second Finest Certified
by PCGS
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953 1845-O Breen-6560. Repunched 18. MS-62 (PCGS). Lustrous honey gold with attractive lustre. Nicely struck in all areas. Second only to the coin in the previous lot for specimens listed on the PCGS grading roster. Another incredible specimen, another incredible opportunity.
PCGS Population: 1; 1 finer (MS-63).
Many of the vertical stripes on the reverse shield extend well into the horizontal lines above, with many also extending downward into the eagle’s feathers.
From Abner Kreisberg’s sale of December 1970, Lot 1710.
Elusive 1845-O Half Eagle
Condition Census
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954 1845-O Breen-6560. Repunched 18. AU-55 (PCGS). A satiny yellow gold specimen with some prooflike reflectivity in the fields. A few light marks are mentioned for accuracy. Repunched 18 in date, a rare variety according to Breen.
PCGS Population: 10; 4 finer (MS-63 finest).
From Abe Kosoff’s sale of November 1968, Lot 853.
Choice Mint State 1846 $5 Rarity
Finest Certified
by PCGS
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955 1846 Breen-6561. Large Date. MS-63 (PCGS). Highly lustrous medium orange-gold with moderate prooflike reflectivity on both sides. Considerably more rare in Mint State than its generous mintage of 395,942 pieces would lead one to expect. Most known specimens are VF to EF, to which can be added a relatively modest scattering of AU pieces. The present coin, graded MS-63, stands alone in quality among pieces of which we are aware. This, the finest piece Harry Bass was able to locate in 30 years of aggressive buying, may represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the bidder.
PCGS Population: 1; none finer.
A vertical reverse die crack extends from the base of the second T in STATES, running across the field to a point behind the eagle’s eye. A second crack runs from below the E of FIVE, then upward across that letter to a point on the arrow feather above.
Purchased from Mal Varner, June 13, 1973.
Uncirculated 1846 Half Eagle
Large Date Variety
956 1846 Breen-6561. Large Date. MS-60. A satiny and lustrous specimen with rich orange toning highlights. Nicely struck. In MS-60 the 1846 is very elusive. Thus, the present piece should attract much attention.
From Stack’s ANA sale, August 1971, Lot 2168.
A Final Uncirculated 1846 $5
957 1846 Breen-6561. Large Date. MS-60. A lustrous orange-gold specimen. Nicely struck. Somewhat prooflike in the fields, which adds greatly to the overall appeal. How incredible it is that the present sale offers three—count them, three—specimens at the Mint State level, when the typical advanced collector of half eagles would be fortunate indeed to display an AU coin.
The reverse die is cracked from the rim at 11:00, extending from there between the A and second T of STATES, then across the eagle’s head, neck, and shield, then to the arrow shafts and the lowest arrow head, and from there to the final A of AMERICA.
Purchased from J.E. Ryan, August 1973.
958 1846 Breen-6562. Small Date. AU-58. Bright yellow gold with some orange toning highlights. Sharp and lustrous, and very attractive for the grade. Scarcer than the Large Date variety of the year.
On the obverse, a small die chip is noted at the lower right foot of the 4 in the date.
Purchased from Lester Merkin, June 1967.
959 1846 Breen-6562. Small Date. AU-55. Orange-gold surfaces display much lustre, especially in the recessed areas.
Die chip at numeral 4 in date (as described in the previous lot). A reverse crack drops from the rim above the first A of AMERICA, uniting the tops of AMER before jutting back to the rim above the R.
960 1846 Breen-6562. Small Date. AU-55. Another lustrous example of this fairly scarce variety.
Die chip at numeral 4 of date. The reverse die of this specimen is cracked in an identical nature to the piece in the previous lot.
Mint State 1846-C Half Eagle
High Condition Census
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961 1846-C Repunched 1 in Date. MS-62 (PCGS). Strong cartwheel lustre on orange-gold surfaces. Well struck in all areas. A prized rarity in all grades; just 12,995 examples of the date were struck. Most surviving specimens are VF or so. David Akers noted that he had "never seen a strictly Uncirculated piece," while Douglas Winter called the date Rarity-8 (no more than two or three known) in Mint State. The present coin is one of the very finest in existence.
PCGS Population: 1; 1 finer (MS-63). How the present piece compares with the MS-63 coin is not known—but it is to be remembered that the Bass coins, as a general rule, combine not only high grades but excellent aesthetic appeal, while most other gold coins of this issue may have high numbers but are lacking in the latter attribute.
The bottom of the 1 in the date is boldly repunched; this later fades from the die.
The 1846 logotype is called a Large Date by Walter Breen, which probably is a misstatement, as the date is quite compact, although shorter logotypes exist. In this particular year the Mint tried several different date sizes across various denominations, the varieties being most notable in the copper cent and silver half dollar series.
Two obverse dies were sent from Philadelphia this year but no reverses, the mint relying upon those left from earlier times. Apparently, the devastating mint fire of 1845 did not damage stored dies.
From Lester Merkin’s sale of March 1969, Lot 236.
Uncirculated 1846-D $5 Rarity
Tied for Finest
Graded by PCGS
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962 1846-D Breen-6564. Normal D Mintmark. MS-61 (PCGS). Lustrous yellow gold with orange-gold highlights. Nicely struck for the date. Some light, scattered marks are present under low magnification; the surfaces are essentially blemish-free to the unaided eye. In lower grades the 1846-D is one of the more readily available dates from Dahlonega, as 80,294 were struck. However, at the Mint State level the issue is a great rarity, as the population numbers indicate.
PCGS Population: 2; none finer.
Purchased from N.K.S., February 1, 1972.
Lustrous 1846-D Half Eagle
Normal Mintmark
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963 1846-D Breen-6564. Normal D Mintmark. AU-55 (PCGS). A lustrous yellow gold specimen of this popular Dahlonega Mint issue.
PCGS Population: 2; 1 finer (MS-61).
Purchased from Arnold Rosing, June 1967.
Rare Uncirculated
1846-D/D $5
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964 1846-D Breen-6565. Repunched D Mintmark. MS-62 (PCGS). Lustrous yellow gold with some deeper orange highlights. The rare and popular variety with a boldly repunched mintmark on the reverse. Nicely struck; the reverse die shows light clash marks.
PCGS Population: 4; 1 finer (MS-65).
The mintmark on this interesting variety was first punched too high, overlapping the arrow feathers and olive branch above. The mintmark was then repunched in a more proper position without first effacing the erroneously punched mintmark, thereafter showing two complete mintmarks on the reverse of all pieces struck from this die.
Purchased from Julian Leidman, February 20, 1968.
Popular 1846-D/D
$5 Variety
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965 1846-D Breen-6565. Repunched D Mintmark. AU-58 (PCGS). Highly lustrous yellow gold with a touch of olive iridescence. Sharply struck and aesthetically appealing.
From Abner Kreisberg’s sale of November 1972, Lot 1164.
A Final 1846-D/D $5
966 1846-D Breen-6565. Repunched D Mintmark. AU-50 (PCGS). Generous amounts of lustre and rich orange highlights grace the surfaces of this attractive coin. A final opportunity to acquire this popular and somewhat elusive variety.
Elusive 1846-O Half
Eagle
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967 1846-O AU-58 (PCGS). Lustrous orange-gold with a touch of olive in the moderately reflective fields. Nicely struck for the date, with nearly full details in all areas. Rare in all grades, with VF or so the norm for available specimens. "Underrated and undervalued in all grades," wrote David Akers. In AU, Winter called the date Low Rarity-7. A desirable date which seldom comes finer than that offered here.
The present piece is indeed incredible, and is one of the very finest known.
PCGS Population: 4; 5 finer (MS-62 finest).
Purchased from Joe Flynn, March 17, 1978.
Another 1846-O Half
Eagle
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968 1846-O AU-58 (PCGS). Lustrous orange-gold with plenty of prooflike reflectivity in the fields. Another pleasing specimen of this underrated branch mint issue.
A reverse die crack unites the bottoms of TATES, then jumps to the central point of the O in OF. Another crack unites the tops of AMERIC. Additionally, heavy diagonal die file marks can be seen above AMERICA.
From Abe Kosoff’s sale of the Shuford Collection, April 1968, Lot 2081.
Underrated 1846-O $5
969 1846-O AU-53 (PCGS). A final specimen of the 1846-O, a rather underrated issue, despite several pieces being offered as part of the Bass Collection. The present coin affords an excellent opportunity to acquire quality, rarity, and value in a single piece.
From Rarcoa’s ANA sale, August 1970, Lot 1545.
Satiny Uncirculated
1847 $5
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970 1847 Breen-6567. Normal Date. MS-63 (PCGS). A highly lustrous example of the date with lively olive iridescence on both sides. Nicely struck and aesthetically appealing for the grade. Just a few tiny marks from a higher grade designation.
Struck from a heavily cracked reverse die, the crack running from rim to rim beginning above the final S of STATES, then running across the field and the eagle, then through the D of the denomination to the rim below. A second crack extends from the rim below the F of FIVE, diagonally upward across FIV, and from there to the eagle’s claw, where it joins the first crack near the arrow heads.
From Stack’s sale of the DiBello Collection, May 1970, Lot 872.
Lovely 1847 Half
Eagle
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971 1847 Breen-6567. Normal Date. MS-63 (PCGS). A highly lustrous orange-gold specimen. Definitely choice for the assigned grade, with some substantial claims to a higher grade. A scarce variety, "High Date," with the 1 and 7 of the date touching the truncation of Liberty’s neck above.
Mint State 1847
$5
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972 1847 Breen-6567. Normal Date. MS-62 (PCGS). A frosty and lustrous orange-gold specimen. The fields are somewhat reflective. The devices are sharply delineated. A splendid piece.
Purchased from the Goliad Corporation, November 1971.
973 1847 Breen-6567. Normal Date. MS-60. Lustrous honey gold surfaces. A pretty coin for the grade.
The reverse die is cracked vertically from the E of STATES directly across the eagle to the E of FIVE, where it is joined by a horizontal crack that unites the tops of FIVE D, then juts downward to the period after D, then to the rim.
From Lester Merkin’s sale of April 1970, Lot 735.
Choice Uncirculated 1847 $5
Extra 1 in Neck
Variety
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974 1847 Breen-6569. Extra 1 in Neck. MS-63 (PCGS). A highly lustrous specimen with moderately reflective fields and lightly frosted devices. A memorable quality example of an issue which when seen is usually in far lower grades. Added to the aspect of high condition is the interest afforded by the die variety described in our notes.
The rare variety with a numeral 1 embedded in Miss Liberty’s neck and shoulder area, a spectacular die blunder first noticed decades ago by Bill Fivaz. In addition to the obvious on the obverse, there is a die crack that begins in the field just above the serif of the 4 in the date. From there, the crack runs vertically across Liberty’s shoulder, tiara, and hair, just brushing the right side of the Y of LIBERTY, and then disappearing in the hair details above the crown.
Purchased from Stanley Kesselman, June 30, 1967.
975 1847 Breen-6569. Extra 1 in Neck. AU-55. A lustrous honey gold specimen with plenty of brilliance in the protected areas. Another example of this popular die blunder.
Purchased from Lester Merkin, June 28, 1967.
Desirable Uncirculated 1847/7 $5
Doubled 7 in Date
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976 1847 Breen-6570. Doubled 7 in Date. MS-61 (PCGS). A highly lustrous example of a scarce and popular variety. Sometimes referred to as the Large 7 over Small 7 variety. Scarce in Mint State. Half eagles of this particular year are seen in a wide variety of date positions, repunchings, and other characteristics.
From Lester Merkin’s sale of April 1969, Lot 239.
977 1847 Breen-6570. Doubled 7 in Date. MS-60. Brilliant and lustrous. A lovely example of the popular variety with a repunched 7 in the date.
From Stack’s sale of December 1970, Lot 178.
Popular 1847-C Half Eagle
Condition Census
Quality
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978 1847-C AU-58 (PCGS). Lustrous bright yellow surfaces with some deeper highlights in the protected areas. Nicely struck in most areas. Rare in AU or finer despite the fact that the mintage of the date, 84,151 pieces, is the most prolific half eagle production figure from the Charlotte Mint. An exceptional opportunity for the connoisseur and specialist.
PCGS Population: 6; 4 finer (MS-65 finest).
Purchased from N.K.S., July 31, 1967.
979 1847-C EF-45. Lustrous, slightly granular seawater surfaces. High date, 7 in date touches truncation above.
Three pairs of dies were shipped from Philadelphia to Charlotte, and at least two obverse variations are known, the present piece being the style with the 7 touching the bust truncation. This is a fairly rare circumstance, as in general the date logotype was shifted over to the left, and often on gold dies of this era the first digit of the date was crowded, while the last digit was free. Although there were some exceptions during the era (perhaps most notable being the 1846 half dollar with 6 over horizontal 6), it was common practice to use a four-digit logotype punch to insert numerals into working dies.
Purchased from Rarcoa, February 1972.
Mint State 1847-D Half Eagle
Condition Census
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980 1847-D MS-62 (PCGS). Highly lustrous orange-gold surfaces present a somewhat prooflike appearance. While occasionally seen in Uncirculated (and very rare as such), this date is typically only VF or EF. Nearly as fine as can be found for the date, and important as such.
PCGS Population: 6; 1 finer (MS-63).
From Stack’s ANA sale, August 1976, Lot 2966.
Lovely 1847-D Half
Eagle
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981 1847-D AU-58 (PCGS). Lustrous orange-gold. Sharply struck in all areas. A pleasing example of a date and mintmark that is usually seen in VF grade, occasionally EF, and only rarely finer.
A reverse die crack extends directly downward from the E of STATES to the eagle’s neck.
From Stack’s sale of December 1970, Lot 172.
Another 1847-D $5
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982 1847-D AU-50 (PCGS). Warm golden orange with lustre in the recessed areas. Nicely struck. Just a few stray marks are present.
Lustrous 1847-D
$5
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983 1847-D AU-50. Lustrous medium gold surfaces show a hint of seawater surface. Some faint vertical scratches are noted in the field near the first two obverse stars. Nicely struck.
From Abe Kosoff’s C.S.N.A. sale of November 1968, Lot 859.
Unheralded 1847-O $5 Rarity
An Important Rarity
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984 1847-O AU-53 (PCGS). Medium yellow gold with some lustre and areas of prooflike reflectivity in the fields. The 1847-O is exceedingly rare, even more than the mintage of 12,000 coins would indicate. David Akers commented, "When one is offered, it is invariably VF or EF at best," while Walter Breen chimed in with "prohibitively rare above EF," while Douglas Winter at least addressed the AU level, stating "About Uncirculated examples are excessively rare." "Excessively" or otherwise, just a few equivalent pieces exist, creating another tremendously important opportunity.
PCGS Population: 5; 1 finer (AU-55).
From Abe Kosoff’s sale of the Shuford Collection, April 1968, Lot 2082.
Highly Elusive 1847-O $5
Winter: "Rarest
New Orleans $5"
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985 1847-O Breen-6574. Weak O Mintmark. AU-50 (PCGS). Golden centers give way to warm orange-gold highlights at the rims. A touch of lustre remains in the recessed areas. A few minor marks are present, but the overall appeal is equal to the grade in every respect. In addition to the comments in the preceding lot, David Akers noted that the 1847-O was "one of the real sleepers in the half eagle series," while Douglas Winter paid this tribute, stating that the 1847-O is "The rarest New Orleans half eagle."
PCGS Population: 5; 2 finer (AU-55 finest).
From Stack’s sale of the Davis Collection, February 1968, Lot 303.
