'1774' 1/2P Machin's, Vlack 7-74A, BN MS(PCGS#826949)

'1774' 1/2P Machin's, Vlack 7-74A, BN MS (PCGS#826949)

Spring 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: 146.3 grains. A Condition Census survivor of this distinctive variety, with a portrait of King George III that actually resembles that found on regal coinage paired with a legend with U in GEORGIUS. Earthen olive and deep violet steel over finely granular surfaces. A very sharp grounder with an even and reasonably attractive surface. The centering is good on both sides and all devices are well detailed. A small curved clip is noted at the northwest obverse rim. Marks are few, including a dig on George's cheek and a short old scratch on Britannia's shield. Some scattered pits are seen on the reverse as well. This is the highest graded example of this variety in the era of our digital database, surpassing the VF-30 (PCGS) from Syd Martin's collection that we sold in March 2023. That piece was a bit more granular and also showed a curved clip. We've sold almost 20 examples in the last 20 years, only two or three of which could be described as smooth and none of which could be described as choice. This one is far sharper and finer than most.