1796 H10C Likerty MS(PCGS#4254)

November 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

2036

Grade

VF30

Price

5,520

Lot Description

Warmly and pleasingly toned with dominant russet and pewter gray patina that yields to more vivid undertones of reddish-rose, antique gold and powder blue evident at more direct viewing angles. A tad glossy in texture to suggest an old, light cleaning, the surfaces are otherwise fairly well composed with only a few moderate size marks scattered about. Boldly defined overall.<p>The popular 1796 is the first of only two half dime years that feature the Draped Bust, Small Eagle design type. Two die marriages are known with Logan-McCloskey 1, represented here, corresponding to the LIKERTY <em>Guide Book</em> variety. This name is derived from the use of a broken B punch that gives that letter the appearance of a K. While not as rare as LM-2, LM-1 is scarce in its own right with most survivors heavily worn, if not also impaired. Clearly, there is much to recommend this PCGS-certified Choice VF example to the advanced type collector or Bust half dime enthusiast.