1809/6 1/2C C-5, 9 over Inverted 9, BN MS(PCGS#35233)

1809/6 1/2C C-5, 9 over Inverted 9, BN MS (PCGS#35233)

June 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: Manley Die State 1.0, Fuhrman Die State 1. A lovely Mint State example, the strike is sharp and the toning is a blend of equally handsome orange-brown on the obverse, and mahogany-brown on the reverse. Smooth, glossy, and attractive throughout. A popular variety of the first year 1809 Classic Head half cent that was long thought to be an overdate, Cohen-5 has since been reclassified as having the primary digit 9 in the date punched over an inverted 9. Remnants of the underdigit are clearly evident with the aid of a loupe. This variety barely edges out C-6 as the most readily obtainable of the issue with William R. Eckberg accounting for approximately 4,500 survivors in all grades in his 2019 reference <em>The Half Cent, 1793-1857: The Story of America's Greatest Little Coin</em>. The author further asserts, "UNCs are plentiful; probably at least 60 exist." Technically sound and visually appealing, the NGC MS-62 BN example offered here will appeal to discerning numismatists, be they type collectors or early copper enthusiasts.