1806 50C O-124 MS(PCGS#39330)

August 2019 Mail Bid Auction 49

Auctioneer

Sheridan Downey

Lot Number

2

Grade

VF30

Price

5,500

Lot Description

The “E over A” is a charismatic rarity; it was discovered between the publication of Al Overton’s 1st and 2nd editions (1967/1970) and carried an R.8 rarity rating until Don Parsley issued his 1990 revision (3rd ed.) when just over a dozen pieces were known.  The R.6 rating has held fast for the last 30 years.  It is a sad fact that most of the known examples are scratched, damaged or improperly cleaned.  Low grades are the norm.  Tompkins could find none above XF 40.  The current example is a breath of fresh air.  It last appeared in Legend’s Feb. 2016 (Regency XVI) Sale, lot 215, bringing $5,875.  The gold and copper toning is a bit uneven, a testament to originality.  Striking weakness at the eagle’s head and the left portion of the motto is a hallmark of the die pair.  It is listed at #5 in Tompkins’ Condition Census.  Red Book, Registry Set and die variety collectors will vie for this important coin.  Est. $5,000 to $7,000.