1773 VA 1/2P No Period, BN MS(PCGS#243)

The March 2013 Baltimore Auction

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

171

Grade

AU55

Price

705

Lot Description

1773 Virginia Halfpenny. Newman 8-H, W-1490. 7 Harp Strings, No Period After GEORGIVS. AU-55 (PCGS). 117.6 grains.&nbsp;The present coin's deep golden-brown surfaces present an excellent representative example of the design type to the inquiring eye. No marks of consequence are noted, even under low magnification. <em><strong>A rare variety&nbsp;</strong></em>about which the Bowers <em>Encyclopedia </em>notes: "Very rare in grades of Very Fine or better. This variety&nbsp;has not been seen in Mint State." Significantly finer than Ford:106, that specimen just Fine for garde and heavily porous in places. Ted Craige's envelope reads: "Finest Known?" and we have reason to believe Mr. Craige was accurate in his assumption at the time of purchase, and we suggest that the present coin may still be a candidate for "Finest Known" honors. It is certainly <strong><em>High Condition Census</em></strong>&nbsp;for this elusive variety. Choice and appealing, and one of the highlights of the Ted Craige collection of Virginia halfpennies.