1809/8 $5 MS(PCGS#8104)

November 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

3125

Grade

MS62

Price

18,600

Lot Description

BD Die State a/b. This is a vivid and attractive example, both sides exhibiting blushes of light pinkish-rose iridescence to otherwise orange-olive surfaces. Sharply defined from a well centered impression, both the frosty texture and lightly marked appearance are superior relative to the assigned grade. Were it not for a few wispy hairlines and a touch of silvery haziness, in fact, a Select Mint State grade would be in order here.<p>A popular variety with both early gold type and variety collectors, the 1809 half eagle has traditionally been listed as an overdate, although the underdigit may be an erroneously punched 9 and not an 8. In any event this issue is scarce, the only known die pairing probably accounting for only a percentage of the 33,875 half eagles struck during calendar year 1809 (the balance of the mintage likely comprised 1808-dated coins, probably of the BD-4 Wide 5 D variety). Uncommonly attractive in an MS-62 holder, this handsome piece is sure to see spirited bidding at auction.