1797 H10C 16 Stars MS(PCGS#4259)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

3026

Grade

AU53

Price

10,200

Lot Description

A scarce <em>Guide Book</em> variety, perhaps 300 16 Stars 1797 half dimes are extant. In keeping with early Mint practice, as states were added to the Union, a star was added to the obverse. It quickly became evident that there would not be enough space as the young nation continued to grow. The first die marriage of the year was created before Tennessee was added as the 16th state, at which time this obverse die was prepared. Finally realizing this was untenable, the number became fixed at 13, in honor of the first 13 states.<p>Sharply struck and from the standpoint of actual wear, this coin approaches the higher range of the AU category. A hint of glossiness to the texture and a few faint, mostly toned over hairlines are noted for accuracy, which PCGS has accommodated with their AU-53 grade. Shades of lilac, pale blue, rose, and tan-gold blend into the fields and deliver strong eye appeal. A coin that will surely see strong bidding when it crosses the block, for this LM number is not only scarce in an absolute sense, but conditionally challenged with most survivors well worn, if not also significantly impaired.