1794 1/2C C-8, BN MS(PCGS#35060)

1794 1/2C C-8, BN MS (PCGS#35060)

Spring 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: 98.8 grains. Manley Die State 2.0. A visually engaging and highly desirable example of this elusive, conditionally challenged Cohen number. The obverse is well centered in strike with a universally broad border framing bold design elements. The reverse is slightly off center to 5 o'clock with soft to absent peripheral features at lower right, the denomination HALF CENT also soft at center. The wreath is bold, however, and the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is fully legible. Evenly toned in deep copper-brown, the surfaces have a few tiny pits and scattered marks, the only one of individual note a short scratch on the reverse at the letters CE in CENT.<p>The 1794 Cohen-8 is a very scarce die pairing, Bill Eckberg (2019) accounting for only 45 survivors, and Ed Fuhrman taking only a slightly more liberal view with approximately 50 known according to his 2022 reference <em>The Half Cent Handbook</em>. Both authors are in agreement regarding the difficulty of locating examples in higher grades. Most are well worn, if not also impaired, and with EFs exceedingly rare, AU and Mint State coins unknown, the present pleasing NGC VF-20 represents a significant find for half cent enthusiasts.