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

The November 2010 Baltimore Auction

Auctioneer

Bowers & Merena

Lot Number

100

Grade

MS65

Price

3,450

Lot Description

1773 Virginia Halfpenny. No Period after GEORGIVS. W-1460, Newman 4-G. URS-10. MS-65 * BN (NGC). Thanks to the discovery of a hoard of more than 5,000 Mint State examples once owned by Colonel Mendes I. Cohen of Baltimore, Maryland, the 1773 Virginia Halfpence is one of the most plentiful Colonial-era coins in high grades. Even so, the present Gem stands head and shoulders above the vast majority of other Mint State examples that have passed through this cataloger's hands over the last 10-12 years. The obverse is fully prooflike in finish, while even on the reverse closer inspection reveals modest semi-reflective tendencies in the fields. The dominant color on both sides is one of warm golden-brown patina, although considerable faded-red luster comes into view at more direct angles, especially in and around the central reverse. The surfaces are exceptionally smooth with neither grade-limiting carbon nor detracting abrasions. Virtually full in strike, and easily among the finest survivors of the type, variety and individual die marriage.