1810 $5 Small Date, Tall 5 MS(PCGS#8106)

1810 $5 Small Date, Tall 5 MS (PCGS#8106)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: This bright and lustrous near-Mint State example retains ample evidence of a softly frosted finish and pretty wheat-gold color overall. There is also bold to sharp detail throughout the design, which is fully appreciable with only the lightest high point rub. A trace of friction in the form of wispy handling marks further confirms a short stint in active circulation, but this is an uncommonly well preserved and attractive early half eagle at the assigned grade level. BD Die State c/c.<p>BD-1 is the second most plentiful variety of this issue, although it is far scarcer than the relatively common BD-4. Of the 100,287 or so half eagles produced from the four 1810-dated die combinations, John W. Dannreuther (2006) estimates that 20,000 to 30,000 were examples of the variety now known as BD-1. This die marriage corresponds to the Small Date, Tall 5 <em>Guide Book</em> variety of the issue, Dannreuther estimating that 150 to 225 coins are extant in all grades. This is a particularly desirable Choice About Uncirculated example with much to offer the astute bidder.