1802/1 $5 MS(PCGS#8083)

1802/1 $5 MS (PCGS#8083)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: It is difficult for us to imagine a more attractive and desirable example of the type, date, or die pairing at the Choice AU grade level than this premium PCGS/CAC 1802/1 BD-8. Softly frosted luster abounds on original light golden-honey surfaces. Striking quality is ideal for the type with good centering and all design elements boldly to sharply rendered. Just a trace of friction and a few wispy handling marks that in no way detract point to an extremely short stint in circulation for this lovely piece. BD Die State c/b.<p>Of the eight known die marriages of the 1802 half eagle, all are overdates, and BD-8 is the most frequently encountered. Based on the number of coins extant, John W. Dannreuther (2006) believes that the reported mintage of 53,176 pieces for calendar year 1802 roughly approximates the number of half eagles struck from 1802-dated dies. The author further opines that 10,000 to 15,000 examples were coined from the BD-8 die pairing, survivors numbering 150 to 200 in all grades. While this is a generous extant population by early half eagle standards, the 1802/1 BD-8 variety is scarce in an absolute sense with premium Choice About Uncirculated survivors such as this particularly elusive from a market availability standpoint. Given the strong demand that such coins enjoy among advanced gold type collectors and early half eagle enthusiasts, this captivating example is sure to see spirited bidding at auction.