1840 H10C No Drapery MS(PCGS#4321)

Spring 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

拍卖行

Stack's Bowers

批号

2288

等级

MS66+

价格

28,223

详细说明

This lovely Gem is toned in a blend of vivid reddish-gold and softer powder blue, olive-gray and silver-apricot shades that speak volumes about its originality. Both sides are fully struck with exceptionally smooth surfaces for both the type and issue. Outstanding! Christian Gobrecht's interpretation of the Titian Peale/Thomas Sully Liberty Seated design was first used for the half dime in 1837, but would see modification through its life. The first change came in 1838 when 13 stars were added to the obverse. Then in 1840 the obverse was once again modified, this time by Robert Ball Hughes who most notably added an additional fold to Liberty's gown at her left elbow, redesigned the rock upon which she is seated, and adjusted the shield to be oriented straight up and down. Just how successful these changes are in terms of aesthetics may be disputed, but in any case they became standard going forward. <p>Of all the half dimes struck in 1840, 1,034,000 circulation strikes bear the original No Drapery design, three times as many as Hughes' modified obverse with drapery. This issue is notable for the die cracks of varying intensity that are often present, although none are seen on the coin offered here. The 1840 No Drapery half dime is available in all circulated grades, and is not a great challenge, even in Choice Mint State. At and above the Gem level, however, this issue is progressively more difficult to locate and premium Gems, as here, are nothing short of rare. The remarkable eye appeal enhances its appeal and serves to highlight many of the fine nuances of the early Liberty Seated design. A jewel of a coin that is sure to please.