Pre-Long Beach Auction #84

1797. 15 stars. V-2, LM-1, Rarity 3. NGC graded MS-66. The 15 Stars was the first of three types to be produced in 1797; next came the 16 Stars, and last was to the 13 Stars variant. The 15 Stars variety features 8 stars left and 7 stars right with two inner berries and one outer berry on the reverse wreath. This represents the most plentiful die marriage of the 1797 half dime. That is fortunate as this example represents one of the finest known for the die pairing, and it is also high in the Condition Census for the issue as a whole. A satiny, silky-smooth coin, both sides are virtually devoid of abrasions and other grade-limiting blemishes. The strike is typical of the die marriage, the centers quite blunt but the detail sharpening considerably toward the rims. The obverse is ringed in deep brick-red peripheral toning, the reverse is more evenly patinated in similar but lighter toning.
We know of few other 1797 15 Stars half dimes that are as technically sound as this coin. The Census data for this lot bears some explanation. There are three other MS-66 specimens graded as such at NGC; two LM-1, 1 LM-2, and one not designated making it impossible to determine if that coin is also an example of the LM-1 die marriage. Regardless, this one ranks near the top of the Condition Census and should be carefully considered by the enterprising numismatist. Pop 4; none finer at NGC.
Estimated Value $80,000 - 90,000.