Pre-Long Beach Auction #84

1797 S-120b R2 Reverse of 1796 with Gripped Edge VG10. Sharpness VF25 but there are a couple dull dents inside the wreath and the planchet is slightly warped. In addition the field before the portrait has been lightly smoothed for some reason that is not apparent. Cleaned and retoned frosty dark steel and olive brown. Sharp but far from choice. LDS, Breen state VI, with all the die cracks and crumbling associated with the late die state. The date and legends are all bold and the "Grip" marks (a series of small depressions and bumps) on the edge are strong.
Estimated Value $80-UP.
Ex Holmes Historical Coins 11/6/2008.