1829 Half Eagle

HBCC#:

3155

Breen#:

6490

BD#:

2

Judd#:

n/a

Pollock#:

n/a

This is an outstanding Proof example of the first issue from the new “closed collar” technique that revolutionized coinage production. The closed collar was a steel ring with the reeded edge device imparted to the coin during the actual process of striking the planchet. This is the finer example of two acquired by Harry Bass for his collection. Approximately 10 to 12 examples are known, with this Bass Collection coin among the finest known. The present example is from the Norweb Collection and has a pedigree traced back to the Col. Mendes I. Cohen Collection sold in 1875.

Provenance:

From the Bowers and Merena Galleries sale of the Norweb Collection, October 1987, Lot 779. Earlier ex Colonel M.I. Cohen (Lot 149), Lorin G. Parmelee, Lyman H. Low, James Ten Eyck (Lot 194), Waldo C. Newcomer, Colonel E.H.R. Green, King Farouk.

Obverse:

Reverse:

Commentary:

"Obverse: Very small date, 1 same height as other digits. Symmetrical 8. Flat-based 2. Small stars. Reverse: Type II. Very small letters. Beaded denticles. Small 5, its top quite concave. Large D, small period. Modified claws. Rear claw below top leaves but a small lump remnant."