1807 O.104 R5- Draped Bust Draped Bust Half Dollar PCGS VF25, Really a PL XF!

Description

A magnificent example of this rare die variety, all of which were struck from a failing obverse die (the center was not hardened properly, and began to sink from the get-go…everyone I’ve ever seen is weak at the center obverse). As a result, these tend to look more worn than they are, and the grading services routinely undergrade them. I grade this coin XF40, and note that there is more than enough luster to support a grade of 45. And, the coin is prooflike and beautifully toned as well. From an old-time collection which was recently dispersed, this one having come from the William C. Kerr sale (Steve Ivy Numismatic Auctions, Feb 1979:629).