Mail Bid Auction 61

Auction ends on January 9, 2026 5:00 pm EST

Lot #	Date	Variety	Rarity	Grade	Description	Number of Bids	High Bid	Photos
1	1810	O.101	R.1	PCGS AU 55	Ex Robinson S. Brown, Jr. and Donald L. Parsley.   A well struck, nicely toned 1810 half-dollar.  An iridescent ring of copper and turquoise circles the obverse; the reverse is lighter, dominated by pale russet.  Spritely luster surrounds the central devices.  Dick’s notes indicate that the coin was part of Robbie Brown’s noted collection (as NGC AU 55); Don Parsley acquired it when I sold Brown’s nearly complete die variety set circa 1994.  The Scorzafava Collection is dotted with eye-appealing, attractively toned coins.  No exception here.  Estimate: $1,600 to $2,100.	2	$1,500 Reserve met
2	1810	O.104a	R.3	PCGS MS 62	Brilliant, untoned with brazen luster.  Smooth surfaces and well struck devices are a nice plus for this early date.  A tick in the field near Liberty’s throat is of no consequence when the coin is in hand.  Here is a wonderful coin for the date or die variety collector.  Last offered in MB 47 (lot 15), at the Philadelphia ANA Convention, part of the Cape Cod Collection.  It brought $3,520.  Estimate: $3,000 to $3,500.	0	$0
3	1811/10	O.101	R.1	PCGS MS 62	The coveted early die state, with boisterous luster.  Note the bold “dots,” below-left and top-right of the first 1 in the date.  The central devices are fully struck, another magnet for savvy collectors.  Pale russet toning frames the dazzling centers.  I found no record of the date or place of Dick’s purchase.  When or wherever it was – well done!  Estimate: $5,000 and up.	0	$0
4	1811 Large 8	O.104a	R.1	PCGS MS 62	Rich sea green toning, familiar to old-timers who stored their coins in kraft envelopes.  Legend waxed eloquent when it offered the coin in its auction of February 2016 where Lot 291 earned this panegyric, “Exceptional deep steel blue and russet toning with fiery luster beneath! … A coin with fantastic visual appeal.”  Dick prevailed at $3,995.  Estimate: $2,800 to $3,400.	1	$2,400 Reserve met
5	1811 Small 8	O.110a	R.1	PCGS MS 63	Another beautifully toned 1811.  Soft gold graces the centers.  Colorful iridescence circles the stars and legend.  As expected of coins that earn this lofty grade, the surfaces are ablaze with luster.  Choice uncirculated early dates have all but disappeared on the bourse floor.  This one last appeared at auction in Heritage’s sale of June 2008 (lot 980, as “O.110”) where it brought $4,025.  Dick acquired it sometime thereafter.  Estimate: $3,000 to $4,000.	2	$2,500 Reserve met
6	1812	O.105	R.2	PCGS MS 62 CAC	An ancient dove-grey patina should discourage those who would try to “improve” this lovely remnant of the early Mint.  Original is the watchword for the coin.   The strike is superior to most and the surfaces are virtually free of contact marks.  CAC certification came sometime after the coin brought $3,055 in Ira and Larry Goldberg’s pre-Long Beach sale of June 2016, lot 962.   Estimate: $2,700 to $3,500.	0	$0
7	1813 50/UNI	O.101	R.1	PCGS AU 55	Early die state with the letters UNI readily visible at the denomination.  This is a wholesome, original coin.  The natural grey toning is highlighted by iridescent splashes of gold and turquoise.  I suspect it was stored in a Wayte Raymond holder prior to its submission to PCGS.  A nifty coin for Red Book collectors who don’t require their coins to be Mint State.  Estimate: $1,100 to $1,400.	2	$1,050 Reserve met
8	1813	O.108	R.3	PCGS AU 50 CAC	Light silver toning.  Soft luster throughout.  Typical weakness at the rims from worn dies.  There are several clash marks, but no notable scuffs or contact marks.   Estimate: $800 to $900.	4	$880 Reserve met
9	1814	O.105	R.2	PCGS MS 63	A curious yet beguiling blend of copper, turquoise and golden toning alerts the eye to a special coin.  Mint state 1814s are trophies for serious collectors; with attractive toning they are distinct rarities.  Over time this die pair evolved to the charismatic single-leaf variety.  Dick found the coin some years ago at Brian Perry’s Cape Cod Gold & Silver Coin shop in Falmouth, MA.  Smooth surfaces and a bold portrait of Liberty befit the assigned grade.  Estimate: $3,500 to $4,500.	0	$0
10	1814	O.107	R.2	PCGS AU 58	A crust of deep grey toning bespeaks originality.  The regal reverse is exceptionally nice, offering subtle shades of rose, aqua and turquoise.  Contact marks are all but absent.  This die pair was used to strike the enigmatic platinum trials, J.44.  From Heritage’s January 2016 FUN Show sale, lot 3995, where Dick “stole” it for $1,528.  Estimate: $2,000 to $3,000.	0	$0
11	1814	O.109	R.3	PCGS MS 61	An enticing halo of album toning showcases fathomless cartwheel luster.  The strike is first rate – 13 stars with center points and well detailed curls.  The surfaces are lovely, displaying a few clash marks but virtually no contact marks or signs of handling.  I spotted a horizontal row of “railroad tracks” running across the shield, clearly mint made and of little consequence aside from a inaugurating joyful conversation about their origin.  Estimate: $2,000 to $2,500.	0	$0
12	1817/3	O.101	R.2	PCGS AU 55	Extremely early die state, rare as such.  The coin is free of die breaks and lumps, with the overdate as bold as it gets.  The reverse, usually seen with notable weakness, is impressive on two counts: 1. the motto, eagle’s head and wing feathers are fully struck; and 2. the surfaces are distinctly prooflike.  A veil of gold toning encases the coin.  Luster dances under the patina.  There will be a battle for this important coin.  Estimate: $3,500 to $4,500.	0	$0
13	1818/7 Large 8	O.101	R.1	PCGS MS 61	Well struck with immaculate surfaces.  Maybe a little cabinet friction on the cheek.  Grey and gold toning with subtle iridescence through the stars and legend.  Estimate: $2,000 to $2,500.	0	$0
14	1818	O.104	R.5?	PCGS OGH AU 50	Ex Gehring Prouty.  Intense luster.  Friction confined to the highest points.  Its last auction appearance was in May 1996, MB 17, lot 16.  Gehring Prouty was the high bidder.  It returned to my inventory in August 2000 and again in September 2017, where Dick was the happy buyer.  The coin is a “lock” to grade AU 55, perhaps AU 58, if submitted to PCGS today.  The late die state features an assortment of die breaks and carries a suggested rarity rating of R.5.  Brilliant, with a thin halo of gold toning.  Terrific eye-appeal!  Estimate: $2,500 to $3,000.	0	$0
15	1822	O.104	R.2	PCGS AU 50 CAC	The epitome of originality.  I am reminded of Eric Newman’s coins, unscathed and preserved in kraft envelopes.  An antique grey patina envelops the coin while glowing luster highlights the stars, legend and central devices.  A coin for the connoisseur.  Estimate: $700 to $900.	0	$0
16	1822	O.108a	R.3	PCGS MS 63	When Heritage offered the coin in its August 2019 ANA Sale (lot 3473), Dick prevailed at $3,600.  Your cataloguer was an unhappy underbidder!  I loved the exquisite detail in Liberty’s tresses and the eagle’s wings.  Luster abounds.  A blanket of golden toning further elevates the eye-appeal.  Estimate: $2,500 to $3,000.	0	$0
17	1822	O.115	R.3	PCGS AU 58	Brilliant, untoned, with show-stopping luster.  A whisper of friction on the cheek.  Top flight eye-appeal.  Estimate: $1,100 to $1,400.	3	$935 Reserve met
18	1823	O.104	R.2	PCGS AU 55 CAC	A handsome coin with even, pale bronze toning.  Luster outlines the devices.  Double profiles, noted on this coin, are a common feature of the date.  Estimate: $550 to $700.	16	$984 Reserve met
19	1824	O.115	R.2	PCGS MS 61	Vibrant luster graces this untoned beauty.  Note also the detail in Liberty’s curls and 13 stars with center points.  A bit of copper toning at DS of the legend may have discouraged PCGS from awarding a higher grade.  Estimate: $1,200 to $1,600.	1	$1,150 Reserve met
20	1825	O.101	R.1	PCGS MS 63	Dick found this on my September 2017 FPL, offered at $2,500 and described as follows.  Scintillating luster will grab your eye from across the room.  A thin ring of gold encases the dentils.  Beautifully impressed, save for hints of weakness at the drapery lines.  The surfaces are immaculate.  This offering has everything one expects of a choice uncirculated bust half.  From the Keith Davignon Collection.  Estimate: $2,200 to $2,700.	2	$2,000 Reserve met
21	1826	O.117a	R.3	PCGS MS 64	Ex Dr. Charles Link. From Superior Galleries’ October 1989 sale of the Jascha Heifetz Collection, lot 730, then in an NGC MS 63 capsule.  The description was spot-on: Deep golden toning about the periphery of the obverse with the reverse displaying the woodgrain effect from long storage in an envelope or coin album.  The fields and devices are free of all but the most minute marks.  A beautiful coin and probably in the Condition Census for the variety.  Nearly 20 years later the coin appeared in Heritage’s June 2008 sale of the Silbermunzen Collection, lot 547, still in its NGC MS 63 holder, bringing $2,530.  Dr. Link crossed the coin to its current PCGS holder, earning a well-deserved upgrade.  Estimate: $2,500 to $3,000.	0	$0
22	1827 Sq. Base 2	O.107	R.3	PCGS AU 58	Untoned with blinding luster.  Ex Beaver Falls Collection, via your cataloguer in 2022.  Previously offered by Bowers & Ruddy in its ANA sale of July/August 1981, lot 1955.  Auction tag accompanies this flashy coin.  Estimate: $850 to $1,100.	1	$800 Reserve met
23	1827 Sq. Base 2	O.108a	R.4-	PCGS MS 63	Ex Dr. Charles Link. A fully struck marvel.  Pale gold peripheries surround the luminous, untoned centers.  It took $2,640 to land this scarce die pair in Heritage’s January 2020 FUN Show sale, lot 3784.  Estimate: $2,100 to $2,500.	1	$2,000 Reserve met
24	1827 Sq. Base 2	O.118a	R.5	PCGS MS 63 CAC	PCGS has graded but one mint state example of this rare late die state – the coin here offered.  It is plated on PCGS’ CoinFacts, https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1827-50c-o-118a/407160.  Dick pilfered it when Dr. Link consigned it to Heritage’s January 2020 (Covid-plagued) FUN Show sale, lot 3786.  Now sporting a green CAC sticker, we expect stern competition.  The coin features ornate, original toning and deep, caky luster.  Flashes of iridescent gold and aqua highlight the stars and legend.  Estimate: $2,300 to $2,750.	1	$2,200 Reserve met
25	1827 Sq. Base 2	O.123	R.4+	PCGS AU 50	Ex Donald Frederick.  Light gold toning over silver-grey surfaces, with iridescent hues at the peripheries.  I was delighted to win the coin at the April 2010 Heritage sale of Don Frederick’s important – and nearly complete – die variety collection (lot 3148).  Dick acquired it from me in a private transaction.  Luster encases the fields and devices, strengthening the coin’s eye-appeal.  Don Frederick began his search for rare die marriages in the 1960s.  He was a “bloodhound” of the first order, uncovering a few “UPs” (UnPublished varieties) along the way.  This `27-123 is the finest example he located in 4 decades of combing bourse floors and auctions.  Estimate: $1,200 to $1,500.	0	$0
26	1827 Sq. Base 2	O.125	R.3	PCGS AU 58 CAC	Ex Keith Davignon. Dazzling luster gushes from brilliant, untoned surfaces.  There is a hint of rub on the cheek, nowhere else.  The strike and surfaces are first rate.  A splendid bust half -- to be expected, I suppose, given the Davignon provenance.  Estimate: $1,100 to $1,300.	1	$1,000 Reserve met
27	1827 Sq. Base 2	O.104	1	PCGS AU 53 CAC	The antique grey and auburn toning signify originality.  Light friction is confined to the high points.  Luster flows, undisturbed, through the fields.  A regal survivor of the early Mint.  Estimate: $400 to $600. Note: The hard-copy catalog incorrectly attributes this coin as O.134.	2	$500 Reserve met
28	1827 Sq. Base 2	O.136	R.4-	PCGS MS 63	Ex Dr. Charles Link.  Intense luster satisfies our expectations for the assigned grade.  This untoned beauty, at the low end of the Condition Census, is as fresh as the day it left the coining chamber.  The faint halo of gold suggests storage in an envelope or album.  Softness at the motto and rims are normal for this scarce die pair.  The central devices are nicely impressed.  Dick found the coin in Legend’s Sale 33, June 2019, lot 36 (from the “Hunter” collection) where it brought $3,995.  The Link provenance is noted on the PCGS label.  Estimate: $3,000 to $4,000.	1	$2,900 Reserve met
29	1827 Sq. Base 2	O.142	R.2	PCGS MS 60 CAC	Original grey toning, infused with gold.  A handsome coin with very nice surfaces.  The “MS 60” grade is associated with unattractive coins that suffer from improper storage.  CAC thought otherwise and I think you’ll agree.  My friend and mentor Mike Summers offered it to me (raw) in 2006.  I resold it to an advanced collector who submitted the coin to PCGS, then CAC.  It is the only MS 60 with a CAC sticker that I’ve ever seen.  Treat it as a nice MS 61 or 62 and you’ll be in the hunt.  Estimate: $1,000 to $1,250.	0	$0
30	1827 Sq. Base 2	O.144	R.5	PCGS AU 55 CAC	A stunning example that has my vote as the most important coin in the sale.  I’d not seen or heard of its existence until now.  Only one mint state `27-144 is known, a wonder coin that Gehring Prouty acquired 30 years ago after it popped up in an Illinois collection.  It is graded MS 64.  The Scorzafava coin vies with two others for positions 2 through 4 in the Condition Census: 1. The Farley-Meyer-Davignon coin, graded PCGS AU 58; and 2. The Summers-Kahn-Link-Sharfman-Lathan coin, also graded PCGS AU 58.  The coin is a museum-quality bust half dollar.   The toning is magnificent, featuring electric shades of aqua, gold, copper and related hues beyond my vocabulary.   Why only AU 55?  Well, the left wing is a little soft.  I find no other fault.  I do not know when or where Dick found this treasure.  It arrived with an NGC AU 55 label (4715171-001) and an old-fashioned brown kraft envelope carrying the name and address of “J.G. Macallister, Dealer in Fine Coins, 1528 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, - Penn’a.”  Written on the envelope in pen and ink by a practiced hand are the words, “1827 Brilliant Proof - Ex. Rare in Proof - $25.”  Rare indeed!  Surely a testament to the eye-appeal and overall quality of the coin.  Google tells us that an office building has occupied 1528 Walnut St. since 1929, housing an assortment of professional, medical and culinary tenants.  Mr.  Macallister, most likely, occupied an office during The Great Depression.  I congratulate and envy the next owner of Lot 30.  Estimate: $9,000 and up.	2	$8,500 Reserve met
31	1827 Curl Base 2	O.146	R.1	PCGS AU 58	Bold luster throughout.  Splashes of peripheral toning frame the brilliant centers.  Virtually no ticks from encounters with other coins and minimal signs of handling.  A solid AU 58.  Just 2 of 49 die marriages this year sport a curl base 2.  Estimate: $1,350 to $1,750.	1	$1,200 Reserve met
32	1827 Curl Base 2	O.147	R.4-	PCGS MS 62	Ex Tim Osborne.  The surfaces, shrouded in original sunset colors, are impeccable.  (The toning is lighter than the photo suggests.)  Full luster illuminates the fields.  Die wear accounts for the soft obverse rims and drawn stars.  The obverse die, of course, was first married to the more common O.146.  Dick won the coin in my August 2021 Sale, MB 52, lot 34 @ $2,420.  It was part of Tim Osborne’s extraordinary consignment.  Tim found this coin in my bourse case during the January 2012 FUN Show.  Estimate: $2,000 to $3,000.	0	$0
33	1828 Curl 2, No Knob	O.102	R.2	PCGS AU 58	Silver-grey with flashy luster throughout.  Sharply struck except for drapery lines below star 1 and the motto, opposite.  Light friction on the obverse.  The reverse is UNC.  Estimate: $900 to $1,200.	1	$800 Reserve met
34	1828 Curl 2 with Knob	O.107	R.1	PCGS MS 61	There are 23 known die pairs this year.  Only two display a curl and knobbed 2, the rare O.106 and this O.107.  Red Book and die-variety collectors collide when a high grade specimen appears.  This example is a twin to the preceding 1828 O.102, with an even sharper strike.  The eagle’s feathers and talons are exquisitely detailed.  Estimate: $1,300 to $1,900.	4	$1,650 Reserve met
35	1828 Sq. 2, Lg. 8s	O.109	R.3	PCGS MS 63+	Raucous luster, framed by a gorgeous halo of album toning.  Early die state, with all devices fully struck.  In short, tip-top eye-appeal.  Dick found this one in Heritage’s Oct. 2016 sale, lot 3774.  Then encapsulated by NGC as MS 64, it brought $3,760.  A spectacular coin that will see stern competition.  Estimate: $3,000 to $4,000.	1	$2,900 Reserve met
36	1829	O.112a	R.2	PCGS MS 62	Semi-prooflike surfaces will startle and entice those who preview the coin.  The familiar die lines below star 13 were removed when the dies were cleaned and polished.  This coin was among the first struck when the dies were returned to service.  Exquisite detail in Liberty’s curls and the eagle’s wings contributes to the eye-appeal.   Estimate: $1,500 to $2,000.	0	$0
37	1830 Small 0	O.117	R.2	PCGS MS 63	Ex Louis Eliasberg.   Lot 1866 in Bowers & Merena’s April 1997 offering of the Eliasberg half-dollars, bringing $7,700.  Mint frost encases portions of the central devices.  The fields are distinctly prooflike, the reverse with more intense mirrors.  Silver-grey toning is a hallmark of the Eliasberg coins.  A colorful ring of peripheral toning is a bonus on this important coin.  B&M graded it MS 64.  NGC agreed when it viewed and graded the coin after the sale.  Dick picked it up in a 2016 Legend auction, still in an NGC capsule then crossed it to PCGS.  The NGC label accompanies the lot.  Estimate: $2,500 to $3,500.	0	$0
38	1830 Large 0	O.121	R.3	PCGS MS 63 CAC	Fully struck devices, high rims and distinct dentils denote an early die state.  An ancient crust of silver toning enhances the vibrant mint luster.  A splash of iridescent turquoise toning over Liberty’s head and through nearby stars adds to the allure of this lovely coin.  It brought $3,643 when Heritage offered it in its January 2017 FUN Show sale.  Estimate: $2,500 to $3,500.	0	$0
39	1831	O.103	R.1	PCGS MS 62	Not a hint of friction on this mint state 1831.  Jaunty luster rolls through the fields and across the devices.  A bit of copper and sunset toning overlays the denomination and portions of Liberty’s cap.  Another pretty one!  Estimate: $1,400 to $1,800.	0	$0
40	1831	O.108	R.1	PCGS AU 58 CAC	Ex Charlton E. “Swampy” Meyer and Tim Osborne   Booming luster adorns the untoned surfaces.  Faint friction, if any, is confined to the cheek.  The central devices are fully struck save for Liberty’s lowest drapery lines.  Last offered in August 2021 as part of Tim Osborne’s awe-inspiring collection.  (MB 52, lot 45) The PCGS label includes the Meyer provenance.  My personal notes reveal Swampy’s source: Superior Galleries’ May 1995 sale, lot 2790.  Tim acquired the coin from Harry Laibstain at the January 2009 FUN Show.  A great coin with a distinguished provenance for date, die variety and registry set collectors.  Estimate: $1,000 to $1,200.	7	$1,250 Reserve met
41	1832	O.114	R.4	PCGS MS 62	Ex Dr. Charles Link and Keith Davignon.   Steve Herrman’s AMBPR has this coin as No. 1 in the Condition Census.  The PCGS Pop Report shows but one mint state example, graded MS 63, with no auction record.  Dick prevailed when I offered this coin in August 2019, MB 49, lot 89.  The description remains apt: A gorgeous example of this noted rarity.  Keith acquired the coin from Dr. Charles Link during the 2010 ANA Convention in Boston.  It is the 2nd or 3rd finest known of the variety.  Lustrous surfaces are painted with colorful, iridescent shades of amber, russet and turquoise.  The surfaces display only miniscule signs of contact.  The obverse die, appearing first on the O.113, was nearing its end when married to a new reverse.  Weak rims and drawn stars are mandatory.  This is a very important coin.  Estimate 3,000 to $4,000.	0	$0
42	1832 Sm. Lets. Rev.	O.115	R.1	PCGS AU 58 CAC	Dick pounced in 2017 when I posted this little beauty on my Fixed Price List.  Nine years earlier it appeared in Heritage’s August 2008 ANA Sale, without an affirming CAC sticker.  The winning bidder was a veteran die variety collector and BHNC member.  His notes on the purchase survive: What a wonderful addition!  Fantastic surfaces and unquestionably original.  I wish my whole collection looked like this one.  I added my own thoughts, “Immaculate surfaces and a whisper of friction suggest a + grade for this beauty.  The real appeal of the coin, however, rests with its sultry, antique grey patina, glowing with soft red and gold iridescence.”  Estimate: $1,000 to $1,200.	1	$900 Reserve met
43	1833	O.102	R.1	PCGS AU 58 CAC	In days gone by I would have graded the coin MS 62/65.  The surfaces are immaculate.  The deep sunset obverse toning is lovely and original - but a bit dark.  I imagine PCGS settled on AU out of fright.  I see no friction on the coin.  The fully struck reverse, with light sunset toning, is gem quality.  Estimate: $1,000 to $1,200.	2	$925 Reserve met
44	1833	O.112	R.2	PCGS AU 58 CAC	Ex Keith Davignon.   Another scrumptious 1833.  Luster oozes under a blanket of antique grey toning with iridescent highlights through the stars and legend.  The surfaces and strike are first rate. A private acquisition from Dick’s good friend, Keith Davignon.  Estimate: $1,000 to $1,200.	1	$900 Reserve met
45	1834 Sm. Date & Lets.	O.118	R.4	PCGS AU 58	Garish luster saturates the fields and devices.  Light rub on Liberty’s cheek and breast dictate an AU designation.  The reverse is UNC.  Smooth surfaces provide assurance that this untoned beauty never entered circulation.  The `34-118 is one of the few scarce die pairs of the year.  It is often catalogued as “1834/34.”  Recutting is readily visible on all four digits of the date.  Dick purchased the coin directly from BHNC clubmate Dr. Tom Sears.  Estimate: $1,000 to $1,200.	1	$900 Reserve met
46	1834 Sm. Date & Lets.	O.119	R.4	PCGS MS 64	Ex Don Frederick.   Don Frederick began collecting bust halves in the 1960s.  He was a cherry picker extraordinaire.  The `34-119 is the toughest die marriage of the year.  He touted his coin as the finest known of the die pair.  One other PCGS graded MS 64 exists, ex Dr. Charles Link.  No matter.  Heritage offered this coin, from “The Bayside [Frederick] Collection,” in its February 2018 Long Beach sale, lot 4680.  There can be no quarrel with the description, “Smooth surfaces are awash in soft mint luster and feature daubs of golden-russet and gunmetal patina.”  I foresee robust competition for this treasure.  Estimate: $2,750 and up.	1	$2,200 Reserve met
47	1835	O.101	R.1	PCGS MS 63	Ex Dr. Charles Link.   Iridescent toning surrounds the peripheries.  Luster fills every nook and cranny.  I was especially taken with the sharpness of Liberty’s drapery lines and the motto opposite.  Plucked from my Fixed Price List in June 2015.   Estimate: $2,200 to $2,700.	0	$0
48	1835	O.104	R.4-	PCGS MS 62	Ex Dick Graham and Keith Davignon.   A scarce die pair, likely among the top 5 or 6 known.  From my 2019 Chicago ANA Sale, MB 49, lot 100, that featured coins from the collections of Doug Noblet and Keith Davignon.  Dick Scorzafava triumphed at $2,860 in a battle with two collectors from the Northwest.  This piece was from the Davignon Collection.  I tendered these thoughts: “…  an archetype of grey-dirt.  The patina showcases underlying luster and is blessed with a diaphanous hue of sea-green on the reverse.  Davignon acquired the coin from my offering of Dick Graham’s collection during the January 2013 FUN Show.  His comment about the coin is brief and to the point: “Beautiful original skin.”  Estimate $2,000 to $2,500.	0	$0
49	1836	O.114	R.2	PCGS MS 62 CAC	I offered this cryptic description when listing the coin in my October 2017 Fixed Price List.  Original!  The pale gold patina protects near immaculate surfaces.  Well struck to boot.  As nice as it gets for the assigned grade.  Nothing has changed.  The coin is magnificent.  Estimate: $1,400 to $1,800.	0	$0
50	1836 Bar Dot	O.122	R.2	PCGS MS 63 CAC	Ex Dr. Charles Link.   Another patently original bust half.  Pale bronze toning enhances the obverse.  The reverse patina displays dusky hues of auburn and russet.  Immaculate surfaces befit the grade.  An enigmatic “bar dot” is plainly visible alongside the 6 in the date.  Dick acquired the coin from Dr. Charles Link via private treaty.  Estimate: $1,800 to $2,200.	1	$1,800 Reserve met
51	1806/5	O.104a, T-1	R.5	PCGS VF 20 CAC	I do not recall another CAC approved specimen of this rare die pair – in any grade!  Unlike the deadly common 1806 over 5 O.101, 102 and 103, the O.104 features a distinct remnant of the underdate within the loop of the 6.  The obverse die was used in 1805, on the 1805 O.105 and O.106.  All other overdated bust halves were struck on leftover, unused dies from previous years.  Of equal interest are the obverse and reverse cuds.  Obverse die breaks from star 11 to tip of bust to rim create a retained cud.  A full cud has formed over UN on the reverse.  (Tompkins Die State 4.) The coin has even, light to medium grey toning.  Striking weakness is mandatory since both dies saw extensive use in 1805.  Flickers of luster survive around the reverse devices.  Circulation ticks are standard for the assigned grade, nothing worth mentioning.  Estimate: $1,500 to $2,500	1	$1,400 Reserve met
52	1806 Pt.6 with Stem	O.120	R.3	NGC AU 55	Lightly toned, with soft, even luster.  The bigamous obverse die (married to 6 reverse dies) was still able to produce decently struck pieces.  Full breast feathers are a nice bonus on the reverse.  The familiar die break on the shield is absent on this early die state.  The surfaces display light adjustment marks but virtually no signs of contact with other coins.  A sweet coin for the date or type collector.  Estimate: $3,000 to $3,500.	0	$0
53	1808	O.108	R.3	PCGS OGH AU 50	Henry Hilgard, my great friend, mentor and table assistant for over 2 decades, was beloved by all.  His bust half-dollars were noted for exceptional eye-appeal and unblemished surfaces.  Cleaned or doctored coins were anathema.  His capped bust die-variety collection fell short of completion by only a few of the 450 known marriages.  When his friend and neighbor Elton Dosier died in 1997, Henry’s numismatic interests shifted.  He began to part with his set pieces.  This 1808 went to a collecting friend in a private sale.  The richly toned surfaces are aglow with underlying luster.  The coin has not been submitted to CAC.  I should think that a sticker awaits anyone seeking CAC affirmation.  Estimate: $1,400 to $1,800.	10	$1,731 Reserve met
54	1808	O.110a	R.4	NGC AU 58	A handsome coin.  Fully struck on the obverse, nearly so on the reverse.  This die pair is the key to completing a die variety set of 1808s.  Old timers still award it an R.5 or R.4+ rarity rating, citing auction records to support the claim.  It’s been a decade or more since I’ve handled a choice AU example.  The smooth surfaces sport a medium grey patina, marred only by a short streak through TE on the reverse.  Estimate: $2,000 and up.	3	$2,262 Reserve met
55	1809 XXX Edge	O.101	R.5	NGC AU 53	The `09-101 gets my vote as the toughest die pair of the year.  OK, maybe it’s because I’ve never cherried an example.  High grade examples are supremely rare.  NGC may have been generous in conferring an AU designation.  I’d prefer more luster.  Perhaps the medium to dark grey toning is at fault, shielding our eyes from hidden splendor.  The surfaces are generally smooth, just a few ticks from handling or circulation.  Treat this rarity as a very choice XF; you won’t be disappointed.  Competition is guaranteed!  Estimate: $3,000 and up	1	$2,500 Reserve met
56	1809	O.103	R.2	PCGS MS 61	Ex Elton Dosier.  The fully lustrous obverse is silver-grey with subtle blue highlights.  The semi-prooflike reverse displays an iridescent film of gold and aqua.  The strike – oh my - is unlike any I have seen on this die pair.  Every detail is razor sharp, even the stars and dentils.  Elton fancied well struck, early die states.  Here is exhibit “A.”  I sold the coin to the consignor in 1997, the year we lost Elton.  Estimate: $3,000 and up.	2	$2,700 Reserve met
57	1810	O.101a	R.1	PCGS OGH AU 58	Ex Don Parsley.  Brilliant with scintillating luster.  Die breaks circle the fully struck obverse.  Note, especially, Liberty’s curls.  Weakness atop the eagle’s left wing is ubiquitous.  All else is razor sharp.  Last offered in May 2023 as part of the Donald L. Parsley Collection.  A truly spectacular 1810!  Estimate: $3,000 to $4,000.	0	$0
58	1811 Large 8	O.104a	R.1	PCGS XF 45 CAC	Fiery red, gold and green iridescence highlights the peripheries – a signpost of album storage.  Luster flutters through the fields, as expected of a choice XF specimen.  Weak reverse rims and a magnificent obverse die break confirm a late state of the dies.  Off the market since 2001 when the consignor purchased it from New York Dealer Wynn Carner.  Here is a pretty one!  Estimate: $500 to $800.	18	$807 Reserve met
59	1812	O.110	R.1	PCGS AU 58 CAC	Ex Keith Davignon and Lance Keigwin.  The quality and eye-appeal of this regal 1812 befit its august provenance.  Keith spotted the coin in the bourse case of David Lawrence RC during the January 2012 FUN Show.  It next appeared in MB 45, lot 9, at the August 2017 ANA Convention.  In a battle with the owner of the Prism Collection and others, Lance Keigwin prevailed at $3,495.  A halo of pale gold envelops the stars and legend.  The centers are antique grey with distinctive rose and copper highlights.  Estimate: $3,000 to $3,500.	2	$2,700 Reserve met
60	1813	O.103	R.1	PCGS AU 55	Encased in a blanket of gold toning, this lustrous early date shows minimal signs of circulation.  The left wing is a bit soft but better than most of the die variety.  The obverse portrait is nicely detailed.  Estimate: $1,200 to $1,500.	1	$1,000 Reserve met
61	1813	O.107a	R.1	PCGS AU 58	Iridescent album toning electrifies the stars and legend.  Ms. Liberty, bathed in gaudy luster, flaunts her fully struck curls and drapery.  Even the folds in her cap are intricately detailed.  Separate die breaks run through the left and right stars, forming a V-shaped chevron at the date.  The more restrained reverse features die breaks, clash marks and striking weakness around the eagle’s head.  The consignor found this charming 1813 at the Long Beach Show in June 2000.  Estimate: $2,200 to $3,000.	3	$2,560 Reserve met
62	1814	O.106a	R.4	PCGS AU 50 CAC	The charismatic key to completing a die variety set of 1814s.  The worn dies and formidable reverse die break are stark reminders of the early Mint’s insistence on using dies well into their dotage.  This high grade example comes with soft luster and original antique grey toning, tinged with copper.  A toning streak bisects the reverse, allowing the obverse to prevail in a contest for superior eye-appeal.  Tim Osborne’s example, ex Don Frederick, was also graded by PCGS as AU 50 and endorsed by CAC; it brought $5,720 in MB 53, January 2022, lot 10.  Enough said; expect competition.  From the Kings Park Collection.  Estimate: $3,500 and up.	1	$3,000 Reserve met
63	1814	O.107'	R.6?	PCGS AU 58	A colorfully toned early ("prime") die state – for hedonists as well as students of the series.  High rims, crisp dentils and squared-off devices announce an early die state.  Distinct recutting of the 4 and the first 1 in the date provide confirmation.  Note, also, the absence of the ubiquitous die chip in N of UNITED.  Herrman identifies but five auction offerings, with a grade range of VF 20 through AU 50.  He suggests an R.6 rarity rating.  The PCGS XF 45 I offered in MB 54, lot 76, August 2022 brought $1,871.  This is a far superior example, possibly the finest known.   It is worth remembering that the O.107 die pair, in a later die state, was used to strike the platinum half-dollars of 1814.  From the Kings Park Collection.  Estimate: $4,000 and up.	0	$0
64	1814 E/A	O.108'	R.7?	PCGS AU 58	A remarkable example of this Red Book staple.  Brilliant, untoned with extravagant luster.  The eye-appeal, however, is of secondary importance.  I’ve not seen or handled another “E over A” that is free of die breaks and clash marks while sporting a fully struck eagle’s head.  Note also the sharpness of Liberty’s drapery, cap and upper curls.  In a word, WOW!  The coin sold for $9,020 in MB 54, lot 9, August 2022.  It is the sole “prime” listed in Steve Herrman’s latest AMBPR.  He posits R.7 for the die state and will get no argument from students of the series.  Estimate: $8,000 and up.	0	$0
65	181.7 Punctuated Date	O.103	R.2	PCGS AU 53	Soft luster kindles under a blanket of sunset toning.  I’m reminded of the glow of a dying campfire.  Smooth surfaces befit the grade.  High grade examples of this Red Book variety are always in demand, chased by date, die variety and – especially – PCGS Registry Set collectors.  Removed from an NGC AU 55 capsule.  The NGC label accompanies.  Estimate: $2,000 to $2,500.	0	$0
66	1818/7 Small 8	O.102a	R.2	NGC AU 58	The natural grey toning is flanked by an iridescent halo of pale gold.  The surfaces display light clash marks but are otherwise smooth, suggesting minimal – if any – actual circulation.  Nearly full luster rolls under the protective patina.  The small 8 overdate is harder to find in high grade than its large 8 counterpart.  Estimate: $2,200 to $3,000.	0	$0
67	1818	O.104b	R.5?	NGC MS 62	A remarkable example.  In a private collection since I sold it to the consignor in June 1996.  A delicate infusion of golden toning suggests storage in a kraft envelope prior to encapsulation.  There is no questioning the mint state designation.  Vibrant cartwheel luster encases the fully struck devices.  Magnificent die breaks span the obverse, including one through stars 8-13, not described in Overton.  The MS 63 1818 O.104b offered in MB 59, lot 10, sold for $8,195.  A visit to PCGS or CAC lies in the future of this important coin.  Estimate: $3,000 and up.	0	$0
68	1819/8 Large 9	O.103a	R.3	PCGS AU 55	Myriad reverse die breaks are in full flower.  High rims, 13 star points and bold dentils belie the late die state.  This eye-catching overdate features iridescent “target” toning on the obverse.  Nearly full luster befits a higher grade.  The consigner absconded with the coin after visiting the offerings of Eye Appealing Coins in March 2018.  Estimate: $2,000 to $2,500.	0	$0
69	1821	O.106	R.1	PCGS AU 58	Shimmering luster animates the sharply struck central devices.  A halo of coveted album toning intensifies the eye-appeal.  The surfaces are simply superb.  “Brilliant uncirculated with cabinet friction,” would be an appropriate (if outdated) description of this impressive coin.  Estimate: $1,800 to $2,300.	1	$1,700 Reserve met
70	1822/1	O.101	R.1	PCGS MS 62	Ex Steve Nomura and Keith Davignon.  Last offered in MB 41, August 2015.  I described lot 41 this way: Scintillating luster!  Another eye-catching coin from Steve Nomura.  He purchased it from your cataloguer at the Long Beach Show, June 3, 1994.  A ring of copper toning frames the brilliant, untoned centers.  Liberty’s curls and the eagle’s feathers and claws are razor sharp.  Keith was the winner at $5,502, a well-deserved record price for the assigned grade.  This was the last coin consigned to MB 61.  It has not been to CAC, where I would expect a warm greeting.  Estimate: $4,000 to $5,000.	0	$0
71	1822/1	O.102	R.4	PCGS XF 45	The Bust Half Nut Club now debunks both the 1822 O.101 and 102 as overdates.  The debate has raged for more than 50 years.  In his recent edition of AMBPR Steve Herrman offers a cursory reference to the author/researcher Edgar Souders’ thoughts on the matter, See Bust Half Fever discourse.  Nonetheless, City Hall has spoken.  Al Overton, Don Parsley, the Red Book, PCGS and NGC each list the two die marriages as overdates.  There is no debate as to which die pair is rarer.  The 1822/1 O.101 is among the more common die pairs of the year.  The 1822/1 O.102, alongside the O.103 and O.112, is one of 3 keys to completing a set of 1822s.  The example offered here was Dr. Glenn Peterson’s set-piece when PCGS examined and encapsulated his impressive collection.  The Peterson provenance is noted on the label.  The coin is deeply toned in iridescent shades of cobalt, rose and aqua.  Even wear is confined to the high points.  The assigned grade is spot-on.  Estimate: $1,300 to $1,700.	2	$1,050 Reserve met
72	1823 Patched 3	O.101a	R.1	PCGS MS 62	Ex Lance Keigwin.  A dazzling example of the popular Red Book variety.  Delicate gold toning enhances the unbroken cartwheel luster.  Lance Keigwin spotted and purchased the coin in April 2013.  Eleven years later he consummated a private treaty sale to the consignor for $5,850, nearly matching the winning bid in my recent ANA Sale, MB 60, where Dick Scorzafava’s equally attractive PCGS MS 62 sold for $5,720.  If you missed out on Dick’s coin, enjoy this opportunity for numismatic repechage.  Estimate: $4.500 to $5,500.	0	$0
73	1823	O.103	R.2	PCGS MS 61	Intense, unbroken luster befits a higher grade.  This is a pretty coin with iridescent gold and turquoise highlights that denote storage in a Wayte Raymond holder.  A few handling marks account for the modest grade.  None deserve mention.  We search for this quality on bourse floors, too often coming home disappointed.  Estimate: $1,500 to $1,800.	0	$0
74	1824/1	O.102	R.5+	PCGS AU 53 CAC	Ex Henry Hilgard, John Tidwell and Charlton E. Meyer, Jr.  A majestic coin, holding a place at no. 3 or 4 in the Condition Census.  No mint state examples were known until Heritage unveiled a wondrous example in August 2021, graded MS 63 by NGC.  It sold for $36,000.  Three AU examples vie for CC positions 2, 3, and 4.  The Dosier/Prouty coin is a choice AU.  It was raw when I parted with it during the 2000 ANA Convention in Philadelphia.  Heritage sold a PCGS graded AU 58 in 2009 for $10,250.   Henry Hilgard uncovered the coin offered here in the 1990s.  It was encapsulated by NGC, and graded AU 58.  Henry sold it to John Tidwell.  John had a nearly complete die variety set of Capped Bust half-dollars (including the Dosier 1817/4).  Failing eyesight led to John’s decision to part with his coins in August 2004.  I catalogued a sale of “Selected Rarities” from the Tidwell collection.  Lot 35 was this coin.  Charlton Meyer prevailed at $9,922.  When I sold Meyer’s coins in July 2008 the coin brought $14,702.  It has been off the market since then.  After dropping 5 grading points at PCGS, it was rewarded with a green CAC sticker.  The coin boasts an antique grey patina.  Soft luster highlights the original toning.  Estimate: $10,000 and up.	0	$0
75	1824 Over Various Dates	O.103	R.1	PCGS MS 62	Ex Tim Osborne.  Boisterous luster and first rate eye-appeal contributed to the excitement when this piece appeared in MB 59 (lot 82).  It took $4,840 to bring it home.  Tim Osborne found it on the bourse floor during the 2011 Chicago ANA Convention.  A pastel halo of turquoise and gold frames the brilliant centers.  Note the detail in Liberty’s curls and the eagle’s wings and talons.  No marks deserve mention.  The R.1 rarity rating is misleading.  George Hamilton’s CAC-approved NGC MS 62, for example, brought $9,400 at the 2016 Anaheim ANA.  The PCGS graded MS 62 in my 2017 Denver ANA sale, MB 45, sold for $8,525.  Pretty coins bring pretty prices!  Estimate: $3,500 to $4,500.	1	$3,200 Reserve met
76	1824/4	O.110	R.1	PCGS AU 58 CAC	Richly toned in shades of auburn and pale gold.  A familiar halo of iridescent toning adds to the eye-appeal.   Well struck with lovely surfaces.  The coin is without faults and would grade several points higher without traces of friction on the high points.  Estimate: $1,800 to $2,200.	0	$0
77	1824	O.111	R.3	NGC MS 62+	Sharply impressed and unquestionably mint state.  Album toning through the obverse and reverse dentils, otherwise untoned with blinding luster.  Liberty sports a double profile, not unusual for the date.  Estimate: $1,500 to $1,900.	1	$1,400 Reserve met
78	1824	O.113	R.2	PCGS AU 58	Untoned with sparkling luster, slightly diminished in the fields.  Well struck central devices.  Slight weakness at URI of the motto.  There is no quarrel with the AU 58 designation.  From the collection of Ethan Levine.  Estimate: $800 to $1,100.	2	$750 Reserve met
79	1825	O.110	R.1	PCGS MS 62	A primordial crust of “grey dirt,” infused with subtle hues of gold and turquoise, bespeaks originality.   The surfaces are magnificent; the sole mark is a tick on the dentils, just right of the date.  Veteran observers will covet the look and eye-appeal.  From Chris Merrill’s collection, offered by Heritage in February 2018, lot 4636, where it brought $1,560.  Estimate: $1,300 to $1,600.	1	$1,250 Reserve met
80	1827/6	O.101	R.2	PCGS AU 55	Lightly toned with exactly the right amount of luster to support the grade.  Mid to late die state.  The practiced eye will note a smidgin of softness due to die wear.  Estimate: $800 to $1,100.	0	$0
81	1827 Sq. Base 2	O.105	R.1	CAC AU 58	Blinding luster throughout.  The stars are highlighted by a ring of iridescent toning.  Liberty’s curls, the eagle’s claws and talons are fully struck.  A whisper of friction on the cheek, otherwise uncirculated. This is an ideal coin for the date, type or Registry Set collector.  Estimate: $1,200 to $1,500.	0	$0
82	1827 Sq. Base 2	O.124	R.5	PCGS AU 50	Ex Dr. Charles Link.  The PCGS label includes the Link provenance.  It also suggests an attribution of “O.124a.”  It is now accepted – with BHNC approval – that the 124a, with drawn stars, is not a significant die state; it cannot be distinguished from the O.124 (which also comes with drawn stars).  The Link coin, offered here, is plated on PCGS CoinFacts.  The blunt obverse strike is a necessary evil, as the die was first used on the common 1827 O.135.  Soft luster survives on this high grade example.  Light grey toning is unassuming and original.  The surfaces are free of significant blemishes.  Students of the series will recognize the importance of this coin.  It is squarely within the top 10 of its ilk.  Tip: this piece would make a great companion to the 1824/1 O.102, lot 74 above, and the upcoming 1827 O.137.  Estimate: $2,000 to $3,000.	0	$0
83	1827 Sq. Base 2	O.137	R.6-	PCGS VF 30	Ex Floyd Farley and Stewart P. Witham.  Stew Witham was BHNC member #1.  In the words of his astute clubmate Elton Dosier, “Stew had more true uncirculated bust halves than anyone else.”  When it came to the `27-137, a hallowed rarity, the best he could find after decades of searching was this sweet but humble VF 30.  The coin came to him from BHNC co-founder, Floyd Farley.  The die pair was unknown to Al Overton when he published the 1st edition of his standard reference in 1967.  In a single week in December 1968 Farley identified not one but two examples of a new marriage.  He promptly labeled them 1827 FF.1 and shipped this “lower grade” coin to his friend and mentor, Stewart Witham.  It rested there until Heritage offered selections from the Witham collection in August 2010.  It sold for $10,063.  It reappeared at Heritage’s Central States auction in April 2018 where it sold for $11,100.  As we approach the 60th anniversary of Farley’s miracle week, the number of known pieces hovers around 23.  The `27-137 is often lumped with the 1817 O.104, 1823 O.113, 1827 O.148 and 1831 O.120 when the discussion turns to top-end rarities in the capped bust half series.  Problem-free VF examples routinely bring 6-figure prices.  The Farley-Witham coin is remarkable on another count: the surfaces are nearly mark-free, nicer than many coins graded XF or AU.  Natural beige toning attests to its originality.  In all, a wonderful coin with an impressive provenance.  Estimate: $10,000 to $15,000.	4	$9,200 Reserve met
84	1828 Sq. Base 2, Sm.8s, Lg. Lets.	O.111	R.4+	PCGS AU 53 CAC	Among rare die pairs of the year, the 1828-111 is just behind the 1828 O.105 and 1828 O.123.  John Torres found the coin in my August 2015 ANA Sale, MB 41, lot 66.  I observed, Light grey with some color and iridescent toning at the peripheries.  Soft luster throughout.  Virtually no marks…. This is a “sleeper” R.4, especially in high grade.  Be willing to stretch your bid.  A plus sign has been added to the rarity rating since then.  The coin brought $1,680 when Heritage sold Torres’ collection a year ago, identifying it as from The Towers Collection.  It should do as well or better today.  Estimate: $1,500 to $2,000.	0	$0
85	1829/7	O.102a	R.5-	NGC MS 63	A highlight of the sale!  Al Overton never saw an example of the late die state.  An imposing die break crosses the date, Liberty’s lower curls and threatens the clasp of her drapery.  Don Parsley was alerted to the die state before publishing his 2005 and 2013 revisions of Overton’s reference.  The 2005 (4th) edition misplaced the die break, suggesting it was near star 1.  The 2013 (5th) edition identified the break below the date but failed to omit the earlier reference to a (nonexistent) die break at star 1.  The current offering stands at no. 2 in the Condition Census.  A wonder coin, graded MS 66 by NGC, brought $42,000 in Heritage’s August 2020 ANA Sale.  PCGS has graded only 9 pieces in all grades, none higher than AU 58.  The coin here offered is an untoned marvel.  The central devices are fully struck!  High rims flank the obverse and reverse.  The luster is amazing, as bold as the day the coin was struck.  This museum quality piece deserves a home in an advanced collection.  Estimate: $5,000 to $7,500.	0	$0
86	1830 Small 0	O.109	R.4+	PCGS AU 55 CAC	Another “sleeper” R.4+.  Tim Osborne’s example, also graded PCGS AU 55 CAC, brought $1,157 four years ago.  (MB 52, lot 41.)  This flashy, largely untoned example, puts many AU 58s to shame!  The semi-prooflike reverse appears mint-state.  Drawn stars and striking weakness in the portrait are indicators of the worn obverse die; I suspect they influenced the PCGS graders.  From the Kings Park Collection.  Estimate: $1,000 to $1,200.	3	$975 Reserve met
87	1830 Small 0	O.115	R.2	PCGS MS 62+	Vivacious daubs of golden toning sparkle atop the boldly lustrous surfaces.  Impressive detail in the central devices contrasts with softness at the rims and drawn stars.  Liberty’s tresses are fluffed out from a recent visit to her hair salon!  Top flight eye-appeal.  Estimate: $1,500 to $1,800.	2	$1,350 Reserve met
88	1830 Large 0	O.123	R.1	PCGS MS 63	From the Dr. Charles Link collection though not noted on the PCGS label.  A panoply of iridescent colors captures the eye.  Under pinpoint light the hues are ethereal.  The central devices are sharp.  The coin, nonetheless, was struck from the scarce latest state of the dies.  Drawn stars and feathery die breaks, star 6 to headband and star 3 to 6, earmark the coin as the scarce BHNC die state 123.3.  Color enthusiasts and die state devotees will vie for this prize.  Estimate: $2,000 to $2,500.	0	$0
89	1832 Small Letters	O.118	R.1	PCGS OGH MS 63 CAC	A beautifully impressed, original half-dollar.  Caky luster rolls beneath a protective grey dirt patina.  Ejected from the coining chamber of a screw press nearly 200 years ago, the coin has miraculously avoided any effort to “improve” its appearance.  Kudos to its stewards.  Estimate: $2,000 to $2,500.	0	$0
90	1833	O.101	R.1	PCGS AU 58 CAC	Ex Floyd Farley and Tim Osborne.  From the sale of Tim Osborne’s wonderful collection, MB 52, lot 52, August 2021.  Tim purchased the coin directly from Floyd Farley in June 1995.  Glittering luster dances across the untoned, semi-prooflike surfaces.  Crisply struck drapery lines, high dentils and a fully struck motto confirm an early die state.  This is a dream coin for “Everyman” registry set competitors.  Estimate: $1,300 to $1,600.	1	$1,100 Reserve met
91	1833	O.107	R.3	PCGS AU 58	Intricately detailed curls flow from Liberty’s head to shoulder.  The eagle’s head, feathers and talons are fully struck.  Booming luster graces the fields and devices with but a soupçon of friction on the cheek.  The surfaces are immaculate.  In short, you won’t find a better example of this date for your date or registry set.  Estimate: $1,000 to $1,400.	0	$0
92	1834 Lg. Date & Letters	O.102	R.1	PCGS AU 58+	Outrageous iridescent toning surrounds the brilliant centers.  The coin wasn't designated as mint state due to slight friction and a few contact marks on Liberty's cheek.  Overwhelming eye-appeal will foster stern competition.  From the collection of Ethan Levine.  Estimate: $1,200 and up.	0	$0
93	1834 Large Date, Small Letters	O.107	R.1	PCGS AU 58 CAC	Similar toning to the preceding 1834 O.102, with the central devices participating in the replication of an artist’s palette.  Rub on the cheek, otherwise mint state.  Color devotees will have a field day!  From the collection of Ethan Levine.  Estimate: $1,100 to $1,400.	5	$1,200 Reserve met
94	1834 Large Date, Small Letters	O.107	R.1	PCGS AU 58 CAC	Same date, variety and grade as lot 93.  But from a different planet.  This regal coin will entice those who favor antique grey toning, accumulated over many decades, perhaps from storage in a leather pouch rather than a sulfurous envelope or coin board.  Note also a difference in die state, late vs. early.  From the Kings Park Collection.  Estimate: $1,100 to $1,400.	1	$850 Reserve not met
95	1834 Small Date & Letters	O.112	R.3	PCGS AU 55	Steel-grey toning, the cartwheel luster only slightly subdued.  Pale gold toning circles the reverse.  The surfaces are lovely, virtually free of contact marks.  Estimate: $350 to $450.	9	$490 Reserve met
96	1834 Small Date & Letters	O.116	R.1	PCGS AU 58	“Where’s the rub?” may be your question after previewing this charming, fully lustrous coin.  Perhaps PCGS was confused by the soft drapery lines.  The surfaces are infused with pastel copper toning, more pronounced on the reverse.  A very pretty coin, at the tip-top of its assigned grade.  Estimate: $1,000 to $1,300.	1	$900 Reserve met
97	1835	O.103	R.2	PCGS AU 58	I’d wager this one served time in a kraft envelope.  Familiar turquoise and russet toning dance across the surfaces.  Standard rub on the cheek.  The reverse appears mint state.  The balanced strike and exuberant luster befit the grade.  You may have noticed that attractive AU 1835s are more difficult to locate than other dates in the 1830s.  Estimate: $800 to $1,100.	2	$825 Reserve met
98	1836	O.107	R.4+	PCGS AU 50	Ex Elton Dosier.  Al Overton rated the marriage R.3 in 1971.  I recall a discussion with Elton Dosier in the 1990s when he suggested R.4 was the better guess.  The Nut Club and Don Parsley agree.  The latest indication is R.4+.  This coin was Dosier’s set piece.  Although he preferred well struck, early die states, he loved the look and originality of the coin.  A sticker on the reverse of the slab discloses a sale in January 1998, 10 months after Dosier’s passing.  I do not recall who bought it.  I hope the buyer will preview the lot and remind me.  He has my respect as a connoisseur of bust coinage.  Estimate: $500 to $700.	1	$500 Reserve met
99	1836/1336	O.108a	R.2	NGC MS 62	A stunning example of the engraver’s faux pas.  An upside down 3 is clearly seen inside loops of the 8.  Sharply impressed devices, high rims, distinct dentils and gaudy luster justify NGC’s decision to overlook a touch of cabinet friction on Liberty’s cheek.  We may be certain that the coin never saw circulation.  Estimate: $1,650 to $2,000.	0	$0
100	1836 Bar Dot	O.121	R.5+	PCGS XF 40	Time to finish your set of 1836s?  Here is the key, in affordable grade and CAC-approved.  Natural medium grey toning coats the surfaces.  All devices are nicely detailed.  A toning streak on the reverse is accentuated in the photo.  If you’ve been around bust halves for a while you know how difficult it is to find this die pair.  I’ll not belabor its rarity.  Estimate: $2,000 to $2,750.	1	$1,800 Reserve met

Sheridan Downey, Numismatist
4400 Keller Ave., Suite 140, PMB 398
Oakland, California 94605
sdowney3@aol.com
(510) 479-1585