1820 Capped Bust Half Dollar. O-106. Rarity-2. Square Base No Knob 2, Large Date. MS-65 PL (NGC). This captivating specimen was cataloged as a Proof in our (Bowers and Merenas) sale of the Eliasberg Collection and our (Stacks) sale of the "Buddy" Byers Collection. In the Eliasberg sale the cataloger noted:<p><em>All details are bold except for a few stars which are flat. Well centered with crisp, even borders. Superb toning. Pale reddish gold at the centers changing to iridescent blue and lilac along the [borders]. Reflective fields with cameo devices. A few minor hairlines and other imperfections are visible. Faint traces of mint frost appear along the upper edge of the eagles head and wings.</em><p>As impressive as these attributes are, the graders at NGC have come to disagree with the assessment that this coin is a Proof, although it is still listed as such in the Spring 2023 revision to Stephen J. Herrmans AMBPR for Bust half dollars. Either way, Proof or circulation strike, it is as lovely as any Capped Bust half dollar of the date one is apt to see. The eye appeal is easily equal to the task of the assigned Gem grade. Call it as you see it, the present coin will be a cherished addition to any cabinet of Capped Bust half dollars. PCGS# 39569. NGC ID: 24FD. From our (Bowers and Merenas) sale of the Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection, April 1997, lot 1773; our (Stacks) sale of the George "Buddy" Byers Collection, October 2006, lot 1044.
