1804 Draped Bust Cent. S-266, B-1. Rarity-2. AU Details--Edge Repaired (PCGS).While any 1804 Draped Bust cent that appears at auction represents a significant find that is worthy of serious bidder consideration, the offered coin is particularly notable as a condition rarity at the AU grade level. Indeed, we note an exceptional amount of definition for an issue that is often encountered well worn in grades of Very Fine and lower. Here, however, the obverse is sharply defined throughout to include crisp delineation between the individual strands of Libertys hair and folds of drapery. Only at the very lowest hair curl is minor softness of strike noted for this side of the coin. This softness is also seen in the opposing area on the reverse, namely near the upper border where the words STATES OF and the adjacent leaves in the wreath are a bit weak, yet still readily appreciable. The balance of the reverse offers bold to sharp detail. While most 1804 cents are also heavily impaired, this one features overall smooth, hard surfaces dressed in original toning that blends warm copper and medium autumn brown shades. Close inspection with a loupe reveals no more than a few wispy handling marks and some light, ancient surface build up that finds greatest expression at lower right reverse. This leaves us with the PCGS qualifier, evidence for which is minimally distracting and, in fact, virtually undetectable through the holder. Patience and persistence are required to discern some minor irregularities here and there around the edge that point to skillful repair of what must have been minor bruises and similarly trivial blemishes. Given that the 2000 Bland Condition Census is populated exclusively with coins in EAC grades of EF and AU, this sharp and visually appealing piece has much to offer advanced large cent enthusiasts. Breen Die State IV.Sheldon-266 is the only known die marriage of the elusive 1804 cent, the mintage unknown but usually estimated at 96,500 pieces and derived from the final delivery of the year made on December 31. The remainder of the 756,838 large cents delivered during calendar year 1804 were undoubtedly coined from 1803-dated dies. Survivors are scarce relative to demand from todays legion of early copper enthusiasts, and in the finer circulated and Mint State grades they are rare.PCGS# 36422. BASE PCGS# 1504. NGC ID: 224H.From the Richard August Collection.
