This is a truly exceptional Draped Bust half cent irrespective of date or die marriage. Both sides exhibit a smooth satiny texture with glossy brown patina. Closer inspection reveals faded mint luster in the protected areas around a few of the devices, as well as subtle teal highlights. The strike is bold over the obverse portrait and throughout the reverse wreath, and the eye appeal is exceptionally strong.This is an extremely popular, easily attributable variety of the 1804 Draped Bust half cent. The Plain 4 date logotype combined with the Stemless Wreath reverse immediately identifies the C-13 die marriage, the only one of this Guide Book variety. This is also the most plentiful die marriage of the issue. Given the number of Mint State coins known Walter Breen (Walter Breens Encyclopedia of United States Half Cents: 1793-1857, 1983) believed that a hoard of Uncirculated examples may have existed at one time. If so, such pieces are now widely dispersed throughout numismatic circles, and the opportunity to acquire a coin as exceptionally well preserved and attractive as the present Gem is particularly noteworthy. Indeed, we anticipate keen interest and strong competition for this lot among advanced early copper specialists and high grade type collectors.Manley Die State 2.0 for the variety, with the peripheral lettering on both sides well struck, bold denticulation around half of the reverse border, and a vertical die scratch in the left obverse field. This is the typically encountered die state among extant 1804 C-13 half cents.