With superior eye appeal relative to the stated qualifier, this 1803 eagle is worthy of careful bidder consideration. Vivid medium gold surfaces reveal ample evidence of a vibrant satin to semi-reflective finish, the protected areas around the devices most significant in this regard. Libertys hair curls and the eagles plumage are remarkably sharp with virtually full striking detail. The borders are also boldly denticulated in most areas, while accuracy alone compels us to mention bluntness of detail to a few of the obverse stars and the eagles left (facing) talon. A few extremely faint hairlines are present to explain the PCGS qualifier, but they are easily overlooked. Solid technical merit and strong visual appeal are sure to appeal to astute numismatists and secure a solid bid for this rather pleasing 1803 eagle.This is the most frequently encountered of the six known die marriages of the 1803 eagle, all of which were struck from the same obverse. BD-3 represents the second and final use of the reverse die that first appears in the 1801 BD-2 pairing, a particularly interesting example of which is offered above. However, BD-3 is neither the most plentiful early eagle variety nor is it common when viewed in the wider context of U.S. numismatics. This is particularly true of Mint State survivors, as here, with such pieces decidedly rare relative to the demand for them among advanced gold collectors.,,PCGS# 8565.,,From the Edgar B. Lupfer Collection.
