1832 Draped Bust Half Dime. LM-5. Rarity-1. MS-67 (PCGS). CAC.A splendid example of the type, issue and die pairing, this vividly toned Superb Gem is sure to please even the most discerning numismatist. Dominant steel-olive patina greets the viewer from both sides, direct lighting calling forth even more spectacular undertones of pale gold, pink and powder blue. Boldly to sharply defined throughout with smooth and lustrous surfaces that give this coin legitimate claim to finest known status for the 1832 LM-5 variety.<p>Just under one million half dimes were coined in 1832, though some were certainly struck in the following year bearing the 1832 date given the frequent reuse of older but serviceable dies, especially among half dimes. The obverse die was first used for the LM-1 pairing, then LM-5, then lastly for the LM-7 marriage. This obverse can be discerned by examining the position of stars 6 and 7; they are close together and star 6 is closer to the dentils than its neighbors. The reverse die is identifiable by the separated letters MERI the tail of the R above the base of the second I in AMERICA. This die was used only twice: initially with the LM-4 pairing and ultimately with this die combination. While not an especially rare die combination, specimens can be obtained with some patience up to Gem Mint State but above that high preservation level this variety is decidedly challenging, as with the issue as a whole. For a discriminating type collector or specialist in early silver coinage, few specimens can compare to this exquisite jewel.Ex Legend Numismatics, February 2012; Heritages sale of the Eugene H. Gardner Collection, June 2014, lot 30182.
