1796 Draped Bust Half Dollar. Small Eagle. O-102, T-2. Rarity-5. 16 Stars. VG-10 (PCGS). CAC.A lovely example of this challenging type, this coin presents exceptionally well for having seen considerable circulation. We find no difficulty appreciating the major design elements. All are well outlined, in fact, and we even note some bolder definition in the more protected areas of Libertys portrait and the eagles plumage. A few old, dull abrasions are easily overlooked, although they proved extremely useful in identifying this coins past auction appearances. Nicely toned throughout, the reverse in silver-apricot and dove gray and the obverse with more vivid golden-orange and sea green highlights around the periphery. All in all, this is a strong VG example that is sure to have no difficulty finding its way into an advanced type collection or early half dollar set. Tompkins Die Stage 1/1.<p>We are pleased to be offering an example of each of the major varieties in the brief Draped Bust, Small Eagle half dollar series of 1796 to 1797 in this sale: 1796 15 Stars; 1796 16 Stars; and 1797. The present example, which for the grade is as nice as any that we have ever handled for this type, represents the scarcer of the two 1796-dated die pairings, and also the only one of the three <em>Guide Book</em> varieties with 16 stars around the obverse periphery. The 1796 O-102 is also the second rarest die pairing of the type, trailing just behind the 1797 O-102. An endearing coin that will ring great joy to its next owner. From the Collection of Thaddeus A. Tatum III. Earlier from (Stacks) sale of the Laurence H. Gardner Collection from the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society, March 2005, lot 167; our (American Numismatic Rarities) William H. LaBelle, Sr. Collection sale, July 2005, lot 1147; Ira and Larry Goldbergs Pre-Long Beach Auction of September 2005, lot 1706; our (Bowers and Merenas) Orlando Rarities Sale of January 2010, lot 353; Heritages Houston Signature Auction of December 2010, lot 3613.
