1805 Capped Bust Right Half Eagle. BD-2. Rarity-4. Perfect 1, Close Date. Unc Details--Cleaned (NGC).A handsome piece despite the assigned grade, this coin is sure to have no difficulty finding its way into an advanced gold type set. The strike is nicely centered on both sides, the borders fully and uniformly denticulated. Most design elements are boldly to sharply rendered, accuracy alone compelling us to mention a touch of softness to the obverse stars and at the junction of the eagles right wing and shield. Satiny surfaces are a bit muted in appearance beneath deep olive-orange patina, although the in hand appearance is quite smooth with no significant distractions. BD Die State f/c. This scarce variety has an estimated population of 100 to 150 survivors in all grades (per John W. Dannreuther, 2006). The obverse die was previously used in the 1805 BD-1 pairing, although it shattered in the 1805 BD-2 marriage, as evidenced by the numerous cracks on the present example. The reverse die, however, proved especially hardy by early U.S. Mint standards and went on to strike the remaining three varieties of the 1805-dated half eagle issue, as well as 1806 BD-1. Although scarce in an absolute sense, as are all early gold coin varieties, 1805 BD-2 is among the more readily obtainable in the Capped Bust Right half eagle series. The present example, therefore, holds particular appeal for budget minded type collectors.