1801 Capped Bust Right Eagle. BD-2, Taraszka-25. Rarity-2. MS-63 (NGC). Intense satin to semi-reflective surfaces are adorned with vivid medium gold patina. The strike is well centered on the planchet, both sides with full, uniform denticulation around the borders. Sharply defined over the focal features, the individual strands of Libertys and the eagles breast feathers are particularly noteworthy for their crispness. Solidly in the Choice category, and ideal for inclusion in a high grade type set as an example of this challenging early gold design. BD Die State a/a.The reported mintage of eagles for calendar year 1801 is 44,344 pieces. Through the study of die states, however, numismatic scholars have determined that some 1800-dated coins were struck after those of the 1801 BD-1 variety (both share the same reverse). As such, the reported mintage for calendar year 1801 likely includes some coins dated 1800, and possibly also some dated 1799. With 600 to 800 coins believed extant from an estimated mintage of 30,000 to 40,000 for the variety, in fact, 1801 BD-2 is actually the most available early eagle die marriage. Mint State survivors are scarce, of course, as the demand for them is great among high quality type collectors and early gold enthusiasts. Strong bids are encouraged for bidders seeking to add this lovely MS-63 example to their holdings.Dannreuther (2006) describes BD Die State a/a for this issue as, "no clashing, no lapping, no cracks." The present example does not display the often seen obverse clash marks in Libertys cap, but there is a faint clash mark (from Libertys hair) in the reverse field between the left shield point and the scroll at the letters IBU in PLURIBUS.
