1812 Capped Bust Left Half Eagle. BD-1. Rarity-3. Wide 5 D. EF-40 (PCGS). This is an absolutely sensational Capped Bust Left $5 suitable for both specialists and type collectors. The surfaces are smooth and problem free, with considerable luster looming in the protected areas. Rich honey-gold and powder-blue patina in the fields contrasts with the sandy-gold shades across the high points. Very attractive and original. Die life at the US Mint had improved by 1812, so that the entire reported mintage of 58,057 coins was accomplished from only two die pairings. These two pairings are readily identified by examining the reverse: BD-1, as here, has a very widely spaced 5 D, while BD-2 has the denomination compact. John W. Dannreuthers (2006) estimate on the number of BD-1 survivors is in the range of 300 to 450 coins. This is a solidly graded and problem-free survivor that is sure to please the discerning gold enthusiast. From the Naples Bay Collection. From the Naples Bay Collection.
