1830 Capped Head Left Half Eagle. BD-1. Rarity-6. Large D. AU Details--Cleaned (PCGS). While faint hairlines are noted in the fields, the eye appeal of this example remains superior for the issue. Overall olive-gold coloration is accented by richer honey shades at the rims. The strike is bold and well centered, with considerable mint luster blooming from around the design elements. A very pleasing example despite the noted PCGS qualifier. <p>In the middle of 1829, Chief Engraver William Kneass was able to create a new type of dies for half eagles to fit the new Rush Muhlenberg coining press. The former long-tooth dentils were replaced by fine little dentils with rounded or beaded ends that were used against the high, solid raised rim on coins. The solid raised rims extended circulation life and also helped protect the devices from the normal marks and nicks of circulation. While introduced for part of the 1829 mintage, all 1830 half eagles were produced with these new modifications. While an estimated 50,000 to 75,000 coins were struck from the 1830 BD-1 Large D dies, most were exported and melted. Today, just 25-35 examples remain for collectors. This specimen offers a surprising level of desirability and we encourage serious consideration from bidders. From the Naples Bay Collection. From the Naples Bay Collection.
