1799 Capped Bust Right Eagle. BD-8. Rarity-5. Small Obverse Stars. MS-63 (NGC). This is a visually astounding example with gleaming lemon-yellow patina across intensely lustrous surfaces. The devices are richly frosted and nicely undisturbed, framed by strong prooflike reflectivity in the fields. It sports a superior strike for the issue with full definition to even the border elements. Hairline die cracks connect much of the reverse legend as is typical of these dies, accompanied by evidence of die clashing around the central elements. A minor bagmark is visible near the arrows on the reverse but the surfaces are otherwise untroubled by notable marks. An important offering for specialists and among the finest known survivors, with just three graded higher at NGC. <p></p><p>The 1799 BD-8 is a median rarity among the 10 known die marriages for the 1799 eagle and represents the second of two uses for this obverse die. The most significant diagnostic of this die is the rightward leaning of the digits 17 in the date. The reverse of BD-8 is in its only use, all known examples exhibiting a sharp, jagged die break within the letter C in AMERICA. </p><p>Interestingly, all known examples of the 1799 BD-8 eagle were struck between die states of the 1799 BD-7 variety. For unknown reasons the Mint initially replaced the reverse die of the 1799 BD-7 pairing with the reverse die represented here, only to have that die break up and fail quickly, resulting in the BD-7 remarriage. The early break up of this reverse die resulted in relatively few coins being struck, which in turn explains the scarcity of the 1799 BD-8 variety. In fact, according to John W. Dannreuther (2006), only 45 to 55 examples are believed extant in all grades. A significant bidding opportunity for early gold variety specialists, this premium quality MS-63 (NGC) example would also make a fine addition to an advanced cabinet.</p> From the Dr. Paul and Rosalie Zito Collection. Acquired September 22, 1997.
