1797 Capped Bust Right Eagle. Heraldic Eagle. BD-4, Taraszka-12. Rarity-4+. AU-55 (PCGS). A handsome piece that is making its first appearance in the numismatic market since 1976. Rich orange-honey color blankets surfaces that retain considerable mint luster in a soft satin texture. Some prooflike character to the finish is also noted. Light handling marks are mostly visible on the obverse where the broad open fields of this design are most vulnerable, but there really are no sizeable blemishes worthy of individual mention. Nicely struck with good central detail. The eagles breast feathers are virtually complete and well separated from the upper border of the shield. The earlier die state for the variety (BD d/a), without reverse breaks.<p>The mintage for the 1797 Heraldic Eagle ten provided in most numismatic references is 10,940 coins, based on Walter Breens assumption that production from the new Heraldic Eagle reverse dies began on June 7, 1797, with coins bearing that date continuing to be delivered through January 30, 1798. According to Mint records, 10,940 eagles were delivered during that period. Based on a more exhaustive study of die states and emission sequences, as well as modern estimates on the number of coins extant, John W. Dannreuther (2006) provides a broader range of 8,750 to 12,500 coins struck for the 1797 Heraldic Eagle. The author estimates that 3,500 to 5,000 examples were coined from the 1797 BD-4 dies, of which only 90 to 110 coins are extant in all grades. PCGS# 8559. NGC ID: 25ZY. From the Mocatta Collection.
