1798 $10 Capped Bust. 8 over 7, 7 stars left, 6 right. Taraszka 10:8-F, Rarity 6. Sharpness of VF-30 but lightly repaired and cleaned. One of the classic rarities of the Capped Bust series, this 1798 7 X 6 stars has kept its status as a rarity despite years of publication in the Guide Book and other numismatic references. In the recent Taraszka reference work, he notes that about 15 specimens have been positively attributed of this variety. Breen, in his Encyclopedia, noted that 13 were known to him. Close examination shows some very light repair work done in the lower right obverse field, as it appears smoother than the surrounding areas and minute tool marks are visible in that area. The center of Liberty's cap also has a tiny mark that was probably smoothed down. Similarly, the reverse over the eagle's head shows some faint swirl lines where repair work has been done. The edge of the coin shows some tooling, perhaps this coin was mounted for a time, and then carefully repaired. The coin was then lightly cleaned, giving it a uniform appearance. The obverse rim also has minor repair work noted above the E of LIBERTY. Still and all, a classic coin that boasts a strong strike, decent surfaces and is much more affordable than the few mint state coins known. It may be years before another one of these turns up, so bid accordingly.
Nevertheless, this is a very rare coin indeed, even with its problems, and certain to attract considerable attention. Inspection mandatory by prospective bidders. Free of other handling problems, and quite nice in appearance overall to the unaided eye.
The familiar obverse die cracks are visible, one from the rim through the seventh star to the back of Liberty's cap, another down from the rim through the E of LIBERTY into Liberty's cap and head.
