Feb. 16, 2001, The Benson Collection Part 1, Sale 8

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Half Dollars

Early Half Dollars

Lot 1744 Click on photo for enlarged version Click on photo for enlarged version
1836. Reeded edge. AU-53. One of just 1,200 struck, this rare issue has been sought-after by generations of collectors. This one has been cleaned and is still a bit too bright, and there are hairlines on the surfaces. One small scrape is noted before Liberty's neck. A coin that could be toned down and made more presentable.
Estimated Value $1,500-2,000.

Lot 1745 Click on photo for enlarged version Click on photo for enlarged version
1836. Reeded edge. AU-50. A rare issue, thought to be one of the first coins struck on the Mint's new steam press, which improved efficiency and striking quality. Only 1,200 were struck, and many entered circulation so this is probably not a regular pattern issue. This one has been cleaned, with the resulting hairlines in the fields, and some minor scratches visible with a glass.
Estimated Value $1,500-2,000.

Lot 1746 Click on photo for enlarged version Click on photo for enlarged version
1836. Lettered edge. Overton-117, Rarity-3. NGC graded MS-63. This one has an arc of deep blue toning along the lower obverse, a bit more organized in the toning department on the reverse, with beautiful deep blue around the periphery, rose at the centers. Vibrant luster and probably well up in the Condition Census for the variety. Well struck, with the entire scroll strong.
Estimated Value $900-1,000.

Lot 1747 Click on photo for enlarged version Click on photo for enlarged version
1837. PCGS graded MS-63 Premium Quality. Glowing luster and with lovely toning for the issue. This coin certainly has the appearance of a higher grade, and should inspire most collectors to bid accordingly. Weak on some of the peripheral stars, as usual, and with a few stray hairlines.
Estimated Value $1,300-1,600.

Lot 1748 Click on photo for enlarged version Click on photo for enlarged version
1837. MS-60. This one has been cleaned to a frosty brightness, there are some minor hairlines in the fields and a small neck nick. It appears that something was removed from above the denomination on the reverse. This coin is in a "U.S. Rare Coin Certification & Trading Co., Inc." holder (whatever that is) as MS-63.
Estimated Value $450-550.

Lot 1749
1837. MS-60. This one has satiny surfaces probably from an old cleaning, and one small grease mark in the planchet on the eleventh star into the field above. Interesting die cracks, and well struck throughout.
Estimated Value $450-550.

Lot 1750 Click on photo for enlarged version Click on photo for enlarged version
1838. MS-63. This coin has been carefully filed around the rim and inspection is recommended. Satiny luster and well struck. The surfaces show no toning and the hair detail is full and complete. There are some hairlines in the fields. Much better than we make it sound, so check it out for yourself.
Estimated Value $1,000-1,250.

Lot 1751
1838. PCGS graded MS-62 Premium Quality. A frosty mint state coin that boasts mint-fresh luster and gold toning on both sides. An important type coin that is housed in the old style small PCGS holder.
Estimated Value $600-800.

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