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1796 50C 16 STARS VG10 PCGS CAC

1796 50C 16 STARS VG10 PCGS CAC

PCGS

Regular price $62,500.00
Regular price Sale price $62,500.00
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The 1796 Draped Bust Half Dollar – 16 Stars Variety stands as one of the most historically significant and elusive silver type coins in early U.S. numismatics. Struck only as a two year type on 1796 and 1796, this 1796 16 Stars has a mintage of just 934 pieces with includes the mintage for both the 15 stars(less rare) and the 16 stars(this example) The 16 stars has an estimated survival of only 40 examples in all grades -  this rarity marks a pivotal moment in American coinage, reflecting Tennessee’s admission as the 16th state. This PCGS VG10 CAC-approved specimen (O-102, R.6) is a standout example, boasting strong design definition for its grade, with Liberty’s portrait displaying well-preserved central details, including sharp hair curls, a fully legible date, and crisp lettering. The reverse with bold wreath elements, clearly outlined lettering, and one-third of the eagle’s plumage still visible, suggesting a conservative grading assessment by PCGS. Adding to its appeal, this coin exhibits an attractive multicolored patina, featuring light to medium gray fields accented by golden-orange, sea-green, rose, and bluish-gray hues on the obverse, while the reverse presents subtle apricot and silver-gray toning. The coin truly pops in hand when tilted under light and is a sight to behold finding a key date in VG with attractive toning. We would not be surprised if this gardes Fine today. The absence of the typical die crack from the rim through the first four stars indicates an early die state, enhancing its desirability. The 1796-1797 Draped Bust, Small Eagle half dollar series is widely recognized as one of the rarest and most challenging U.S. type coins, with limited production due to depositors favoring silver dollars, an illegal silver standard affecting bullion deposits, a 1797 yellow fever epidemic that halted mint operations, and an ample supply of earlier Flowing Hair half dollars. These historical factors solidify its importance within early federal coinage. No examples have recently sold, much less a CAC example. However a VF35 non-CAC sold for $102,000 01/25 HA and a more comparable F15 non-CAC sold for $66,000 05/24 HA, both of which now have a Buy It Now price on HA for $153,000 and $99,000 respectively. With a CAC population of just 8 in totality in all grades, this example represents a rare opportunity for collectors seeking the highest quality early U.S. coinage. Its exceptional originality, stunning toning, and well-preserved details make it a premier acquisition and a true trophy for advanced numismatists.

Pedigree:

Laurence H. Gardner Collection from the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society (Stack's, 3/2005, Choice Fine)

lot 167; William H. LaBelle, Sr. Collection (American Numismatic Rarities, 7/2005, NGC Fine 12)

lot 1147; Ira and Larry Goldberg (9/2005, NGC Fine 12), lot 1706

lot 353; Bowers and Merena (1/2010, PCGS VG10, CAC),

lot 3613; Heritage Auctions (12/20210, PCGS VG10, CAC)

lot 1147; From the Collection of Thaddeus A. Tatum III. Stacks Bowers (08/2018, PCGS VG10, CAC)

PCGS Cert Verification #11960913

• PCGS Price Guide -  $60,000
• PCGS POP - 4/28
• CAC Price Guide - $52,000
• CAC POP - 3/5
• PCGS Coin# - 6058
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