Lot Number 24
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1817 - O.104a R.6 PCGS VG 8
This coin may bring more bids than any other in the sale. The `17-104 is among the most sought after die pairs in the capped bust series. Oddly, the sparse population is “top heavy:” There are more examples in XF or better than in lower grades. I need but one hand to count the number of modest grade pieces that have come to market over the past 25 years. If you are not familiar with striking characteristics of the `17-104 do not be alarmed by the photo. Most examples are “rockers.” They appear bent when laid heads down. The wear pattern is just what we expect. The anomaly results from a massive fracture in the obverse die. John Cobb located the first known example in the mid-1960’s, calling it his “greatest find” and christening it The Moonbreak 1817. The Cobb coin found its way to the Overton Collection via Steve Markoff circa 1967 and remains there to this day. In 1993 NGC conferred a grade of AU 58. The 2nd and 3rd examples of the die pair were located by Sam Nolt and Don Gunnet, BHNC members Nos. 4 and 13. The Nolt and Gunnet coins were also AU. Gunnet sold his example to Charlton Meyer in 1977. Nolt passed his to Dr. Gerald Schertz in 1984. The current offering came to the consignor by private treaty from BHNC member Don See. Dark grey fields and light grey devices are typical of well circulated coins. This is a wholly honest coin, free of defects, awaiting a meeting with its new owner. Est. $4,000 and up – perhaps way up
