1818 Bust Halfs - - Better than second rate morgans :)
This Bust capped Half from 1818 graded out as MS 63 with NCG and it has luster that seems like it was minted in the last month. But that is what makes this coin especially interesting or beautiful. What is even more significant is that this example is in the earliest possible die state. Today, we have hundreds if not thusands of MS70 "First Strike", very hyped up examples of nearly the entire ASE series, as well as others. While that is nice for those that partake of such slabbed wonders, the term first strike has significantly move gravitas when applied to Bust Halfs prior to mechanical minting. This coin was described by the deal as have Prime state, and is everything as it was intended by mint and her designers. It is rare to find such complete Cap Bust halves, in full detail and perfectly centers. The dies not just wear down, but busties are fameous for all kinds of die cracks and off center mintages. This coin is so perfectly struck, that it is hard to identify its VAM.
This coin is a lesson of finding a good Dealer. Good dealers find outstanding coins otherwise not available on the market
You can see the luster in this video
Comments
thatcoinguy
Level 5
Man, mint state Bust. š
mrbrklyn
Level 4
Indeed :) think about it.
Kepi
Level 6
She's a beauty! ; )
I. R. Bama
Level 5
Hmmmm I would just love that in my collection!
Well worn Copper
Level 5
I love Busties too, they have a lot of character that is missing from coins struck with larger and more modern presses.
mrbrklyn
Level 4
They are very imprefect, which is lovely
Long Beard
Level 5
Could not agree more, much better design than the "rubber chicken" Morgan. Where I'd disagree is that they look so much better with a golden cream like tone and light chocolate design elements rather than brighter with subdued luster.
I. R. Bama
Level 5
They are so subtly demure, yet playfully articulate! Wait.. no, that was the wine, not the coin, lol!
mrbrklyn
Level 4
I can do both, although bright luster is extremely rare in Busties just because of the age factor. Years ago, there was a poster by the name of bonedigger who loved raw circulated EF and VG bust halves that he acquires at very affordable prices. Eventually he got alienated by the posters at cointalk and he disapeared. But he set up my interests in these coins, that continues until this day. This is a great area for new collectors to start in because it is very diverse and affordable, with plenty of die states, and varieities and die marraiges.
CoinHunter
Level 5
Beautiful!
Mike
Level 7
A great coin. This is an example why we should look back at the classic coins that were made. Even the commens were great back in the day. They might be more money but buy in your budget. One here two here. Good things take time. And you reap the rewards!!
mrbrklyn
Level 4
This graded out as an MS63, but actually, I would have graded it as details, despite being a first strike :) I'll get a close up of it with my macro lence and you will see why. But IMO, it is scratched, not that would make it a cheap coin.
Longstrider
Level 6
That is an awesome Busty. I know a guy that would love to take it off your hands. It is interesting to think why we want coins like ASE that are almost all MS70's or 69's. I need some self thought on that. I swore that I would get back to "classic' coins this year. That means more peace Dollar VAMs. Thanks, hot coin.