1804 Small Over Large 8 Half Eagle Top Pick

At the Heritage Auction held in conjunction with the Florida United Numismatists convention in Orlando, Florida, July 11-14, an 1804 BD-7 Half Eagle Small Over Large 8 graded in MS-63 condition by PCGS was a collector favorite and drew a winning bid of $54,000, which includes the 20 percent buyer’s premium.

This particular variety of the 1804 $5, BD-7, is the most collectible of the three 1804 Small Over large 8 half eagles. Dannueuther estimates only 100 to 150 pieces exist, however just a small handful compare to this offering. Just four pieces have been certified in finder grades by all major grading services combined, with two each at PCGS and NGC. Those were all graded MS-64.

This particular coin is an interesting variety that can easily be seen with just the naked eye. During production, the ‘180’ on the date was punched with punches that were intended for Eales instead of half Eagles and the solution was to repunch using the correct size numerals atop the incorrect numerals.

For more coverage on Heritage’s Summer FUN Signature Auction, visit www.funtopics.com