Link's Capped Bust Half Dollar Date Set
1811

Owner Comments:

O.110a R1. CAC. "A substantial mintage of just over 1.2 million Capped Bust half dollars was accomplished in 1811, with 10 obverse and 10 reverse dies combining to produce a total of 13 separate die varieties for the date. This high-end Superb Gem represents the O-110a variety, with the letters in the date slanted to the left and a die break from the edge near the olive leaves through the top of UNITED on the reverse. The O-110a is not difficult to locate in lower Mint State grades, but it is extremely rare in MS67 and virtually unobtainable any finer. The Capped Bust half dollars were the largest U.S. silver coins after production of silver dollars was suspended in 1804. Most years saw large mintages, with a high proportion of the coins being used as bank reserves, and relatively few actually circulating. This trend was reversed when silver dollar coinage resumed after 1840. The larger silver dollars then took over the role of currency reserves and many half dollars were released into circulation in later years. Collectors prized the Capped Bust halves from the time coin collecting first became popular in the 1850s. An example of the 1811 appeared as early as the A.C. Kline Sale (Moses Thomas & Sons, 6/1855), lot 291. The popularity of the date has grown continually over the years, with higher and higher prices realized at succeeding offerings. Recent sales include the magnificent MS68 NGC coin in lot 3844 of the FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/2009), which realized $92,000. This coin is a spectacular high-end Superb Gem and the single finest specimen certified at PCGS (4/13). The design elements exhibit razor-sharp definition in most areas, with just a touch of softness on the lefthand stars. The well-preserved surfaces are brightly lustrous, with no mentionable flaws. A few hints of pale gold and lavender patina enhance the incredible eye appeal. This coin is a candidate for the finest collection or Registry Set," per Heritage cataloger. Obtained from Heritage Auction #1186 on 6/6/2013, Lot 4502.