The Coastal Collection
1823 Broken 3
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Coin Details
Origin/Country: |
United States |
Design Description: |
HALF DOLLARS - CAPPED BUST, LETTERED EDGE |
Item Description: |
50C 1823 BROKEN 3 O-101 |
Full Grade: |
PCGS AU 50 |
Owner: |
Keigwin |
Owner Comments:
O.101, R3 (BHNC R1).
1823 gave us some fun varieties, particularly due to weird 3 numerals in the date. We have the broken 3, patched 3, ugly 3...even the tampered-with 3.
The 3 punch had not been used in 10 years and the new style punch, with its curvy upper loop (as opposed to a straight top 3 last used in 1813,) is believed to have been defective. But deemed good enough. It was used to produce O.101 broken 3 halves. Al Overton suggested that the top half of a 2 punch was used twice and that is why the 3 appears broken. But diagnostics prove the shape was not correct. Early research blamed an inept Mint worker, substituting for a gravely ill Robert Scot (Kneass was not hired until Jan 1824). It is illogical to assume he blundered just once and afterward produced flawless 3's.
Whatever the case the broken 3 variety is very collectible and it took a few purchases before this one was acquired. It was submitted for photographing and was purchased on the spot. It has a lovely album toning appearance, awash in sea blue and green, marigold and rust, with splendid luster, and virtually mark-free surfaces.