BD-1, High R.4. There is only a single die marriage known for this early gold issue, and it is an obvious overdate with strong remnants of a 5 below the 6 in the date. According to federal records, the Philadelphia Mint struck 6,196 half eagles during calendar year 1796. Many of these coins are believed to have been dated 1795, and with only 80-100 coins extant, the original mintage of the 1796/5 is estimated at just 1,057-2,000 pieces.

This is a well-balanced example whose devices are overall sharply defined despite light highpoint rub. There is also a bit of softness to the strike, but it is largely confined to the central highpoints, particularly the reverse, and not at all uncommon for a product of the early U.S. Mint. Green-gold color lightens a bit on the obverse, on which side one can discern particularly bold semi-prooflike tendencies in the fields. Wispy abrasions are commensurate with the grade, and none are worthy of singular concern. This coin would make an important and attractive addition to a better-date type set of early gold. (PCGS 8067) About Uncirculated to Brilliant Uncirculated