Draped Bust Silver Dollar

1797 Draped Bust Silver Dollar. BB-73, B-1. Rarity-3. Stars 9x7, Large Letters. EF-40 (PCGS).

An original and technically superb example with strong eye appeal. Deep steely-brown patina dominates the complexion, accented by flashes of golden luster remaining in the protected areas. Well centered and sharply defined for the die state, with bold central elements and complete rings of denticles on each side. Struck from incredibly worn dies equivalent to BB Die State V, each side displays considerable clashing and cracks. These are accompanied by swelling at obverse stars 7 and 8 and at U of UNITED that is only usually seen in the latest stages of fatigue. With beautiful glossy surfaces, this is a true delight for both the early dollar specialist and the 18th century type collector. Bowers-Borckardt 73 is the sole die marriage associated with the Stars 9x7, Large Letters Guide Book variety of the 1797 silver dollar, and it is the median scarcity among the three known die pairings of the issue. Plentiful in an absolute sense, at least by early dollar standards, Q. David Bowers (2013) estimates that 1,300 to 2,100 BB-73 dollars are extant in all grades. Most grade no finer than VF, however. At and above the EF level the conditionally challenging nature of this die variety comes readily to the fore, the present example among the finest available to today's quality conscious numismatists.

PCGS# 6863.

From the Collection of Silas Stanley Roberts, 1888-1966.

Estimate: $ 8000