CHOICE AU 1803 EXTRA STAR EAGLE

BD-5, High R-4. 14th Star in Cloud. Large Reverse Stars.

This fascinating variety is the result of an extra star present on the cloud below the O in OF. This variety isn't really rare but it is numismatically interesting and unique among early gold issues. As a date, the 1803 is scarcer than the 1799 but not as popular due to its early 19th century origin. It is seen in the AU grades but not often with natural color and choice surfaces.

This fresh-to-the-market example is notable for its originality and it hasn't been stripped as have so many early eagles. Both sides show very appealing natural medium reddish-gold and green-gold hues with some deeper hues at the borders. The strike is sharp for the variety and the "extra star" on the reverse is clearly visible. There are some minor mint-made adjustment marks on the obverse at the neck and bust while the reverse shows two old marks at the A and the M in AMERICA. The naked-eye appearance is exceptional and strongly suggestive of an AU58.

A PCGS AU53 example of this variety sold for $24,689 as Heritage 6/15: 4282 while a CAC approved PCGS AU58 realized $31,725 as Stacks Bowers 11/13: 2217.

A wonderful Capped Bust Right eagle which is dually significant for type and variety collectors.