LM-1, R-4.

As a date, the 1805 is clearly not as rare as the legendary 1802 but it is much rarer than the 1800 and 1803 and, thus, is clearly the rarest collectible issue of the short-lived Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle type. It is not often seen above VF and it is rare with good eye appeal.

This is a choice, high end coin with strong claims to a full EF40 grade. It shows deep natural gunmetal-grey color which appears totally natural; some dirt adheres to the protected areas. The obverse is sharply detailed except for the diagnostic weakness at the base of the bust; the reverse, as usual, is not as sharp. There are no readily visible marks and this piece has superb overall eye appeal for the date and grade.

Heritage 1/12: 5388, which sold for $7,475, is the only recent auction comparable. Graded VF35 by PCGS and not approved by CAC, it was clearly inferior to the present example.

If you are a serious collector of early half dimes, you know how hard it is to locate pleasing examples of this date.

CAC has approved this one coin in VF35 with seven finer.