BD-1 (R-3). Wide 5D.

The 1812 is a relatively common date in the Capped Bust Left type, which was made from 1807 through 1813. Properly graded AU58′s are hard to find but examples with natural color and choice, original surfaces have become very difficult to locate and are in great demand.

This is one of the most aesthetically appealing examples of this type which I have handled. Both the obverse and the reverse show very deep green-gold hues which change to an attractive reddish-gold in the fields. There is no real wear to speak of; just some light “cabinet friction” which is limited to the high spots of the obverse. The surfaces are immaculate and this is really just about the most pleasing slider Capped Bust Left half eagle that you will be able to add to your gold type collection.

The last PCGS AU58 to sell at auction was a non-CAC piece which brought $9,988 as Heritage 12/13: 3838.

It might take years of searching to find a finer example of this date and the fact that it is a historically significant issue produced during the year in which the United States went to war with Britain makes it even more desirable, in my opinion.

CAC has approved nine in this grade with 34 finer.