BD-1, High R-4.

Fewer than 100 examples are known yet the 1814/3 is a relatively “common” date in the Capped Head Left type of 1813-1829. The two dates of this type which are most similar in rarity to the 1814/3 are the 1818 and the 1820, both of which are confusing due to the large numbers of naked-eye varieties known. The 1814/3 is many times rarer than the common 1813 yet it is sometimes lumped with this date.

This piece shows just a slight amount of rub and the surfaces are clean enough to suggest that most of this “wear” is actually cabinet friction. Both sides are frosty and show very pleasing reddish-gold highlights which are a bit deeper in hue on the obverse. The strike is typical for the date with some weakness on the obverse border from 1:00 to 4:00 and at the central reverse. Some very light adjustment marks can be seen at the lower reverse. The overall appearance is excellent for the date and grade.

Including this coin only two PCGS AU55 1814/3 half eagles have appeared at auction since 1999. An NGC AU58 brought $14,688 as Heritage 1/14: 6615 and, in my opinion, it was not as nice as the present piece.

This would make a great type coin for the collector who wants a date other than the 1813 for a representative of the fabled Capped Head Left half eagle.