1797 Draped Bust Half Dime. LM-4. Rarity-6. 13 Stars. VF-35 (PCGS). CAC.

1797 Draped Bust Half Dime. LM-4. Rarity-6. 13 Stars. VF-35 (PCGS). CAC.，An impressive absolute and condition rarity whose offering in this sale is sure to excite early half dime enthusiasts. Both sides are richly original in appearance, the obverse a bit more boldly toned in a blend of lavender and olive-gray patina. For the reverse we note olive, powder blue and pale lavender peripheral toning around a nearly brilliant center. The strike is expertly centered and well executed on both sides, the devices retaining ample sharpness of detail despite moderate high point wear. Smooth in hand and uncommonly problem free in a survivor of this elusive die marriage, we anticipate strong competition for this handsome Choice VF among advanced collectors.<p>Certainly the last of the three known obverse dies that the Mint used to strike 1797-dated half dimes, that of the LM-4 variety was produced after the decision was taken to limit the star count on our nations coinage to 13 in honor of the original states. Prior to that decision being made, the official policy was to add an additional star for each new state that joined the Union. Tennessees admission in 1796 brought the star count up to 16, the maximum that could be effectively displayed, although even the 16-star dies have a crowded appearance to them. The plan to add further stars was clearly flawed, so Mint personnel defaulted to the 13-star count.<p>Logan-McCloskey 4 is the rarest of the four die marriages of the 1797 Draped Bust half dime. It is also a significant condition rarity given that most survivors are well worn, if not also impaired. Uncommonly bold in overall detail with attractive surfaces, this is certainly one of the nicest circulated examples of the variety that we have ever had the privilege of bringing to auction.，，