1807 $5 Capped Bust Half Eagle, Bust Left NGC AU58

We at AUCM are offering the 1807 $5 Capped Bust Half Eagle, Bust Left, an important first year gold type coin. It was in 1807 that the Draped Bust, Heraldic Eagle half eagle type produced from 1795-1807 was replaced by a new design, the Capped Bust half eagle. That was due to the hiring of John Reich, the new assistant engraver at the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia. The Capped Bust half eagles (Bust Left) were minted from 1807 to 1812. If you wish to collect Capped Bust Half Eagles, there are different approaches you can employ. One way is to purchase just one from among this short series: this example of the first-year 1807 graded AU58 by NGC would be the perfect choice. If you wish to develop a type set of early U.S. gold coins, please contact AUCM for professional assistance.

      Popular due to its status as a first-year-issue, 1807 coins are usually well struck and feature very sharp details. Centers of this coins often are fully detailed, while the borders tend to show some weakness of strike. Luster is excellent on original coins, as is the case with this offering. The natural color of this coin ranges from medium green-gold to a rich yellow-gold. This is an excellent type coin.

     Reich's obverse design for the 1807 half eagle presents a buxom Liberty facing left, bordered by seven stars on her left and six on her right. Her cloth cap is inscribed with LIBERTY, and curly locks of hair fall from the edge of her cap, tumbling down to her shoulder. This look is quite European, different from Scot's American folk art approach. Reich's "signature" is a characteristic notched point on the lowest star on the right. Half eagles have such a notch facing the coin's rim. The date 1807 is found below the bust of Liberty. The reverse depicts an eagle with outstretched wings, perched upon a palm branch and grasping arrows in its left talon and the olive branch of peace in its right. A federal shield is found upon its breast, and a ribbon floating above the majestic bird displays the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. The inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and 5D. encircle the eagle. Among Reich's innovations are placing the denomination upon all gold and silver coins.