Variety Equivalents: Valentine 3a, LM-3

Images courtesy of Ira & Larry Goldberg Coins & Collectibles, Inc.

Recent appearances:
PCGS MS-62 (illustrated above).  Ex - Ira & Larry Goldberg Coins & Collectibles, Inc.'s "Benson Collection, Part I", February 16, 2001, Lot 1536 at $9,775.00, where it was unattributed and described as follows: "1794. Valentine-3a, LM-3, Rarity-4. PCGS graded MS-62. Magnificent deep blue toning around the periphery and bright gold at the centers of both sides. Fiery colors and blazing luster. Free of adjustment marks or other problems, close examination will only show the lightest hairlines. Certainly one of the finest of the variety, although there is a higher grade reported in the recent superb study by Russ Logan and John McCloskey.  Over the decades many new die variety studies have been published on various denominations. As these books are distributed, it seems to take about five years for the denomination to suddenly become "collected". Half dimes were well covered by the 1930 Valentine study of die varieties, but new rarity and die state information now available has greatly improved the available knowledge. Collectors of the early pieces are few and far between, but we suspect more and more will begin collecting these fascinating coins soon. Here is a great way to start, this coin boasts stunning colors and is well struck. Further, there is an obverse die break from the sixth star, through Liberty's head and out the E of LIBERTY. On the reverse, the die cracks are heavier, with a light crack up through the right stem end (similar in placement to the V-4a reverse crack, but this is a different reverse die), and a heavy crack through the R of LIBERTY towards the eagle's tail where it meets the other reverse crack. A grand coin for the advanced numismatist to enjoy."

PCGS MS-62.  Ex - Ira & Larry Goldberg Coins & Collectibles, Inc.'s "Benson Collection, Part I", February 16, 18-20, 2001, Lot 1536, "Valentine-3a, LM-3, Rarity 4", illustrated, sold for $9,775.00

Sources and/or recommended reading:
"The PCGS Population Report, July 2003" by The Professional Coin Grading Service

"Federal Half Dimes 1792-1837" by Russell J. Logan and John W. McCloskey