1798 $1 Small Eagle, 13 Stars MS(PCGS#6867)

Summer 2026 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

2113

Grade

XF45

Price

26,840

Lot Description

BB Die State III, Salyards Die State II. Handsome iridescent toning in olive-blue enlivens a base of deep pewter gray patina. The detail is reasonably bold on this lightly circulated example, with strong separation of Liberty's curls and most of the eagle's wing feathers present, the breast and thigh predictably smooth from wear. Centering is not quite perfect, but both sides show full (if uneven) denticulation framing both sides. Lightly marked, as expected for the grade, but generally smooth during in-hand viewing.<p>From the final year of the Draped Bust, Small Eagle die combination, examples of this die variety are thought to have been struck April 1, 1798, and delivered on April 4 (per Harry E. Salyards, 2022). The BB-82 attribution is unique to the Small Eagle, 13 Stars on Obverse <em>Guide Book</em> variety, and it is scarce in numismatic circles with Salyards accounting for only 200 to 450 survivors in all grades. With most survivors not choice, irrespective of grade, this is clearly a significant opportunity for advanced type collectors and early dollar enthusiasts that is sure to attract spirited bidding.