1807 $5 Capped Bust Half Eagle, Bust Left, NGC MS64 - a Condition Rarity!

We at AUCM are proud to present for consideration a Conditional Rarity, an 1807 $5 Capped Bust, Bust Left, graded NGC MS64.  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, Bust Left series was produced from 1807 to 1812. This piece features John Reich's Iconic Design, similar to the one he crafted for the half dollar of 1807-1834.

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 Robert Scot's American folk art approach on earlier issues. 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.