Comments: A rare pairing of the Huge O obverse with the first of two Small O reverse dies. From the mintmark position on the plate coin, it is assumed that Reverse B was employed during this die pairing. Both Obverse 5 and Reverse B appear to have been lapped together as each die exhibits considerable loss of depth in their devices. Obverse 5 is unknown prior to the lapping, and after lapping, is extremely weak at Stars 1 to 3, the left base and the date. Reverse B exhibits an almost complete loss of AMERICA with UNITED also appearing weak.

Obverse 5 will be paired with two additional reverse dies before being retired. The next pairing is with the left over Huge O reverse of 1838-O, the more available of the three pairings, and then a final marriage with another Small O reverse (Reverse G) that quickly cracks and is reused to strike coinage during 1840.

Few examples of the Huge O pairing with Small O Reverse B variety have been seen, therefore a designation of R6 in grades of VF or better is warranted.

Plate Coin: G. Fortin Collection, VF30