1852-O

Variety 101

 Obverse 1: Very High Date, Downward Slope

Reverse A: Large Thin O, [mm C,H], Reverse of 1853 (F)

        

Obverse 1                                               Reverse A

 

Obverse Diagnostic Point(s)                    Reverse Diagnostic Point(s)

        

        

Comments: Obverse 1, the only obverse die known for 1852 New Orleans coinage, can be easily recognized by its downward sloping date. The 18 digits touch the base. There are die chips around Stars 3 through 6 and around Stars 12 and 13. There is a minor die defect on the gown directly above the pendant and left of the E in LIBERTY on the scroll.

The Large Thin O mintmark on Reverse A is well centered and high. The mintmark shape is tall and narrow with the top and bottom ovals being thin. There is a diagonal die line from the tip of the top leaf of the left wreath down to the outer edge of the top right serif of O(N)E. The lower wreath leaves are delicate due to a weak hubbing and will wear easily as compared to the obverse and should not be used for grading.

The Reverse A die will again be employed by the New Orleans mint to strike dimes during 1853.

Plate Coin: G. Fortin Collection, NGC MS66 CAC Green

1852-O Varieties 101, 102

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