1857-O

Variety 104

 Obverse 3: High Level Date

Reverse D: Large O, [mm C,H], Die Defect on AMERI(C)A

        

Obverse 3                                                 Reverse D

 

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

        

        

Comments: On Obverse 3, there are die chips around Stars 2 through 6 and Stars 11 through 13. On later die state examples, a die crack from rim to Star 13 and from rim to Liberty's foot can also be found.

Reverse D needs further discussion as collectors will encounter two different appearances. Most examples typically show weakness in the lower wreath as confirmed by the Ahwash and former Fortin plate coins along with the mint state Lemus example. See Stack's October 18, 2005 Lemus Sale, Lot 617 or the images below. Also included are images from the former Fortin plate coin below. Previously, I believe that all examples of Reverse D showed weakness in the lower wreath until the acquistion of the plate coin. On this MS65 specimen, the entire wreath is fully struck. More research is necessary to explain the transition from fully struck reverse to one with wreath weakness.

Below: Former Fortin Plate Coin

     

Below: Stack's Lemus Sale - October 18, 2005, Lot 617

     

 

Plate Coin: G. Fortin Collection, PCGS MS65 CAC Green

1857-O Varieties 101, 101a, 102, 102a, 103, 103a, 104, 105, 106, 107, 107a

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