H.01 1797 1 ABOVE 1 PCGS AU55

We marvel how this coin (which yes, we do consider a GEM AU) even exists. One of the most identifiable early half cent varieties, with the errant 1 punched well above its proper location. Deep brown-mahogany surfaces show some ebony accents, although the glossy luster generates enough life to fields and devices to keep it from looking dark. Sharply struck from a rusted state of the dies, there are raised areas where the dies pitted before striking, however overall the surfaces look clean. The eye appeal is excellent. PCGS 3, NGC 3, CAC 2. No CAC-approved AU55 ever sold in auction– and there was only one PCGS example to sell, in April 2018, but that coin had nowhere near the exceptional eye appeal of the presently offered coin. The last PCGS CAC piece to sell in auction brought $13,500.00 07/2018. While somewhat common in lower grade, this variety is VERY RARE in this or finer grades. Good luck to all the EAC collectors who will vie for this popular issue!