A monster rarity which speaks volumes on its own. Quite likely one of the finest 3 specimens known of this famous rarity. Over the past decade, the 1802 half dime has abandoned its sleepy status as an overlooked rarity and come into the limelight as one of the most coveted of all U.S. coins in the catalog.

This particular specimen currently offered by David Lawrence Auctions in Sale 225 Lot #3146 is not only one of the finest known, but also has the distinction of having the richest pedigree of any specimen. For starters, it hails from the famous Pittman Collection. It was later immortalized by Logan and McCloskey as the plate coin for the date in their reference books on Bust half dimes.

The rarity of the 1802 half dime is well known to collectors of United States coins, and was recognized almost as soon as coin collecting became popular in the late 1850s. The first coin offered at public auction was in the 1859 sale by Edward Cogan of the J.N.T. Levick Collection.

As a testiment to the absolute rarity of this issue, several counterfeits have been manufactured over the years of the 1802 half dime. Both the Smithsonian and the ANA Money Museum both have counterfeits in their institutional holdings.

It is estimated that only 35 or so pieces are known in all grades.

Truly a choice coin for the connoisseur of major rarities, and the Bust half dime specialist. Bidding Ends March 3rd.