1805 $5 MS62 Certification #26132337, PCGS #8088

CAC. Breen-6444, BD-3, High R.5. A moderate mintage of 33,183 Capped Bust Right half eagles was achieved in 1805, with five different die marriages known to collectors today. The coin offered here is an example of the rare BD-3 variety, characterized by the imperfect 1 in the date, star 1 distant from the bust, and star 9 close to Y in LIBERTY. John Dannreuther estimates an initial mintage of 2,000-3,000 pieces for BD-3, with a surviving population of 35-45 examples. The present coin is an attractive example, with noticeably prooflike fields. Heavy clash marks can be seen in the right reverse field, with some adjustment marks in the center obverse. Sharply struck, with exquisite detail on the central devices, and only slight weakness on the peripheral stars. A few scattered field marks prevent an even higher grade. Population (all varieties): 44 in 62, 58 finer (11/11).

David Akers (1975/88)

Although not quite as common as some dates of this type (1800, 1802/1, 1803/2, 1806 Round 6), the 1805 is nonetheless relatively common in all grades, including choice uncirculated. Sharply struck specimens are often available, but the more typical example is a bit weakly struck on the obverse.