Does the Pulaski Hold a Missing Rare Coin?........
Post# of 226
USA Coin Book says there were 6 of these rare coins minted, but Red Book says only 5 are known. In May 2016 a MS63 grade sold for $822,500.
1832 Capped Bust Gold $5 Half Eagle : Curl Base 2 - 12 Stars
Capped Head - Facing Left - Reduced Diameter
Mintage: 6 Minted at: Philadelphia (No Mint Mark)
Designer - Engraver: John Reich Metal Composition: 92% Gold - 8% Silver and Copper
Diameter: 23.8 mm Mass / Weight: 8.75 grams
There were two major varieties of the 1832 $5 Gold Capped Bust Half Eagle. One variety features 12 stars on the obverse of the coin and a "Curl Base 2" in the date (as depicted above). Only 6 of these rare variety coins are known to exist and they are extremely valuable. (Source of example image is courtesy of PCGS.)
The rare variety features 12 stars but the common variety features 13 stars on the obverse of the coin. The difference between the 12 stars vs 13 stars is depicted below in the example comparison image:
There were also two other major differences in the 1832 date. The rare variety features a curled base on the number "2" in the date - whereas the common variety features a square base on the number "2". The difference between the Curl Base 2 vs Square Base 2 is depicted below in the example comparison image:
https://www.usacoinbook.com/coins/3800/gold-5...-12-stars/