This truly memorable 1799 BB-164 dollar has deep steel gray surfaces with underlying luster that supports rich rose and orange iridescence at the obverse periphery, with a streak of bold electric blue in the field before Liberty's portrait. The reverse is deep steel gray in appearance with a bold array of crimson, orange, and sea green that springs to life in a bright light source. The devices are sharp and the contact marks are minimal, especially to the unassisted eye. The fact that Mint State "daddy dollars" of any date are known 200+ years after the fact is remarkable; that some actually warrant a MS-65 grade today is even more remarkable. The present Gem is no doubt headed for a world-class cabinet of early dollars or an advanced high-grade type set.
Numismatic Reflections by Q. David Bowers
What a splendid coin this is! As noted, certification data for PCGS (and the same can be said for NGC) are not comprehensive as to variety listings, as in earlier times such pieces were classified only by major varieties listed in the Guide Book of United States Coins. As time goes on and more pieces are certified by variety, relative rarity will become clearer. To find an early Draped Bust dollar certified as MS-65 by PCGS is certainly an incredible happening. Watch this one soar!
PCGS Population: 3; 2 finer (both MS-66). These figures are for PCGS-certified 1799 dollars without variety designation on the label.