1878 Liberty Half Eagle. MS-65 (PCGS). Exquisite surfaces are exceptionally attractive displaying warm, even golden-apricot color. Both sides are fully lustrous with a sharp strike and an appearance that is smooth enough to support the rare (for the issue) Gem Uncirculated grade from PCGS.<p>Circulation strike half eagle production in the Philadelphia Mint soared to 131,720 pieces in 1878 in anticipation of the return of parity between gold and paper currency set by the federal government for January 1, 1879. Thanks to its relatively generous mintage, this issue is among the most obtainable from its era in lower Mint State grades. Not many grade finer than MS-63, however, and among the handful of finer pieces few are as technically sound and attractive as this amazing Gem. PCGS# 8345. NGC ID: 25X4. PCGS Population: 5; 5 finer (MS-66 finest).
