1857-S Liberty Head Half Eagle. Large S. AU-50 (PCGS). CAC. Originally preserved in deep honey and more vivid reddish-rose, this smooth and attractive example has the appearance of Choice AU quality. Lustrous with a delightful softly frosted texture and a boldly executed strike. This issue saw extensive commercial use during the California Gold Rush era, and most of the 87,000 pieces produced have long since been lost. Low grades through VF are the norm, and this issue would be almost unobtainable in AU and Mint State were it not for the handful of higher grade pieces discovered as part of the <em>S.S. Central America</em> treasure. Despite this find, the 1857-S remains an important rarity in the highest grades. The example offered here possesses superior quality and eye appeal (it is most definitely not a shipwreck find) that are sure to appeal to gold enthusiasts. PCGS# 8275. NGC ID: 25V6. CAC Stickered Population: 15 in all AU grades. From the Fairmont Collection - Rhone Set.
