1868 Liberty Head Half Eagle. AU-58 (PCGS). CAC. CMQ.This is a simply delightful example of a highly elusive Philadelphia Mint half eagle. Both sides display honey-olive and rose-gold colors. The luster is virtually complete, and the otherwise frosty texture yields to decided semi-reflectivity in the fields. Sharply struck and nicely preserved in all regards, this 1868 half eagle holds great appeal for advanced collectors of Liberty Head gold coinage.<p>The Philadelphia Mint struck just 5,700 circulation strike half eagles in 1868. Most of these coins were exported, although some likely saw circulation on the West Coast, thereby explaining the small number of mostly VF and EF survivors. Even more elusive are AU and Mint State coins, many of which were likely repatriated from foreign bank hoards beginning in the mid 20th century. The number of 1868 half eagles involved in these repatriations has been small, however, and <em>PCGS CoinFacts</em> accounts for fewer than 100 coins extant in all grades. This original and aesthetically pleasing Choice AU example is among the finest available; it is the single highest graded of only five specimens to meet with CAC approval.PCGS# 8315. NGC ID: 25W5.PCGS Population: 12; 2 finer (MS-62 finest).<p>CAC Population: 1; 0. The CAC Stickered Population in all grades is just 5.From our sale of the Fairmont Collection - Hendricks Set, Spring 2022 Auction, April, lot 5118.
