1878-S Liberty Head Half Eagle. MS-63 (PCGS).An exceptionally well preserved, highly attractive example of this conditionally challenging issue. Intense satin luster mingles with vivid rose-gold patina, both sides also revealing slightly warmer medium gold color at the rims. Boldly defined in all but a few isolated areas with solid Choice quality throughout. Half eagle production at the San Francisco Mint increased markedly in 1878 with a mintage of 144,700 pieces. Unfortunately for todays advanced gold collectors, this increase in mintage did not result in a generous supply of Mint State survivors. Most examples saw extensive commercial use, and even coins at the MS-60 to MS-61 level are elusive. This is one of the finest 1878-S fives that we have ever had the privilege of bringing to auction, and it is sure to fetch a strong price.
