1846-O Liberty Head Half Eagle. AU-50 (NGC).This is a truly exceptional example of this rare and underrated issue. The complexion is a lovely khaki-gold hue, with accented of olive patina to be noted in the protected areas. Tight clouds of mint luster surround the design elements, complementing the impressively smooth surfaces. Well struck for the issue and favorably preserved in ever respect. The 1846-O is one of the leading rarities among New Orleans Mint Liberty Head half eagles, with survivors even more elusive than those of the lower mintage 1845-O (58,000 vs. 41,000 pieces produced). Doug Winter suggests that is it equal in rarity to the more famous Charlotte and Dahlonega issues from the same year, if not rarer. Just about 125 examples are extant in all grades, the vast majority of which are at the VF and EF levels.
