1845-O Liberty Head Half Eagle. Winter Variety 1 (1-A), the only known dies. EF-45 (PCGS). CAC.An appealing example bathed in bright medium gold patina and surfaces displaying even wear on both sides. Sharply defined overall with plenty of luster remaining in the more protected areas around the devices. Underrated compared to many of the highly regarded Charlotte and Dahlonega Mint half eagles from the 1840s, the 1845-O was produced to the extent of just 41,000 pieces with most examples long since lost to commercial use. This issue is a median rarity among New Orleans fives, survivors scarce in an absolute sense and rare above the EF grade level.
