1855-D Liberty Head Half Eagle. Winter 32-W. Medium D. EF-40 (PCGS). CAC. This overall sharp, lustrous 1855-D half eagle will be just right for inclusion in an advanced Southern gold cabinet. Evenly patinated honey-orange surfaces retain ample evidence of a satiny finish. It is a thoroughly appealing piece that is sure to sell for a premium bid.<p>Half eagles have long been a workhorse among the gold denominations, none more so than the coins struck at the Dahlonega Mint. Southern gold coins tended to enter circulation and remain there for years. The 22,432 half eagles produced in 1855 are no exception to this; only around 100 to 150 examples are thought to exist in any grade, with pleasingly original examples eagerly pursued by dedicated specialists. The Medium D is by far the scarcer of the two varieties, with only an estimated two dozen or so known. This is an exceptional specimen of a well-known challenging issue.
