1861-C Liberty Head Half Eagle. Winter-1, the only known dies. Die State II. EF-45 (NGC). Offered is a superior quality survivor of a rare and historic Southern gold issue. Generally bold in detail, the more protected elements of Libertys portrait and the eagle retain considerable sharpness of strike. Vivid honey-orange patina blankets both sides and provides outstanding visual appeal. We note mostly inconspicuous small, wispy handling marks.<p>The Charlotte Mint half eagle series passed into history in 1861 with a mintage of just 6,879 pieces. Of this total, 887 pieces are believed to have been struck in May of that year under the authority of the Confederate States of America. A middle die state example, the present coin was likely struck while the facility remained under federal control, although there is no way of knowing for sure. The 1861-C is the eighth rarest of 24 dates in the Charlotte Mint half eagle series, there being only 200 or so coins extant in all grades. This handsome Choice Extremely Fine example is finer than most and has much to offer advanced Southern gold enthusiasts.<p>
