1896 Liberty Head Half Eagle. MS-65 (PCGS). Phenomenal Gem Mint State quality to represent this underrated condition rarity among 1890s half eagles. Sharply struck with bountiful mint luster, both sides exhibit vivid golden-apricot color that provides strong eye appeal. Despite a limited mintage of 58,960 circulation strikes, there are enough circulated and lower end Mint State coins extant for the 1896 half eagle to satisfy less discerning collectors. Advanced numismatists, however, will have to compete vigorously for the honor of securing a coin that grades MS-64 or finer. Definitely an underrated issue at the higher Mint State levels, this is actually our first offering for an MS-65 in nearly a decade. From the Fairmont Collection.