1862-S Liberty Head Half Eagle. EF-45 (PCGS). CAC. This lovely example displays a bold blend of honey-olive and rose-orange colors. Striking detail remains overall sharp for the assigned grade, and there is abundant luster. Technically solid and aesthetically pleasing.<p>The 1862-S has a higher mintage than its identically dated Philadelphia Mint counterpart, 9,500 vs. 4,430 circulation strikes. The reason for this discrepancy is that, while gold coins were withdrawn from commerce in the East and Midwest in late 1861/early 1862, they continued to see active circulation on the West Coast throughout the Civil War and Reconstruction eras. And circulate this issue did, for most 1862-S half eagles have long since been lost with the bulk of the 100 or so coins believed extant well worn and/or impaired. Mint State survivors can be counted on one hand and the present Choice EF, itself rare from a condition standpoint, especially as a CAC-approved example, represents the finest realistically obtainable for this key date half eagle as far as most advanced gold specialists are concerned. From the Fairmont Collection-Hendricks Set.
