1866-S Liberty Head Half Eagle. Motto. MS-60 (PCGS). Offered is a high Condition Census example of this extraordinary rarity among 1860s half eagle, only the second Mint State 1866-S Motto confirmed in the modern numismatic market. It is a beautiful coin with quality and eye appeal that are both superior for the assigned grade. Lustrous and frosty, both sides display attractively original, rich olive and rose-gold color. The strike is virtually full, and there are remarkably few marks, certainly none that are worthy of attention.<p>Just 34,920 coins were struck of this historic Liberty Head half eagle, the first from the West Coast facility with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST on a scroll in the upper reverse field. Thanks to the rigors of commerce, only a tiny number survive today, with <em>PCGS CoinFacts</em> accounting for fewer than 100 in all grades. Prior to publication of the 2008 edition of the Garrett-Guth encyclopedia on U.S. gold coinage, this issue was unknown in Mint State. Around that time NGC certified an example as MS-61, sold as lot 3272 in Heritages May 2008 Long Beach Signature Auction. That coin appears to have since been crossed to PCGS MS-61, although to date it has not been approved by CAC.<p>The Fairmont-Hendricks specimen offered here is only the second 1866-S Motto to have been certified as Mint State. It is a newcomer to the Condition Census for the issue, where it is ranked as CC#2. A rare and significant bidding opportunity for half eagle collectors, this coin belongs in another world class cabinet of Liberty Head coinage. From the Fairmont Collection-Hendricks Set.
