1866-S Liberty Head Half Eagle. No Motto. EF Details--Cleaned (PCGS). Plenty of sharp to full striking detail remains to honey-gold surfaces that are hairlined and glossy in texture from an unfortunate cleaning. The San Francisco Mint struck only 9,000 No Motto Liberty Head half eagles in 1866 before dies for the new Motto design arrived from the mint in Philadelphia. With S-Mint gold coinage of the era seeing heavy commercial use, survivors of this issue are few and far between regardless of preservation, as most examples failed to survive exportation and eventual melting. Although not a perfect example, the offered coin represents a fleeting bidding opportunity for the specialist that deserves serious consideration. PCGS# 8300. NGC ID: 25VY.
