1859-D Liberty Head Half Eagle. Winter 44-HH. Medium D. AU-55+ (PCGS). CAC. Tinges of pale pink blend with dominant honey-gold color on both sides of this wonderfully original example. Frosty luster is superior in quality for the assigned grade, as are surfaces that are exceptionally smooth and blemish free. Sharply struck, as well, and sure to sell for a strong premium to a discerning Southern gold specialist. Mintage figures of gold coins at the Dahlonega Mint steadily declined toward the end of the 1850s. By 1859, only 10,366 half eagles were struck, the second lowest figure for the denomination at the Georgia facility. The 1859-D half eagles entered general commerce where they saw the normal rigors of circulation. As with most Southern gold coins, the vast quantity of the roughly 200 known specimens are in VF or EF condition, with AU coins of even marginal quality quite scarce. At the Choice About Uncirculated level, and with coveted CAC approval, the offered coin from the Fairmont Collections JBR Set is a noteworthy condition rarity worthy of the strongest bids. PCGS# 8282. NGC ID: 25VD. PCGS Population: 1; 29 finer, 14 of which are Mint State (MS-64 finest).<p>CAC Population: 15 in all AU grades. From the Fairmont Collection - JBR Set.
