1869-S Liberty Head Half Eagle. AU-58 (PCGS). CAC. A lustrous and vivid Choice AU 1869-S half eagle, an issue that is elusive even in lower circulated grades. The present example saw very little commercial use, in fact, and retains not only much of the softly frosted mint finish, but also generally sharp striking detail that comes up short at only a few isolated high points. Smooth and inviting. This is a scarce issue that becomes rare in grades above EF. Extensive commercial use claimed most of the 31,000 half eagles struck in the San Francisco Mint during 1869, and most of the survivors are well worn if not also impaired. Mint State examples are all but unknown; this significant Choice AU -- rare in its right -- represents the finest in quality realistically obtainable for most collectors. PCGS# 8318. NGC ID: 25W8. PCGS Population: 3; 2 finer (MS-62+ finest).<p>CAC Population: 2; 1. From the Fairmont Collection - JBR Set.
