1853-C $5 MS(PCGS#8254)

December 2025 Showcase Auction - The James A. Stack, Sr. Collection Part I

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

22195

Grade

MS61

Price

19,200

Lot Description

This is a significant Mint State example that is also exceptionally well produced by the standards of the Charlotte Mint. Both sides are boldly to sharply defined from the rims to the centers, and the surfaces are frosty with modest traces of reflectivity in the fields. Wispy handling marks are noted for accuracy, none of which are worrisome at the assigned grade level. The overall appearance is impressively smooth in certified MS-61, in fact, and is further enhanced by lovely color in reddish-honey. A heavily circulated issue, the 1853-C half eagle is much scarcer in an absolute sense than a relatively generous mintage of 65,571 pieces might imply. With the typical survivor well worn, and often impaired, this condition rarity PCGS/CAC Mint State example represents an important bidding opportunity for the collector assembling an advanced Southern gold collection.