1870-CC $5 MS(PCGS#8320)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

3317

Grade

VF25

Price

33,600

Lot Description

This is a handsome circulated survivor from one of the rarest, most eagerly sought issues in the challenging Carson City Mint gold coin series of 1870 to 1893. Warmly patinated in honey-orange, both sides also reveal plenty of vivid reddish-rose iridescence as the surfaces rotate under a light. All devices are fully outlined, most are boldly so, and the entire design is readily appreciable. There are no singularly mentionable marks, and we even note faint traces of satiny luster in the protected areas to further enhance the coin's appeal.<p>The 1870-CC is a famous rarity in the Liberty Head half eagle series. It has the acclaim of being the first issue of the denomination struck at the Carson City Mint, while also boasting a paltry mintage of 7,675 coins. Only 75 to 95 distinct examples are thought to survive for collectors (per Rusty Goe, 2020), with the majority of these being well worn, and many also significantly impaired. The present example represents an important offering for specialists in Carson City Mint and Liberty Head gold that is seldom encountered in today's market.