1849-C $5 MS(PCGS#8241)

1849-C $5 MS (PCGS#8241)

The March 2010 Baltimore Auction

Losbeschreibung: 1849-C Liberty Half Eagle. Winter Variety 1 (12-F). Die State II. MS-63 (NGC). CAC. As one of the more plentiful C-mint Half Eagles, and the most readily obtainable from the 1840s, the 1849-C is a popular coin among mintmarked gold type collectors. Few numismatists, however, will ever have the opportunity to see, let alone acquire a high-grade Mint State survivor. For in Choice and Gem condition the 1849-C is a major condition rarity that it is the province of advanced specialists.<br /> This important coin is at the lower reaches of Condition Census, and it is a very appealing piece to behold. We see both warm orange-gold color and a modestly semi-prooflike finish that suggest full originality for the surfaces. Rich green-gold undertones are another important attribute in this regard, and they come into view at more indirect light angles. The overall appearance is one of near-Gem quality, although we do note a small indentation at the base of Liberty's neck that appears to be as struck. It is the most readily evident pedigree marker on either side.<br /> In terms of total number of coins believed extant the 1849-C is similar in rarity to the 1858-C and rarer than the 1847-C and 1852-C Half Eagles. In high grades the 1852-C and 1858-C are not as rare as the 1849-C.