1872-CC $5 MS(PCGS#8326)

1872-CC $5 MS (PCGS#8326)

The June 2013 Baltimore Auction

Lot Description: 1872-CC Liberty Half Eagle. AU-50 (NGC). A satiny example with light-green toning and glints of coral luster that cling to some of the devices. Light wear is evident on Liberty's hair curls, and also on the eagle's neck feathers and arrow fletchings. There are a handful of minor nicks on the obverse, one bagmark is noted on the fifth obverse star on the lower portion which serves to identify this rare coin. Both sides show some wispy hairlines in the fields from circulation and handling, common to gold coins from this regional branch mint. While the original mintage of 16,980 pieces implies that many should be known today, this is not at all the case. Apparently the vast majority were melted long ago, leaving an estimated 125 to 150 pieces today, according to Rusty Goe. None have been certified as Mint State by either grading service, and any offering represents an opportunity for the astute numismatist, especially so in the desirable About Uncirculated grade range.