1866-S $5 Motto MS(PCGS#8312)

June 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

2372

Grade

AU55

Price

7,200

Lot Description

Vivid surfaces are bathed in a warm blend of deep honey-gold and brighter pinkish-rose colors. All design elements are boldly rendered and crisp. Appearing lightly marked during in hand viewing, accuracy also compels us to mention a tinge of curious glossiness to the texture. A mere 34,920 coins were struck for this historic Liberty Head half eagle issue, the first from the West Coast facility with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST on a scroll in the upper reverse field. Thanks to the rigors of commercial use, only a tiny number survive today, the experts at <em>PCGS CoinFacts</em> accounting for fewer than 100 survivors in all grades. The present specimen retains far more definition than the typically encountered VF or EF in numismatic circles, and its offering represents a rare and fleeting bidding opportunity for the high grade half eagle collector.