1857-D $5.00 NGC MS61

The 1857-D is among the rarer late date Dahlonega half eagles in higher grades and I regard it as one of the most overlooked dates from this mint. It is usually seen well worn and in Uncirculated there are probably fewer than ten known with nearly all in the MS60 to MS61 range. This choice, fresh example is better struck than usual for the issue with good central detail framed by the typical beveled edges. The surfaces are a bit grainy in texture as is seen on most 1857-D half eagles but they have a nice orange-gold hue and they show a good amount of cartwheel. The last MS61 1857-D half eagle to sell was Goldberg 2/06: 1158 (slabbed by NGC) that sold for $11,500. In the Heritage 1/12 auction, a PCGS MS62 (ex Bass II) sold for a strong $21,850. An important coin for the advanced Dahlonega collector.