1867-S $2.50 PCGS MS61

The 1867-S is not an especially scarce date in circulated grades although it isn't easy to locate in properly graded AU55 to AU58. In Uncirculated, this date is actually quite rare with probably no more than a dozen or so known. The finest is a PCGS MS64 that is ex B+M 6/01: 1214 (where it sold very reasonably at $12,650) and the next finest is Bass II:555, graded MS63 by PCGS, that brought $9,487. Many of the examples that I have seen in MS61 holders are pretty marginal but this example is really choice and fully "new" with no wear on the high spots and no significant luster breaks. It is original and uncleaned with nice rich golden-orange color with a darker toned area below the bun and across the reverse border. There are some scattered marks in the fields that merit the grade assigned by PCGS but this piece has a nice, fresh appearance and it is clearly high end for the grade. Besides this coin, the last PCGS MS61 to sell at auction was Heritage 3/07: 2665 that brought $4,704. Choice, attractive, rare and a great value at this level.