1821 $5.00 PCGS AU53

With an estimated fifteen or so survivors, this is a classic early gold rarity. The present example, from the Globus Collection, is notable for superb deep original color and excellent detail. It is unlikely that a more attractive circulated 1821 half eagle exists!

1800 $5.00 PCGS AU53 CAC

BD-2, High Rarity-3. I find early gold with this sort of "look" to be absolutely irresistible and try to buy it whenever I see it. Unfortunately, I don't see many early gold coins with this sort of look anymore and when I do, it is often in an auction environment when I have to compete against buyers who are likely to process the surfaces in an attempt to garner an upgrade.

1836 $5.00 NGC MS62 CAC

McCloskey 4-D. Second head, Large Date. As I've mentioned in the past, Classic Head gold is a favorite area of mine. In lower grades, the half eagles of this type are abundant but they become more and more scarce as you go up the grade ladder.

1857-C $5.00 NGC MS63

While common in circulated grades, the 1857-C half eagle is quite rare in any Uncirculated. This lovely MS63 is probably the second or third finest known and it exhibits superb coloration and velvety luster. It is the perfect Charlotte half eagle for a high grade type set and has wonderful cosmetic appeal.

1805 $5.00 PCGS AU63

In today's market, most early gold coins (even those graded MS63 and above) have been processed or "improved" in recent years.This example is notable for its lovely green-gold color, sharp strike and blazing luster. At DWN, you can purchase lovely original early gold like this for small premium over unappealing low-end coins.

1892-CC $5.00 PGCS MS63

With the exception of the 1891-CC, all Carson City half eagles are very scarce in MS63 and above. This piece is notable for its deep coloration and it has never been processed as have so many Carson City gold coins. Only a small handful are known in grades above MS63.

1860 Clark Gruber $10 PGCS AU50

The so-called "Mountain" design shows a fanciful rendition of Pike's Peak. The engraver never actually saw this mountain and improvised accordingly. While not extremely rare, this issue is very popular and it is hard to locate examples with original color and surfaces. This piece, which is in an old green label PCGS holder, is remarkable for the date and grade.

1897-0 Eagle PCGS MS64

All New Orleans eagles are very rare in higher grades and this MS64 example is among the finest known.

1856 Half Eagle PCGS MS63

While not rare in lower grades, choice high quality No Motto half eagles are rare and undervalued. This MS63 example has excellent luster and a natural appearance.