RARE PCGS/CAC MS62 1874-CC HALF DOLLAR

WB-101.

Only three silver issues were made at the Carson City mint in 1874: the very rare dime, the scarce half dollar, and the common Trade dollar. There are an estimated 12-15 examples of the 1874-CC half dollar known in Uncirculated with the finest a single MS66 at PCGS. The Eliasberg/Gardner coin, graded MS65 by PCGS is the next best and this is followed by three or four coins grading MS64. The 1874-CC is always in demand due to its status as a one-year type and the difficulty in locating the 1873-CC With Arrows; the other year in which this two-year design was produced.

For the grade, this piece has excellent eye appeal with splashes of salmon-gold color seen over frosty surfaces. The strike is very sharp with no softly defined areas on either side. There are some shallow scuffs in the right obverse field and bot the obverse and the reverse display some mint-made roller marks (from the preparation of the planchet) which have toned darker than the rest of the coin. These do not detract from the excellent appearance which this coin shows.

This exact coin (see below for the pedigree) is the only PCGS MS62 1874-CC half dollar to ever sell at auction. An NGC MS62 realized $14,688 as Heritage 7/2013: 4295. In January 2013, a non-CAC MS63 brought $26,500.

This coin hits the “sweet spot” for many advanced collectors as an MS64 or finer coin is likely not going to be available and an MS63 will probably not be more aesthetically appealing; just a lot more money.

CAC has approved one in this grade with four finer (one in 63, two in 64 and one in 65).

From the Old West Collection and earlier ex Heritage 4/2011: 5152, where it sold for $19,550 without CAC approval.

Old West Collection of Carson City Half Dollars

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