THE PERFECT TYPE COIN FROM DAHLONEGA; AN AU55 PCGS/CAC 1856-D

Variety 39-FF.

In my 2023 work on Dahlonega coinage, I rate the 1856-D as the tenth scarcest half eagle from this mint in terms of the total known. It is not as rare as one might anticipate in MS grades and this is the result of a hoard that was unearthed in a South Carolina field around 1985.

This piece is notable for its attractive natural reddish-gold color that deepens towards the borders. With the exception of the dead center of the obverse which is weak—as always—the details are bold and there is a good deal of luster present on both sides. The overall eye appeal is excellent for the date and the grade.

There have been three auction transactions involving PCGS AU55 1856-D half eagles in the last three or so years. The most recent was a CAC-approved piece offered as Stack’s Bowers 11/2024: 5466 that sold for $7,500, while a non-CAC brought $7,200 as Stack’s Bowers 2023 ANA: 1052. Earlier in the same year, another PCGS/CAC sold for $7,200 and it had a number of detracting dark streaks in the planchet.

This is literally the perfect type coin from this mint.

CAC has approved five in this grade with just three finer.

DWN collects sales tax when appropriate.