VERY RARE PROOF1869 HALF EAGLE—ONLY 25 WERE STRUCK

The 1869 is one of four Liberty head half eagles with a mintage of just 25; three other issues (1874, 1875 and 1878) have just 20 made. There are likely not more than 10-12 known Proof 1869 half eagles, of which this nice PCGS PR62 is probably the most affordable example.

This piece is not cleaned nor is it “Impaired.” It was roughly handled by a previous owner and as a result, there are a number of shallow but noticeable marks on both sides. However, the fields are still very reflective and show attractive rich, natural yellow-gold color. While I don’t generally care for lower grade Proof gold, this piece has a sort of rugged beauty which I find compelling. And there is no denying the rarity of this super low-mintage issue of which I can find no APR’s for over a decade.

An overlooked rarity in Proof and a date which is also impossible to locate in any MS grade (the 1869 $5 is unique in Uncirculated with a single MS64 known to exist).

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