THE SECOND FINEST KNOWN BUSINESS STRIKE 1859 HALF EAGLE

It would be difficult for me to come up with a more underrated issue than the 1859-P half eagle. Around 150 or so exist in total, but this is a very rare date in Uncirculated with likely not more than five or six known of which this specific coin is undoubtedly the second finest. The sole coin I am aware of that is nicer is the PCGS MS64+ which was sold to DL Hansen in 2018.

This is the third time I’ve owned this lovely coin, and I last sold it a few years back to the Drumwright Family Collection. I believe it is properly graded with natural bright yellow-gold color positioned atop choice, vibrant surfaces. The strike is razor sharp and the few marks that are present can’t be seen by the naked eye.

This exact coin is the single best 1859 half eagle to ever sell at public auction; see below for more information.

If this were a Charlotte or Dahlonega half eagle of comparable rarity in this state of preservation, I would price it at more than $50,000.

This is the sole 1859 half eagle approved by CAC in any Uncirculated grade.

Ex Heritage 2025 FUN where I purchased it for $30,000; from the Drumwright Family Collection via DWN, and earlier owned by a Southern California collector who paid $21,150 for it (in an NGC Gold CAC MS62 holder; earlier sold for $17,600 in Stack’s 5/1995 auction; Ed Milas Collection).

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