SCARCE PCGS/CAC AU50 1871-CC HALF EAGLE

While more available than the rare 1870-CC, 1872-CC, and 1873-CC half eagles, the 1871-CC compares favorably to the 1874-CC and the 1875-CC. I regard the 1871-CC as a scarce issue in properly graded AU50 to AU55, and a rarity in AU58. Just three or four 1871-CC half eagles exist in Uncirculated, and if you can locate one, you are looking at a six-figure investment.

This coin was formerly graded AU53 by NGC and I actually agree with that. It shows a surprising amount of frosty luster below attractive natural medium golden color. Nearly every known 1871-CC has been played with at one time and locating a nice, natural-appearing coin such as this is exceptionally challenging in today’s market.

The only CAC approved AU50 1871-CC $5 to ever sell at auction brought $17,400 as Heritage 10/2022: 3209. Three months before this, Heritage sold an NGC AU50 with no CAC approval for $16,200. The last APR for a PCGS AU50—without a CAC sticker—was for $15,600 in March 2025.

CAC has approved just two in AU50 with 10 finer.

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