SUPERB GEM 1896 HALF EAGLE, PCGS/CAC PR65+DCAM

Fewer than half of the 103 Proof half eagles struck in 1896 exist and Gems are rare, especially when they look like this coin. For some reason, the quality of Proof coinage at the US Mint is unsurpassed from 1896 through 1898. Virtually all of the gold (as well as the silver issues) made during this three-year period show some of the strongest “black and white” contrast found on any Proofs ever produced at this facility.

This coin has what I call “The Look.” It’s the sort of appearance that stops you dead in your tracks when you see it in a dealer’s case on the bourse floor at a show or when going though the boxes at auction lot viewing. Very few coins have this appearance, which is not limited to very expensive or very high-grade coins.

In my opinion, this Gem is 100% unadulterated, meaning it has never been dipped or brightened. There is a small area of natural toning at star three on the obverse, as well as a small white-hued line in the right field which seems to be mint-made. There are no notable hairlines and the devices are heavily frosted.

A gorgeous PCGS/CAC PR67+ DCAM 1896 half eagle set a record price for the date at $102,000 as Heritage 2024 FUN: 4352. In their 2023 ANA auction, the same firm got $69,000 for a PCGS/CAC PR 66+DCAM.

I had to pay a very strong price for this piece, as the very knowledgeable dealer who owned it knew he had a very special coin.

This is the sole 1896 $5.00 graded PR65+DCAM to be approved by CAC. There have been eight higher grade coins approved, with the finest a single PR67+ DCAM.

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