AMAZING FINEST KNOWN 1857-S HALF EAGLE

SSCA 6094

Fewer than 10 are known in Uncirculated, and this example is clearly the finest known 1857-S half eagle. One other MS64 was found on the SS Central America but it was not nearly as choice. No other non-shipwreck example of this date is known which comes within two points of this amazing coin. By today's standards, it grades, in my opinion, at least an MS64+ if not a full MS65.

This coin is essentially "as made" with razor sharp detail, full frosty luster and glowing golden-range and rose colors. A few tiny scuffs can be seen in the right obverse field while the reverse grades at least MS66 to MS67 on its own. The eye appeal which this coin shows is finer than on any No Motto half eagle from San Francisco which I have seen or am aware of with the possible exception of the famous Gem Norweb/Bass 1864-S (a strong six figure rarity in today's market).

The other MS64 example of this date found on the S.S. Central America brought way less than this when it was sold in the Christie's auction referenced below ($20,700) and it has not come on the market since then.

This remarkable coin is one of the finest known branch mint No Motto half eagles and it is also significant as one of the more important items to have been found on the SSCA.

CAC has approved this one coin in MS64 with none finer.

Ex Christie's 12/00: 50 where it realized $36,800.