Variety 29-V. Strong Mintmark.

The 1850-D is the fifth rarest half eagle from this mint after the 1842-D Large Date, 1861-D, 1855-D and 1851-D. The 1850-D is a rare issue in properly graded AU55 and AU58 and the examples in slabs in this range seldom show natural color.

I have handled a few really nice 1850-D half eagles this year–including a PCGS 58 with CAC approval–and the present example, which is fresh to the market, compares favorably. It shows very nice medium to deep russet color on both sides with the obverse a bit more deeply toned. The strike is slightly flat at the centers but the overall details are well above average for the issue. Most importantly, this piece has premium eye appeal with no serious marks, the aforementioned color and some remaining luster.

No AU58′s have sold at auction since a pair of NGC graded pieces brought $5,581 each in Heritage’s 1/13 sale. The present example, in my opinion, is far nicer than either of those coins.

With Uncirculated 1850-D half eagles essentially unavailable to collectors, this choice slider is about the best available quality for the date.