SOLD- $5.00 – 1855-O PCGS AU58
SOLD- $5.00 – 1855-O PCGS AU58
Serial Number 8264.58/32078385
PCGS Lookup Number 8264
The 1855-O is the third rarest half eagle from New Orleans after the 1847-O and the 1842-O. There are fewer than 100 known from the original mintage figure of 11,100 and most are in the VF-EF range. Properly graded AU55 to AU58 examples are quite rare and this date is very rare in Uncirculated with just five or so known, none finer than MS61.
This natural russet-gold example shows a considerable amount of luster and a minimal amount of wear, confined mostly to the high spots. Unlike most 1855-O half eagles, this piece isn’t riddled with detracting abrasions and this ranks as the nicest piece I have handled in a number of years.
Since 2003, the only PCGS AU58 1855-O half eagle to sell at auction was ex Bowers and Merena 8/10: 1668 which realized $8,625.
With nicer pieces essentially unavailable, this 1855-O half eagle likely represents the finest available quality for the date.
