SOLD- $5.00 – 1868 PCGS AU53
SOLD- $5.00 – 1868 PCGS AU53
Serial Number 8315.53/25252772
PCGS Lookup Number 8315
Despite a low mintage of 5,700 business strikes, the 1868 half eagle is an overlooked issue. There are fewer than 100 known with most in the EF40-AU50 range. Properly graded AU53 to AU55 examples are rare and this date is exceedingly rare in Uncirculated with just two known to me.
This wholesome, original example has the appearance and body of an AU55 but it has been net graded to a 53 due to some typical abrasions seen on the obverse. The color is a pleasing medium green-gold with splashes of natural orange-gold in the protected areas and there is a decent amount of luster as well.
The rarity of this coin is best expressed by the fact that just two PCGS AUs have sold at auction since 200 with the last of these being in August 2006.
Reconstruction Era half eagles from both the Philadelphia and san Francisco half eagles are currently experiencing their first burst of collector interest yet there are plenty of issues, such as this 1868, which remain undervalued.
