The 1856-D is one of the rarer half eagles from this mint in terms of total known but it is one of the more available in higher grades due to the existence of a hoard located in the South a few decades ago. But I am convinced that many of the coins which were excavated from this group are “Uncirculated details” due to oxidation of the surfaces and/or scratches incurred during the excavation process.

This bright, frosty example shows lovely rich yellow-gold color with an area of reddish color, possibly due to improper annealing of the planchet, on the reverse at 10:00. The strike is typical for the date with sharp borders but some weakness on the portrait, especially on the curls below LIBERTY. There are just a few tiny ticks and scuffs in the fields but the naked eye appearance is excellent and I feel that this is as nice an MS61 example of this date as any graded by NGC or PCGS.

The last MS61 example of this date to sell at auction was Heritage 2/07: 4567 (slabbed by NGC) which sold for $9,775. Between 1999 and 2007, there were four records for PCGS MS61 1856-D half eagles in the $10,000-11,000 range.

Most of the higher grade 1856-D half eagles are off the market in collector’s hands and this is the first Uncirculated piece which has become available in many years. Here is a wonderful opportunity for the advanced Dahlonega half eagle specialist.