SOLD – $5.00 – 1861-S PCGS VF25
SOLD – $5.00 – 1861-S PCGS VF25
Serial Number 8291.25/28034793
PCGS Lookup Number 8291
After the uncollectible 1854-S and the extremely rare 1864-S, the 1861-S is one of a small group of very rare San Francisco half eagles. Of the 18,000 struck, around 50-60 are known with most in the VF-EF range. Its rarity and Civil War issuance make it a very desirable coin with multiple levels of demand.
This well-worn example has seen considerable use in commerce yet it remains reasonably attractive. It has characteristic broad rims which offset the green-gold fields. Some circulation marks are evident on both sides but the appearance is certainly acceptable for the grade.
No slabbed VF25 has sold at auction. In the Heritage 7/09 sale, a PCGS VF30 realized $2,760 in a market that was far less appreciative of this kind of coin.
Here is an opportunity for the half eagle to collector to acquire a truly rare issue at a reasonable price.
