The 1867-S is a much scarcer date than its mintage of 29,000 would suggest. There are probably no more than 70-80 known with many of these showing signs of cleaning. Original examples are very rare, as evidenced by the fact that until this coin was just “stickered,” not a single piece had been approved by CAC.

The obverse and reverse show very attractive natural orange-gold color and there is enough detail and subtle pockets of luster to suggest an AU50 grade. The strike is sharp with the exception of the tiny mintmark which is not easy to see but which is clear. The obverse fields have a few small, unobtrusive nicks; there is a more obvious reverse mark below the eagle’s left wing.

The last PCGS EF45 1867-S half eagle to sell at auction was all the way back in March 2004 and no example in this grade from NGC has sold since October 2005.

As San Francisco gold becomes more popular, demand for coins such as this will increase dramatically.

CAC has approved just one coin for the entire date: this example.

Sold