Small Date variety.

Varieties of 1842-D half eagle are known with Small Date and Large Date. The former is far more available although it is not often seen in AU grades and even less with original color and surfaces.

This is an absolutely exceptional coin for the grade and it is certainly among the most original 1842-D Small date half eagles I have seen. Both sides show even natural green-gold color and there is quite a bit of dirt in the protected areas. The detail on both sides is sharp with uncommonly bold centers and the fields are choice save for a few minor ticks scattered here and there.

The last PCGS AU53 1842-D Small Date half eagle offered at auction brought $4,994 in the Stacks Bowers February 2013 sale. An NGC AU53 realized $4,113 in the Heritage 4/13 sale.

If you are a collector of Dahlonega half eagles who truly appreciates choice, original coins with great color and surfaces, this is the 1842-D Small date that should be in your set.

CAC has approved just this one coin in this grade; two finer pieces have been approved as well.