Varieties of 1846 half eagle are known with a Small Date and a Large Date. The latter is more available in higher grades but it is scarce and overlooked in Uncirculated with probably not many more than a dozen known, mostly in the MS60 to MS61 range.  A properly graded MS62 example is likely at the tail end of the Condition Census for the variety.

This fresh, wholesome piece shows excellent detail and it has never been dipped or processed. The surfaces are lightly abraded and display nice natural rose and pale russet colors. Some minor mint-made planchet roughness limits the grade but the naked eye appearance suggests at least an MS63 if not higher.

Two CAC approved MS62 1846 Large Date half eagles have been offered for sale in 2014; this coin (see below) and an NGC example which brought $4,994 as Heritage 3/14: 10617.

While scarce and desirable as a date, this coin is more likely going to appeal to a type collector who would like to own a truly choice No Motto half eagle but who doesn’t have the funds required to purchase an MS63 or an MS64.

CAC has approved three in this grade with five finer.