Goldberg Coins and Collectibles

Sale 39

Pre-Long Beach Coin and Currency Auction

$5 Classic Head

Lot	Photo	Description	Realized
Lot 2269		1838-C $5 Classic Head. PCGS graded EF-40. A hint of light toning. A satiny reddish golden example of the rare C-mint half eagle of 1838, a coin with a faint hint of luster in and around the devices. Best of all, delightful eye appeal throughout. Faithful to every detail from a full blow by the dies, the design is complete, with only marginal softness found at the lower curl and second 8 in the date, both of which are visible, just not sharp. The right wing of the eagle tends to be uneven as well. There are a few light marks on Liberty's profile, and others, typical for the grade, in the field on the reverse. Choice, full rims. Only 17,179 coins struck. Pop 23; 30 finer (PCGS # 8177) . Estimated Value $3,300 - 3,500. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $4,600
Lot 2270		1839-D $5 Liberty. Sharpness of EF-40. Whizzed with some apparent repair in the surfaces. Rare Dahlonega mint issue, only 18,939 struck. Still worth our conservative estimate. Estimated Value $600 - 800. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,260
Lot 2271		1840-D $5 Liberty. Tall D. PCGS graded AU-55. Nice and bold. Golden-orange color. A worthwhile coin by any standard, the luster is not in the least timid or yielding, while pale golden orange and other toning hues blossom on both sides. The strike, like the luster, is confident, indeed, as bold as ever seen on virtually any date in the Dahlonega mint half eagle subset. The 1840-D half eagle is an interesting one, with several varieties for which the collector can be on the lookout. Two pairs of half eagle dies for 1840 were received at the branch mint, probably on February 18, according to the late Clair Birdsall, a researcher into the subject. The 1840-D half eagle mintage was struck in eleven separate runs throughout the year, with mintage of 22,896 pieces. The date is considered to be a scare issue, with around a hundred pieces known, but possibly as few as 25 or 30 in grades above Extremely Fine, according to author Doug Winter. Winter identified two die varieties, although it is possible that others exist: Variety 3-B that has a medium-sized (here referred to as "Tall") D mintmark, the right edge of which extends to the upright of the E in FIVE. This variety also has a significant obverse die defect, extending out from the denticles toward the thirteenth star. Pop 7; 9 finer; 4 in 58; 3 in 61; 2 in 62. (PCGS # 8198) . Estimated Value $6,000 - 6,500. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $7,763
Lot 2272		1840-D $5 Liberty. Small D. NGC graded MS-61. In NGC holder 1293449. Loaded with mint frost. Well struck. Light golden surfaces. The design of Liberty was modified slightly in 1840 to the Type it would retain until 1908. However, in this first year two diameters were used. This is the more frequently seen Narrow Rim. Only about a hundred coins are known today in all grades out of the original mintage of 22,896 pieces. A handful of Mint State coins are believed extant with this piece among finest. The surfaces lack the often-seen planchet laminations that are so often encountered. Both obverse and reverse show soft golden frostiness that accounts for the grade, with little in the way of abrasions, no rim marks, and bold relief. The surfaces are vivid-gold in color and the fields show a few light hairlines below the date area. Pop 4; 4 finer; 3 in 62; 1 in 63. (PCGS # 8199) . Estimated Value $12,000 - 14,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $13,800
Lot 2273		1841-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-61. NGC holder 1626152-047. Needle sharp strike with nice wide borders and loaded with luster. Lovely honey color gold. The fields somewhat granular around the stars and date (as minted). The 1841-C is one of the more frequently offered C-mint fives, at least in lower grades like Very Fine and Extremely Fine. However, in strict Mint State there are only a few believed known. This piece is squarely on the Condition Census list. As with most high grade survivors of this issue, this piece shows sharp detailing on each side, which explains one reason why these coins are so popular for mint-mark collecting purposes. The surfaces show numerous small abrasions, though, underlining the grade, though also expected from both the grade and the issue, while the fields have a semi-reflective sheen that is most appealing. Pop 4; 3 finer; 2 in 62; 1 in 64. (PCGS # 8203) . Estimated Value $11,000 - 12,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2274		1841-C $5 Liberty. PCGS graded MS-61. PCGS holder 50081098. Needle sharp strike. Lustrous semi reflective surfaces and a rich golden sunset color. Although this date is occasionally available in Mint condition, it is an extreme rarity in all the same with very few pieces certified Mint State 60 or better by NGC and PCGS. This piece was struck on an problem-free planchet and exhibits gorgeous around the periphery on both sides; centers are just as bold. The color is orange-gold deepening to reddish-gold in some areas. The surface is quite nice, beauty in the eye of the beholder justifying the accurate grade. All in all, one of the true rarities of the series in mint condition. Pop 4; 1 finer in 62. (PCGS # 8203) . Estimated Value $11,000 - 12,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2275		1841-C $5 Liberty. PCGS graded MS-61. Well struck with semi reflective fields. Untoned. Similar overall to one in our May 2006 sale, this coin displays a bold strike with semi reflective surfaces. Light golden color. A refreshingly beautiful rich in history, destined for a top-rated Charlotte Mint gold coin collection! The reflective quality looks as though it was made from highly polished dies. Hard to believe a C-mint coin in Mint State 61 could survive from 1841, but there it is. If only it were possible for other, later date C-mint gold coins to be as well struck and as resolutely as this! PCGS serial number 21965715. Only 21,467 minted. Pop 4; 1 finer in 62. (PCGS # 8203) . Estimated Value $11,000 - 12,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $10,925
Lot 2276		1841-D $5 Liberty. Small D. NGC graded MS-61. The 1841-D is one of the more readily found Dahlonega fives in circulated grades, up to and including a couple dozen pieces in About Uncirculated, but only a few Uncirculated coins are known. Possibly fewer than 10 examples believed extant in Mint State. This is a solid Condition Census coin that exhibits smooth luster, the fields being shimmering and showing prooflike tendency with eye appeal attributed to the faint yellow-gold tint. The devices show virtually complete detail on both sides, even sharper than is often the case with this traditionally well made half eagle. Clear repunching on the date is further evidence of an early die state. In effect, not a single short-coming to speak of, a coin of vigor and graded with the strictness found on NGC-graded gold. A memorable specimen! Pop 6; 12 finer; 5 in 62; 4 in 63; 1 in 64; 2 in 65. (PCGS # 8204) . Estimated Value $10,000 - 11,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $12,650
Lot 2277		1841-D $5 Liberty. Small D. NGC graded MS-61. A hint of light golden toning. Well struck with nice luster. Rich greenish yellow gold with brilliant, frosty luster and devoid of the usual surface marks. This is an extremely important opportunity for the half eagle specialist. Two reverse dies are known, one with a tall mintmark (PCGS describes this as Medium D) being extremely rare, the other with much smaller mintmark being the one more often seen. This is the smaller mintmark variety and the present example is one of a mere handful of Mint State examples certified by PCGS. Pop 6; 12 finer; 5 in 62; 4 in 63; 1 in 64; 2 in 65. (PCGS # 8204) . Estimated Value $10,000 - 11,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $10,925
Lot 2278		1842-C $5 Liberty. Small date. PCGS graded AU-50. Better than average strike and problem-free. Light pale greenish golden color. The 1842-C Small Date is the key Charlotte half eagle variety. It turns out that it is also the second rarest issue of all Charlotte coins, trailing only the acclaimed 1849-C Open Wreath gold dollar. 4,595 pieces were originally struck. However, most disappeared. It is estimated that today a mere 50 or so are extant in all grades. The striking definition is outstanding on this well defined coin. The hair curls and stars all show strong elements with the only area of softness (and it is minor) being the eagle's neck feathers. As we've already mentioned (and as the photographs clearly depict), the surfaces are clean and smooth with very minimal abrasions for this typically abraded rarity. One of the most sought-after of all Charlotte mint coins. Pop 2; 11 finer. Only one graded by PCGS in Mint State. (PCGS # 8208) . Estimated Value $30,000 - 33,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2279		1842-C $5 Liberty. Large date. NGC graded MS-62. The half eagles of the 1840s are characterized by having broad square rims. Well struck with lovely golden toning. A beautiful, frosty-gold half eagle of this scarce Mint, there are no unsettling bagmarks on either side. Furthermore, the fields are lustrous throughout, and the same applies for the bold devices, with only a stray mark visible at the 12th star and a shallow mark on the eagle's neck feathers. The collector of Charlotte gold would be well advised to bid generously on this coin as another Mint State example may not be on the market for many years since so few have been certified (and may be locked away in large collections). Pop 1; 4 finer; 1 in 63; 2 in 64; 1 in 65. (PCGS # 8209) . Estimated Value $16,000 - 18,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2280		1843-D $5 Liberty. . NGC Specimen 65. Encapsulated in NGC holder 1723016-001. Well struck with a hint of light golden toning. Struck at the Dahlonega Mint for some kind of presentation. Absolutely unique. Listed in the Garrett and Guth Gold book (see page 288). The only "D' mint ever graded "Specimen." Otherwise brilliant yellow gold with frosted devices and glittery prooflike fields. A most remarkable occurrence for a Dahlonega Mint half eagle from this period, cameo contrast as though it were a Proof! Devices are sharp in all areas, as struck, as desired by collectors, which the discerning photographer's lens has captured in intricate detail. Viewed under 5x or 8x magnification, the detail is of a quality we could wax on about endlessly. We suppose it is all right if readers understand this. But there is getting around the fact the grading service has taken this into consideration when calculating the grade -- another key point desired by collectors. The present coin is a cameo Specimen striking of great beauty and stature; a piece that must have been used for presentation purposes long ago on a now forgotten occasion. In a word, the coin is astonishing. As in astonishingly beautiful! Even the most experienced specialist in Dahlonega Mint coinage will find this coin to be noteworthy. We readily expect that its next owner will consider it the centerpiece of his or her collection. When encountered, the 1843-D tends to be in grades hovering around Very Fine condition, occasionally Extremely Fine, and not all that commonly About Uncirculated. Perhaps a few thousand 1843-D half eagles exist today, this possibly being a bighearted estimate our part. Whatever the number, the presently offered Specimen (with a capital "S") is by far the finest and only such piece graded by NGC at this level. From first to last, it ranks as the very finest known. Pop 1. The Finest Graded. In his Encyclopedia, Walter Breen noted that the large mintmark variety of this date was struck in combination with a rusted obverse die, this being characteristic of all authentic specimens. On the specimen offered here, a group of raised lumps, caused by die rust, is seen between the first two obverse stars. Another raised lump is near the lowest point of the 12th star, and two more lumps are seen at the uppermost right corner of the 3 in the date. Additionally, some small, faint die cracks can be seen among the reverse peripheral legends. The actual mintmark is placed in a central position between the V and E in FIVE. Identifying marks include: a small one in the field above Liberty's nose; another double-mark below the chin; and a final tiny line below the M of AMERICA on the reverse. Estimated Value $300,000 - 400,000. Ex Harry Bass, Jr. collection October 1999, lot 923.; earlier part of Stack's Garrett sale, March 1976, lot 375. View details and enlarged photos	Unsold
Lot 2281		1844-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-63. NGC holder 1874139-008. Well struck and loaded with luster. Rich golden color. Frosty yellow gold with plenty of brilliance and luster present. Well struck (from lightly clashed dies) for the date, essentially sharp in nearly all areas. An incredible rarity in Mint State 63, and easily one of the finest examples of the date extant. As David Akers noted regarding this date and mint: "Specimens in AU or Uncirculated are almost unobtainable." He continued by noting that the finest he had ever seen was the Bareford coin-which is the specimen now currently offered as part of the Bass Collection. The present coin will likely be off the market again for decades before reappears to delight the next generation of enthusiasts and admirers. On the reverse, a small die crack runs from the rim at 10:00 to the tip of the eagle's wing. Another crack, this more prominent, begins at the rim over the first A in AMERICA, horizontally crossing the field and the eagle's wing, ending at a central point on the eagle's neck. Mildly weak neck feathers on the eagle. Pop 2; none finer at NGC. (PCGS # 8220) . Historical reference from the Harry Bass sale of possibly this exact specimen: "According to Breen's Encyclopedia, "a burglar burned down the mint" at Charlotte on July 27, 1844. Author Clair Birdsall gives a more in-depth accounting of the events of that July day in his book titled The United States Branch Mint at Charlotte, North Carolina: Its History and Coinage. An article appeared in the August 1, 1844 edition of the Charlotte Journal, describing the events of the day in some detail. It seems the fire was first discovered in the early morning hours of Saturday, July 27. Mint Superintendent Dr. Green W. Caldwell had not spent Friday, July 26, in his quarters at the mint (as was his custom), but had instead gone to the mountains of Lincoln County for health reasons. His stand-in for the day, unnamed in the article (later determined to be one Mr. Todd), had not stayed at the mint that day either. The fire was discovered early Saturday in the west wing of the mint, near the room housing the coinage presses. According to the article, it was a small fire when first discovered, perhaps just eight-feet square or so, and could easily have been squelched by use of water reservoirs that were in place on the roof of the mint. For some unknown reason, the fire was allowed to burn, with the building "left to the mercy of the flames," as the article noted. The building was nearly completely destroyed, along with most of the machinery and other equipment contained therein. The mint register, bullion, and coins were rescued, however, and spent some time at the Branch Bank of the State of North Carolina in Charlotte. Superintendent Caldwell reportedly lost all his private papers and a goodly sum of money in the blaze." Estimated Value $30,000 - 33,000. Ex: Ashland City. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2282		1844-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-60. In NGC holder 5923317-002. Well struck with scattered light contact marks. Some on the cheek. A nice untoned coin. A few small marks on the face are indicated in the photographs. All the same, this is a fresh, bright and lively MS60 with sleek luster from center to periphery plus a relatively strong strike. Unusually well defined, in fact, for 1844-C, the obverse is fully brought up and there is no weakness noted on the eagle's neck; sharply defined are rare. Everything you would want from the grade, and probably more. Only 23,631 coins minted. Pop 1; 5 finer; 2 in 61; 1 in 62; 2 in 63. (PCGS # 8220) . Estimated Value $15,000 - 17,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2283		1844-O $5 Liberty. NGC graded EF-45. Well struck with a few normal light surface abrasions. The rims, however, are wide, high, and very choice, thereby improving the odds by increasing the number of potential buyers. New Orleans, Louisiana was a major port and entry point for goods at the time this half eagle made its appearance (PCGS # 8222) . Estimated Value $325 - 375. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $426
Lot 2284		1846-D/D $5 Liberty. NGC graded AU-55. Lightly toned. Repunching of mintmarks (as well as date digits) in this period of our history is not all that unusual, although the extent of the recutting on the Dahlonega mintmark is a little out of the ordinary. A choice, appealing specimen with natural color, natural surfaces, clean rims. Pop 17; 28 finer. (PCGS # 8229) . Estimated Value $4,000 - 4,500. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $4,600
Lot 2285		1847 $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-64. Well struck and untoned. A thrilling example of this always-popular No Motto Type. This exceptional coin is brilliant and very nicely struck, fully struck, in fact, including all of Liberty's curls and hair bun, the word LIBERTY itself on the almost-razor edged coronet. Regarding this date, the clearest details on the eagle are found throughout the wings, the neck feathers, the shield, and peripheral areas encompassing the key legends and denomination. The facial profile on Liberty is free of marks, an almost astounding statement for a gold piece mintage 160 year ago! Pop 8; none finer at NGC. Estimated Value $9,000 - 11,000. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $7,763
Lot 2286		1847 $5 Liberty. PCGS graded MS-63. Well struck and a hint of light golden toning. Very scarce in choice mint condition. Nice yellow-gold luster reflects off the fields. Struck with preciseness only now and then found on an early No Motto half eagle from this or any other mint. It comes within an ace of looking almost MS64! Pop 19; 3 in 64; 3 in 66. (PCGS # 8231) . Estimated Value $5,500 - 6,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2287		1847-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-61. NGC holder 1724835-004. Well struck. Nice planchet. Natural greenish-golden color. Given the expansive mintage of 84,151 pieces, the 1847-C is one of the more easily found dates in higher grade, including a small number of Uncirculated specimens. This piece an exceptionally well defined coin. The rich orange-gold patina is even throughout and satiny mint frost is blends with semi-prooflikeness in the fields. Far fewer than the usual number of abrasions, the only mark that can reliably used as a pedigree identifier is located in the bridge of Liberty's nose; another, a small chatter, lies below the ME on the reverse. Pop 7; 2 finer; 1 in 62; 1 in 63. (PCGS # 8233) . Estimated Value $9,000 - 10,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2288		1847-C $5 Liberty. Sharpness of VF-20. Scratches on both sides, but don't let that stop bidders from approaching this desirable Charlotte Mint half eagle, a coin with the weight of history supporting it. Estimated Value $200 - 250. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $690
Lot 2289		1847-D $5 Liberty. PCGS graded AU-55. Plenty of luster still present. Lightly toned with mint luster around the devices. A choice high-quality About Uncirculated with sunset-gold surfaces and the reverse rim plays host to a full strike. The reverse, as if in competition with the obverse for the viewer's attention, and far from the "norm" for gold half eagles from this mint, is equally full as to its strike. A lovely coin, one that certainly meets the qualifications for the assigned grade. The sternest censor could find nothing to cavil at in this precious gold 1847-D $5 gold piece. Pop 10; 22 finer. (PCGS # 8234) . Estimated Value $3,500 - 4,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2290		1848-C $5 Liberty. PCGS graded MS-62. A beauty! Well struck with semi-reflective surfaces and lovely greenish golden toning. Likely a early strike by the looks of it, and clearly one of the nicer survivors. The surfaces resplendent with warm gold hue and drenched in sparkling reflective quality. Struck with systematic exactness throughout most of Liberty excepting the usual weak areas in area of the hair bun. The eagle too denotes "quality" on this piece, with only minor striking softness on the neck feathers and around the shield. Desirable, as would be any Mint quality Charlotte-issued half eagle from this exciting decade in American history (PCGS # 8237) . Even though the mintage of 64,472 pieces seems generous, only a few pieces are believed known in Mint condition of the 1848-C with the vast majority of the 150 or so other coins believed extant today in the Very Fine or Extremely Fine grade range. Pop 1; 1 in MS-64 It should be understood that the color of the Charlotte and Dahlonega gold half eagles was more a function of the minting methodology employed at the facility, than of the raw material from which they were produced. In fact, the Charlotte Mint produced gold coins from a variety of gold sources: naturally-occurring gold (from Georgia and the Carolinas, as well as other states), foreign gold coins, gold bullion, scrap gold, etc., and later, after the California gold discoveries, from bullion deposits brought back by the '49ers. There is some historical evidence, as well as modern scientific evidence, that the gold coins produced at these two mints had a "high" silver concentration (when compared with gold coins produced at the parent mint in Philadelphia). Although some other regions (such as California) generally had lower purity gold (with a much higher silver concentration than Georgia gold), the lower purity gold had to be refined prior to minting, thus removing most (or perhaps virtually all) of the silver and other trace metals. The resulting gold would then be alloyed with copper and perhaps a small amount of silver. Thus, the resulting gold coins had less silver than their Charlotte and Dahlonega cousins. Estimated Value $20,000 - 22,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2291		1849-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-61. In NGC holder 1293449-052. Mostly well struck and lightly toned. The pursuit of Dahlonega and Charlotte Mint coins is one of the more difficult in numismatics if the goal is a representative group in Mint condition. First of all, striking quality varies from bold to weak; then, too, visual appeal can be vary from coin to coin within the same grade range, and pieces certified as Uncirculated but which really merit that grade sometimes bounce around the auction circuit. The present coin is absolutely superb for the year, type, Mint of issue, as well as the grade, one of the handsomest 1849-c half eagles we have offered in recent years. We linger awhile describing it, because simply to say that few others exist anywhere wouldn't cover the story. Among those with similar grade, it would be difficult to find one with equal or better eye appeal. Pop 8; 13 finer. (PCGS # 8241) . Estimated Value $9,000 - 10,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2292		1849-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-61. In NGC holder 021455-003. Lustrous and well struck in natural pale greenish color gold. Part of an extensive collection (including duplicates) of the rare, desirable Charlotte Mint gold coinage. These rarely occur in Mint State grades. As the population figures reveal in stark detail, survival in upper grades was extremely low. A beautiful example of the date. Pop 8; 13 finer; 6 in 62; 4 in 63; 2 in 64, 1 in 66. (PCGS # 8241) . Estimated Value $9,000 - 10,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2293		1849-C $5 Liberty. PCGS graded MS-60. PCGS holder 22111134. Lots of frosty mint luster present. Delicate golden-orange toning. Rich golden toning with nice mint luster. Clearly superior to the vast majority of dullish mainly circulated pieces, this frosty deep reddish-golden example has only a few well scattered blemishes and benefits from the careful preservation standards employed by early coin collectors since its minting. A rounded impression was left by the stamp of the dies that struck this, most notable in the central part of the portrait and lower half of the eagle. 64,823 coins minted. Pop 1; 12 finer. (PCGS # 8241) . Estimated Value $8,000 - 9,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2294		1849-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded AU-58. Light yellow gold. A few marks on the face and in the fields; minor weakness at centers, as often seen. A lustrous specimen of this historic Gold Rush year. Odd it is, then, to learn that soon after miner and gold panners returned East from their gold discoveries in California, some of the bullion deposits were turned into C-mint gold coins (as well as D-mint coins over at the sister mint in Dahlonega, Georgia). Pop 20; 25 finer. (PCGS # 8241) . Estimated Value $5,500 - 6,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2295		1850-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-61. In NGC holder 224447-013. Lots of luster. Struck in natural pale greenish color gold. Well struck with smooth, velvety luster and the yellow-gold shades typical of this branch mint's half eagles have a decided greenish tint, believed to be from trace elements in the natural gold alloy that was used to strike half eagles. If one were to take a poll, we'd see that the strike is nonstandard for the 1850-C issue in being sharp with the excellent metal flows on both sides into the deepest die recesses; in other words, a very bold strike. 63,591 coins minted.Pop 9; 9 finer; 1 in 62; 3 in 63; 5 in 64. (PCGS # 8244) . Estimated Value $8,500 - 9,500. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2296		1850-C $5 Liberty. PCGS graded MS-61. PCGS holder 60110480. Boldly struck. Light greenish color gold. Well struck with sleek velvety frosty plus the characteristic yellow-gold hues lean to a greenish tint; again, this is believed to be from trace elements in the natural gold alloy that was used to strike half eagles. A tiny mark below the chin; bold relief in centers, though some minor flatness on the lower obverse dentils below the date. 63,591 coins minted.Pop 4; 8 finer; 2 in 62; 2 in 63; 4 in 64. (PCGS # 8244) . Estimated Value $8,500 - 9,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2297		1850-D $5 Liberty. PCGS graded AU-58. A nice bold impression with wide rims, although a trifle soft on the upper curls and mint-mark. Loaded with luster and light golden yellow in color. And when we say loaded, we mean that luster shine from within Liberty's hair and throughout the eagle's feathers (the deep, protecting recesses), as well as around the stars, date and legends, in keeping with the upper-end 58 designation of the grade. Such solid foundations mean that not one collector in ten thousand will regard this handsome 1850-D with nervous apprehension, except possibly when bidding begins. For then it will be seen that strong competition is in the room and propelling itself through the worldwide web as this coin is auctioned. Pop 7; 3 finer; 1 in 60; 2 in 61. (PCGS # 8245) . Estimated Value $8,000 - 9,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2298		1851-D $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-62. NGC holder 1293449-055. Mostly well struck with nice wide borders. A trifle softly struck in the centeres. Loaded with frosty mint luster. Honey golden surfaces. From the Ashland City description: "The 1851-D is tied as fifth rarest in the series of Dahlonega Fives. However, it is in the dead center of the series in high grade rarity with more high grade examples surviving of this issue than one might think, suggesting a possible small hoard might have existed at one time. Most examples are weakly struck of this issue and this piece displays softness on Liberty's hair curls as well as the eagle's neck and the fletchings on the upper arrowhead. Fully defined around the margins. The fields are bright and semi-reflective with satiny mint luster over the devices. An exceptional, high grade coin that should be positioned somewhere in the middle of the Condition Census." Pop 4; 1 finer in 64. (PCGS # 8248) . Estimated Value $12,000 - 14,000. Ex: Ashland City. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $13,800
Lot 2299		1851-D $5 Liberty. PCGS graded MS-61 PQ. Loaded with frosty mint luster. Struck in natural greenish color gold. A few minor marks at the lips and a scuff line from that area to the second star. Otherwise choicer and deserving your inspection. The otherwise orange-gold color yields to the former greenish tints providing an almost spellbinding beauty to the coin. Struck with systematic exactness throughout, a fortunate hallmark of the 1851 issue struck at Dahlonega. Importantly, the eagle's neck feathers are complete. The wings, too, along with outstanding leg detail, leaf veins, arrow shafts, and the arrow feathers. That said, a strong bid may be required in order to lock this Mint State coin "in." (PCGS # 8248) . Estimated Value $10,000 - 11,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2300		1852-D $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-61. A bold strike with mint luster. Pleasingly bright and lustrous, both sides are warmly colored in vibrant hues. A smoothed rather than sharp impression was left along the rim denticles by the pressure of the dies that struck this; however, the centers show no suspicion of any weakness, they are well struck. We do not see why the same principle should not apply to this handsome Mint State as does to the others in this run of C and D mints: due to the low grading census, and due also to the current excitement in the marketplace for rarities, a strong bid is called for. 91,584 coins minted. Pop 10; 8 finer; 5 in 62; 3 in 63. (PCGS # 8252) . Estimated Value $9,000 - 10,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2301		1852-D $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-61. In NGC holder 1612813-020. Nice wide borders and with nice mint frost present. Lightly toned. A bold strike with mint luster aplenty. Pleasingly bright and lustrous, both sides are warmly colored in vibrant hues. A smoothed rather than sharp impression was left along the rim denticles by the pressure of the dies that struck this; however, the centers show no suspicion of any weakness, they are well struck. We do not see why the same principle should not apply to this handsome Mint State as does to the others in this run of C and D mints: due to the low grading census, and due also to the current excitement in the marketplace for rarities, a strong bid is called for. 91,584 coins minted. Pop 10; 8 finer; 5 in 62; 3 in 63. (PCGS # 8252) . Estimated Value $9,000 - 10,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2302		1853-D $5 Liberty. Medium D. NGC graded MS-61. In NGC holder 1615422-002. Light yellow gold. A nice untoned example. A desirable display of luster and surface silkiness underpins bright golden color on this outstanding Mint condition 1853-D half eagle. Nicely struck but for the rims being beveled and some of the stars flat. Centers are slightly above average. 89,678 coins minted. Pop 17; 13 finer; 6 in 62; 4 in 63; 3 in 64. (PCGS # 98255) . Estimated Value $7,000 - 8,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2303		1854-C $5 Liberty. PCGS graded MS-61. Mostly well struck, although the mint-mark is a trifle soft as always. Quite lustrous and light yellow gold in color. A decidely rare coin and seldom seen in such high grade. The 1854-C is among the scarcer Charlotte half eagles. Only a handful of other Mint State coins are believed extant with 20 or more About Uncirculated pieces known. This particular coin is typically struck in the centers. However, it is atypical in that it has fresh mint luster over each side with few abrasions -- unlike the heavily marked coins often seen in lesser grades. Most examples of this variety show a lightly impressed mintmark. Pop 1; 4 finer; 2 in 62; 2 in 63. (PCGS # 8257) . Estimated Value $10,000 - 11,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2304		1854-D $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-61. Well struck and untoned. A satiny beauty. Smooth, rolling luster and splashes of bright gold mingle on the satiny surfaces suggestive of a higher grade. The strike is strong for the date, with outstanding detail in the stars, hair waves and edge of the coronet. On the reverse, the same statement can almost be made when referring to the eagle's wings, legs and claws; however just a touch of softness seen at the neck feathers and some rim denticles. Only 56,413 minted. Pop 22; 24 finer. For trivia buffs, Franklin Pierce (1853-57) was held the highest office in Washington at the time this half eagle was struck. Few know it, but Pierce was arrested while in office for running over an old woman with his horse, but his case was dropped due to insufficient evidence in 1853. Estimated Value $7,500 - 8,500. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $6,900
Lot 2305		1854-D $5 Liberty. Medium D. NGC graded MS-61. In NGC holder 162878-006. Lustrous honey color gold surfaces. A nice overall impression except for the central area of the hair at Liberty's brow. Quite frosty and colorful, the fields show the frostiest luster throughout the outer margins where the field is protected by the stars, date, and letters in the legend, but best of all, despite the centralized weak areas, with no trace of wear. A scarce coin in Mint condition. 56,413 coins minted.Pop 22; 22 finer. (PCGS # 88258) . Estimated Value $7,500 - 8,500. Ex: Ashland City collection. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2306		1855-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-62. In NGC holder 162878-007. Well struck with scattered light contact marks with enough mint luster to easily justify the grade. A solid Condition Census representative of this difficult C-mint Half Eagle which owes its desirability to a low mintage of 39,789 pieces. Further, heavy attrition during the turbulent Civil War years took its toll. The strike is uncommonly bold by Charlotte standards in 1855, with hair curls, star centrils, most (but not all) neck feathers, and talon details that range from well to fully executed. The native warm-gold surfaces display considerable flashiness and moderate field marks beneath a thin layer of orange patina. Pop 4; 3 finer; 1 in 63; 1 in 64; 1 in 65. (PCGS # 8262) . Estimated Value $13,000 - 15,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2307		1855-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-60. NGC holder 1628678-008. Bright yellow gold. This is an original, still-lustrous example whose surfaces have a very slight reddish blush to them. The obverse striking details are very bold, while the eagle's neck and arrow points on the reverse are just a tad softly impressed, far better than usual. This date is extremely rare in mint condition, as described in the following census. Certainly qualifies as a Condition Census coin. Pop 3; 10 finer. (PCGS # 8262) . Estimated Value $9,000 - 10,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2308		1856-C $5 Liberty. PCGS graded MS-60. A nice deep impression with plenty of luster resting within the devices. Rich golden russet in color. Rarely seen in such high grade. Flattering mint frost that pulsates with yellow-gold to orange-gold color captures your attention when viewing this attractive half eagle struck at the mint in Charlotte, North Carolina. Among the issues of the 1850s, the 1856-C is one of the rarest half eagles released by the Mint. It ranks sixth in overall rarity among the 24 deliveries in this series. In AU and Mint State grades, the '56-C ranks seventh, a position it shares with the 1839-C. This lovely Choice survivor is a newcomer will surely please the gold rarities connoisseur! Pop 1; 6 finer; 5 in 61; 1in 63. (PCGS # 8267) . Estimated Value $15,000 - 16,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2309		1856-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded AU-58. Well struck with the usual assortment of scattered light contact marks, none of which are worthy of mention. Lustrous. No sooner will the auctioneer's Sold! announcement echo into silence than a big smile will flit across the mouth of the coin's new owner, this we feel certain. For it is one of the nicer, more unforgettable 1856-C half eagles available to collectors. Pop 27; 13 finer; 6 in 60; 5 in 61; 2 in 62. (PCGS # 8267) . Estimated Value $6,500 - 7,500. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2310		1858-D $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-61. Well struck with light golden toning. The medium mintmark reverse. The 1858-D has a lower mintage figure than the 1857-D, but it is actually seen more often. A very well struck example of the date, it is reasonably well defined in the centers and borders, and this is unusual since most are weak in these areas. All but a few of the stars have full radial lines in the centers and the denticles show typical weakness at the lower obverse. In summation: a very attractive Mint State coin. To our eyes, it compares favorably with other pieces we have seen graded MS62 and we would not be surprised if the final price realized was indicative of this. Only 15,362 struck. Pop 4; 5 finer; 4 in 62; 1 in 65. (PCGS # 8278) . Estimated Value $10,000 - 11,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $8,913
Lot 2311		1858-D $5 Liberty. PCGS graded MS-61. A boldly struck example loaded with golden-orange mint luster. Creamy gold surfaces eddy and churn with almost "frothy" luster, the orange-gold color highly pleasing to the appreciative eye of the collector. Nicely struck with just outstanding detail at the hair, LIBERTY, coronet, and hair bun, plus similar sharpness on the eagle's neck feathers, the shield and wings. There is a small mint-caused depression on the rim above E of UNITED, like a small flake in the metal alloy. Consistent quality and beauty throughout. Pop 3; 6 finer; 4 in 62; 1 in 63; 1 in 64. (PCGS # 8278) . Estimated Value $10,000 - 11,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2312		1858-D $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-60. NGC holder 1723666-002. Boldly struck and lustrous. Light yellow gold. Outstanding detail and as well struck over both sides with sharp detail noted at the centers and if not the borders. Attractive, brilliant gold color covers both sides as well. There are some light hairlines and softening in the luster accounting for the MS60 grade. It is unlikely that a more original example of this issue exists, however, and we highly respect the collector who ends up with it. The 1858-D is more available than the 1856-D and the 1857-D, especially in higher grades. There are an estimated 30-35 pieces known in AU grades, as well as fair number but not too many in Uncirculated. Pop 2; 9 finer; 4 in 61; 4 in 62; 1 in 65. (PCGS # 8278) . Estimated Value $8,000 - 9,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2313		1859-C $5 Liberty. PCGS graded MS-61. PCGS holder 21378525. Well struck. Lustrous warm golden-orange surfaces whose smooth features recommend it to one and all because of the absence of marks. Minor planchet uneveness on the reverse (as made). One of just 15,362 minted. Contact marks are expected for the grade, for virtually every other example from this mint went directly into the channels of commerce. A very rare issue this nice when compared to others in grades similar to or finer than the present Mint State example.Pop 2; 3 finer; 1 in 62; 1 in 63; 1 in 66. (PCGS # 8281) . Estimated Value $11,000 - 12,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Realized $13,225
Lot 2314		1859-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-61. In NGC holder 1784511-006. Well struck and quite lustrous. Golden sunset toning. A very attractive example. A remarkable 1859-C at this grade level. Lustrous golden surfaces exhibit deep peach gold vibrancy and iridescence in all areas. A few stray marks are present. The reverse strike is typically incomplete in most places for this date, and high-grade specimens are mainly judged by the quality of the obverse, which happens to be desirably bold. From a mintage for the date of 31,847 pieces almost the entire issue made it out the bank door and into cash trays. Most of the survivors from that mintage circulated to Very Fine or, at best, Extremely Fine grade. Douglas Winter calls the date Rarity-7 in AU preservation, indicating that fewer than a dozen are known. The present coin will attract wide attention. (The reverse of virtually every known 1859-C half eagle is struck weakly. Many of the known impressions from the die also show evidence of die rust. This same reverse die was used in Charlotte in the following year, 1860, with the same comments regarding the reverse die being appropriate for half eagles of that date as well.) Pop 6; 2 finer 1 in 62; 1 in 63. (PCGS # 8281) . Estimated Value $10,000 - 12,000. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2315		1859-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded MS-60. In NGC holder 1628678-010. Mostly well struck on a planchet that shows some minor defects on the reverse. From the Ashland City sale description: "Winter 27-M. Die State II. The 1859-C is a peculiar issue. It is very scarce in high grades and the reverse is miserably detailed even on the finest specimens. Apparently the reverse die was improperly annealed which explains the softness of detail, and there is extensive die rust present, something that is inexplicable since the die was shipped to Charlotte in December 1858. As with most of the Half Eagles from this collection, this is a lower Condition Census example. The surfaces are lightly abraded for the grade and the striking details on the obverse are sharp. The only distinctive marks on either side are a shallow scratch between stars 1 and 2 and Liberty's neck and a couple of other shorter scratches between stars 12 and 13. Bright and satiny with light reddish patina over each side." Pop 3; 8 finer; 6 in 61; 1 in 62; 1 in 63. (PCGS # 8281) . Estimated Value $10,000 - 12,000. Ex Ashland City. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold
Lot 2316		1859-C $5 Liberty. NGC graded AU-58. Light gold toning. A few light old marks on the portrait. A rare C-mint half eagle. Touches of underlying luster supports the high-grade that has been assigned. A pleasing example of the date, not fully struck, but with enough detail in the obverse areas of the design to make it a simple matter to overlook the traditionally weaker reverse features. Choice rims throughout. Only 31,847 struck. Pop 29; 29 finer. Half eagles were coined at Charlotte Mint every year between 1838 and 1861, the exception being 1845, when the mint was under repair from a catastrophic fire that had nearly destroyed it the year before. The convenience of the half eagle and its more widespread popularity with depositors and foreigners resulted in higher mintage for this denomination than for quarter eagles. The high point was reached in 1847, when 84,151 five-dollar pieces were coined. Mintages rarely went below 10,000 pieces, though 6,879 half eagles were struck in 1861, the final year of operation. Estimated Value $6,500 - 7,500. View details and enlarged photos	Unsold
Lot 2317		1859-D $5 Liberty. NCS graded Details of AU-50. Improperly cleaned. Probably wiped with a lewelry cloth years ago but still elegant looking and one of the rarest branch mint dates in the later period. Altogether, quite pleasing and not harshly cleaned. The reverse is impressive by its sharp strike on the eagle and clear rim denticles. Estimated Value $1,500 - 1,750. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,610
Lot 2318		1859-D $5 Liberty. Medium D. NGC graded MS-61. In NGC holder 1628678-011. Lovely honey color gold. Light golden orange toning on both sides. Only 10,366 minted. Free from marks or planchet flaws, splendid example! The otherwise mellow color yields to brighter golden hues toward the centers and around the legends where the luster shows a more robust graininess. Just about fully struck, with no sign of weakness at the hair below the coronet nor on the eagle's neck feathers and a portion of the right wing (traditional weak areas on the branch mint dates of the 1850s). Pop 5; 3 finer in 62. (PCGS # 8282) . Estimated Value $10,000 - 12,000. Ex: Ashland City Collection. View details and enlarged photos Check results on similar lots	Unsold

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