1871-CC $5 MS61 NGC. Variety 1-A....

Description

Condition Census 1871-CC Half Eagle, MS61
Rare in Mint State

1871-CC $5 MS61 NGC. Variety 1-A. This extraordinary 1871-CC half eagle is one of the finest known survivors of this important issue. The 1871-CC boasts a mintage of just 20,770 pieces achieved in the second year of operations at the Carson City Mint, making it a scarce issue in absolute terms. Surprisingly, while the 1871-CC is scarce-to-rare in all grades, it still ranks as the most available date in the early Carson City series. Doug Winter estimates a surviving population of 140-150 specimens, most in lower circulated grades. In Mint State, the 1871-CC is extremely rare.
Doug Winter was unaware of this coin when he wrote his series reference in 2001 but, judging from population data, this coin should challenge for the number three spot in the Condition Census. Currently, NGC has certified just this single specimen in MS61 with one coin finer, while PCGS has also graded one example in MS61, with one finer (5/11).
Two die varieties are known for this issue. This coin represents Variety 1-A, characterized by the position of the mintmark with the first C close to the arrow fletchings. This attractive MS61 piece is remarkably free of contact marks, with a short scratch in the obverse field near star 3 the only mark of note. The design elements are sharply detailed throughout, and the surfaces display rich mint luster and outstanding eye appeal. We expect spirited competition when this lot is called.
Ex: 66th Anniversary Sale (Stack's, 10/2001), lot 906; Exclusively Internet Auction (Heritage, 12/2003), lot 12060;The Franklinton Collection, Part II (Stack's, 1/2008), lot 955, realized $43,700.(Registry values: P3)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 25WD, PCGS# 8323, Greysheet# 9051)

Weight: 8.36 grams

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper

Note for clients in the European Union: This lot is considered by the European Union to be “investment gold”. We believe that it meets the criteria established in Article 344(1), point (2) of Council Directive 2006/112/EC and thus should be exempt from import VAT regardless of the selling price. Any questions or concerns about VAT should be addressed to your accountant or local tax authority.

View Certification Details from NGC