1871-CC $5 MS(PCGS#8323)

Summer 2026 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

2355

Grade

AU55

Price

20,740

Lot Description

The year 1870 saw the inception of gold coin production at the Carson City Mint, marking the beginning of a decade of low-mintage issues affecting nearly all of the gilded denominations struck during that period. The Liberty Head half eagle was the smallest of the gold coins manufactured by this western mint, representing a smaller, more practical lubricant of commerce than the more popular double eagle or eagle.<p>Just 7,675 half eagles were struck in the inaugural year of production, nearly tripling to a mintage of 20,770 coins in 1871 when bullion deposits had swollen by 800% to $1,003,810. However, despite this production increase, the 1871-CC half eagle remains one of the scarcest issues in the series, with specialist Rusty Goe suggesting a survival rate of less than 1%. With as few as 140 examples remaining of the mintage, the 1871-CC half eagle is coveted by collectors in any condition and extremely scarce in AU and above.<p>This AU-55 (PCGS) example sits comfortably among the best preserved of the extant population. Much luster remains in a frosty to semi-reflective finish, prominent as the coin rotates under a light. Subtle rose hues accent the predominantly golden-orange color that graces both sides. The motifs are handsomely rendered in respect to the issue and minting facility, exhibiting overall bold definition with just a negligible softness atop the central elements. Faint evidence of clashing surrounds the eagle on the reverse, displaying most conspicuously between the lower beak and left wing. With a coalescence of superior eye appeal and technical merit in an 1871-CC $5, inspection of this piece offers a gratification that goes unrivaled.