1897-S 50C MS(PCGS#6479)

Summer 2026 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

3113

Grade

MS64

Price

7,930

Lot Description

A frosty near-Gem with strong underlying luster that supports vivid reddish-gold and cobalt blue iridescence that deepens toward the borders. Nicely struck with just a touch of lightness in the reverse arrow feathers and adjacent claw. An issue that is considerably scarcer across the grading spectrum than its mintage of 933,900 pieces suggests; like most San Francisco Mint half dollars of the era, the 1897-S saw heavy duty in the channels of commerce. It is remarkable, indeed, that Mint State coins of the present quality exist at all!