Half Eagle -> 1854-C

Vitae

  • Half Eagle 1838 - 1861
  • Liberty Head 1839 - 1861
  • Diameter: 22.5 millimeters
  • Fineness: .900
  • Weight: 129 grains
  • Designer: Christian Gobrecht
  • Edge: Reeded
  • Coiner: John R. Bolton

The 1854-C is the second rarest Charlotte half eagle produced during the 1850's. It is also one of the most underrated half eagles from this mint, especially in higher grades. Every known example has noticeable weakness on the curls near the ear and around the face of Liberty. This weakness can also be seen on the eagle's upper legs and on the claws. The quality of the planchet on the typical piece is well below average while the luster is often grainy and dull. This makes it extremely hard to locate an 1854-C half eagle with even acceptable eye appeal. Some have a very weakly struck mintmark. These are not considered desirable by specialists and they generally sell for a discounted level in comparison to those with sharp mintmarks. There are 95-105 total coins known. Around twenty grade About Uncirculated while another four or five are Mint State. The finest of these is the coin illustrated below.

Condition Census

  1. Paul Dingler collection, ex Doug Winter/Paul Nugget, 3/95. Graded MS-62 by PCGS. The mintmark is very sharp. The coin illustrated on this web site.
  2. A second example graded MS-62 by PCGS. I have never seen this coin and am not certain that it is not the same as coin #3, below.
  3. Private collection, ex Stack's 5/95: 492, Ed Milas collection, Doug Winter/Bob Leece, various dealers, Heritage 1990 ANA: 606. Graded MS-62 by NGC. This coin has a weak mintmark.
  4. Bass collection, ex Stack's Robison sale (2/79): 433. MS-60 or better. Weak mintmark variety.
  5. An example graded MS-60 by NGC and designated as having a "Weak Mintmark" on the holder.