1852-C $5 MS63+ PCGS CAC

Among the finest known survivors of its kind, this 1852-C Liberty Head Half Eagle, graded MS63+ by PCGS and endorsed by CAC, ranks as one of just two in this grade with only five finer known across all services—an elite rarity from the Charlotte Mint. Struck from a mintage of 72,574, this issue is generally collectible in circulated grades, yet it becomes exceedingly scarce in Mint State, with renowned expert Doug Winter estimating only 300–350 survivors, the majority grading below XF45. In sharp contrast, this specimen offers outstanding preservation, showcasing clearly intense semi-proof-like green-gold surfaces with splashes of natural coppery patina, a bold strike—particularly rare for Charlotte issues—and exceptional central definition in both Liberty’s portrait and the eagle’s wings. The coin was clearly struck from an early die. The obverse glows with rich yellow-gold luster, lightly kissed with reddish-gold at the rims and around the stars, while the reverse reveals crisp shield details, a sharply defined ‘C’ mintmark, and warm amber accents nestled in the devices. With minimal, well-dispersed contact marks and original surfaces, this Plus-graded, CAC-approved coin presents trophy-level quality for the advanced collector of Southern gold. Notably, this exact MS63+ CAC example last sold for $36,000 01/25 HA, and the only MS64 known brought $49,938 04/23 LE which is now locked in a permanent collection. With PCGS Price Guide at $42,500 today, this coin is a premier opportunity—among the most desirable offerings from the Charlotte Mint.

Pedigree:

ex Drumwright Family Collection - $36,000 01/25 HA

ex Buffalo Bayou Collection - $33,600 01/22 HA

PCGS Cert Verification #25540015