The 1866 Liberty Head $5 Half Eagle represents a milestone in American numismatics as the first year of the “With Motto” type, introducing IN GOD WE TRUST to the reverse above the eagle—a defining change in post-Civil War coinage. A scarce First Year Type with only 67 examples estimated to survive today in all grade from a tiny mintage of 6700. It is not only the lowest production figure among the three half eagle issues of 1866, but also one of the rarest Philadelphia Mint Liberty Head fives in any grade. Considering its rarity we find this issue undervalued. Premium AU coins like this CAC-approved AU53 specimen are especially scarce. The obverse features a rich golden-yellow core with soft apricot-gold and honey accents, complemented by subtle olive and coppery hues nestled in protected areas. Few marks hold the grade back despite minimal wear; however, satiny, original luster remains intact, gently rolling across the fields making this an exceptionally choice for an AU53 grade. With a PCGS population of 9 in AU53 and 18 finer, and only 6 CAC-approved at this level with 9 higher, these coins are incredibly rare. Recent auction appearances are few and far between with the last AU53 CAC for $6,000 03/23 ST, but more recently 2 grades lower an XF45 PCGS CAC brought $4,560 08/24 HA. PCGS Price Guide $7,250.

PCGS Cert Verification #25601039