Description
This is a 1838-C $5 CLASSIC HEAD HALF EAGLE GOLD – PCGS VF-25, TOUGH FIRST-YEAR CHARLOTTE! A truly scarce and important coin in a multitude of ways, the 1838-C Classic Head $5 serves as both a 1 year type coin and also a first year issue. As one of only 2 mint-marked Classic Head $5s (the other being the 1838 Dahlonega), this is the only Classic Head design Charlotte gold, and the only one with an obverse mint-mark. Of a scant mintage of just 17,179 specimens, only about 175 total pieces are believed to have survived. Although some high grade Dahlonega $5s were saved in 1838, almost no 1838-C $5s were saved from their inception. In fact, PCGS recognized only three Mint State pieces in the census, and these are now six figure rarities. In fact, PCGS has only graded about 25 in all AU grades as well.
The 1838-C $5 is known to be a poorly struck issue with weak hair detail and considerable softness on the reverse. The surfaces come heavily abraded and are often cleaned and lacking any original luster. In layman’s terms, 1838-Cs are usually “ugly, beat-up coins.” The present example, graded PCGS VF-25, has a surprisingly pleasing appearance for the grade. The strike is above average and even on both sides. Ample hair detail remains on the obverse, while the reverse shows a strong shield and considerable wing detail. Marks and abrasions are held at a minimum, and the surfaces have an appealing even-yellow color with some mild reddish highlights at the rims.
PCGS Price Guide suggests a value of $10,000, and we would argue that this may be the only problem-free graded PCGS coin available without exceeding $10,000. A great example for a U.S. Gold type set, a mintmark type set, for for the collector just putting back popular rarities. Don’t miss this one!
Our commitment is to provide you with quality coins and collectibles at the best possible prices. This piece is no exception. Please note, the coin and collectibles markets do fluctuate, and prices occasionally will change. In this rare circumstance, we will contact you first to verify your order.
