1856 Liberty Gold Half Eagle ($5)

Rich, honeyed orange-gold color with deeper copper accents gives this 1856 half eagle a wonderfully original, crusty-gold look. Practically full luster remains, and the strike is sharp with strong curl and feather definition throughout. Just a trace of high-point friction separates it from Mint State, and the surfaces are pleasingly smooth for a coin of this era. Housed in a PCGS Gold Shield holder with a green CAC sticker, this example delivers real slider eye appeal.