1861 Liberty Gold Half Eagle ($5)

Rich honey-gold color with deep orange-copper accents gives this Civil War date half eagle a thoroughly original look. Plenty of luster remains, glowing around the stars, legends, and devices, and the strike is bold with sharp curls and crisp eagle feathers. Wear is limited to light friction on the high points, and the fields show only minor handling for the grade - nothing distracting. Housed in a CACG holder, this example delivers strong, honest eye appeal for a Choice AU 1861 five.